When He Comes...

Very much a classic...

2007-02-06T18:12:00.000-10:00

A tribute to the late Isreal Kamakawiwoole..."IZ"

Take This Cup

2006-12-06T22:43:00.000-10:00

I discovered something rather amazing recently. I learned that the human embryo contains only the blood of the father. What a fitting example given during a sermon about the blood of Jesus. Communion day... Remembering the blood that Jesus shed on the Cross for you and me...

We don't realize or forget just how powerful the blood of Christ is. His blood, which was the only blood that could save us from death. A blood so pure, so Holy and so full of life that only God's blood atone for our sins. That is why Jesus could not be born from the seed of man. Jesus could not be conceived by man's blood but by the blood of the Holy Spirit...God Himself. As an embryo, He had the Father's blood. He was pure from the very beginning. That is so amazing!

We know this but yet we need to be reminded. Jesus said to drink from this cup to remember Him. Everytime we sin we forget. We sin, feel guilty about it and try to make up for it by doing a good deed. We try to make up for it by trying to do good. But there is absolutely NOTHING we can do to make up for any sin. And the wonderful and most comforting thing is that we don't have to! Christ's blood was enough to wash away all of our past and future sins. He took care of it for us. His blood, the one shed for us has cleansed us.

Take this cup and drink in rememberance of Me!

That Thing He Showed Me

2006-11-23T22:33:00.000-10:00

If you read the three part testimony on John and I, you will recall that in the first post (part 1), I had mentioned that God showed me something at the beginning of the year that was just too good to be true. So much so I thought that it didn't come from God. First off, I had never experienced or thought that God would reveal something like that. It wasn't anything very specific but specific enough to cause me to question if it truly came from God or if it was just me. So I brushed it aside. Then March came along and the same thing came to me. I was thinking, "Come on now Trisha. Stop that." But as I thought about it, I began to wonder if it truly came from God. For one thing, as much as I have a desire for it, I didn't really feel that it had to happen to me this year. So perhaps it did come from God? So I just prayed and told the Lord that if it from you then it will happen. If not, then I was wrong. I knew that if it came from God, confirmation would surely occur. I have to admit that it kept me on my toes just a little bit...waiting and wondering...wondering and waiting... The supposed message from God left my mind again and I didn't think about it too much. I didn't allow myself to get entrenched with the whole idea.

So what did the Lord show me at the beginning of the year that was so questionable?"This year you are going to meet your husband." Now the funny thing is that when John asked me to marry him, I did not recall the above statement at all while this was happening. Then, 2 days after he asked me to marry him, God refreshed my memory. My reaction? "Oh...my...word...!"

Tis better to love...

2006-11-01T22:22:00.000-10:00

Loving one another...

That is how they will know...

There are times when God teaches you something so wonderful that your heart just warms up. There is just something so grand about love that it just mesmerizes you. God makes is very clear how powerful love is and without it, our lives are meaningless.

This day I found myself blessed after my heart revealed something so amazing. I said to myself, "Gosh, it feels better to love than to be loved!" Feeling loved from others is great, no doubt about that. But that pales in comparison to how it feels to LOVE. I have always understood that loving others and giving to others is the key to our faith...just how God loves us. But on this day, I did more than just understand what it means to love. I experienced it in my heart. I experienced it in soul. I experienced it in my spirit. It was a wake up call for me. When the Word says that by loving others they will know that you are His child, it's more than just letting people see the nice things you do for others. The kind of love that mesmerizes people is the kind of love that only God can create. His supernatural, agape love is what amazes people.

How excited do you get when you love one another? Does it feel better to love for you than to receive love? I ask myself this question and tell myself, "Not enough." But what a wonderful thing to pray for each and everyday!

Lord, help me to get excited about loving others. Help me to love and may that be more important to me than needing to feel loved by others.

The Earth Is Filled With His Glory!

2006-10-04T00:31:00.000-10:00

I haven't been to the beach to watch the sunset in ages so I decided to go this week on my day off. I lie down and boy, God sure knows how to mesmerize me and make me melt!

I lay there, looking at the clouds and when the sun finally hits the water I push myself up and continue to just melt. Sigh...

Holy, Holy is the Lord Almighty! The earth is filled with His Glory!

Just The Icing On The Cake

2006-09-25T23:08:00.000-10:00

Read an exerpt from Shannon Ethridge, author of the best selling book "Every Woman's Battle" and was inspired to write this entry. I don't think it really matters whether you are single or married. This applies to all of us and should be of an encouragement to all.

We often hear about the importance of having space in a relationship. Open any book on relationships, whether Christian or non-Christian and it is not surprizing to see this topic. Space, the thing important for every couple to have. But why? I could think of several answers including 1) We are individuals and time away sometimes helps you keep your own identity, 2) It can help you to reflect on your relationship, 3) Having a "me" time is just important sometimes. While I don't disagree with those reasons, there has got to be a better reason that those to justify just why space in important in a relationship.

Our relationship with God is THE most important part of our lives. Hands down, nothing, not even your spouse or SO is more important than God. Personal and intimate time with the Lord is vital. But why is it vital? If you are praying and praising God together as a couple then isn't that enough? Certainly not! And the reason for this is because it is God who fills our cups so to speak. The Holy Spirit lives in each and everyone of us and only God alone can make us happy. Only God can make us feel fulfilled. Your husband/wife is just the icing on the cake. The love a spouse brings is just the finishing touches on feeling fulfilled. The cake does not NEED the icing but when the icing is there, it sure is a blessing isn't it? Only God can fill our cup. Your relationship just allows the cup to overflow.

So in regards to space. It is important to have space because if our cups are not filled daily, it cannot overflow. If the cake (our foundation) is not there, there can be no icing. Space allows us to refresh and refocus on the One that gives us true life and true fulfillment. So take that personal time off to pray, relax and rest in the Lord as often as it is needed. THEN and only then can the love from your SO satisfy you. Let him/her be your icing. Let him/her overflow your cup!

Your SO... just the icing on the cake.

Hawaiian Eats Pt. 1

2006-09-21T16:38:00.000-10:00

Mostly Traditional

Lau Lau (pictured below) is a very traditional Hawaiian dish and at Ono's Hawaiian Food, they go all out. This steamed bed of taro leaves is stuffed with pork and butterfish. A good amount of pork fat is placed into the lau lau to prevent it from drying out and on top of that, it gives it much flavor. Taro leaves cook like spinach, only tastes much better than spinach when cooked. If Spinach is cooked too long, it has a muddy taste. But not taro leaves. The flavor in the leaves are much better. Chicken can be ordered if you are not a fan of pork. But if you wanna eat traditional, pork all the way...

The lau lau combination comes with a variety of traditional sides. From the bottom left:

Pipikaula (Pee-pee-kauh-lah): A Hawaiian-style beef jerky. Very good.

Lomi Salmon (Low-mee): Tomatoes, Maui onion, smoked salmon, green onions and Hawaiian salt. Lomi means massage in Hawaiian.

Rice: Not traditional but the most common starch staple in Hawaii. Poi, which is traditional will be talked about on another post.
Maui Onions: Raw, sweet, eaten with Hawaiian salt.
Haupia (Ha-oo-pee-ah): For you coconut lovers. This is not traditional (I think) but coconut is. Commonly eaten today and seen in all luaus.

Suffice to say I was very full after this meal. lol.

Because You Love Me

2006-09-20T23:37:00.000-10:00

Lovely when love songs make the best worship songs... :)

For all those times you stood by me

For all the truth that you made me see
For all the joy you brought to my life
For all the wrong that you made right
For every dream you made come true
For all the love I found in you
I'll be forever thankful
You're the one who holds me up
Never let me fall
You're the one who sees me through it all

You are my strength when I am weak
You are my voice when I can't speak
You are my eyes when I can't see
You see the best there is in me
Lift me up when I can't reach
You give me faith 'coz you believe
I'm everything I am
Because you love me

You give me wings and make me fly
You touch my hand I can touch the sky
I lost my faith, you gave it back to me
You said no star was out of reach
You stand by me and I stand tall
I have your love I had it all
I'm grateful for each day you give me
Maybe I don't know that much
But I know this much is true
I am blessed because I am loved by you

You are always there for me
The tender wind that carries me
A light in the dark shining your love into my life
You've are my inspiration
Through the lies you were the truth
My world is a better place because of you

I'm everything I am
Because you love me

[Edited for tense]

2006-09-03T19:59:00.000-10:00

Japanese Commercial II

I LOVE this commercial! So lovely. :)

The meaning of Aloha...

2006-09-03T18:03:00.000-10:00

Aloooha! If you have ever been to Hawaii you probably have heard that word being expressed to you many times. So what excatly does it mean? Hello? Goodbye? Thank you? While many use that word is those ways, it means so much more than that.

Alo in Hawaiian means face to face or front. When you greet others you don't turn your back to them to greet them. You face them right? Ha means breathe. So together, Aloha means to breathe face to face. It holds a very special meaning and to the native Hawaiian, aloha is one's way of expressing their upmost respect for you. It is not merely "hello". You are breathing on them your soul. While you will not see it done too much these days, the traditional way of greeting someone with Aloha is forehead to forehead and nose to nose. By doing that you can feel the breathe of the other person.

What a beautiful expression indeed! So the next time someone tells you Aloha, remember what it's original meaning is. God has breathed in us the ultimate "aloha", his Holy Spirit. How wonderful. How special. :)

Keeping the boundaries in friendship

2006-08-30T20:06:00.000-10:00

The following is a just a story.

Sue: Argh!
Mary: What's wrong.
Sue: Just friends, just friends...
Mary: Oh...
Sue: I just don't know what to do. He told me that he just wants to be friends but why is he making it so hard for me?
Mary: What do you mean?
Sue: I mean, I know that he is being a good friend but I keep getting such mixed signals. As a result I end up flirting with him.
Mary: Look Sue, you brought up the whole more than friends speech to him before and he said that he just wants to be friends. He has made his feelings known to you. Guys are pretty much clear when they say stuff like that to you.
Sue: I know, I know...but his actions and way he interacts with me tells me otherwise.
Mary: He is just like that. If he cares about someone, he will do his best to be a good friend and a good brother.
Sue: Yeah and I take it the wrong way. I keep trying I guess to encourage him, in hopes that he will have a change in heart. I know that I am not putting God in control of my life when I do that.
Mary: He may not see your flirting as encouragement at all but just friendly banter. But you on the other hand do not see it that way.
Sue: Yeah, a flirt for me is a flirt.
Mary: Then you need to stop doing that. You need to stop flirting with him, even though he doesn't see it so seriously. You need to stop flirting for your sake.
Sue: But what if things don't change? What if he keeps being overfriendly to me?
Mary: Then talk to him and bring it up directly...that despite his intentions to be just friends and to be a good brother in Christ to you, it is hard for you to handle. He needs to know that in order for you to get over him in terms of anything more than friendship, you need boundaries in the friendship. You cannot move on in your feelings by enabling him. You can't change the way he is but you can ask for boundaries.
Sue: Boundaries.
Mary: Yes, absolutely. What kinds of boundaries do you think would help you Sue?
Sue: Well let's see. I think I should spend less time with him. Being around him that much makes it hard for me. Oh and hmm, I tend to share a little too much personal stuff with him. That makes me just yearn to want more in terms of connecting with him beyond friendship. Those are a few that I can think of right now.
Mary: That sounds like a good start Sue. I know it will seem hard but it will work out.
Sue: Yeah, and maybe then I can focus more on God and not have my mind and heart so entrenched with this guy. He does not feel the same way as I do so I need to step back and move on. I love his friendship but I want more and if he does not, I gotta use those boundaries. Thanks Mary!
Mary: Anytime sweetie. Continue to keep your eyes on God and He will give you much wisdom in your life.

~ Trishy

Her Promise...

2006-08-24T22:38:00.000-10:00

A new woman started at my workplace. The moment she and I met I knew we had something in common. She's a Christian. Just the second day on the job, she is already joking around and she and I connected from the first day she started. How did I find out she's a Christian? I was on my lunch break and on that day, I decided to bring my book with me to read. I was hoping no one asked me what I was reading. I was reading "Boy meets Girl" by Joshua Harris and didn't feel like explaining to people what the book was about. I read anyway. In comes this new girl and of course she had to ask me what I was reading. When I told her and what it was about she said, "Oh you are a Christian?" I said yes and delight filled her eyes.

That night, when we were all finishing up, the entire crew for the night stood around the room, waiting for it to turn 9:25 p.m. (when we can all punch out and leave). As we waited I stood next to her and noticed a rather beautiful ring on her wedding finger. The actual ring was similar to the one above but even nicer IMO because hers had a black outline around the edge of the ring. Anyhoo, I naturally thought that she is a married woman so I asked her how long has she been married. She replied that she is not married nor engaged. Perplexed she then said it's a promise ring...from my parents. "A promise ring from your parents?", I thought. She proceeded to tell me, "It's a promise that I made to my parents (and to God) that I will not have sex until I am married and not drink, smoke, etc..." All I could think was "WOW!" I didn't say much cause other people were there and I wanted to see what kind of reaction people would give. No one said a word. I punched out, then she did and she I were able to walk towards the door, just the two of us. I then expressed to her how awesome that is, how she truly honors God and how by doing that it brings Him much glory. She responded be smiling and saying, "Yeah, my faith in God is solid."

The ring was beautiful and she is also a very beautiful woman. I have no doubt that this woman will be exceedingly blessed. While it's a piece of jewelry, I marveled at it, cause it symbolizes something amazing, pure trust and faith in the Lord. I look forward to getting to know this young woman more. She is perhaps in her early 20's, being that she is currently in college. But already, she is had proven herself a mature woman who loves God with all her heart, mind, soul and strength.

More than that...

2006-08-16T21:53:00.000-10:00

I feel led to write a little bit more about what has been going on regarding my relationship. Why? I know some of you may be wondering and perhaps are even skeptical with our whole situation...the timing, the way we met...etc... Some of you may think that it is just so right. Others may just be so perplexed by it that you may think it's utterly crazy. So I would like to encourage you by talking to you a little bit more about what has gone on.

There are two perspectives so to speak when it comes to being a Christian and these two perspectives very much apply to relationships.

1) Our faith in God. Living as a Christian means living by faith, believing that God supernaturally intervenes in our lives, trusting God in all things, thanking Him for every blessing and every lesson under His wing, believing by faith that if we ackowledge Him, we can come to Him in prayer and ask, seek and knock, and realizing that Jesus calls us His friend. This of course is the foundation of me and John's relationship. By this alone, it is possible for God to "set you up" so to speak. We believe that God set us up. John saw how much I love God and how much I encourage and have compassion for others. The same goes for me. I noticed immediately John's passion for the Lord, admist all that he had been through. I also noticed his encouragement to others as well. This was our initial "attraction" so to speak. Sure, I thought he was funny and had a great personality but that is not the first thing I found attractive. And we were on the internet. It required a more supernatural attraction indeed. We didn't even know it at the time either. Then, we got to know each other on a friendship level. Still at time, neither of us thought about anything more. Eventually our relationship showed signs of pursuit and encouragement. John pursued me indirectly and I noticed that. I liked that so I then took on the role of encouraging Him. :) That is how our relationship began... a perfect and beautiful example of how God pursues us, how the Holy Spirt draws us to Him. Just like I responded to God, I responded to John's pursuit.

2) Walking in Wisdom. Ofcourse putting God FIRST in all things is what both John and I did from the very beginning. How did we put God first? How did we put Him in the center of this rather surprizing and unorthodox relationship (I say unorthodox because meeting someone online is quite unorthodox)? By seeking God's Wisdom. What did I need to know or do with our situation? What kinds of things did we need to talk about? We knew that things like communication through various means, telling people about what was going on (for accountability and prayer), seeking advice from those God calls us to ask, etc... were all important things, especially for me. Guarding our hearts was important and seeking God's Wisdom plays an important part in guarding your heart.

As we continued to put God first and seek His Wisdom, we were able to enjoy getting to know each other and found ourselves in peace and joy. But that is not all. Through it all so far, we share the same values, have a terrific frienship and have a terrific fellowship with one another. And all of this has happened before even seeing each other face to face! We have not only acknowledged God but we have also chosen to be in this relationship. God can bless us all He wants to but it is the choice we make (our response to God) that ultimately seals our fate. And how do I know that John is not being fake or how does he know that I am not being fake? I could say that "I just know." but I know that would not be enough for some people. God's Wisdom is how I know and the brunt of that Wisdom is this: 1) that people in our lives be a part of this relationship (that they know enough detail for the purpose of responsibility and accountablity), 2) to confront any concern should it arise 3) to watch for confirmation. Nothing should be taken at face value. Confirmation is vital. If you think about it really, you need all of these things regardless if it was a long distance thing or not.

From hereon, it's God's timing..it's God's Wisdom...and our ultimate way of giving Him the glory is to make a commitment. As King Solomon's wife said in Song of Songs to the young women- we are not to awaken love until the time is right. If there was no commitment on either end, then we would have stopped.

Hope this gives you some insight. Goodness, your comments would certainly be appreciated! :)

Strong is She...Precious is Her Heart.

2006-08-12T20:22:00.000-10:00

Inspired by Pastor Castinano of Columbia...

And I will put enmity between you and the woman, and between your offspring and her Offspring; He will bruise and tread your head underfoot, and you will lie in wait
and bruise His heel. - Genesis 3:15 (Amplified)

This is a powerful verse for us women. It speaks of a real spiritual war between Satan and the woman. Afterall, Jesus was born from a woman's womb. Despite her sin, she has been given a very unique role in history, to birth our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. And for that, Satan must really hate women. He knows how to strike a woman and that is her heart.

Please keep in mind that this post in not about ignorning men. It is just an entry about women. That's all. The bible describes women as a wonderful reflection of God's softer side, the side of God that lifts up...that encourages us to perservere. She also is a reflection of God's wonderful gentleness. She is precious and a real treasure. There is nothing more sad than looking into a woman's eyes and seeing pain and brokeness.

