Today, I attended a day long conference at CZW in Wiesbaden Germany. This church is working with me on the process of our visa to stay and plant a church here that would focus on the english speaking community here. This includes the over 18000 military and civilians working at USAG Wiesbaden. Also open to anyone that speaks english.
While here, I was provided a translator for the sessions as they were all done in Deutsch. During the course of the time, Pastor Andreas shared that we are to "dream big and start small!" This hit me really deep in my heart and mind.
As we are here, we have what we have been dreaming about starting to happen. We also know that there is a strong possibility that God may refocus the vision and dreams we have. Recognizing this, we know that we are to follow His leading.
This past week, we have encountered various difficulties, frustrations and set backs. In them, we were given the opportunity to rejoice or respond extremely frustrated. In many of them, we choose to rejoice and know that they were allowed for us to draw closer to Him and His vision and plan.
Now, I would love to say that I responded to all of them that way and yet, I didn't. In my humanity and self, I let one of the situations knock me low and cause me to really begin to say, "Why is this happening?" "What good is going to come from this?"
I know, sad that I went there and yet, I did. There is where I realized God knows all things and can do anything.
At lunch here at the conference, I sat alone in a room full of believing germans and felt alone. A man name Gragor sat down and asked me to slide next to him. I did and we introduced each other. My deutsch is very limited and yet, his english was very good.
He asked me, "When did you meet my Jesus?" I told him my story and then he shared his story. WOW! What a time of fellowship and lunch!
The lesson learned...stop, wait, listen and rely on His timing!
Saturday, February 20, 2016
Saturday, January 9, 2016
The Waiting Room
Have you ever thought to yourself, "Why does it always seem that the time in the waiting room is so long?"
I know that through the years I have definitely thought that. From doctors offices to repair centers, the wait seems like forever. The wait often taking longer than the appointment and yet, there is a definite lesson for us to learn from the waiting room.
Not only is there time to reflect, there is also time to see others. We can watch others as they wait. Some are anxious about the news they will hear. They are anxious about the unknown. They are frustrated with the process of paperwork. Their children are moving and busy and often this causes them and others to be stressed.
For whatever reason you are anxious there in the waiting room one thing is for sure...time goes slow.
When that happens, we tend to become very frustrated and also often times we get impatient and expect others to respond quicker and to our wants. When they don't, we snap and respond without care for them all to often.
Instead of doing that, next time you are in the waiting room count the blessing you have and know about. Thank the Lord for the opportunity to pray for those that are in the waiting room and may not know how to have peace that goes beyond all understanding. God promises that!
For the last 17 months, Julie and I have been in the waiting room and we have spent this time prepping, praying, preparing and planning. We have found ourselves anxious and stressed but when we stop and refocus, we begin to count our blessings in the waiting room.
God is faithful and is also in the business of assisting us while we wait in the waiting room. When we see Him move, lead and guide, the waiting room is not such a bad place to be.
I know that through the years I have definitely thought that. From doctors offices to repair centers, the wait seems like forever. The wait often taking longer than the appointment and yet, there is a definite lesson for us to learn from the waiting room.
Not only is there time to reflect, there is also time to see others. We can watch others as they wait. Some are anxious about the news they will hear. They are anxious about the unknown. They are frustrated with the process of paperwork. Their children are moving and busy and often this causes them and others to be stressed.
For whatever reason you are anxious there in the waiting room one thing is for sure...time goes slow.
When that happens, we tend to become very frustrated and also often times we get impatient and expect others to respond quicker and to our wants. When they don't, we snap and respond without care for them all to often.
Instead of doing that, next time you are in the waiting room count the blessing you have and know about. Thank the Lord for the opportunity to pray for those that are in the waiting room and may not know how to have peace that goes beyond all understanding. God promises that!
For the last 17 months, Julie and I have been in the waiting room and we have spent this time prepping, praying, preparing and planning. We have found ourselves anxious and stressed but when we stop and refocus, we begin to count our blessings in the waiting room.
God is faithful and is also in the business of assisting us while we wait in the waiting room. When we see Him move, lead and guide, the waiting room is not such a bad place to be.
Wednesday, December 23, 2015
A thought for the season!
A friend of mine posted this and was moved by it. The truth of the text is so very true and so glad that the same Lord is constant through all things!
Make sure to reach out to someone that may be hurting during this time of the year.
Christ reached out to us...we can reach out to them!
Tuesday, November 24, 2015
What is my next move?
So many times in our lives we find that it is difficult to
determine what the next move is. When we come to a time that we need to make a
decision, we sometimes waffle and not know what to do.
Have you ever played chess? The whole purpose of the game is
to make sure you loose the least amount of pieces and dominate the game by
placing the opponent into checkmate. Sounds easy and yet, it is not so easy.
You and I don’t always know what move the other player in
chess is going to make. Possibly they sacrifice a piece in order to setup for a
more deliberate and authoritative move. Maybe in their strategy, they don’t
take your pawn in order for you to move your bishop to a location that they can
take your bishop and place you in check. Then you counter their move with your
move to be out of check only to place yourself in checkmate.
What choices you make definitely can have a lasting impact.
Often times, like in the game of chess, we find ourselves at
a crossroad and unable to know what our next move should be. We stand, sit or
wander looking for the answer for the next move. We may even flip a coin or
play rock – paper – scissiors in order to make a move. These two methods may
work and one is definitely a fun way to do it, I believe that we need to make
our next move with insight and leading from God.
We see in Psalms 119:25-32 that the writer tells us that
understanding His teaching is critical. Knowing who God is, is very paramount.
To know the truth of Him and His ways is vital to decisions.
We also see that when we get in the way, our deceitful ways
can mess things up. When we chose the way of truth, hold on to His ways and
teachings, He is faithful to guide us into His way and plan.
We have looked in our first series titled Transition to
Transformation(see link below) that God is in the business of changing us and making us who He
wants us to be. It is not our doing but our allowing Him to do the work in us.
He controls us. He leads and directs us. He will never lead us in the wrong
way. His way will not only be right, it will lead to His ultimate glory.
Allowing Him to guide us as we make the next move, will
bring glory to Him. It may be difficult for us in the moment or through the
process, but, He will always be faithful. He will lead us as we seek Him.
What is your next move? Start by seeking Him. You will find
Him.
This link goes to the website where the sermon series I taught at Grace Baptist in St. Helens, Oregon can be heard while serving as Interim Lead Pastor. Transition to Transformation Series
Tuesday, October 27, 2015
The Gentle Nudge
Following the elders meeting on Tuesday night, I was driving
home and began to pray through the prayer list that I keep on my phone. Now,
before you think I was looking at my phone, I wasn’t! I have a number of these
requests that are on going so recall to memory was what I was using.
As I drove, I asked the Holy Spirit to begin prompting me
when I need to be more sensitive and responsive to those around me that I may
or may not see. As I drove home I stopped at the McDonalds for a quick meal and
ran inside. Usually I would use the drive through but I was nudged internally
to go inside.
Once inside, the sitting area was empty and greeted by a
member of the staff.
I made my way to the counter and in front of me was a man that had ordered a McChicken and a hot fudge sundae. Hearing the order and watching him dig through all his pockets in his worn out jeans and jacket, I was nudged again to pay for his meal.
I reached forward and gave the cashier the money while he wasn’t looking and mouthed to her to pay for his meal and give him the change. Her response was encouraging as she said, “Kenny, the gentleman behind you has paid for your meal!”
I made my way to the counter and in front of me was a man that had ordered a McChicken and a hot fudge sundae. Hearing the order and watching him dig through all his pockets in his worn out jeans and jacket, I was nudged again to pay for his meal.