When a woman has been abandoned or rejected, she can either choose to have faith or fear. When her heart has been wounded, a deep sadness can come and if she continues to fear the unknown...if she continues to fear further hurt and rejection, it's as if she carries a mark on her forehead. People can't see that mark of sadness but spirits can. The enemy can and will instill further fear in her to break her...to destroy all hope she has in Christ. Healing can come only if you confront that fear and it will be painful. Women who have this mark tend to attract those who will reject them. Why do think some women are attracted to men who hurt them? Who abuse them? Who will abandon them? Without God's healing and without our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, women will always feel that they don't deserve the kind of love that they deserve. Rejecting a man's true love and rejecting his restoration is a direct reflection of how we reject the love and healing that Jesus wants to provide through restoration. We become unable to truly discern and recognize good people who have good intentions.

Ladies, don't let Satan take a foothold of your heart. Faith will overcome fear and Jesus will stand in the gap for all those who have caused pain in your life. You are beautiful. You are special. You are woman!

An Unexpected Blessing, PT 3

2006-08-03T19:10:00.000-10:00

Praises are not meant to be kept secret but meant to edify and encourage...

(John) When I came back onto CW after almost a year hiatus, my mom had just passed away and I had no preconceived notions of ever getting into another internet relationship. But God has dispelled my fears and I have been blessed immensely by Trisha’s warmth and her love. God does move in mysterious ways and He sure moved in our lives. (Trisha) I really never wanted to meet anyone on the internet but I did and the joy that I have experienced has made me realize that I cannot put God in a box, nor can I limit what God wants to do and when He wants to do it. I always believed that everything happens for a reason.

There are a lot of single Christians out there who have much hope in finding someone special and there is also a lot of single Christians who struggle so much that hearing a testimony like this will just make them struggle even more. Our main purpose for this testimony was to not to talk so much about hope because your salvation alone should give you all the hope you need to live a fulfilled life. But rather it is our encouragement to you to give God the glory in all things. No matter what happens in our relationship, it will never erase the fact that God brought healing. It will never erase the fact that there has been much joy. God has already gotten the Glory though our relationship and we have already been blessed in ways that we did not expect. Just because the end results may not turn out the way that you want to in your own life, never dismiss the things God does in your life. That is our message…to put God first and acknowledge every little (or big) blessing He makes happen without regard of the results. And for the record, we plan to honor God by going all the way.

(John) I asked Trisha to marry me

An Unexpected Blessing, PT 2

2006-07-27T19:01:00.000-10:00

Yes, not at the grocery store…not at church…not even through a good friend. We met at the one place we both thought we would never meet (a Christian message board). We won’t go into great detail about how things happened but let’s just say that the both of us put God FIRST the moment we talked openly about things. And when you do that, you can expect wonderful things to happen. We haven’t met yet and we can bet the first thing you would ask is what in the world can come out of it if you haven’t met yet? Trust us, we both asked that same question. We both questioned God and we both were at odds at how two people can connect even without meeting each other. Then one day God had done something rather amazing and it was enough to just throw all of those questions and doubt out the window. To explain it better, we will say a word individually.

John

Trisha has firsthand knowledge of my past hurts and by "His Stripes" I have been healed. Trish is a very fine young lady whom I met on a Christian Message Board. I met her among other very good quality people with a strong faith in God, just after my mother passed away.
I am not new to internet dating. I was in a relationship that lasted just under a year and found myself hurt in the end. I was upset and even though I never got mad at God, I was hurt. When I came back to the message boards I got to know Trisha there and through various forms of communication, we had connected. In the beginning, I was surprised that I opened myself up in the way that I did (even just a little) because of my past experience. One day, I just realized that I was not hurt anymore and I no longer felt afraid. I believe Trisha is second to none in her love of God and others. As we continued to communicate through various means, my feelings got just so deep. She has made me joyfully cry. We both seek Gods guidance and His Wisdom. And we give HIM the GLORY in return. Even though I never met her face to face yet, I have already felt like we have been there for each other for years. I believe God has used Trisha and her encouragement to bring me healing.

Trish

I really care about John and one thing that I did was pray for him (and I still do). I knew he had gone through some painful things in the past and yet, He has always remained faithful to the Lord. His heart is passionate for God despite the circumstances he has gone though and I really wanted God to bless him in a special way. I didn’t pray for anything specific, but only that God bless Him in the way He wanted to. When I asked him if he still felt hurt from his past (it was an out of the blue question too) he told me no, not at all. I asked him why and when he said it was because of me and the encouragement that I have given him, I was floored. I could not believe what he had just said and pointed out to him how profound that was. It was then I realized that he had been healed of things of the past. I felt that my prayers were answered! God blessed Him by bringing him healing and I had something to do with it. So, in return it brought me much joy.

(to be continued)

~ John and Trish

An Unexpected Blessing, PT 1

2006-07-24T09:48:00.000-10:00

Ever claim that God can do the impossible but when the impossible comes you find it too hard to believe? Don’t feel bad because in a way we should question the impossible. We should test and seek God’s wisdom above all things. The impossible can certainly bring about the opportunity to grow in much faith…faith as big as a mustard seed…big enough to move mountains.

God showed me something at the beginning of this year that I just knew I had to question. I was sure that I heard wrong mainly because it was a very big revelation that is sure to make anyone wonder if it came from Him or if it was just me and my own personal desires. Yet, God assured me that my desires are His. Trying not to dwell on it too much I went on, beginning the year of expecting much change in my life (whatever that would be).

My job/career situation has certainly gone in various directions and so you would think that the circumstances of this would certainly be the center of my prayer life. But boy was I wrong. Something else completely unexpected happened…I met someone. But it’s not what you think. Oh no. Forget about girl meets boy and goes out on a typical date. Forget even the idea that I have met someone through a good friend or family member. If meeting someone is going to happen, then that is how you would expect for things to go. But many times God doesn’t work that way at all. He will catch you by surprise in the least expecting way. In fact, He could easily catch you and work in a completely unexpecting way. Forget “traditional” means. I met this person on the internet.

(to be continued)

~ Trishy

What were you thinking? PT 3

2006-07-17T18:05:00.000-10:00

The following is just a story. It did not really happen to me

As I was sitting at the bus stop, a gentleman (perhaps in his 40s) came by and sat next to me. We got to talking and about 5 minutes into the conversation, it was clear that this was a rich man.

What is a rich guy like you catching the bus?
Man: My car broke down and instead of getting a temporary one, I decided to go simple today and take the bus.
Ok. Interesting
Man: Besides, I just made a huge investment and I don't feel like spending money on a new car right now.
Must of been some investment.
Man: Yup. Church
Church?
Man: Yeah, I just made a huge donation to this church my family goes to.
Do you not go there yourself?
Man: Nah, not really. I go on all the holidays and such. You know, like Christmas and Easter. But I don't go regularly. I do donate though. I know that I don't do much like go regularly but I do support them financially.
I see. If you don't mind me asking...what exactly do you donate for?
Man: What do you mean? Do you mean where does my money go?
Yes.
Man: Well, no not really. I figure that they should know what to do with it and they know what their needs are. I am sure that it will be put to good use for the poor or something...right?
I don't know sir. I don't know the church you go to, except that they are located in a very nice part of town.
Man: Ah well, I feel good about it. I think I made a good decision, even though I have no idea what they will use the money for.
If this is too personal then you don't have to answer but, ballpark...how much money are we talking about?
Man: Oh, about 1.5 million dollars.
Oh ok. Wow. Well here's my bus. It was nice talking to you.
Man: Same here

I saw that man again about 8 months later. This time, at the local supermarket. He recognized me and said hello. He had shared about what happened with the church he donated to. While he didn't give too many details he shared that he regrets donating that much money without putting in his request that the money go mostly for the poor and the the needs of the community. He also shared that he and his family go to another church and that he attends a little more regularly. He contributes to this new church mostly by volunteering with his family to help the community. He regrets his past action greatly and wishes that he could take the money back and use it more wisely. He and his family now make half of what they used to make.

Going Holo Holo up Windward side

2006-07-10T08:22:00.000-10:00

Not working has given me the opportunity to just drive out and several times I have driven out to the northern side of the island. I love going holo holo (cruizin) to the Windward side (Northside)! It's a great drive and there are several popular places to stop along the way. The H3 freeway is probably the freeway with the nicest view. I just love driving on the H3!

About an hour and a half into the drive, you get to Kahuku, where they are known for their high school football team, the Red Raiders and their shrimp farms. There are many shrimp stands and trucks along the road and more popular and well known place is Romy's. So ofcourse, I had to stop here for some lunch.
The best on the menu is their garlic butter shrimp. You can choose either shrimp or prawns. It's all naturale so you gotta peel and clean off lots of "stuff" yourself. Messy but oh so good!

And then I was off to Haleiwa or better known as the North Shore. They are famous for their shave ice and here is one from a place called Matsumotos. This is strawberry flavored. Adding some condensed milk over it is great too!

Last stop before heading home was the Dole Planatation. I haven't been there for years. Here, a young pineapple.

On the plantation they have the biggest maze in the world but I didn't have time for that and to get lost. LOL So instead, I rode the Plantation Express which is a 20 minute train ride around the fields. They talk about Hawaii's rich pineapply plantation history.

And since I didn't get a shave ice back in Haleiwa (yes, that pic was a stranger's shaved ice. lol) I just HAD to get me some Dole Whip, a soft serve pineapply goodness. It was huge though! I had the hardest time finishing it. Look at how small my hand is. Sorry for the blurry pic.

So this was how my drive was on this particular day. I left the house at about 10:30 a.m. and then got home at about 4:30 p.m. I was bushed!

In the Waiting...

2006-06-14T22:02:00.000-10:00

In the Waiting
Vickie Yohe

Pain
The gift nobody longs for still it comes.
Somehow leaves me stronger when it's gone away. Pray...
I try and pray for your will to be done.
But I confess it's never fast enough for me.

It seems the hardest part is waiting on you.
When what I really want is just to see your hand move.

I want a peace beyond my understanding.
I want to feel it fall like rain in the middle of my heartache.
I want to feel your arms as they surround me.
And let me know that it's okay to be in this place.
Resting in the peace that only comes in the waiting.

Time...time to let it go and just believe.
Trusting in what no one else but you can see free...
Freedom from the fears that close me in,
when I can't get beyond where I have been
But then again the silence doesn't mean that I'm alone.
As long as I can hear that I'm still your own.

In the waiting...

What were you thinking? PT 2

2006-06-12T08:09:00.000-10:00

The following scenario is only a story. Names are not real and have been created
for the purpose of easier understanding...

Phone Rings...

Hello?
Woman's voice: Hey girl, it's me Hillary
Hi Hillary! What's up? I haven't heard from you in ages!
Hillary: Weell, you won't believe it...I've been kinda busy...aaand, I met a guy.
No way! When?
Hillary: About 3 weeks ago. We met at that conference I went to for my job. He was the guy next to me at the conference and we just got talking, went out for coffee on the third day of the conference and things just flowed from there. Hehe...
Wow, that's cool. So you guys are formally dating now?
Hillary: It would appear so! I really like him. He's a cool guy.
So what church does he go to?
Hillary: Um...Nowhere. He's not a Christian.
He's not? Are you going to invite him to church?
Hillary: I already have a few times but he is totally not interested. So I backed off.
Are you sure you want to continue a relationship with this man? I mean, I myself just ended my relationship with Bobby because I realize that God wants me to put Him first over any man that will not open his heart to Jesus.
Hillary: What! You mean you and Bobby broke up! That's shocking! You too have been together for what, ages!
We were unequally yoked hon. Anyways, I hope you pray and think about this situation ok?

4 months later...E-mail from Hillary...

Things just have been awesome with me. I got the new job I wanted and I'm enjoying it a lot! And guess what, he proposed! We are getting married in a few months. I thought about what you said about him not being a Christian but I'm okay with that. I feel at peace with it I suppose. I think he will one day change and be open. I haven't been to church in ages too. I think when we get married he will be more open. I just have been so busy so when my schedule loosens up again, I'll try to invite him again.

I haven't heard from Hillary for quite a while and when I finally did a few months later, her husband had still not been open to the Lord and she herself backslid a little. Several changes in the home had caused a lot of stress in the marriage as well. It took her awhile to get back into the swing of things but she eventually went back to church and got right with God. It just saddened me that she went through all of that.

2006-06-08T16:20:00.000-10:00

All Things Japanese...Anime

Final Fantasy X...Fast Version of "First Love" by Utada Hikaru (see slow version below). Japanese Anime ROCKS!

All Things Japanese...Commercial

2006-06-08T15:53:00.000-10:00

The Japanese Commercial is quite different to what us Westerns are used to. Here is an example of a commercial for a toilet seat commercial. Many Japanese commercials are like this. Wierd but funny! LOL

All Things Japanese...What Flavor is that?!

2006-06-08T08:48:00.000-10:00

There are many American branded snacks that are sold in Japan but did you know that they sell flavors there that we Americans will never see here (unless you special order them)? Here is an example:

PRINGLES:

Here from left to right are Teriyaki, Crispy Curry and Grilled Shrimp and Pepper flavors that are only sold in Japan. I have tried the Curry Flavor and I love it! I am sure if you are really curious you could find a website (or directly from Pringles even) that sells the flavors on-line.

Another cool American snack in Japan is Mentos. They have a variety of flavors we do not have like peach!

All things Japanese...Utada Hikaru

2006-06-07T15:27:00.000-10:00

2 days...all things Japanese. This is older but her signature song. See if you can catch the English parts... And don't forget to leave a comment! ;)

Just a little rant...please?

2006-05-26T20:53:00.000-10:00

Ok, I promise to finish the last few parts to my last writing but right now I thought I would do something different and just express myself. I promised myself that I would not do this on my blog but I feel led to and to just be completely open so that perhaps you too would learn something from all of it.

It's been quite an interesting and overwhelming past few weeks...losing my job and dealing with my mistakes, plans to move residence, and my mom's stint surgery. She bled quite a lot under the skin and had to go in for emergency surgery tonight (needs to stay in the hospital for 3-4 days). All going on at the same time too... God has kept me strong despite my circumstance but I know that my need for a good cry is coming any moment now. It will be a nice release for sure. And on top of that the natural human desire to have someone whom I can come home to and share my day with...the need for companionship and intimacy is at its greatest peak right now. God is my Shepherd but it does not erase away the real desire for human companionship. I have such wonderful friends yes, and I am very grateful for all of them but someone to call husband. Someone to love everyday...it's a real desire and one that I ache for during times of hardship. I wait for that day. Truly. You know what I'm talking about.

I am exceedingly grateful to God for his grace and MERCY. Truly. I mean, you may be reading this right now and not be a Christian. But read on. I hope you do read on. I made the choice about 13 years ago to accept Jesus as my Lord and Savior and no matter how long it has been since that day, I continue to realize just how desperately I am need of a Savior.

What's amazing is that no matter what is going on in my life, I will never give up being the person I am. I love to encourage. I love to make people smile. I love doing nice things for others. It's my nature. It's God's nature within me. So many people need uplifting. So many people need a smile. So many people need someone to call friend. I mean really, the groanings you hear from this world for Jesus to return has been running rampant. I truly believe in my spirit, that Jesus is coming again SOON. Oh boy how I want Him to come soon...Even so... come Lord Jesus come. Take us home... No more suffering... No more sin... Please Lord, please!

Rant over... I feel better now. ;)

Transformed, by the renewing of your mind...pt 1

2006-05-15T22:18:00.000-10:00

[1st part of a three part series- The following is just a story and did not actually occur with me]

It's a quiet and cool night and the stars are shining brightly. As I slide the door open, a rush of wind blows gently on my face. Standing halfway out, I look up into the night sky. It's a gorgeous night... Absolutely gorgeous. The silence is broken when the doorbell rings. Who could it be at this time of the night? I cautiously approach the door.

"Who is it?"
Voice: "It's me, Steven... "

I look through the peephole and it is indeed my friend Steven. I open the door and there standing at the door is a man I've known for 5 years.

"Steven, what are you doing here? Is Veronica with you?"
Steven: No, just me... Can I talk to you about something? Please?
"Ofcourse, come in."

He sits on the couch and I sit at the other end.

"What's up? Is everything ok?"
Steven: How have you been?
"I've been great actually. Just getting ready for Sunday school tomorrow."
Steven: Oops, sorry to bother you.
"Nah, it's ok. So...what is it that you wanna talk about?"

Steven changes position and looks down...

Steven: I've been thinking lately. You know how Veronica and I got married before we became Christians right? Well, ever since, things have been different between us. I'm beginning to think that maybe we were not meant to get married. I mean, we were not believers when we got married and now that we are, things just don't feel right.

"What are you talking about Steven? The fact that you and Veronica got saved is a huge blessing. Why would you think it was not meant to be?"

Steven: Oh I don't know. There has been more tension actually lately and...I am having my doubts.

"I don't understand. What is it that you want?"

Steven: Well, I just don't feel like we were meant to get married. I mean, we both got saved and all but...

"Just because things don't go well or just because you have your disagreements doesn't mean anything Steven."

Steven: But what if I am so sure and what if...what if I began to appreciate the person who actually brought me to the Lord?"

He looks up and then in my direction. I then realize where he is going with that statement and immediately stand.

"You need to leave, right...now..."

Steven: What?

"Leave now and please do NOT come here again."

Suffice to say, I eventually told Veronica what happened that night and she confronted him about it. Because of his denial and outright lies, she left Steven. Two weeks later I saw Steven in church crying after the service. He bravely approached me and asked for my forgiveness. I told him that I am not the one you should be asking for forgiveness. Before turning to leave his presence, "What were you thinking?"

Takana Sushi

2006-05-13T16:47:00.000-10:00

Went to Shirokiya to see what they had this week. If you remember from my Okonomiyaki post that they bring in and make foods that are not too common in Hawaii. This is Japanese food to the core!

To my delight they had Takana Sushi. :) Takana is a Japanese cabbage that is commonly used to make tsukemono (Picked vegetables). Tsukemono is a side condiment, eaten with white rice. I'll most likely do a post on tsukemono one day.

What's different about Takana Sushi in this case is that it was used instead of nori. They also had takana inari sushi (cone sushi) is which the takana was chopped up and stuffed into the tofu skin.

It was good although the vinegar was a bit strong for me. After almost 8 years of working in a sushi shop, I prefer lighter flavored sushi rice. But in general it was very good. Just a preference thing. The Takana was excellent and salted just right. :)

Gyu-don

2006-05-09T20:41:00.000-10:00

Thanks to a friend's undying love for Japanese food, I decided tonight to go back to my roots tonight and make Gyu-donburi. Donburi is simply rice with something on top of it. Normally a donburi will consist of a meat and egg mixture and some Japanese veggies. Tonight I made Gyu-don- Thinly sliced beef rice bowl. Since I am trying to stay away from refined sugar, I made this with honey instead and you can't tell the difference!

One 7 inch pan will cook one serving. Let me tell you, it's big so I hope you are hungry!

Hot and fresh! Try this dish ok? ;)

Sauce:

1 1/2 cups of water
1 individual packet of katuo flakes
4 tablespoons of soy sauce
2 tablespoons of sake
1 1/2 tablespoons of honey
3 one inch pieces of fresh ginger. Poke holes in ginger. For a more intense ginger flavor,
grate the ginger instead.

In a saucepan, steep katsuo flakes in water on med low heat for about 5-7 minutes. Drain out flakes. Add the soy sauce, ginger, sake and honey and simmer.

In the meantime:

2 inch carrot
small handful of onions
1 ounce of thinly sliced beef. Ask the guy in the meat dept. to slice it paper thin.
small handful of green onions
small handful of bamboo shoots from the can
small handful of peas
Two beaten eggs

Cut carrot in half and thinly slice them. You can also grate the carrot if you like.
Slice onions. Cut green onions into one-inch pieces

Add about half the sauce mixture is a small frying pan (about a 7 inch pan) and turn the heat up to medium high. Spread carrots and onions in pan and cook until carrots are tender. Spread beef, bamboo shoots and peas. Continue to cook until meat is cooked. Add more sauce if needed (it should not be dry but usually you will not need the whole sauce mixture for this dish unless you have your heat on too high) Spread green onions. SPREAD eggs into the pan and make sure you even distribute it. Turn off the heat immediately and cover.
Let stand for 5 minutes.

Place white or brown rice in a big ramen bowl and put shredded nori in the middle. Slide the entire mixture onto the top of the rice. Garnish with shredded nori.

ENJOY!

Atop Diamond Head...

2006-05-06T19:51:00.000-10:00

It's been awhile since I hiked up Diamond Head Monument. What a great workout but even greater was what was in store for me on the top. Breathtaking...

The cluster of buildings you see here is Waikiki.

Here you can actually see the inside of the crater. The building you see is where the State Civil Defense is located. My car is somewhere in that parking lot. lol.

Crooked

2006-04-30T19:44:00.000-10:00

I was driving home when I noticed something quite funny. They had just resurfaced one of the main streets that leads to where I live. Whoever did the painting of the new yellow lines did a rather bum job. It was noticeably crooked for quite a stretch of the road. Now it wasn't THAT bad to the point where you had to really adjust your wheel. But I thought it was odd that they weren't able to make it straight.

Makes me think about how God truly wants our paths to be completely straight, the way He intends it for us to be. How easy it is to get off that path. Even if we are walking pretty well in His path, we tend to kinda go a little crooked sometimes.

Thank you...

2006-04-27T23:35:00.000-10:00

Just a little while longer I wanna pray
Can't get You off my mind so I came to say
Thank You Lord, just for loving me, alright
Many times I do forget
Every need that You have met
Oh thank You Lord, I know You're showing me
You are there when I am down and out
You're holding me, Your love is so amazing
Oh it changed me

Here I am with all I have
Raise my hands to worship You
I wanna say thank you, oh thank you
For everything, for who You are
You cover me, You touch my heart
I wanna say thank you

I could have died in my sin but You saved me
Didn't have any hope at all
You gave me peace divine, strength to carry on
I should have been the one to pay
But instead You took my place
Amazing grace, it's more than just a song
Even though I don't deserve Your love for me
You look beyond my fault and You showed me mercy

I wanna say thank you for the sun
Lord we thank you for the rain
Thank you for the love You gave

Okonomiyaki

2006-04-11T22:13:00.000-10:00

Shirokiya is a Japanese-owned Department store and this week is the Horoshima fair. Everytime they have fair (which is pretty much back to back) they bring cooks from Japan to cook and feature a popular Japanese dish. Most of these dishes are not common in Hawaii. As common Japanese food is here, they bring items that we don't have. To my delight tonight, they had Okonomiyaki!!! I decided to eat it in my car. :)

Okonomiyaki is a like a Japanese pancake. Two crepe-like pancakes are sandwhiched together. This is a typical okonomiyaki filled with yakisoba (Japanese fried noodles), cabbage, bean sprouts, onions, green onions and beef. Two big and thin slices of beef were in this one! A special okoniyaki sauce is added and it came with extra sauce on the side and a packet of ao nori (finely shredding sea weed), which is what the green stuff is on top. The nori makes a huge difference in the taste of the entire dish.

Ahh! Blurry pic again. Upon taking this bite you can see the thin slice of beef, the bean sprouts and the pancake. It was quite yummy. I have to say that I also love this dish with shrimp or any kind of seafood really. You can add whatever you want really; but traditionally it usually always has cabbage and bean sprouts in it.

To me, nothing goes better with this dish than some iced cold green tea!

Happy 100th Honolulu!

2006-04-08T15:44:00.000-10:00

This year Honolulu celebrates their 100th birthday and for 4 days, the City and County of Honolulu put together a carnival festival to celebrate!

First a before and after photo of Kaimuki, the town I grew up in. The old photo is Kaimuki in the 50's and the bottom is what Kaimuki looks like today. Not much different except for the cars and dress really. I wanted to find a really old photo but those need to be purchased.

I found this vintage Hawaiian photo of a lady dancing hula in Waikiki. I personally love Vintage Hawaiian photos. My favorite!

At the carnival, I wanted to try something different and to my surprize was a food stand selling Samoan food. Believe it not, I have never seen a Samon food place or tried Samoan food before. I had at least try it. I got the everything plate so that I could try a little of everything. Above you will see a pork sausage, corned beef, deep fried mackeral, taro, a deep fried plantain, Samoan style long rice noodles with chicken and a coconut milk dish with fish. Unfortunately, the taste of the food was rather acquired and I did not care for it. But I was glad I at least tried it and I now know what Samoan food generally tastes like.

I didn't eat my whole lunch so yes, I got some roasted corn on the cobb. Say "Ahh"

Went on several very "old school carnival rides" but the best hands down would have to be the ferris wheel! Why? Well just take a look at the view I had! It was breathtaking! You couldn't ask for a better view. The other problem was that I was alone in the car (seats 4). But then again it was just me and the Lord. Maybe next time it will be with someone special. ;)

Created in God's Image PT. 2

2006-04-07T19:52:00.000-10:00

Dear Lord,

Today was a great day. I laughed a lot. It reminded me of the day when you first created me. I remember seeing that smile on your face on that day.

Today was a great day. I talked for hours with a long lost friend. It reminded me that I have to pray tonight and what you told me the other day about how much you love me. And that dream I had last night. You were trying to tell me something weren't you?

Today was a great day. I watched a young man help an old lady cross the street. He looked strong and even though he appeared to be in a rush, he took the time to help that nice old lady. He kinda reminded me of you really. I remember the day you gave me your strength to overcome a major change in my life. It really carried me through Lord.

Today was a great day. I saw a couple in the park arguing with one another. But about 15 minutes later they calmed down. I overheard the woman apologizing to the man for things she did that day that embarrassed him. They ended up leaving the park hugging each other. It reminds me of the times I rejected you because of a bad day I was having. Yet, you gave me peace and forgiveness each time I did so.

Today was a great day. As I was walking home from work I saw a beautiful rainbow over the lush mountains. Behind that was the most beautiful sunset I have ever seen- purplish in color. It reminds me of how beautiful I felt that day, even though I didn't have time to fix my hair or makeup.

Yes today was a great day.

Thank you Lord Jesus.

AMEN

Created in God's Image PT. 1

2006-04-01T20:15:00.000-10:00

Ever think about trying to understand the opposite sex? Ever wonder why a man or a woman thinks or acts the way he or she does? I am sure all of us have. Even old renowned psychologists like Freud tried to answer this question. Whether it's siblings, friends, dates, or your spouse, I am sure that you have wanted to understand the nature of the other person- or even tried to understand yourself? We are all individuals and are all unique in our very special way; but yet, we hope that there is something common among men and women. It would make life and relationships so much easier to deal if there were characteristics that were common right?

I got to thinking about this lately. Me, as a single. Me as a woman. Me as a woman of God. That's right! If there is one thing that I would love to know is who I am as a WOMAN of God...and to go even further, who MEN of God are. If I did a little exercise and thought about some general characteristics of men and women, it would look like this I suppose:

Men: Masculine, loves competition, simple and straightforward, physically strong, wants respect.

Women: Feminine, Relational, complex, communicators, wants intimacy.

The levels can vary but for the most part, I have observed the above to be common among the two sexes. Write it out and what do you see? I see compatability. I see two pieces of a puzzle that fit perfectly together. You may be thinking, "Wait a minute! How in the world do you see compatability? Everything is opposite of each other!" At first glance, true, men and women are complete opposites. But take a closer look and you see something AMAZING.

God said, Let Us [Father, Son, and Holy Spirit] make mankind in Our image, after Our likeness, and let them have complete authority over the fish of the sea, the birds of the air, the [tame] beasts, and over all of the earth, and over everything that creeps upon the earth. So God created man in His own image, in the image and likeness of God He created him; male and female
He created them. - Genesis 1:26-27

Now the Lord God said, It is not good (sufficient, satisfactory) that the man should be alone; I will make him a helper meet (suitable, adapted, complementary) for him. Genesis 2:18

If we want to understand men and women in general then all we have to do is look at God Himself. Adam needed a helper because Adam alone was not sufficient. There was something lacking. God said that it was not good for man to be alone. Adam alone did not bear the full image of God. What we have here is a revelation to the nature and character of God himself. Men are strong and God is powerful. Men want to be respected and God wants our worship. Men like competion and God is a jealous God. But that's not enough. Women are feminine and God is gentle. Women are relational and God wants a relationship with us. Women love to communicate and God wants to speak to us and hear our prayers. Women want intimacy and God knows the depths of our heart.

Isn't that absolutely AMAZING! I am amazed at who I am as a woman and I am amazed at who men are as men because we are both are likenesses of God! No wonder why most of us have such a deep seeded desire to find that special someone. But we must not forget that it is God himself that can fill that desire. He alone is the One that will bring life to our hearts. But what a wonderful gift it is when we do find that special person in our lives. If we want to understand the opposite sex then all we have to do is get to know God for all that He is.

AMEN...

Cloud Watching

2006-03-31T00:08:00.000-10:00

A few photos I took while cloud watching...

To my surprize on this day, a paraglider! This is one of afternoons in which we had clear skies. Other than that we have had a record 40 days of rain so far.

Heavy rains and dense clouds didn't stop me from going out and taking this pic. The pic doesn't really do justice. If you look carefully, the bottom of the clouds in this pic is almost touching the ocean. It was georgeous!

Undescribeable Worship!

2006-03-24T23:53:00.000-10:00

PLEASE DO NOT SCROLL AHEAD. YOU WILL GAIN THE MOST BY

VIEWING THIS POST IN ORDER.

Inspired by a presentation at a recent Christian conference...

For most of us, we go to church, praise the Lord, lift up our hands, and sing our praises to Him. We may even praise and worship Him throughout the week. We say that we have great faith in God and give Him all the glory. But, do we even realize just how glorious He is? Do we realize what kind of God we are worshipping?

In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth. Most of us know that Scripture. It's the very first words in the bible. God, our Creator... God, the one who created all things. When we think of Astronomy, do you have an understanding if just how amazing it is? How much do you know about our galaxy? Well, to give you a little idea, it is important to understand about the basic feature of our galaxy... LIGHT. And God said, "Let there be light" It was the very first thing God created and we understand that Light is the very essence of God. Jesus is our LIGHT. The fastest element out of all the elements is light. Light is so fast that it can spin around the earth 4 times in one second! Truly amazing huh?

Also what was the last time you studied your galaxies? Why don't we start with the one we live in, where earth is situated, the Milky Way. Our basic photo of the Milky Way does not even make the Earth visible. Amazing Space.com reveals that The Milky Way, a spiral galaxy, The Milky Way contains more than 100 billion stars and has a diameter of 100,000 light-years! So large that our human brains cannot even comprehend it!

Somewhere in there is Earth. We are so small in comparison aren't we? To get an idea of how big The Milky Way is, we can first translate light years into seconds. Remember how many times light can travel in a second around the earth? So just how long a trillion seconds in light years be like? It is so long that if we went back to a trillion seconds, it will take us back to 29,000 BC! That's a pretty long ruler don't you think? The diameter of The Milky Way is 100,000 Light Years. Still pretty big. Now, let's look at another galaxy, the Whirlpool Galaxy. This Galaxy is 31 million light years away from us and 90,000 light years in diameter!

Isn't that absolutely gorgeous?! To think that God, in all His power, created such beauty! The next picture though is so unexplainable that I can't even tell you how great it is. You just have to see the picture and soak it all in cause there is just no description any human being can give. It is so mind boggling that no man can fully comprehend it's greatness. If we thought The Whirpool Galaxy was pretty amazing then wait till you see this picture...

God, in all his power and infinite Glory... the same God who created our galaxies... The same God who created us... so tiny, yet in His image... This same God who loves us so much that He would stoop down to our level... How in the world can we worship and praise a God so great? How in the all the galaxies that He has created... how can he die for us?

Upon closer look at The Whirlpool Galaxy, the Hubble telescope was able to take a photo of the very center, the core of the entire galaxy. It is the most amazing picture yet...

How is your worship? Just how much Glory have you given God? Can you even speak? I can't. His greatness makes me absolutely SPEECHLESS. Just imagine what it will be like when Jesus comes again. Just imagine what it will feel like when we are once again with Him. You know what, I have to admit. I myself cannot imagine what it will be like to see God in all His glory. All I know is that He requires so little of us. There is no possible way that we can give God the kind of Glory that He seeks. So I give what little faith I have and I honor Him with what strength He chooses to give me.

How great... how magnificent...how unimaginable! AMEN!

From a different view

2006-03-20T22:53:00.000-10:00

Relaxing on a beach under a palm tree. Isn't this pic cool?

Greatness Games

2006-03-20T21:43:00.000-10:00

How would you feel if you thought only of others?

A few weeks ago, I talked about how I was feeling discouraged because I didn't think I had what it took to guide the families who wanted to adopt hurt children. I also was struggling that week with the fact that I am doing something that is out of my element. Pretty self-centered really. What I was really conveying is "I don't want to do this." I learned another important lesson this week after God revealed to me the passage in Mark.

"If anyone wants to be first, he must be the very last, and the servant of all". He took a little child and had him stand among them, "Whoever welcomes one of these little children in my name welcomes me; and whoever welcomes me does not welcome me but the one who sent me." Mark 9: 33-37

The disciples were arguing about who was the greatest. They were casting out demons and actually debating who was the best among all of them. This is what I was telling myself two weeks ago, "I am a born leader. I have gifts and talents. I could be doing so much more with my role" Yes, I know. It was a faith issue but it was so much more than that. It's in our sinful nature to be self-centered and sometimes, even when we have faith in God, we play the greatness game. In order to be truly "great", it requires one to be a servant. If God wants to use me for something great, I must first learn how to serve. It's much more important that we learn how to be a servants. It causes us to have the same attitude that Jesus has. If we think more of others than ourselves; if we learn to have a servant's attitude, it will posture you to have a deeper understanding of God's love for us. People will step all over you for having this attitude and they will take advantage of you. That's the consequence. Afterall, Jesus thought only of others. As a consequence, He died for it.

So because of that I am grateful for what I do. I am grateful that God has given my opportunities to serve rather than lead. It takes me away from self-centeredness and most important, it gives God the glory!

Serving...thinking of others...true greatness!

Amen!

Honolulu Festival Pt.1

2006-03-14T10:23:00.000-10:00

This past weekend was the 12th Annual Honolulu Festival. It all began 12 years ago to celebrate the Japanese culture in Hawaii as well as highlight the ongoing relationship between the people of Japan and the people of Hawaii. I haven't gone to the Festival in a long time and this year I decided to go. I love celebrating my culture and celebrations like this one show the uniqueness of how God can bring people together in unity. It's not Spiritual unity but it's still nice to celebrate our special uniqueness. The Festival has evolved to celebrating various cultures from around the world; but Japan remains to be the focus in this Festival. On day one, I decided to go to the events at the Hawaii Convention Center. There, a variety of Japanese craft vendors and great performances were the highlights of this Festival.

Here is a display of the art of Japanese flower arranging. Notice the levels of the flowers. There is a top level, a medium level and lower levels). These levels have meaning which is something that I have to research more on in the future. What makes this flower arrangement unique is that it uses Hawaiian/tropical flowers in its Japanese design. :)

Origami (oh-ree-gah-mee) is a form of Japanese papercraft. Here, the teacher is showing me how to make Japanese slippers. Yes, that's my hand on the bottom. But aren't the slippers cute? The teacher said that I could make big ones and actually wear them as house slippers. Sorry for the blurry photos. I think my camera is getting over the hill.

Throughout the year, hundreds of mini quilts squares were quilted by people in Hawaii and in Japan. These quilt squares were put together and many quilts were formed. These FRIENDSHIP QUILTS were the main attraction at the Convention Center. It is a display of the ongoing friendship between the people of Hawaii and Japan. Again, sorry for the blurry pic.

Ok I forgot the Japanese name for this but it is the art of Japanese caligraphy. As I watched the woman dance her brush across the paper, you could clearly see that this method of caligraphy is an art. The order of her strokes and the dancing of her brush was a pleasure to watch.

I didn't get many pics of the performances because my camera is old and has no zoom. I was able to take this pic. This was one of the mosts unique presentations I had seen at the Festival. A salon and fashion company from Hokkaido called SHAMPOO MATSURI put on a neat fashion show in which elements of the old and new came together. The girls were dressed in traditional Yukatas (summer kimonos) while stylists did their hair and make up in very modern Japanese styles. To display more appreciation and uniqueness, some of the ladies had Hawaiian/tropical flowers placed in their hair. A Chinese introduction and techno music (in English) topped off this unique show.