I reached forward and gave the cashier the money while he wasn’t looking and mouthed to her to pay for his meal and give him the change. Her response was encouraging as she said, “Kenny, the gentleman behind you has paid for your meal!”
Kenny although standing with a slumped posterior attempted
to straighten up and turned with a smile and a tear on his cheek said, “Thank
you! I didn’t have enough tonight to by my dinner. My name is Kenny and may God
bless you sir!”
Extending his hand to me, we shook hands and then he turned
around and told the cashier how blessed he was by my act of kindness.
Now, it was my turn to order and as I placed my order and
the cashier thanked me for paying for Kenny’s meal, she said it blessed her
heart that someone would do that.
I told her that I was blessed and thankful that I listened
to the Holy Spirit when He prompted me.
As they were preparing my dinner I felt another nudge inside.
This time nudged or prompted to buy a gift card for Kenny
and bless him with it for another meal or two at a later time.
As I paid for the gift card, the cashier asked me why was I
doing this. I explained to her what I was just praying and that I felt that I
needed to be more aware of the needs of people around me. This was why I was
doing this.
With a huge smile on her face she said that was amazing that
God answers prayers that quickly. She then asked if I believed that what God
says in the Bible is real. I responded, “It is not only real, it is alive and
living! It is His love letter to those that believe in Him and follow Him.”
Shocked by my response she said, “Good for you!”
My heart now is nudged to ask her, Chrissy, if she knew
Jesus. Her response was, “No it isn’t really for me but maybe something that I
should think about.”
As I took my food and started to leave, I told Chrissy that every time I drive by this McDonald’s I will pray for her. She smiled and said thank you.
As I took my food and started to leave, I told Chrissy that every time I drive by this McDonald’s I will pray for her. She smiled and said thank you.
In reflecting over this the past few days, I know that the
Holy Spirit does nudge us to respond as He is prompting and that we need to
respond according to His nudges and direction.
Would you join me in asking the Holy Spirit to nudge and
prompt us as He sees and knows best? Would you also be willing to respond to
Him when He nudges and prompts you?
Sunday, April 26, 2015
Realizing it has been a while since I posted on our blog I had a cute little meme to share that fits well with our ministry direction. Ministry to the the military and coffee! A great combination!!
We are so excited about the way that the Lord is opening the doors for us to return to setup an international church! We now have the organization that will sponsor us for our Visa and is providing additional members to our pray and pay teams! God is so good!
Keep praying and we will keep you updated as to His plans.
Shack and Julie
We are so excited about the way that the Lord is opening the doors for us to return to setup an international church! We now have the organization that will sponsor us for our Visa and is providing additional members to our pray and pay teams! God is so good!
Keep praying and we will keep you updated as to His plans.
Shack and Julie
Friday, December 12, 2014
The Night of Joy!
Last night, we had the privilege of going and enjoying our oldest grandson Garrett's school Christmas program.
It has been two years since we got to enjoy his last one and we were excited. The auditorium was almost completely full with parents, children, friends and of course...grandparents! I was one of them and not ashamed of that one bit!
As the older students began to play their musical instruments, the sound filled the room and the JOY of the season came flooding in. I even found myself remembering the years that I played the trumpet at our Christmas programs and the joy that others felt as we played.
In the first act of the night, the kindergarten class preformed two short songs including the ringing of their hand bells. Of course, as you know...there is always one child that is the center of attention. Dressed in a nice new black suit, white shirt and tie, he rang his bell proudly and in open view of all to see. What a joy to watch them perform without any hesitation or fear that Simon Cowell would reject their vocal efforts.
Then, it was time for the 1st and 2nd graders! (drumroll please) As this is my moment as a grandfather to be proud, excited and full of JOY! There, dressed nicely in his freshly ironed white shirt and sharp tie, stood center stage...the one and only Garrett! Okay...give me a break as I write...I love the little man! He sang well, smiled when cued to and even made eye contact with the audience...he I think is on his way to audition for the VOICE soon.