So what's a Festival without eating Japanese food? I decided to go to my favorite restaurant, SUSHI KING who serves deliscious authentic Japanese food for lunch. Here is salmon cutlet (salmon katsu) with a special sauce. To the right is spicy tuna rolls (spicy maguro maki) and to top if off, miso soup and tossed greens with a miso dressing.

Boy, time to invest in a new camera. Coming soon: Honolulu Festival pt. 2

Makakilo Valley

2006-03-12T23:43:00.000-10:00

A side of Hawaii away from the beaches. I took this pic on my way to Camp Timberline in Makakilo Valley. Isn't God an awesome artist? :)

Sowing In Tears

2006-03-11T00:06:00.001-10:00

This really spoke to me and I share it with you. :) Comments welcome!

by Os Hillman

Those who sow in tears will reap with songs of joy. - Psalm 126:5

Psalm 126 describes an interesting process that goes against our natural tendencies when we are taken into a difficult period in our lives. Whenever we are hurled into a crisis that brings tears, our tendency is to retreat or recoil in fear and hurt. However, there is a better way that God tells us to handle such times of travail.

Those who sow in tears will reap with songs of joy. "He who goes out weeping, carrying seed to sow, will return with songs of joy, carrying sheaves with him" (Ps. 126:5-6). God is telling us that if we will do what is unnatural for us in these circumstances, He will make sure that what we sow in tears will return in joy. This is one of the most important lessons I have learned when faced with difficult circumstances. Rather than sit back and allow self-pity and discouragement to consume us, we should plant seed during this time. Reach out to a person who needs a friend. Invest in the life of another. See where you can be a blessing to someone. Give of yourself.

The psalmist acknowledges that we are doing this while we are in our pain. However, during this time we are to sow seed. That seed will return to us in another form. Here is what will happen when we do this. "He who goes out weeping, carrying seed to sow, will return with songs of joy, carrying sheaves with him." We will receive joy and fruit from the seed that we plant during this time. Sheaves represent the fruit of a harvest. We will actually get a harvest from this seed.

"You must not let the circumstances destroy you! Too many in the Kingdom are counting on you to come through this because of the calling on your life!" Those were the words spoken to me by a friend one time when I was in the midst of a very difficult business and personal circumstance that was threatening to destroy me emotionally. This person saw what God was doing and the fruit that God wanted to bring from these circumstances. Sometimes we need others around us to push us through the difficult times. If you find yourself in a difficult place today, see where you can sow some seed. Soon you will be reaping songs of joy.

Aloha Weekend Video

2006-03-10T09:09:00.000-10:00

I have decided to try something new- Aloha Weekend Video! So if your bored anytime on the weekend or would like to just view something different on this site, click and watch! For my first video, some Good News! If you are not a Christian and would like to find out a little about who Jesus is, then click away! Ah click it anyway. :)

When you wonder why...

2006-03-05T20:52:00.000-10:00

There are times in each season of your life when things will be tough. God is continuously testing and seasoning you to prepare for things for the future. The challenges of this season was apparent after coming home this weekend from a training retreat for families planning to adopt. I spent the entire time at the retreat watching and learning from the presenters and my fellows co-workers. Saturday night, it was time to sleep but I wanted so bad to go and take a walk. It was cool and a walk wouldv'e been nice. Because it was raining a little I decided not to go. As I stood there at the front door, wanting so much to take that step, I went to bed instead, closed my eyes, pulled the covers over me and began to pray. A huge part of me wanted to cry but I didn't want to in a room filled with other people. If I was going to pour out my heart to the Lord, I wanted to do it privately.

It has been tough the past several weeks and the Lord has opened the door in my heart to experience things that require complete faith and trust in Him. Financially, I am running on empty and waiting to get paid for my work at HOPE INC. But that is the least of my challenges. As I listened to the presenters at the training, I was in awe for how much experience that my fellow co-workers have had or is having with fostering and adopting children. They bring so much to the ministry. I on the other hand am not only learning, but I have no experience myself with fostering or adopting children. So what right? But as I sat there listening to them I couldn't help think, "Gee Lord, what is it do I have to offer these families? I wish I had something, some kind of experience or testimony that I can use to help these families." I felt so inadequate and began wondering myself if I should be even doing this!

Ofcourse I do understand and realize that I was under attack. Yet I began making excuses. I minimized the experiences in my life. I began to wonder if having a Masters degree mattered. Did my time at my previous jobs and my other expereinces REALLY prepare me for this? Would I have continue to have a passion for these kids, blah, blah, blah. That night in bed I was numb. I prayed and yet, I held back.

As I type this right now, I am realizing that I need to get back on track and I KNOW that the Lord is with me. He has wonderful plans for these children and families and I need to reclaim the fact that He wants to use me. I don't know where the Lord will take me or for how long; but I DO know that wherever it is (and for however long), it will bring me a step closer to home. But you know what. I know that the Lord does not want me to always have this attitude. Pressing on towards the prize requires a loving atttitude for the people God touches through you. I don't like thinking all about myself. It is HE that should be getting the glory. I fool myself sometimes thinking that faith is all about me trusting God to fulfill MY calling. My calling has much to do with fulfilling other people's calling. His purpose for me is not only about a purpose that is just for me. I know that He loves me and He does want for me to feel comfort in my life. But I also understand that the things we reap are not just for us, it's for others as well.

There are things that I know the Lord will bless me with that is His special gift to ME, things like a loving husband and an occassional pedicure. :) My challenges right now are more of the fact that my gifts for others should be a forefront in my life. And that tells me just how important my work is at HOPE INC.

Sell 4 U

2006-02-28T16:15:00.000-10:00

Today I wanted to check out this place called We Sell 4 U. They help you to sell items on E-bay. Money has been extremely tight and until I get paid, I need to find ways of making some cash. My business alone is still new and not nearly enough to help at the moment. This past Sunday in service, the message was on financial stewardship and then the Lord spoke to me all of a sudden, "Sell you possessions". As tired as I was in that service, I heard Him and immediately started to think of things I have that I could sell.

While Sell 4 U requires at least 30% of your sales, I don't have the time to do it myself right now. It's nice because they do all the work for you.

It's time for me to take a look at things that I don't need and give them back to the Lord.

2006-02-23T19:23:00.000-10:00

I heard that today was National Chili Day so off I went to get me some good chili! First I needed a good setting- Sunset Beach in Waikiki.

Chili dog plate from Rainbow Drive-In, local style with rice and macaroni salad...:)

Embrace Your Inheritance

2006-02-21T19:31:00.000-10:00

When the Isrealites were out in the desert for 40 years, wandering and waiting for the promised land, they often got so discouraged that they actually longed for going back to Egypt, where there was stability, even though it was a life of slavery! How often do you wish you were at a situation or place where there is comfort; a place in life where there is no struggle or suffering?

From the time of the Old Testament to the day Jesus reedeemed us through His death and resurrection, He has promised us an eternal inheritance in His kingdom; and that kingdom is lived out in the here and now. God is guiding our path as we know it. So why is it that the Isrealites longed to go back to a life of slavery? The manna God gave to them was in the form of bread and water and He had supernaturally provided for them during their time in the desert. But wait a minute. When you hear the word supernatural, don't you sometimes think that it would be something far better than just bread and water? You would think that because it was supernatural, that God would of provided some lobster, fillet minon, or something like that right? It wasn't untill they reached the promised land when the good stuff came.
But what happened when they got there? Just like they were in the desert and longed for Egypt, they once again began to reject God. The disobeyed Him. They recieved their inheritance and in return gave God nothing. No trust, no faith and no obedience.

We all have this same attitude today don't we? Even though God has given us His greatest inheritance (Jesus Christ, the Holy Spirit and the promise of eternal life), just like the Isrealites, we fail to truly embrace our inheritance. So we fall into the desire of our old life- when we were slaves and when life was "comfortable".

We tend to embrace our inhertance with passivity.

When God blesses us, He expects us to continue to work at it and steward it. Instead we recieve it passively. When your parent's die and leave you their inheritance, what do you do with it? Do you spend it all and stop the flow of inheritance or do you wisely use it to fulfill it's original intention, to carry on that inheritance to others? When we receive our inheritance passively, we become complacent and THAT is what stagnants us into being true followers of God. Our stewardship is meant to CHANGE us. That's what's it's all about. It's all about giving God the glory and being transformed into kingdom-minded people.

AND MUCH WILL BE REQUIRED FROM YOU...

Break the spirit of poverty. What does this mean? It means getting rid of that attitude of lack. We tend to have a vision of lack and because of that we don't expect God to do much. Bread and water is all you expect so you either want to hoard what you already have or foolishly expend it so that you can have that plenty now. You expect little from God when really what we already have is a preview to your great inheritance. As a result we settle for a life less than what God has for us. We fail to truly seek first the kingdom of God and we would rather go back to living as a slaves. Your inheritance is coming and we must break that spirit of poverty.

Expect a Storm. Suffering and struggles are meant to change us and it forces us to put all our trust in God. When you embrace your inheritance, be expected for the enemy to try to steal it away from you by discouraging you.

Your seasons in life bring you closer and closer to your inheritance and it requires us to be faithful and obedient each and everyday.

So choose today to live with an attitude of abundance not lack.

Immediate Obedience

2006-02-18T09:34:00.000-10:00

It's Saturday and another week has passed by. As I sit here typing this blog entry I think about what an unsuccessful week it has been. I have been lazy all week and I basically put the "P" in Procrastination. It feels junk. I feel so terrible for my lack of stewardship and a few other things as well. But our gracious Heavenly Father once again spoke me through one of his beloved followers and it hit me just where I needed it to be hit, my heart.

You know, our flesh and the enemy's lies can really weigh us down, even when deep inside all we want is the Holy Spirit to strengthen us. Think about it. Do you ever wonder why you don't hear God's voice when you cry out to Him sometimes? Is He ignoring you or is it something about you that prevents you from hearing God? I was watching and listening to a pastor here locally and he had talked about Abraham, our father of faith. Why is he called our father of faith? Why is he the example? Why not Noah? He certainly had much faith in God in early times of the Old Testament. As you look into the life of Abraham, God called Him step by step to follow Him. He gave no explanation to Abraham as to where he would go and what he would be doing when he got there. Yes, Abraham did make one mistake when he bore Ishmiel and as a result, God put him through a major test. But upon closer look, how did Abraham generally respond to God's commands? He did them immediately.

“So Abraham rose early in the morning, and took bread and a skin of water and gave them to Hagar…and sent her away.” (Gen. 21:14)

“So Abraham rose early in the morning and saddled his donkey, and took…Isaac his son…split wood for the burnt offering, and arose and went to the place which God had told him.” (Gen. 22:3)

IMMEDIATE obedience is what God calls faith.

Abraham did what God told him to right away. He did not beat around the bush or try to bargain with God when God gave Him a command. How often do we obey God immediately? This week, for me it was all about, "Nah. I can wait till tomorrow to do it." The next day comes and I do the same thing again. I keep putting it off and putting it off until what, an entire week goes by. The more we delay our obedience to God, it does something to us. It opens the door and allows the flesh to take over. It changes the condition of our heart and that feeling stinks.

Because Abraham took matters into his own hand, God had to see just where his heart was. Did it lie in his son Issac or did it belong to Him? We all know it belonged to God. Even when God asked him to go an sacrefice his son Issac, he obeyed immediately. THAT is why Abraham is the father of faith.

"When God speaks to us about something that we know is from God we need to deal with whatever that may be. Whether that is our attitude, our life, or a relationship, the most important thing is immediate obedience. That’s because the longer wait, deliberate, or debate about it, the weaker we get. Then we become susceptible to the devil’s temptation and rationalizations. The enemy knows if we postpone our obedience and ignore sin, he will be able to take a foothold... The same is true for us. God’s voice is strongest when He first speaks to us. If we ignore Him, his voice gets quieter and quieter until it hangs still. Then we will come to a point in life when we wonder why we cannot hear God. That’s why our goal needs to be immediate obedience without long deliberations." - Pastor Wayne Cordiero, New Hope Christian Fellowship

This lesson of Abraham and his immediate obedience hit me at the core of my heart. The more I delay obedience the farther and farther away I run from God. There are times when I can't hear Him because of my choice to follow my own ways. And it hurts. It hurts deeply. The most aweful feeling in the world is not being able to hear God.

So choose TODAY to obey Him immediately.

Father I am so sorry for not obeying you immediately. I want to yield to you completely Lord and I realize that I am the very one who is ruining your plans for me. So Lord I ask for your forgiveness and pray that my heart will refocus on pleasing You and giving You the glory. In Jesus name I pray- AMEN.

Gimme some meat!

2006-02-10T22:08:00.000-10:00

I've been posting a lot of spiritual meat lately so I thought I would continue posting some more meat. I went to a mom and pop Korean restaurant. A friend and I decided to go to O-bok, a small Korean hole in the wall place in Manoa marketplace. And ofcourse we had to get their famous kal-bi meat. Their kalbi is not like the kind you usually would see. They take a portion from the rib and slice the meat open, so less bones and more meat! The kalbi here is more local-style, meaning that it's a bit sweeter than the traditional tastes. Pretty good local-style kalbi. It came with two ribs.

Ofcourse it came with some sides, a variety of Korean veggies (4 different kim chees, bean sprouts, etc...). We also ordered some Korean nori (dried seaweed to eat with the rice)

(Sorry this pic came out blurry) Say ahhhhh!

It was a great day. Great fellowship. Great food. Great place. Great state!

Hey! Who ate all my kal-bi! I DID! :P

A lamp unto your feet, not a spotlight on your head

2006-02-01T15:47:00.000-10:00

The more I grow in the Lord, the more I realize just how clueless I have been about how I live my life. I am convinced that all human beings are lolo (clueless) and until we truly yield to God, we will never get out of that. LOL. No matter how intelligent a person may seem to be, we are nothing without the Holy Spirit. Absolutely nothing. Yes, God's grace is truly sufficient for us. But what does that mean? I believe it's more that just accepting salvation. It's even more than believing in Jesus Christ. Jesus is long gone folks. He came and He went back home to prepare for us a wonderful place. As he left He promised a counselor. He promised the One who will guide us and give us all the power we need to continue going on living. Yet for so many of us, we are still like the disciples who started out into the sky when Jesus was rising back home. We stare at the Cross, failing to look beyond it.

I think the biggest reason why many Christians struggle in their faith is because they fail to live the way God intended them to live- with complete faith and trust in God on a daily basis. Human beings are vision-oriented. They like to find out what their long-term purpose is and they think that God will always give us a clear plan to their path. We plan things for months, a year, several years even. We think these plans come from God when really we are trying to set up our own agenda. We gotta have vision no matter what.

This is not biblical folks. The Word says in Psalms 119:105 that His word is light on our path and a lamp unto our feet. But we tend to live our lives as if God said, "I am a spotlight on top of your head". God didn't say that. His Word says that He will guide our path with a lamp shining on our feet. Visualize that for a moment and realize that by doing that, you are only able to see so much ahead of you. But you know what? We don't like that do we? We think that God shows us something and we do whatever neccessary to fulfill it.

God's plans for us is revealed only if we live in obedience to Him. Yet we tend to micromanage everything, making sure we stay afloat when really, it has nothing to do with God in the first place. We think God has shown His mercy and grace to keep us going when really it is because of our own doings. We don't follow His annointing and we don't use our gifts and as a result, we fall and wonder what happened?

So I say take off your hard hat with the spotlight on top and throw it away. Let God light your feet. Disown your life and let God take over. If you gotta fall before you get moving again then fall.

I would rather live by the Spirit and suffer along the way than live in my own flesh and not suffer at all.

Very, very extraordinary

2006-01-30T01:04:00.000-10:00

Valentines Day is still about 2 weeks away but I KNOW that many people are already thinking about it. As I was settling in for the night a couple of weeks ago, I began to think more about the well known holiday. It kinda caught my attention because I haven't really thought much about Valentines Day for about 3 1/2 years. So why now? I sought the Lord and quietly asked Him why the sudden thought about the holiday. For awhile now I was not one of those people who felt sorry myself because I was single and had no one to share the holiday with. I was quite content with my life and for the past 3 1/2 years, I have spent it getting to know my first love, Jesus Christ. But as 2005 ended, I began to notice a change in the condition of my heart. I began to hear things from God that had much to do with the word "love". At first I was a bit cautious. I then realized that God was truly telling me that I am ready for love.

First of all, it is an awesome experience when God himself tells you that you are ready for love. I repeat, it is an awesome experience when GOD tells you that you are ready for love. And once He tells you this, be prepared for many challenges. As a person, it is quite natural for anyone to want love. But there is a huge difference when it is a desire to loving someone in God's way vs. loving someone in the world's way. The first two are common with everyone, Christians and non-Christians alike. It's the third that sets us apart from the rest of the world.

1) The Emotional. God gave all of us a natural ability to feel emotion and it is natural for both men and women to desire emotional intimacy with the opposite sex. When God created Adam, He said that it was not good for man to be alone. Now, I realize that many see a different side to this. But think about God himself. He created us because He loves us. He created us in His image. He did not need man but chose to create man because He wanted a relationship with us. So it's easy to see why God created woman. He gave Adam a wonderful gift, another person to love.

2) The Physical. Make no mistake about it. God created man and woman to procreate. But look at how He designed it. He made the physical bond between man and woman special. The desire for physical intimacy is real.

3) The Spiriual. The most important aspect of a love relationship in the eyes of God is the spiritual connection between man and woman. It is what sets us apart from the world. God states clearly that through marriage, two become one. Yes, it means emotionally. Yes, it means physically; but most imporantly it means spiritually. It's about making the Holy Spirit the headship of your relationship.

Put these three together and you have a wonderful display of the love relationship. You have a wonderful example of what it means to love in GOD'S way. But when God himself tells you that you are ready, He will give you that desire to love another. It is a blessing but like many blessings, the tests and challenges will come. You will find yourself challenged head on. You will find yourself challenged with patience. You will find yourself in the midst of much temptation. You will find that the enemy wants to toy with you. But you may be thinking, "Well that can really happen anytime when God is trying to show you His will." Your job or calling for example- you will face those same challenges. But let me tell you that when it comes to love it is very different. In fact, it is even harder. With a calling or a job, you may go through some spiritual challenges and for some, emotional challenges. But when it comes to loving God's way, you have to deal with ALL three- the emotional, the spiritual, and the physical. The combination of the three, while a complete joy when love is found, is one of the most challenging things that you can face.

Loving in God's way and the desire for it is in my opinion, very, very extraordinary. If you have that desire to love someone in that way, be prepared to grow. Be prepared to face challenges. Be prepared to seek God with much wisdom along the way. To me, Valentines Day is a reminder of what love can mean for us. If you have no plans this year for the day, spend it with the Lord. Spend it with family. Spend it with your brothers and sisters in Christ and celebrate the love that God has given us through his Son Jesus Christ.

Loving...very, very extraordinary!

Dear friends,

2006-01-21T21:39:00.000-10:00

This post is dedicated to all of my single friends on Crosswalk, FCN, and iBelieve...

Dear Friends,

I know how you are hurting right now because someone you have a crush on or really like has hurt you. And I know that many of you are going through the challenges of being single and wanting so much to love someone.

Sometimes it seems like there is a dark cloud that is hovering over you, that God is really pushing you to the edge of the cliff. But before you know it, instead and falling over the cliff, you will find yourself flying and soaring like you have never soared before!

We all know that God's timing is perfect. But it can be tough. We count the days when things pass us by and we wonder, "When Lord? When?" Whether it's finding love or knowing His purpose, waiting is difficult. And on top of that, we may get hurt along the way. But let me remind you that God is always with you through all those tough times.

" 'For I know the plans I have for you,' declares the Lord, 'plans to prosper you...
plans to give you hope and a future.' " - Jeremiah 29:11 NIV

God has shared something with me as the new year began and I'd like to share it with you.

"You have been worried and wondering if all that is in you (your passions and desires) is truly from Me. But I say to you that I know that you love me with all of your heart, mind, soul and strength. Therefore, let go. Do not fear. My desires are your desires and my plans are your plans. Hold on to them and believe by faith that they will come to pass."

So I encourage you my friends. No matter what, no matter how much someone hurts you or what your circumstances are, know that your situation will not deter God's plans for you.

You are a special person that deserves love. Until that day happens, God will prepare you to love in the same way that God loves you.

In Christ,

Trishy Wishy :)

When you can't seem to forgive- PART 2

2006-01-19T20:42:00.000-10:00

BECAUSE UNFORGIVENESS NOT SIN, IS THE ONLY THING THAT CAN STOP GOD’S PLANS FOR YOUR LIFE’S PURPOSES.

How do we deal with sin? The Bible is full of people who have been betrayed but still follow His will despite injustice, suffering, or pain. Though Joseph was imprisoned and forgotten, he remained faithful. David kept running from Saul even though God anointed David king. He remained faithful rather than retaliating against Saul. Eventually, God’s plan prevailed and David was known as one of the greatest kings that ever lived. Remember, there is nothing anyone can do that will hamper God’s purposes unless we refuse to forgive. So how do we begin to forgive? The Bible says:

“If you suffer, however, it must not be for murder, stealing, making trouble, or prying into other people’s affairs. But it is no shame to suffer for being a Christian. Praise God for the privilege of being called by His wonderful name … So if you are suffering according to God’s will, keep on doing what is right, and trust yourself to the God who made you, for He will never fail you” (1 Pet. 4:15-16,19).

It simply means God will take care of our circumstances when we suffer according to His will. Really it means that we just keep doing what is right, trust God, and know He will never fail us.

“As for you, you meant evil against me, but God meant it for good…” (Gen. 50:20).

Joseph actually developed the character to become a great leader while in prison and suffering correctly according to God’s will. The same is true for us. So how do we suffer according to the will of God? Here are two simple principles that will help us. The first is:

· NEVER LOSE YOUR LOVE FOR GOD.

“Job stood up and tore his robe in grief. Then he shaved his head and fell to the ground before God. He said, ‘I came naked from my mother’s womb, and I will be stripped of everything I had, and the Lord has taken it away. Praise the name of the Lord!’ In all of this, Job did not sin by blaming God.” (Job 1:20-22)

There will always be things in life that cause pain or suffering. It’s inevitable, yet always remember God is for us. It’s a promise we can claim. Job’s example shows us that even as he grieved the tragic circumstances in his life, he never blamed God. And in the end God blessed him with even more than he could have ever imagined. That’s how God will turn the tables on the enemy if we remember to first never lose our love for God and the second is to…

· STAY TRUE TO WHAT GOD HAS ASKED YOU TO DO.

Parents, stay true to your children no matter what struggles you are going through because God’s given you the assignment to raise them. Dads, leave the stresses of your job at work instead of taking out your frustrations on your family. Stay true to God’s call on your life to be a good father and husband.

Remember if you follow these simple principles of loving God and staying true to His call on your life even through pain and suffering, God will turn your circumstances around for good. And the reason we can say that with confidence is because…

“And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose” (Rom. 8:28).

So when you are having trouble forgiving others, be mindful to check your heart and its response when someone sins against you. If anger or bitterness surface, it may be because of a tendency in our heart that’s been there all along. Our struggle to forgive sometimes means we must deal with it once and for all. Then when we face similar situations, it won’t cause us to erupt with such resentment or anger.

Another point to remember is to stay away from those who cause you pain especially during a season of healing. Otherwise, we risk re-injury over and over again and that will impede healing. Finally bear in mind that suffering is inevitable, but suffer correctly. Sure, we may loose sleep, cry a lot, and worry, but be sure never to blame God. Instead stay true to His call on your life. You see, when you understand the power of forgiveness, God will give you back a brighter future even more than you could ever imagine.

Message: When you can't seem to forgive, PART ONE

2006-01-15T22:05:00.000-10:00

Taken from New Hope Christian Fellowship with my emphasis.

And the Lord, moved with anger, handed him over to the torturers until he should repay all that was owed to him. My heavenly Father will also do the same to you, if each of you does not forgive his brother from your heart. ~ Matthew 18:34-35

Pretty heavy passage. It's all about forgiving and just what can happens when we don't learn to forgive those who have wronged us. What unforgiveness can do to our heart is much more profound that most people think. Not only will it build up anger but it can also keep us from truly reaping the blessings in which God has in store for us.

When it comes to forgiving others, sometimes we can lack the neccessary wisdom that God wants us to have. When others cause you pain, it's good to forgive but many times we think that in order to forgive them, we must still accept them into our lives. This distorted kind of forgiveness can make us less wise and more gullible. Therefore,

Learn to AVOID those who cause you pain.

"...Saul, who had a spear in his hand, suddenly hurled it at David, intending to pin him to the wall. But David jumped aside and escaped" (I Samuel 18:10-11)

As much as David wanted to just love on Saul and make things right with him, it didn't matter. Saul was going to kill him regardless. You too must avoid those who will cause you pain. It doesn't mean that you don't love them.

Honestly evaluate your own HEART as to why forgiveness may be difficult.

Unforgiveness stems from within ourselves rather than from others. It's not other people who really are the cause of your anger or unforgiveness. You are. You may have feelings deep inside of you that you have kept repressed or hidden. Other people just bring out those feelings.

"For from within, out of a person's heart, come evil thoughts, sexual immorality, theft, murder, adultery, greed, wickedness, deceit, eagerness for lustful pleasure, envy, slander, pride, and foolishness. All of these vile things come from within; they are what defile you and make you unacceptable to God." (Mark 7:21-23)

Unforgiveness can fuel these things in a person's heart.

To be continued...

Hope in the name of Christ

2006-01-11T12:35:00.000-10:00

Imagine this... a child who has no home and no one to call family. Abused.neglected.abandoned.

Imagine a child whose own mother and father had forsaken them. This is the opportunity that I have been given- to help children like this find loving homes, where they can grow up knowing what it's like to be loved and knowing what it's like to live under God's wing. What a big responsibility it is.

Even if you have a family to call your own, we can relate with these children. Were we not once dead in our trespasses? Were we not once lost? But through Jesus, He has given us an eternal family.

For he chose us in him before the creation of the world to be holy and blameless in his sight. In love he predestined us to be adopted as his sons through Jesus Christ, in accordance with his pleasure and will— to the praise of his glorious grace, which he has freely given us in the One he loves. - Ephesians 1:4-6

What a blessing and a priveledge I have to be a part of God's family.

So thank Him. Praise Him. Love Him.

AMEN

Here comes the challenge

2006-01-10T08:52:00.000-10:00

I've been posting a lot of journal-like posts lately instead of my usual article-style posts, primarily because I need to write about it and because of my busy schedule.

Changing seasons can at times be difficult. Not only is there so much to do, but I find myself feeling attacked and find my own flesh to be my greatest enemy. Thoughts of worry and the emergence of bad habits is like a vicious cycle. These things just want to slowly creep into your life and make life difficult. But I know that these challenges are a blessing in disquise. I know it will only make me stronger and it will build me to an even greater level of faith.

So I say, thank you.

Thank you Lord for being my Rock and for never giving up on me. Up the mountain I go. How long it will take me to get there, I don't know. But how great it is to have Jesus guiding you up there.

The God of unexpectations

2006-01-06T13:50:00.000-10:00

God can surely work in unexpected ways. This year, I know He is going to move me but I had never expected Him to move me so fast!

It's New Years night and I am feeling restless, stirred up in the Spirit; A day later I get asked to come in for an interview; Thursday I go in for that interview; Friday I am in my bosses office talking about the transition to leaving the organization. While I expected change to happen this year, I have to admit that the quickness of this change has caught me slightly off guard. Goes to show that if God wants to move you He will in His timing.

Get excited!

I will be working part time as a social worker for a very small and new Christian adoption/foster care placement agency. It's just the area of social work that I always wanted to do. It will be more than just a job. It will be my ministry. They are a 100% Christian-based organization.
Part time you ask? Yes, part time. The other part of my life will be focused on my new business. So yes, financial uncertainty and risk will all be in the frontburner for the next few months. But I'm not worried. All of this I believe is God's will for me and because of that, HE WILL PROVIDE.

Trust in Him, faith will lead you, wisdom will guide you.

AMEN!

Out with 2005, in with 2006!

2005-12-31T22:09:00.000-10:00

Just a little under 2 hours before the new year begins. What a year it has been!

I would have to say that 2005 was a year in which God has taught me more about who I am. It's amazing just how much you don't know about yourself until God reveals to you just who you are in Him.

I am excited about 2006! This is the first time I have been so excited about the new year. I guess it's because I know that God will guide me through an exciting chapter in my life. I have a feeling in my spirit that big changes will take place in 2006. But at the same time, I am aware that I need to take it day-by-day. What's most important to me is that I keep my faith and trust in all things to God and God alone.

A prayer...

Father, thank you for being Lord in my life. Thank for teaching me that the most valuable thing in life is my faith and trust in you. May 2006 be filled with much joy and may I learn the lessons that I need to learn in order to recieve your blessings.

In Jesus Name, AMEN

2006. Changes. Get excited!

With Death Comes Life

2005-12-12T08:13:00.000-10:00

For about two weeks now, a local woman has been keep alive through life support. Brain dead and pregnant. That's right, pregnant. Doctors were determined to save the baby and for three long, weeks, the family of this mother waited and all the while, mourned their loss. She was beaten so bad by her husband that she will not survive.

Finally the day comes and yesterday, doctors finally decided to remove the baby. Tear of sorrow have now become tears of joy. His name is Josiah... Mom wanted to name him after Josiah in the bible. Then another surprize, his middle name... it was named after the man who had come to help the mother after finding her laying motionless. Then it was finished. Mom was taken off life support and went home.

I just had to cry when I read the front page of the paper this morning. How happy the mother must be to look down and see her son in the arms of her family. How joyful it must feel.

Death...sorrow...Life...Joy...

Remember the one who brings us true life. Jesus Christ. He is the One that will guarantee life after death. He is the One that can give you that gift.

Let's be sure to keep Christ in Christmas this year. Let's remember just what we are celebrating here. Let us give to our loved ones with joy. Make the best of this Christmas. Stuck in traffic? Make that time to praise the Lord out loud and to sing. Make every moment during this Christmas season count.

AMEN

It's so simple

2005-12-01T09:08:00.000-10:00

Love the Lord your God with all your heart, mind, soul and strength.
Love your neighbor as yourself.

The greatest commandment... God's answer to the question that has permeated my mind this week. "Lord, am I in doing your will in my life?" The question can often consume many of us. This week it once again became the focal point of my thoughts. How is it that I am again desiring to change jobs? How is it now that I could desire something new after just a year of doing what I am doing now? Lord, what am I doing wrong? Then to hear those words of the Lord. It's so simple!

I have gotten so much comfort and reassurance that if I love God with all my heart, mind, soul and strength then I have nothing to worry about. "I know you love me. So don't worry. Stay focused on my Word. Love on others. Live and walk in faith." I don't have to feel so guilty. I have a passion, I would be great at it, and my heart to do it is in the right place.

Live...put feet to your faith...be blessed.

Don't complicated things. Your delight in the Lord is enough to know that you are on the right path. Your worry only complicates things.

Go...worship God and go...bless another.

AboveAll

Bush, the deceiver?

2005-11-17T13:41:00.000-10:00

The news on President Bush and the war in Iraq has taken, in my opinion, an ugly turn. I was shocked to hear that Democrats are charging President Bush for deceiving Congress in going to war in Iraq. Bush, deceiving them? If I remember correctly, right before the war began, Bush made it completely clear why going to war was neccessary. It was clear that Congress received all of the intelligence and clear that that Congress agreed to go to war. If Congress didn't agree or have enough sufficient intelligence for a cause of war, then certainly they would have not signed the dotted line. The American people seem to be reacting the same way and many do not feel that Bush is being honest.

What has happened here? Why in the world is Congress implying that Bush "lied" about the merits of going to war? Why now? To say that you are against the war is one thing, but to state deception in another. If going to war was not the best thing to do, admit it but don't remove your own personal responsibility. Congress was just as much as a part of the decision to go to war as much as the President. This says much about the integrity and accountability of our nation's leaders.

I'm still here!

2005-11-02T13:31:00.000-10:00

Aloha friends,

It's been a hectic few weeks and I wanted to let you know that I am still here! Come back soon cause I'll be blogging again soon!

Mahalo and God bless!

Friday Fragments

2005-10-20T18:34:00.000-10:00

Writer Anonymous

Six billion people live in this world, and I can only muster thoughts for one. Me. ~ Donald Miller, Blue Like Jazz

From the Garden of Eden to today, little of who we are at the core has changed. We are Adam's family, and as such, we think first of ourselves, our own needs, our reputation, our own status.

It was God, in the ultimate act of generosity, who broke this pattern and showed the way for acts of selflessness. He provided a way, the way, through his son, who modeled the same in Luke 22:42.

Father, if you are willing, please take this cup of suffering away from me. Yet I want your will, not mine. ~ NLT

"Your will, not mine." In this prayer, I am drawn to the humility and reverence of Jesus. He knows who his father is, and He places himself in complete submission.

What a contrast we could produce if we, followers of Jesus the Christ, would set our own agenda aside and invite God to move first. Not me, but you. Not mine, but ours.

When we are generous, we model our clear understanding of God's operating pattern. This is a supernatural response to God's incarnational gift. Giving creating givers. We invite others to a place of generosity by being extravagant in our giving first. Not a pattern for the wealthy, a pattern for the obedient.

A Prayer
Awesome Father, I need your help here. Really, I want to be about you, not me. Your agenda first. Selfishness never produces fulfillment. In fact, it creates more of itself and a hideous distain to all that indulge. Obliterate this in me, Father. I want to love you so much that loving others first is the way that I think and act. That's not impossible. I know it's not. I know it because Jesus blazed the trail and showed the way. So I guess my prayer is this... please, dear Father, make me like Jesus. Make me, your adopted son, act like your only begotten son. Generous to the core. And I promise to praise you, whenever this happens. Through Jesus.

Amen

Changing the world together... one transformed selfish heart at a time. Hope.

One Flaw in Woman

2005-10-05T21:40:00.000-10:00

This entry is from a friend of mine that I met on the internet. She is a fantastic writer and I just had to share one of her writings with you

This was in my mail box this morning. It's probably been forwarded to you at some point in time. Reading this blessed my heart. I hope it blesses my lady friends, also.

By the time the Lord made woman, he was into his sixth day of working overtime.

An angel appeared and said, "Why are you spending so much time on this one?"

And the Lord answered, "Have you seen my spec sheet on her? She has to be completely washable, but not plastic, have over 200 movable parts, all replaceable and able to run on diet coke and leftovers, have a lap that can hold four children at one time, have a kiss that can cure anything from a scraped knee to a broken heart --and she will do everything With only two hands." The angel was astounded at the requirements. "Only two hands!? No way! And that's just on the standard model? That's too much work for one day. Wait until tomorrow to finish."

But I won't," the Lord protested. "I am so close to finishing this creation that is so close to my own heart. She already heals herself when she is sick AND can work 18 hour days."

The angel moved closer and touched the woman. "But you have made her so soft, Lord."

She is soft," the Lord agreed, "but I have also made her tough. You have no idea what she can endure or accomplish."

"Will she be able to think?", asked the angel.

The Lord replied, "Not only will she be able to think, she will be able to reason and negotiate."

The angel then noticed something, and reaching out, touched the woman's cheek. "Oops, it looks like you have a leak in this model. I told you that you were trying to put too much into this one."

"That's not a leak," the Lord corrected, "that's a tear!"

"What's the tear for?" the angel asked.

The Lord said, "The tear is her way of expressing her joy, her sorrow, her pain, her disappointment, her love, her loneliness, her grief and her pride."

The angel was impressed. "You are a genius, Lord. You thought of everything! Woman is truly amazing."