They sang their first two songs with no hitch and received positive affirmation from the crowd. Then almost all the way through their third and final song, the most dreaded thing happened. No, not to my Garrett thankfully, but, to one of his classmates. No, this student didn't pass out either...worse!
Yes, the nerves of the evening or the dinner he had just eaten, came out with a vengeance! Sorry, it did happen. While snapping photos, I caught the before shot of the group singing and then, looking through my view finder, I snapped the next picture and sure enough, the student was not in the frame. What happened...who knew but the night of JOY, well let's just say this will be a program we talk about for quite sometime.
When all was done, cleaned up and the next group of students took the stage, the night went on without any other moments to steal the JOY of the night.
Well, as I wrap this up, I want to encourage you to not let something snatch the JOY of the season from you. Remember that the true reason for the season is JESUS!
Oh and yes, the student is doing better now!
It has been two years since we got to enjoy his last one and we were excited. The auditorium was almost completely full with parents, children, friends and of course...grandparents! I was one of them and not ashamed of that one bit!
As the older students began to play their musical instruments, the sound filled the room and the JOY of the season came flooding in. I even found myself remembering the years that I played the trumpet at our Christmas programs and the joy that others felt as we played.
In the first act of the night, the kindergarten class preformed two short songs including the ringing of their hand bells. Of course, as you know...there is always one child that is the center of attention. Dressed in a nice new black suit, white shirt and tie, he rang his bell proudly and in open view of all to see. What a joy to watch them perform without any hesitation or fear that Simon Cowell would reject their vocal efforts.
Then, it was time for the 1st and 2nd graders! (drumroll please) As this is my moment as a grandfather to be proud, excited and full of JOY! There, dressed nicely in his freshly ironed white shirt and sharp tie, stood center stage...the one and only Garrett! Okay...give me a break as I write...I love the little man! He sang well, smiled when cued to and even made eye contact with the audience...he I think is on his way to audition for the VOICE soon.
They sang their first two songs with no hitch and received positive affirmation from the crowd. Then almost all the way through their third and final song, the most dreaded thing happened. No, not to my Garrett thankfully, but, to one of his classmates. No, this student didn't pass out either...worse!
Yes, the nerves of the evening or the dinner he had just eaten, came out with a vengeance! Sorry, it did happen. While snapping photos, I caught the before shot of the group singing and then, looking through my view finder, I snapped the next picture and sure enough, the student was not in the frame. What happened...who knew but the night of JOY, well let's just say this will be a program we talk about for quite sometime.
When all was done, cleaned up and the next group of students took the stage, the night went on without any other moments to steal the JOY of the night.
Well, as I wrap this up, I want to encourage you to not let something snatch the JOY of the season from you. Remember that the true reason for the season is JESUS!
Oh and yes, the student is doing better now!
Love the SMILE on his face!!!
Merry Christmas to each of you!
May the Lord bless you!
Wednesday, November 26, 2014
Transitions!
Over the course of the last five years, we have experienced as a family a number of different transitions and one thing we have found for sure, only ONE thing remains the same in all transitions.
No matter whether the transition was changing ministries, moving to a foreign land, starting all over in school for one of our daughters, learning a new language, going off to war for a second time, having the blessing of grandsons and many other ones, transitions come.
How we respond to each one of the transitions really makes a big difference in how the transition goes as well as how we see the transition.
No one ever said that transitions are easy. Even transition in music is tough. There are key changes that are very difficult and yet, when done properly, the sound is beautiful!
So to with transitions in life, when done properly and in the right way, the transition is beautiful.
We are so grateful for all that the Lord has and is doing in our lives during the latest transitions. We have seen the Lord doing some amazing and beautiful things in our lives. From numerous people, gifts, efforts and relationships, God is making something amazing and beautiful!
We may not like the transition or the situation we are in but as long as we remember the ONE thing, God is in control! He is making the transitions in our lives and even though we don't see it, the end result, we can rest in the fact that God is making the changes and transition for us to see and know that He is the ONE thing that remains.