And she is! Women have strengths that amaze men. They bear hardships and they carry burdens, but they hold happiness, love and joy. They smile when they want to scream. They sing when they want to cry. They cry when they are happy and laugh when they are nervous. They fight for what they believe in. They stand up to injustice. They don't take "no" for an answer when they believe there is a better solution. They go without so their family can have. They go to the doctor with a frightened friend. They love unconditionally. They cry when their children excel and cheer when their friends get awards. They are happy when they hear about a birth or a wedding. Their hearts break when a friend dies. They grieve at the loss of a family member, yet they are strong when they think there is no strength left. They know that a hug and a kiss can heal a broken heart.

Women come in all shapes, sizes and colors. They'll drive, fly, walk, run or e-mail you to show how much they care about you. The heart of a woman is what makes the world keep turning. They bring joy, hope and love. They have compassion and ideals. They give moral support to their family and friends. Women have vital things to say and everything to give.

However, if there is one flaw in a woman, it is that she easily forgets her worth.

A little bit of this...

2005-09-22T17:21:00.000-10:00

I have yet to really "journal" on my blog. At first, I wasn't going to. But now I'm thinking that perhaps it may be nice. Not one to be personal on a public blog, where anyone can see; but I figure that I should at least journal on the things that could possibly encourage you.

What is it about God that amazes me? Well, many things ofcourse but for me personally, it's the fact that His Word stands so true! I mean, if you love Him with all your heart, mind, soul and strength, He will truly bless you! Now I'm not talking about the kinds of blessings we think they should be. Even trials are a blessing because you always learn something valuable in the end. No, I do not have major trials in my life and yes, I am grateful for that. But with this comes a deeper responsibility to bless others. That's right! If you have ever asked yourself why you are so blessed, then perhaps that is the answer- you have been given a great responsibility to use your blessings wisely and with generosity! It doesn't just have to be money or material things. If your healthy, if you have time on your hands, if you have many talents, then my no means should you not keep them to yourself!

So what am I trying to get at here? As of late, I have been having an overwhelming desire to just bless and reach out to people. I learned that at my present job, I am not meant for it. I am not built for and meant to work in an office! I am a people-person, a relator, a frontlines kind of gal. Does that mean that I should go by that premise? Maybe, maybe not. I mean, just because a person has a great talent for singing, doesn't mean that they should be a singer. Perhaps it was given to you just to sing to your children? Your family? But in my situation, the desire to "move" has been getting stronger to the point where I am just begging God to show me answers. So far, He has...in small pieces though.

God has recently blessed me with a good friend (one that I knew for awhile but not spoken to that often before) and who has a tremendous desire to support and encourage me. This is the first person whom I shared my dreams with who really wants to encourage me. I mean, I have other friends who are supportive and all, but this particular friend is special. For some time now, I have been searching for answers. I want to find a job where I can truly reach out to others. Sounds broad I know, but that's just it- no specifics to what I should look for. So I be patient and wait. I try certain doors. If they open they open. If they don't they don't. Patience, patience, patience. Then my friend comes along...

So that's it for now. The next time I post something like this is when I feel led to share.

Makapu'u Moonrise

2005-09-16T22:44:00.000-10:00

Who told the sun to rise in the morning... Who told the ocean where it should end... and who told the moon that it should be waiting?

Not too long ago, I took a hike up Makapu'u. It was my first time up that mountain and a local church (not my own) was planning on taking the 1 1/2 mile hike. The singles ministry of that church decided to go and see the moonrise that night. I was excited because I never saw a moonrise either.

The hike was great and rather easy- paved road and virtually no climbing. Yet, it was a great trek. On this night, the moon was supposed to rise at about 8:00 p.m. About halfway, this was my view:

It was nice and cool. As I went up, I could see a section of the area that was burned from a summertime brushfire. When we got to the top, we waited for about 40 minutes. It was pitch dark and the flashlights came out. It was gorgeous.

As I sat on the ground, waiting for the moon to rise. I couldn't help discovering how peaceful it was. It was dark so the stars were quiet visible- something unusual in the city. We were far away enough and didn't catch too much city light. I looked up into the sky and thought wow, how beautiful God's creation is. What a powerful and infinite Creator we have in Him!

The intro. to this entry are lyrics to a Nicole C. Mullen song, "My Reedeemer". Who told the sun to rise in the morning? Who told the ocean where to end? And who told the moon that it should be waiting? God did! The great thing is that all of these things are available to EVERYONE, believers and non-believers alike. Whether you believe in God or not, His creation is made available to you. But as a Christian, sights like this take on a whole new meaning. Watching the sunrise, the ocean, and the moonrise becomes personal.

It was 8:00 and finally, the moon began to rise! There was cloud cover so we didn't see the moon clearly. BUT the cloud allowed the moon to peek through and its rays (just like the sun) shone down onto the water. It was so dark that getting a good pic was difficult. You can't see the shape clearly here, but nonetheless it was pretty!

When I consider your heavens, the work of your fingers, the moon and the stars, which you have set in place, what is man that you are mindful of him,
the son of man that you care for him?
Psalms 82:3 and 4

What Katrina Can Teach Us

2005-09-09T15:41:00.000-10:00

September 10-11, 2005
(Special message preached at Oak Hills Church by Max Lucado)

Who would have thought we would ever hear this phrase spoken on a radio news report in America: “Today, about 25,000 refugees were moved from the Superdome in New Orleans to the Astrodome in Houston.”

For days, we’ve watched the tragedy continue to unfold in Mississippi and
Louisiana and, if you are like me, you’ve wrestled with feelings of shock and
disbelief…feelings that, over the last five years, have become all too familiar.

We were barely into the new millennium when we saw towers falling in New York City and planes crashing into the Pentagon and the Pennsylvania farmland.

We saw bombs over Baghdad and witnessed the ancient land of Abraham become a war zone for his descendants. You’d think we had seen enough, but then came the tsunami--a roaring wave that sucked life and innocence out to sea.

And now the fruits of Katrina. A city sitting in twenty feet of water. Citizens hacking their way onto roofs and helicopters hovering over neighborhoods. Optimistic rescuers, opportunistic looters, grateful people, resentful people—we have seen it all.

And many have seen it up close. Katrina came to San Antonio in the form of 12,500 evacuees. Many of you are meeting them, feeding them, writing checks, and manning shifts. And you, as much as any, have reason to wonder…What is going on here? 9/11, Iraq, tsunami, Katrina. And I didn’t mention nor intend to minimize Hurricanes Dennis and Ivan and Emily.

Jesus criticized the leaders of his day for focusing on the weather and ignoring the signals: “You find it easy enough to forecast the weather—why can't you read the signs of the times?” Matthew 16:2-3 (MSG).

What are we to learn from all of this? Is God sending us a message? I think so. And, I think we’d be wise to pay attention. There are some spiritual lessons that I think God would want us to learn through this tragedy. The first lesson we see is…

I. The Nature of Possessions: Temporary

As you’ve listened to evacuees and survivors, have you noticed their words? No one laments a lost plasma television or submerged SUV. No one runs through the streets yelling, “My cordless drill is missing” or “My golf clubs have washed away.” If they mourn, it is for people lost. If they rejoice, it is for people found.

Could Jesus be reminding us that people matter more than possessions? In a land where we have more malls than high schools, more debt than credit, more clothes to wear than we can wear, could Christ be saying:

"Watch out! Be on your guard against all kinds of greed; a man's life does not consist in the abundance of his possessions" (Luke 12:15)?

We see an entire riverboat casino washed up three blocks and placed on top of a house in a neighborhood. You see demolished $40,000 cars that will never be driven again, hidden in debris. And in the background of our minds we hear the quiet echoes of Jesus saying, “What good will it be for a man if he gains the whole world, yet forfeits his soul?” (Matthew 16:26).

Raging hurricanes and broken levees have a way of prying our fingers off the stuff we love. What was once most precious now means little; what we once ignored is now of eternal significance.

A friend and I attended a worship service at Antioch Baptist Church last Sunday night. Several African American Church leaders had organized an assembly to pray for the evacuees that have ended up in San Antonio. Many of them sat on the front rows…dressed in all the clothing they owned: t-shirts, jeans. Their faces were weary from the week. But when the music started and the worship began, they came to their feet and sang with tears in their eyes.

They were rich. Are you that rich? Were all your possession washed away, could you still worship? Would you still worship? If not, you are holding things too tightly:

“Tell those rich in this world's wealth to quit being so full of themselves and so obsessed with money, which is here today and gone tomorrow. Tell them to go after God, who piles on all the riches we could ever manage—to do good, to be rich in helping others, to be extravagantly generous. If they do that, they'll build a treasury that will last, gaining life that is truly life” (1 Timothy 6:17-19 MSG).

Through Katrina, Christ tells us: stuff doesn’t matter; people do. Understand the nature of possessions. Be equally clear on:

II. The Nature of People: Sinners and Saints

We see the most incredible servants and stories of selflessness and sacrifice. We see people of the projects rescuing their neighbors, we see civil servants risking their lives for people they’ve never seen. My wife Denalyn and I toured a shelter supervised by one of our neighbors here in San Antonio. We met a family of some twenty cousins and siblings. One six-year-old girl told Denalyn about the helicopter man who plucked her off a third story porch and lifted her to safety.

That child will never know who that man is. He’ll never seek any applause. He
saved her life… all in a day’s work. We saw humanity at its best. And we saw humanity at its worst.

Looting. Fighting. We heard stories of rapes and robberies. Someone said, “The Heavens declare the glory of God but the streets declare the sinfulness of man.” The video footage in New Orleans has confirmed the truthfulness of that quote. Can you imagine not being able to sleep in the Superdome for fear that someone might try to rape your daughter if she went to the restroom in the middle of the night?

We are people of both dignity and depravity. The hurricane blew back more than roofs; it blew the mask off the nature of mankind. The main problem in the world is not Mother Nature, but human nature. Strip away the police barricades, blow down the fences, and the real self is revealed. We are barbaric to the core.

We were born with a me-first mentality. You don’t have to teach your kids to argue. They don’t have to be trained to demand their way. You don’t have to show them how to stomp their feet and pout, it is their nature… indeed it is all of our nature to do so.

“All of us have strayed like sheep. We have left God’s paths to follow our own” (Isaiah 53:6).

God’s chosen word for our fallen condition has three letters- s-I-n. Sin celebrates the letter in the middle. “I”. Left to our own devices, we lead a godless, out of control life of “…doing what we felt like doing, when we felt like doing it” (Ephesians 2:3 MSG).

You don’t have to go to New Orleans to see the chaos. Because of sin, the husband ignores his wife, grown men seduce the young. The young proposition the old. When you do what you want and I do what I want, humanity and civility implodes.

And when the Katrinas of life blown in, our true nature is revealed and our deepest need is unveiled: a need deeper than food, more permanent than firm levees. We need, not a new system, but a new nature. We need to be changed from the inside out. Which takes us to the third message of Katrina:

III. The Nature of God’s Grace: Inside Out

Much discussion revolves around the future of New Orleans. Will the city be restored? Repaired? How long will it take? Who will pay for it? One thing is for certain: someone has to clean her up.

No one is suggesting otherwise. Everyone knows, someone has to go in a clean up the mess. That is what God offers to do with us. He comes into sin-flooded lives and washes away the old. Paul reflected on his conversion and he wrote: “He gave us a good bath, and we came out of it new people, washed inside and out by the Holy Spirit” (Titus 3:5). Our sins stand no chance against the fire hoses of God’s grace.

But he does more than cleanse us; he rebuilds us. In the form of his Holy Spirit, God moves in and starts a complete renovation project. “God can do anything, you know—far more than you could ever imagine or guess or request in your wildest dreams! He does it not by pushing us around but by working within us, his Spirit deeply and gently within us.” (Ephesians 3:20 MSG).

And what we can only dream of doing with New Orleans, God has done with soul after soul, and he will do so with you, if you let him.

The most disturbing stories from the last week are of those who refused to be rescued. Those who spent their final hours trapped in attics and rooms regretting the choice they’d made. They could have been saved. They could have gotten out… but they chose to stay. Many paid a permanent price.

You don’t have to pay that price. What rescuers did for people on the Gulf Coast, God will do for you. He has entered your world. He has dropped a rope into your sin-swamped life. He will rescue, you simply need to do what that little girl did, let him lift you out.

I mentioned my visit to Antioch Baptist Church last Sunday night. A local minister, Pastor L. A. Williams gave a message on this one verse: “But Noah found grace in the eyes of the Lord…” (Gen. 6:8).

The minister helped us see all the things Noah could not find because of the flood. He could not find his neighborhood. He could not find his house. He could not find the comforts of home or the people down the street--there was much he could not find. But what he could find made all the difference. Noah found grace in the eyes of the Lord.

Noah found grace in the eyes of God. If you have everything and no grace, you have nothing. If you have nothing but grace, you have everything.

Have you found grace? If not, I urge you to do what that little girl told us she did. When the rescuer appeared on her porch, she grabbed him, closed her eyes, and held on. That’s all you need to do. And if you never have, and would like to, I urge you to reach for the hand of your rescuer, Jesus Christ.

Your Redeemer lives, too. This hurricane was his tool to get your attention. Trust in Him while you still can.

New Look, Same Blog

2005-09-08T16:16:00.000-10:00

What can I say? I like change and for most of the time, simplicity.

Because I changed the look of the blog, I have to reconstruct some areas.

Still coming soon:

- Makapu'u Moonrise
- The Heart of Kaimuki

Would anyone like to comment on this new look? What do you think?

The Fear of the Lord

2005-08-27T09:23:00.000-10:00

I was going to post a sermon article on this but it talked about more than just the fear of the Lord. So I will just refer to it. If you are not a Christian, I hope you will gain a new perspective on God. :)

Christian television. It seems to be everywhere these days. Locally, I have seen about 4-5 stations fully or partially dedicated to bringing Christian programs to the television audience. I haven't seen all of them but many times when I tune in, I see church services of some of the biggest churches in the United States. There's a variety of them- from Pentecostal to Lutheran to Non-denominational. When I talk to people who have seen or watch some of these church programs on a daily basis, I get an idea of which programs are the most popular. Not all of the people I talk to are Christians or some are, but many don't go to a live church regularly. I have to say that most people like what is commonly called the "seeker friendly church". I have to admit, I also enjoy watching these church programs.

For those of you who don't know what "seeker-friendly" means, it means that churches run mainly on trying to attract non church goers to their services. They make sure that the music is good, the stage looks attractive- kinda more like a modern concert of the kind. They also design the church to accomodate for people's likes like have arts and craft classes or a biker club. Now, not all of these are wrong at all. It's a nice thing for churches to do and have. But what really makes a church "seeker sensitive" are the messages that the church convey. Whether on the pulpit or in bible study, seeker sensitive churches often design their sermons to be light, to preach things that the people can relate to, etc... The sermons for the most part sound just like self-help books with scripture attached to it.

So what does this have to do with the fear of the Lord? The problem about these seeker-sensitve churches and Christian programs with the same theme, is that I never hear anything about the soveriegnty of God. Many focus soley on God's love and His compassion for His people. You always leave these churches and programs feeling good in a feel-good kind of way. YES, God is a loving God folks. But what is happening to our churches? Why are we compromising the whole nature of the bible? Why are we preaching only things that people want to hear?

I was watching a service of our biggest church in Hawaii one night. It's a church that I do like. It appears seeker-sensitive but many times, the pastor does a great job in his sermons. This one particular night he preached on a sermon series about hearing God. He talked about the fear of the Lord and that when he was a young Christian, he had a difficult time understanding how we can fear a loving God. Fear and loving didn't make sense to him. He did an extensive word study on the word fear to see if it meant something else. But when he did the study, he said that fear meant fear. It wasn't untill one day his brother told him a story of a man he once knew. In one small town, there was one main switch that controlled all of the electricity of that town. One day the electricity went out and there had to be major repairs. After the repairs were done, somebody had to go up the mountain to turn the switch back on. It was one of those huge switches that you pull up and down. It was a dangerous job because if not done correctly, you could get into big trouble. So the man who was responsible for turning the electricity back on went up to do the job. He had to use this special pole to flip the switch because you couldn't just use your hands. So off he went. Two days passed and the man had not yet returned. The electricity came back on but the man never came back. So a team went out to search for him. When they got to the power switch, he was nowhere to be found. The pole he used to flip it back on was on the ground near the site but he wasn't. An extensive search began and about 100 meters away, they found the man. He was burnt to a crisp. They concluded that the pole he used and the ground beneath him was slightly damp and therefore the electricity arched through the pole and sent him flying 100 meters! He died instantly.

When the pastor heard this story, he finally understood what the fear of the Lord meant. Electricity is powerful and if you make a mistake or cut corners, it can be devastating. Yet, with all that power, it blesses an entire town. It provides warmth and gives people what it needs in order to sustain daily life. You have to repect electricity and have a humbling fear for it. You can't just do whatever you want and go near it unless you do it right. You see, that is how God is. God created the universe folks. He created you. You have to fear God if you want to get close to Him. Yet, He is a loving God that provides and comforts. It is that fear that humbles Christians. But God went a step even further. Jesus' death on the cross showed His ultimate love for us.

We cannot take advantage of God just because Jesus dies for our sins. He is still powerful. He is still our Creator. We cannot truly love God unless we fear Him. It should not be the purpose of the church to preach the love of God without preaching the fear of God. When Elijah saw just a glimpse of God it brought Him down on his knees. He was afraid but God comforted him. Besides our churches, we don't fear God or believe in Him because we think we have it all. We have nice homes and nice lives and when something goes wrong, we blame God. But remember that even though we are saved by His grace, He will still teach us about His power and I caution everyone to take God seriously.

I Wanna be a Christian

2005-08-18T16:06:00.000-10:00

Aloha!

I noticed that one poster voted that they want to be a Christian. I don't know if you still come around or not but I wanted to particularly say hello to you, "Hello"! If anyone else is in that same position, this letter is for you too.

I don't know what your background is or how much you know about God, but I don't think your curiousity about being a Christian is by accident. There is so much to say about God that I don't know where to begin really. So I am going to mainly give you some links to some great websites that will help you answer your questions.

If I had to tell you something though, it would be that you need to believe that you came from somewhere. And if you came from somewhere, you also need to know that you could go back to where you came from. You could also go somewhere else as well. I'm not talking about your mother's womb either. But more importantly, you need to believe that you came from SOMEONE and that when you die, you will return to that someone. That's who God is. So you're probably thinking that yes, you believe that. How do I get there? Why do Christians believe that the only way to get there is through Jesus? Isn't my good works enough to get me home (heaven)? Etc... These are common questions and questions that I had at one time in my life.

I encourage you to check out these links and when you are ready, find a good Christian church in your area. Do some research and make sure it is a Christian church that you are going to. There are some churches (gotta be honest with you) that seem Christian because they believe in God but be careful. These websites will give you enough clues I think to help you find a church. If you have any questions for me, please feel free to ask and post a comment. Here are the links.

http://new.christianity.com/WhatIsChristianity/

http://new.christianity.com/WhoIsJesus/

http://www.jesus-institute.org/index.shtml

God bless you on your journey!

Bentos, Beach, and Bible!

2005-08-13T16:06:00.000-10:00

This past Wednesday was the first day of my vacation. Praise God! I wanted to kick start my vacation by eating at one of my most favorite places to eat- Imari. IMHO, Imari has THE best bentos in Hawaii. A bento is served in a plate with many compartments and there are many to choose from. Here is a pic of the front of store. Today I brought a friend of mine. When we walked in, they were preparing for a really big order. The bentos here are made fresh when you order it so it takes awhile for your order to complete. But it is sooo worth it!

We decided to go to Ala Moana Beach Park to eat our bento. We did some walking and went to the other side of the park. Here's a nice table we found. It's not under a tree; but who wants to worry about the little friends up in the tree? In the background is Diamond Head Crater. It was a breezy day and perfect weather to go to the beach. We didn't even take off the cover of the bento and already a few flies were trying to get at our food! We managed to keep them at bay though

Here is what I ordered. I got a 2-choice combo. In every combo bento, there is white rice, hijiki (seaweed with soy sauce), 2 different kinds of tsukemono (prepared burdock, carrots, etc...), takuwan (picked radish), and an ume (picked plum). My two main choices were saba (mackeral- the top left) and Japanese style hamburger steak (with grated radish, soy sauce, and lemon juice). I was surprized that it didn't come with potato salad. I's usually included but today they must've ran out.

My friend also a 2-choice combo. The sides were the same but she ordered chicken karaage (Japanese fried chicken) and a crab cream croquette. I asked her how it was and she said it was good.

To drink I had some cold green tea in a can.

This is a great place to read your bible. It was nice to just enjoy God's beautiful beach and relax. Although we didn't get to relax for too long today, what a great place to come after a long hard day at work. When God speaks you to here, it is really special. :)

Here are more photos at the beach park and some from Diamond Head lookout.

Hey who ate all my bento! ME!

Aloha Friday Fragments

2005-08-05T11:29:00.000-10:00

This weekend I plan to have a lunch with a friend at the beach. One of my favorite things to eat- bentos, which is what we will be having and in my opinion, the best bento place in Hawaii so far. This plus a beautiful setting and a friend and sister in Christ to share it with. More on the bentos later.

Just the thought of this makes me look so forward to this weekend. We tend to take for granted things like a simple lunch with a friend but it is makes me realize how blessed we are. I live in a country where my freedom grants me the opportunity to do this. I have been placed on a side of the earth by God where you can enjoy your fellowship with others without having to worry about a bomb going off or people who persecute you and rob you and your entire family. We all have our problems with crime but it is nothing compared to what people have to go through in other parts of this world. That is why it is so important and neccesary that we stop and think about how we can help others- and do something about it!

Live each day in gratefulness to the Lord. In all things, good or bad, praise Him!

Grace abounds!

2005-08-03T07:43:00.000-10:00

Have you really stopped to look at a flower while on that 2 mile hike? Have you picked one up, examined it carefully? Maybe the last time you did so was in college when you took that Botany class. Find a flower. What does it remind you of? What about that flower shows that grace abounds? Do the clusters remind you of the vine and the branches? The body of Christ? What else does it remind you of? Comments to this welcome! Tell me what you discover. :)

Jesus was single and so are we... pt. 2

2005-07-30T10:18:00.000-10:00

I don't think I will cover everything from the conference but here are tidbits of interesting information.

What the bible says about singleness (just 2 verses):

- Matthew 19:12
- I Cor. 7: 1-33

In a nutshell, singleness is good because of the state of this world and the little time we have to spread the gospel- total focus on serving God and the lost without the pressures of marriage.

Advantages to being single vs. Advantages to being married:

To being single- Focus, time, flexibilty
To being married- Strategic compromise with the flesh (when you can't control your desires),
Companionship
Discipline of self- dying to self
Others?

If you you know that you will be single your whole life, would you change anything/do anything differently? (Comments would be fun here!)

God's definition of sex vs. the world's definition of sex vs. our definition of sex

God's definition- A Holy, giving act of worship, a symbol of our union between Jesus and His church. All in the context of marriage.

The worlds- Look in your favorite dictionary, a giving act without God, look at the media.

Our definition- For marrieds, you should answer that each day.

* The example of the burning house. If you are in a burning house and a fireman came to save you, he tells you to come this way with him. It's the only way out. But you refuse and say "No, I don't want to go that way with you. I wanna go this way." Christians live in a burning world. There is only ONE way to heaven with Jesus. The world is very much a burning house. The world's attitude about sex is like fire. You go the wrong way, you will get burned.

Do you know what your teen is doing?

2005-07-26T08:05:00.000-10:00

Last night I turned on Inside Edition and was mortified at what I saw. They covered a story about websites that get teenage girls (as young as 13) to post pictures of themselves. Guys (or girls even) would go on those sites and actually rate how "hot" these girls were based on their pic. They even have 1/2 points (5 1/2, 6 1/2, etc...). Some of those websites even offered cash prizes to the girls who had the highest points. I was shocked. Ok, I was not surprized because in today's world, nothing is really that shocking anymore. But I was just floored. I wanted to cry.

What makes it even worse is that many of these girls are giving out personal info. in which sexual predators can target them. And the sad thing is that many of the girls interviewed are completely ignorant to the risk. You see these "sexy" young teens with obvious childish maturity.

If you have a teen or know one, do you know what they are doing? Not just on the internet but with their friends? We really need to pray for our youth and not only that, act.

Here is the link to Inside Edition where the story came from:

http://www.insideedition.com/Default.aspx?tabid=34

Jesus was single, and so are we...

2005-07-24T15:29:00.000-10:00

This past weekend was the annual singles conference at First Prezbyterian Church of Honolulu. This is only its 2nd year and it's also my second time going. As expected the conference was terrific. Paul Sheppard once again graced us as general speaker of the conference and this year, the breakout sessions were fantastic. I'll spend more time in future posts to go over what I thought were great points at the conference. For now, I'd like to personally share a few things that God placed on my heart. But before I do, here are the breakout sessions that I went to. The titles of the sessions should explain much in itself.

- An Army of One
- Let's talk about Sex
- Single and Stoked!

I learned a lot over the weekend but there are two things in which that really spoke to ME. In the Single and Stoked session, we had small group discussions (which is great for a conference like this). One of questions we had to talk to each other about was "What can you do to love more righteously". Then it hit me. I realized that at times I can be too giving. What I mean by that is that is sometimes I can focus too much on other people's needs and spiritual growth, that it hinders rather than helps. God at that very moment told me that I need to give more space to people sometimes- that I must trust in Him that He will ultimately work in other people's lives. I felt like He was telling me, "Trisha, bless you my child for wanting so much at times to help others in certain ways. But trust me." I realized that ultimately, people's problems and issues they may have is first between that person and God. I need to discern a little more carefully on when and how God wants for me to intervene. I can come on too strong and desperate at times to help others that in hinders. And guess what? Hinders not only that person, but it hinders me- hinders MY focus on my life. God wants us to love selflessly but He does not want us to neglect our own well-being as well.

The second thing He showed me and it's kinda in relation to the first was in Paul Sheppard's general session when he was talking about 2 kinds of people in your life- drainers and fillers. Drainers are people who constantly are in need of help, people who always (or many times) look to you for spiritual, emotional, and practical help. They are mainly recievers and less givers. Fillers on the other hand are people who both give and recieve. They bless you by helping you in all areas and they also are glad to recieve from you. The difference between these two types are people are night and day. Paul emphasized that while we need to be loving and giving people of God, we need to create boundaries with the people who are drainers. Afterall, we are human and there is so much we can give (our time, etc..) to others. Jesus himself at times hid from the masses not only to pray but to rejuvinate and refresh. If we don't create those boundaries with drainers (even Christians!), we will run on empty. Out of love and for the sake of both yourself and for the other person, keep those relationships in control. Jesus loved everyone but even in His love He had only a few that He remained especially close to. It is believed that Peter, James, and Lazarus were three men that He kept in His most intimate circle. Even as "fillers", Peter and James failed to really be of great support all the time. They fell asleep at a time when Jesus really needed them and we all know that Peter denied Jesus three times.

Well this really spoke to me and you can see how it's related to me overdoing it when it comes to giving to others at times. I find comfort in this because I no longer have to feel guilty when I say "no". Drainers don't neccessarily have to be explicit with you. They don't always verbally ask for help, they show it in other ways by expecting for you to help them. I can see how damaging this can be for both them and myself. Trusting God means also trusting that He will guide others.

I'd like to hear your comments on these things. That would be great. :)

Dear God,

2005-07-21T14:38:00.000-10:00

Today was a great day. I thought I little bit about what life would be without you and to be honest, I can't imagine what that would be like! I mean really. By believing in you, you have taught me just who I am and the purpose you have in my life. I don't know what to think if I didn't have you in my life. Afterall, you have created me. You know me inside and out. There's no way that I alone can make sense of my own life. You promise a life of eternity and for that I am grateful. I could go my own way and hey, even be successful (in the worldy sense). But why I would want success in this world when I can have success eternally with you in Heaven? I now know what hell is- it's a place of eternal desire- internally unfufilled. It's a place separated from you forever. No thank you. I choose you, the One that promises peace, love, creativity, and eternal riches- the One who promises a place where there is no suffering, no hate, no sadness.

AMEN

On spiritual gifts

2005-07-14T15:18:00.000-10:00

Use Your Spiritual Gifts to Help Your Church Grow
Whitney Hopler
Contributing Writer

If you're a Christian, God has given you at least one spiritual gift. And those gifts aren't just for your own benefit; their purpose is to bless entire Body of Christ. When you discover your spiritual gift(s) and use them in your local church, you'll see amazing growth take place for everyone in your congregation.

Here's how you can use your spiritual gifts to help your church grow:

Understand what truly constitutes a spiritual gift. Know that your spiritual gift (or combination of gifts) determines your purpose in Christ's Body. Spiritual gifts are special attributes given by the Holy Spirit to every member of the Body of Christ, according to God's grace, for use within the context of the Body. A spiritual gift is not a natural talent (everyone has natural talents, but only believers have spiritual gifts), a fruit of the Spirit (all Christians should develop the same fruit, whereas only certain Christians receive particular spiritual gifts), or a role (Christians should be ready to fill any role in case of an emergency or temporary need, but that doesn't necessarily mean the role makes use of their unique strengths). Ask God to help you discern true spiritual gifts from counterfeit ones that come from the evil side of the spiritual realm.

Recognize that many people have a mix of spiritual gifts. Realize that you may likely have more than one spiritual gift. Know that God expects you to use all the gifts He has given you as you serve Him.

Be thankful rather than proud. Humbly be grateful to God for giving you whatever spiritual gift(s) He has. Don't think of yourself more highly than you ought, but also realize that you are a valuable person whom God wants to use. Seek to glorify God and bless other people whenever you use your spiritual gifts.

Don't abuse the gifts. Never use a spiritual gift to acquire personal power, gain wealth, take revenge, or exploit fellow believers. Don't exalt any particular type of gift over another; realize that in God's eyes, all are equally valuable. Don't project a gift you have onto another person to whom God may not have given that specific gift. Give other people the freedom to exercise their own unique gifts.

Discover your unique gifts. Remember that there are four prerequisites to discovering your gifts: You have to be a Christian, you have to believe in spiritual gifts, you have to be willing to do the work necessary to use your spiritual gifts, and you have to pray for God's guidance. Explore the possibilities by studying what the Bible says about spiritual gifts, learning your church's position on spiritual gifts and how to use them in ministry, read what Christian authors have to say on the subject, talk to people who are already using their spiritual gifts, and discuss with friends and family what you think your gifts might be. Then experiment with as many gifts as you can by looking for needs in your church and trying to meet them.

Through the process, take note of what gifts you seem to have - and those you seem not to have. Examine your feelings to see if the work you're trying out excites you or not (ministry that makes use of one of your spiritual gifts should excite you). Evaluate your effectiveness by seeing if your church gets positive results from your work. Know that when true gifts are in operation, whatever is supposed to happen through them will happen. Look for confirmation from other people in your congregation that you have (or don't have) particular spiritual gifts.

Help your church maximize the potential of its members' spiritual gifts. Encourage church leaders to develop a philosophy of ministry that details how members' spiritual gifts should be used in ministry. Initiate programs to help people put their gifts to use in specific ways within your church. Use members efficiently. Don't chain people's energies in activities for which they are not gifted. Instead, concentrate on people's strengths in order to give the Holy Spirit free reign. Have the pastor preach sermons on spiritual gifts and teach about the topic often. Provide opportunities for laypeople to study spiritual gifts in Bible studies, small groups, and Sunday School classes. Set goals for people to discover their spiritual gifts, expecting that emotionally mature adults should be able to discover their gifts within about four months to one year after becoming Christians. Hold people accountable to each other for discovering their gifts and using them. Make an emphasis on spiritual gifts part of your congregation's permanent lifestyle.

Understand the different types of spiritual gifts:

The gift of celibacy is the special ability that God gives to certain members of the Body of Christ to remain single and enjoy it and not suffer undue sexual temptation.

The gift of martyrdom is a special ability that God gives to certain members of the Body of Christ to undergo suffering for the faith even to death while consistently displaying a joyous and victorious attitude that brings glory to God.

The gift of hospitality is the special ability that God gives to certain members of the Body of Christ to provide an open house and warm welcome for those in need of food and lodging.

The gift of intercession is the special ability that God gives to certain members of the Body of Christ to pray for extended periods of time on a regular basis and see frequent and specific answers to their prayers to a degree much greater than that which is expected of the average Christian.

The gift of leading worship is the special ability that God gives to certain members of the Body of Christ to accurately discern the heart of God for a particular public worship service, to draw others into an intimate experience of God during the worship time and to allow the Holy Spirit to change directions and emphases as the service progresses.

The gift of giving is the special ability that God gives to certain members of the Body of Christ to contribute their material resources to the work of the Lord liberally and cheerfully, above and beyond the tithes and offerings expected of all believers.

The gift of voluntary poverty is the special ability that God gives to certain members of the Body of Christ to renounce material comfort and luxury and adopt a personal lifestyle equivalent to those living at the poverty level in a given society in order to serve God more effectively.

The gift of discernment is the special ability that God gives to certain members of the Body of Christ to know with assurance whether certain behaviors purported to be of God are in reality divine, human, or satanic.

The gift of deliverance is the special ability that God gives to certain members of the Body of Christ to cast out demons and evil spirits.

The gift of teaching is the special ability that God gives to certain members of the Body of Christ to communicate information relevant to the health and ministry of the Body and its members in such a way that others will learn.

The gift of pastor is the special ability that God gives to certain members of the Body of Christ (both clergy and laypeople) to assume a long-term personal responsibility for the spiritual welfare of a group of believers.

The gift of exhortation is the special ability that God gives to certain members of the Body of Christ to minister words of comfort, consolation, encouragement, and counsel to other members of the Body n such a way that they feel helped and healed.

The gift of administration is the special ability that God gives to certain members of the Body of Christ to understand clearly the immediate and long-range goals of a particular unit of the Body and to devise and execute effective plans for the accomplishment of those goals.

The gift of faith is the special ability that God gives to certain members of the Body of Christ to discern with extraordinary confidence the will and purposes of God for the future of His work.

The gift of leadership is the special ability that God gives to certain members of the Body of Christ to set goals in accordance with God's purpose for the future and to communicate these goals to others in such a way that they voluntarily and harmoniously work together to accomplish those goals for the glory of God.

The gift of evangelist is the special ability that God gives to certain members of the Body of Christ to share the gospel with unbelievers in such a way that men and women become Jesus' disciples and responsible members of the Body of Christ.

The gift of missionary is the special ability that God gives to certain members of the Body of Christ to minister whatever other spiritual gifts they have in a second culture.

The gift of apostle is the special ability that God gives to certain members of the Body of Christ to assume and to exercise divinely imparted authority in order to establish the foundational government of an assigned sphere of ministry within the church. An apostle hears from the Holy Spirit and sets things in order accordingly for the church's health, growth, maturity, and outreach.

The gift of knowledge is the special ability that God gives to certain members of the Body of Christ to discover, accumulate, analyze, and clarify information and ideas that are pertinent to the growth and well-being of the Body.

The gift of wisdom is the special ability that God gives to certain members of the Body of Christ to know the mind of the Holy Spirit in such a way as to receive insight into how given knowledge may best be applied to specific needs arising in the Body of Christ.

The gift of mercy is the special ability that God gives to certain members of the Body of Christ to feel genuine empathy and compassion for individuals, both Christian and non-Christian, who suffer distressing physical, mental, or emotional problems, and to translate that compassion into cheerfully done deeds that reflect Christ's love and alleviate the suffering.

The gift of helps is the special ability that God gives to certain members of the Body of Christ to invest the talents they have in the life and ministry of other members of the Body, thus enabling those others to increase the effectiveness of their own spiritual gifts.

The gift of service is the special ability that God gives to certain members of the Body of Christ to identify the unmet needs involved in a task related to God's work, and to make use of available resources to meet those needs and help accomplish the desired goals.

The gift of prophecy is the special ability that God gives to certain members of the Body of Christ to receive and communicate an immediate message of God to His people through a divinely anointed utterance.

The gift of tongues is the special ability that God gives to certain members of the Body of Christ (1) to speak to God in a language they have never learned and/or (2) to receive and communicate an immediate message from God to His people through a divinely anointed utterance in a language they have never learned.

The gift of interpretation of tongues is the special ability that God gives to certain members of the Body of Christ to make known in the vernacular the message of one who speaks in tongues.

The gift of miracles is the special ability that God gives to certain members of the Body of Christ to serve as human intermediaries through whom it pleases God to perform powerful acts that are perceived by observers to have altered the ordinary course of nature.

The gift of healing is the special ability that God gives to certain members of the Body of Christ to serve as human intermediaries through whom it pleases God to cure illness and restore health apart from the use of natural means.

Transforming the World pt. 1

2005-05-26T07:01:00.000-10:00

There was a recent conference in Hawaii last week. It's the first of its kind and it was called Transformation Hawaii. Coming into the conference I had a pretty good idea what it was all about- marketplace ministry and bringing our faith in the Lord into our "workplaces". When I say workplaces, I don't just mean at our jobs. It could be our communities where we live, the groups we hang out with or the stay at home mom with her children.

I was delighted to hear from a fellow sister that she had asked our church if we could go on behalf of the church (which meant that the church would pay for us going). If so, we were expected to come back and share (well teach rather) what we had learned at the conference. I didn't think I shouldn't have done it so I agreed. Along with two other sisters, off we went.

I don't want to go into all the details of our attendance so let me just describe to you in general what the conference was all about. To sum it up in just several words, it was about unity as a body , ministering in the "marketplace", and revival. What really stood out though at this conference were two things: Prophesy and Apolistic movement, and a reconciliation of several groups (Christian Native Hawaiians and the rest of the Christian population, the Catholic and Protestant Church, and yes, Republicans and Democrats!) It was apparent that the Native Hawaiian reconciliation was planned, but the other two was not planned.

I have learned a lot from this conference. While there were postitives, the conference did teach me about what was lacking. In this first part, I'll address the first thing I learned.

The importance of being like the Bereans

If you don't know yet, the Bereans were known for their obvious test in what Paul was preaching to them. They did not take Paul's teaching lightly. They wanted to make sure that what he was teaching was true to God's Word. It is highly apparent that the Transformation movement is based mainly on prophesy and the apolistic movement. While some biblical principles were taught through Ed Silvoso's presentation, the conference leaned more towards prophesy. Now, I could go into detail about what I thought about all the prophesy and whether or not some of the claims are true or not, but that would take too long. What I am more concerned about is that because unity is their #1 priority when it comes to uniting the church, there are denominations which would readily disagree on the way the movement is being handled. Without humility, true unity cannot take place.

With that said, let me point out that it is important that we be like the Bereans and test all things that is claimed. It's important as Christians to practice true discernment when we hear claims of prophesy. We must look to the bible first and foremost. Prophesy alone can prove nothing without God's truth.

Aloha Friday Fragments: New Home

2005-05-20T13:44:00.000-10:00

Today is when I officially move in to my new studio, my new "home". I am really excited, not just because it's a nice little studio, or because I can live independantly again; but I am really happy that I can now have a place to invite people over to. It brings me delight to invite people over, take care of them, and most importantly, fellowship with them. This is exactly how Jesus feels about us coming to His house. Just imagine- Jesus is actively preparing a place for us in our soon-to-be heavenly home!

As for me and my house, we will serve HIM.

2005-05-04T08:15:00.000-10:00

If I End Up Like Terri: An Open Letter to My Wife
by Mark Hartwig

Editor's Note: On the day of Terri Schiavo’s tragic death, the pundits are writing about what they think is the moral of the story: make sure you have your “end-of-life wishes” in writing. But they’re missing the point. The real moral requires far more insight, maturity, responsibility and faith: be sure of whom you marry.

Dear Janelle,
These last few months have troubled me deeply. And I have
a request that I hope you'll have the courage and strength to honor: If I ever
become like Terri Schiavo, please don't put me through what she has endured.
After fighting cancer for 10 years; after suffering through multiple courses
of toxic drugs; after two stem-cell transplants and 16 dismal weeks in a
hospital room, tied to tangles of tubes, I've only scratched the surface of her
misery. I feel as if I've scaled great mountains of suffering only to find I'm
in the foothills of a range that towers beyond sight.
Dear, if I'm ever forced to scale that range, if I ever become like Terri — whether through the myriad drugs I'm taking, future treatments or the cancer itself — please don't pull my feeding tube. Instead, if at all possible, take me and my tube home,
where I can live out my days with you and the kids, and where friends can come
and go as they wish. Put me in a place where I won't be in the way, but can
still sense the activity of life around me. Talk to me; share your hopes, fears
and failures with me. Read me books. I may not understand, but perhaps I'll
sense the warmth of a lover's voice. And I promise I won't interrupt, or give
away your secrets. And deep down inside, perhaps I'll groan a wordless prayer
for you.
And please, please, please don't crush what's left of me by taking
another lover while I still live. You're my wife, Dear, my only lover. Apart
from God alone, you're the one person who daily breathes confidence and
acceptance into my life. You're the one with whom I can feel unashamed and
completely at home. I can absorb the loss of many things. But please don't rob
me of that. Abide with me, as you have done so faithfully through our many years
of trauma and tears.
This is my wish, Dear. I hope to live with you a good many years. I hope to grow old with you and see our grandchildren. But if I don't, know that I love you and that I always will. I promise ... just as I did a quarter century ago.
With all my love, Mark

Call for contributors

2005-04-18T19:10:00.000-10:00

Found a really good article/writing?
Want to write about something?
Do you want to be a regular contributor to this blog?

If you are interested in any of the above, please send me a comment or e-mail me (lovebubble92@hotmail.com). If you leave a comment, be sure to leave your e-mail address.

* All submissions will be reviewed and you will be notified. Accepted submissions will be posted on this blog. If you have any questions as to what kind of submissions will be accepted, go ahead and ask :)

What about your church?

2005-04-13T13:22:00.000-10:00

Senario...

It's lunchtime and a man meets up with a potential business partner in downtown. The man is a Christian and the potential business partner has studied the bibleas a scholar, but is not a Christian. The two chat for a bit and the topic oflife insurance comes up. As they get to know each other, the business partnerasks the man, "I'm curious as to why you have that particular life insurance". The man replied, "Well... it's so that if anything happens to me, my family will be provided for and vice versa. Many people have life insurance". The potential partner still looks confused and asks, "But... you go to church right?" Not knowing why he was asked this the man answers, "Yes, I go to church regularly. What does it have to do with having life insurance"? The potential partner then said, "Well... I just thought that if you died or if your family died that your church would provide for you everything needed in order to survive? That's why I was wondering why you needed the life insurance".

This senario was actually inspired by a keynote speaker I heard at a recent conference and I thought it was powerful. Here he was, a non-Christian, who to me understands more about the church than most Christians do. This man read the bible as a scholar and knew about the early church in Acts. This really hits me and it hits me hard to think about our churches today. The business partner in this senerio is completely right and what he must be thinking about the church if it is not really what it's supposed to be.

I could go over so many points about what church should and should not be. But what I do realize, especially after reading this senerio, is that the church is definitely NOT what it's used to be. It's so clear in Acts that the people of God were one family. They met in their homes daily, they provided for one another and they included those who did not yet know Jesus Christ; and while all of this was going on, people were getting saved by the hundreds each and everyday! So it's no wonder a person who has read the bible, even though not a Christian himself, would ask, "What about your church?" It's because the church today is far from what it used to be! Now, don't get me wrong. I do not know if there is a church out there that is true to it's roots but in general, the way church is supposed to be is counter-cultural. Today we attend church, we don't live it. We don't share food, give our time, care for one another entirely. Our schedules and lifestyles leave us little room to do so. But despite our society and culture, it is not impossible for Christians today to have true church. It can happen. We can gather in our little areas and make it happen. We can look at the community we will live in (say for example, my town of Kaimuki) and make church the way it's supposed to be. I am deeply saddened by the attitudes of our churches today. In my hometown of Kaimuki alone, there has got to be at least 10 churches. Why are we not pulling together our resources for the same purpose? Why are we not fellowshipping together sometimes? Why does a church prefer to "work alone"? I just don't get it. Why do we have that mentality? It's acceptable that we have multiple congregations but it's disspointing when there is little or no connectivity among them or among the people in them.

While we may never or barely reach the point of relying on our church to take care of us completely when someone dies, it comforting to know that God Himself will never fail us. Let's honor God by taking small steps to being a real family:

1) Call a brother or sister from your church and ask if they need help with errands (go to the store, pick up the drycleaning, whatever).

2) If you can handle it, offer to babysit and give married couples a chance to go out on a date.

3) Cook dinner for your pastor.

4) Help out a brother, sister, or family with their struggling finances by giving them some gas money. Don't do it if you expect for them to pay you back! If you can't afford to help someone financially, then find some other way to bless them.

5) Drive a non-driving friend to somewhere they need to go.

6) If you need help with something, ask. Jesus wants us to ask, seek, and knock so we too should ask our Christian family when we are in need of something. Also, understand when the person whom we asked is not able to help you with your need.

Why so many Bible Translations?

2005-04-11T18:15:00.000-10:00

For over three hundred years the King James Version, published in 1611, was the prominent translation used in most Protestant churches. However, as the English language continued to change, it became increasingly more difficult for people to understand the Old English vernacular. Faced with the obvious need for our society to understand God’s Word, scholars sought to update the scriptures into more contemporary language.
Dr. Lewis Foster, one of those who helped translate the NIV and the NKJV says, “It is necessary to continue making new translations and revising old ones if people are to read the Word of God in their contemporary languages. With the passage of time, words change in meanings. For instance, in King James’ day the word ‘prevent’ could mean ‘come before’ but not necessarily in a hindering way. So the translators in that day rendered 1 Thes. 4:15, ‘For this we say unto you by the word of the Lord, that we which are alive and remain unto the coming of the Lord shall not prevent them which are asleep.’ But today the word ‘prevent’ has lost that earlier meaning (come before), so it must be translated differently to convey the proper meaning: ‘According to the Lord’s own word, we tell you that we who are still alive, who are left till the coming of the Lord, will certainly not ‘precede’ those who have fallen asleep’ (NIV). ...To keep the translation of God’s Word living it must be kept in the living language the people are using.”¹
While new translations have generally been a welcome contribution to the comprehension of scripture, they have also received mixed reactions across the Christian spectrum. One story is told of a pastor who tried to introduce a revised version of the Bible to his rigidly conservative congregation. “So what’s wrong with the King James Version?” said one woman in defense. “In my opinion, if it was good enough for Jesus, it’s good enough for us!” The amusing irony is that Jesus obviously did not speak the Old English of the King James Version — neither was the Bible originally recorded in English. Despite the sacred tradition that many revere of the KJV, it is merely a translation of the inspired Word of God, not the initial source. The Old Testament was authored in Hebrew and Aramaic, and the New Testament in Greek. While the original autographs no longer exist, translations are made from ancient manuscript copies, of which there are today at least 24,000, whole or in-part, with which to compare.²
An English version of the Bible did not exist until a little more than 600 years ago. Before then, a version translated into Latin by Jerome in the fourth century, called the Latin Vulgate, was the most widely-used Bible translation in the middle ages (the first major book printed on Gutenberg’s press in 1456). Portions of scripture in English began to emerge in the early seventh century, but the first complete English translation was not produced until 1382 by the influence of John Wycliff. Despite fierce opposition of the Roman church, and absence of the printing press, copies of this work were widely circulated. Later in the 16th century, seven more popular English versions were produced, beginning with William Tyndale’s work in 1525. This English version of the New Testament was the first to be translated directly from the Greek instead of Latin texts. Before Tyndale’s completion of the Old Testament, he was tried as a heretic and executed in 1536. After Tyndale, several other famous Bibles were produced in the 16th century. The Cloverdale Bible in 1535, Matthew’s Bible in 1537, The Great Bible in 1539, The Geneva Bible in 1560 (the first to use chapters, verses, and the italicization of added words), and the Bishops Bible in 1568.
Finally in 1604, in an effort to resolve severe factions between Englishmen over Bible versions, King James I authorized the translation of another version that came to bear his name. Forty-seven scholars spent six years on the translation, with all work meticulously reviewed and refined by their combined collaboration. The four existing Massorec texts were used for the Old Testament, and a third edition of the Byzantine Greek text by Stephanus (often referred as the “Textus Receptus”), was used for the New Testament. The King James Version was finally published in 1611, and together with its four revisions (in 1629, 1638, 1762, and 1769), it remains as the most widely circulated Bible in existence. A few other translations were produced over the centuries, but the real revolution of new Bible versions began to erupt in the 20th century, largely due to the widening language barrier. Some of the more influential, recent translations have been: The Revised Standard Version in 1952, The Amplified Bible in 1965, The New English Bible in 1970, The New American Standard Bible in 1971, The Living Bible in 1971, Today’s English Version in 1976, The New International Version in 1978, and the New King James Version in 1982.
Apart from these versions, there are numerous study Bible editions, such as the Scofield Reference Bible, the Open Bible, the Thompson Chain Reference Bible, or the Spirit Life Bible, etc., but these are not different translations. These volumes merely feature special study helps, commentaries or references added as a supplement to a particular translation. Besides updating the Bible to contemporary language, another controversy with new translations arises over the issue of the original texts. The KJV New Testament (and all editions since Tyndale) was compiled primarily from the Byzantine family of manuscripts (A.D. 500 - 1000) frequently referred to as the Textus Receptus. But many of the newer translations were produced using a composite of later discoveries of other manuscripts and fragments dating from an earlier period. Among such are The “Alexandrian Family” manuscripts (A.D. 200-400) which include the three oldest: The Codex Alexandrius, the Codex Vaticanus and the Codex Sinaiticus, all which were major contributors to most Bible versions after the King James version. Other important codices come from The Western Family, (of the Western Mediterranean areas), and the Caesarean Family of manuscripts (A.D. 200). (A codex is a manuscript bound together like a book instead of rolled into a scroll. Codices is plural for codex.)
Many scholars feel that the older manuscripts have been somewhat more accurate and important to the refinement of the newer translations. However, this has been disputed by others, especially since the older copies make up a tiny portion of the large quantity of manuscripts available. At least 90% of the 5,400 existing Greek manuscripts come from the Byzantine family (the basis for the Textus Receptus), and due to the overwhelming numbers of copies with which to compare and verify for accuracy, some scholars feel that the small handful of older texts should not be used to overrule the credibility of the majority. Although textual criticism shows only slight differences between the manuscript families, in those passages where the older text differs with the newer, the modern translators usually deferred to the older, primarily from the Alexandrian Family manuscripts — Codex Sinaiticus and the Codex Vaticanus. It should be emphasized that none of the revisions in the new era translations, such as the NIV or NASB (compiled with Alexandrian Family Manuscripts), conflict with any rule of faith or doctrinal issue, but some conservative church leaders refuse to accept any tampering with the “tried and proven” Textus Receptus translation of the King James Version. In response to such concerns, the theological community came to see the need for another version, one which would satisfy the need for updated language without venturing beyond the traditional text source. Thus, in the late 1970’s, Thomas Nelson Publishers commissioned a company of scholars to produce a revision of the traditional King James Version. Relying on the familiar Textus Receptus, 130 translators made the needed revisions to modern English and corrections to minor translation errors, while making every effort to retain the traditional phraseology of the old version. This New King James Version, as it was called, was completed in 1982.
Today, most Evangelical churches will make random use of any of the various translations mentioned here. Frequently a pastor will recommend one particular version to be used exclusively by the congregation so that everyone will have an identical source to refer to during the preaching or Bible studies. This not only helps eliminate confusion, but also makes it possible to engage in corporate word-for-word readings of scripture, something that wouldn’t be possible if everyone was reading from a different version. After some research on the various versions, every believer would do well to zero in on a primary version to which they devote their study and commit passages to memory. It’s inadvisable to allow the issue of translations to become a distraction. For the average layman, most of the differences between the translations are relatively insignificant. All the versions we have listed have a high degree of harmony and convey the same general message of God’s Word, but will use some of their own distinctive phrases and words. The following is a summary of the most popular versions, along with a brief evaluation:
The King James Version (KJV) — Translated in 1611 by 47 scholars using the Byzantine family of manuscripts, Textus Receptus. This remains as a good version of the Bible. It has been the most reliable translation for over three centuries, but its Elizabethan style Old English is difficult for modern readers, especially youth. This is still a good translation for those who can deal with the language.
The New American Standard Bible (NASB) — Translated in 1971 by 58 scholars of the Lockman Foundation, from Kittle’s Biblia Hebraica and Nestle’s Greek New Testament 23rd ed., which include the Alexandrian Family codices. Though academic in tone, it is said to be the most exact English translation available. A very good version.
The Living Bible (TLB) — A paraphrased rendition of the King James Version by Kenneth Taylor in 1971. This is not a genuine translation, but is a type of phrase-by-phrase commentary that was originally intended to help the author’s own children understand the scriptures. It is useful for inspiration and commentary, but for serious Bible study it should only be used in conjunction with a legitimate translation.
The New International Version (NIV) — Over 100 translators completed this work in 1978 which was composed from Kittle’s, Nestle’s and United Bible Society’s texts, which include the Alexandrian Family codices. This is considered an “open” style translation. It is a good, easy to read version.
The New King James Version (NKJV) — 130 translators, commissioned by Thomas Nelson Publishers, produced this version from the Byzantine family (Textus Receptus) in 1982. This is a revision of the King James version, updated to modern English with minor translation corrections and retention of traditional phraseology. This is a very good version.

Especially for you

2005-04-07T15:58:00.000-10:00

Deciding on having multiple blogs is pretty mindblogging (no pun intended), considering the work that is involved. BUT... I have decided to have a second and separate one especially for my Christian family. I'll let you try to guess why I decided to do it that way :)

The title of this blog was inspired by the 2005 Hawaiian Island Ministries conference. The theme, "When He comes..." denotes a message of being prepared when Jesus comes back. It was a terrific conference! I think you will enjoy this blog. It won't be just simple musings. I really want to use this blog as a tool for equipping and I hope you make this blog just one of your many tools to living a life like Christ. And I also hope to see real fellowship here- where we can share our thoughts and encourage one another to grow in maturity. Just like God does, I desire to see His children grow. I myself am growing and I hope you will grow with me- because God wants us to grow together.

Sanctified together,

Trisha