Scripture tells us this, "Jesus, the Messiah, is the same yesterday and today and forever!" Hebrews 13:8. As you move through and wrestle with the transitions in your own life, take joy in the fact that He is the same!
No matter whether the transition was changing ministries, moving to a foreign land, starting all over in school for one of our daughters, learning a new language, going off to war for a second time, having the blessing of grandsons and many other ones, transitions come.
How we respond to each one of the transitions really makes a big difference in how the transition goes as well as how we see the transition.
No one ever said that transitions are easy. Even transition in music is tough. There are key changes that are very difficult and yet, when done properly, the sound is beautiful!
So to with transitions in life, when done properly and in the right way, the transition is beautiful.
We are so grateful for all that the Lord has and is doing in our lives during the latest transitions. We have seen the Lord doing some amazing and beautiful things in our lives. From numerous people, gifts, efforts and relationships, God is making something amazing and beautiful!
We may not like the transition or the situation we are in but as long as we remember the ONE thing, God is in control! He is making the transitions in our lives and even though we don't see it, the end result, we can rest in the fact that God is making the changes and transition for us to see and know that He is the ONE thing that remains.
Scripture tells us this, "Jesus, the Messiah, is the same yesterday and today and forever!" Hebrews 13:8. As you move through and wrestle with the transitions in your own life, take joy in the fact that He is the same!
Monday, September 23, 2013
The Challenge of a New Day
This morning at 0600 hrs, my cell phone went off. It was my son and my daughter in the states calling to let us know that Julie's mom, Darlene McCaw had suffered a massive heart attack. Now that is a wake up call.
We began to pray and knowing that we were so far away, I loved how our children stepped into roles there by mom's bed to help us feel a part as well as give direction and comfort to others that were there.
You see, the challenge of a new day starts the minute we wake up. The minute we determine to rejoice in the days events that have happened, will happen and maybe even in those that won't happen we had planned.
Well, that all said, we do rejoice in the fact that mom is still alive a the time of this writing.
Mom has labored for her Master well through out everyday of her life.
Mom has passed on to her children and her grand children and even her great grandchildren the fact that the most important thing in life is what you do with Jesus.
Just hours before mom's heart attack, she was loving on our two grandson's Garrett and Jaxon at Jaxon's 1st birthday party. I can imagine to, mom holding Jaxon and saying, "I love you, I am praying for you and Jaxon, you are Thumb body special!" You see, mom used that line to tell people young and old that they were someone special.
Mom has faced the past 13 years of challenges with the knowledge that God loves her, that others were praying for her and that yes, she is Thumb body Special!!!!
Mom, we love you and are honored to be your kids as well as to be Team mates for the kingdom together!
How will you face the challenges of your new day today and tomorrow?
Know that God loves you and that you are "Thumb body special!"
We began to pray and knowing that we were so far away, I loved how our children stepped into roles there by mom's bed to help us feel a part as well as give direction and comfort to others that were there.
You see, the challenge of a new day starts the minute we wake up. The minute we determine to rejoice in the days events that have happened, will happen and maybe even in those that won't happen we had planned.
Well, that all said, we do rejoice in the fact that mom is still alive a the time of this writing.
Mom has labored for her Master well through out everyday of her life.
Mom has passed on to her children and her grand children and even her great grandchildren the fact that the most important thing in life is what you do with Jesus.
Just hours before mom's heart attack, she was loving on our two grandson's Garrett and Jaxon at Jaxon's 1st birthday party. I can imagine to, mom holding Jaxon and saying, "I love you, I am praying for you and Jaxon, you are Thumb body special!" You see, mom used that line to tell people young and old that they were someone special.
Mom has faced the past 13 years of challenges with the knowledge that God loves her, that others were praying for her and that yes, she is Thumb body Special!!!!
Mom, we love you and are honored to be your kids as well as to be Team mates for the kingdom together!
How will you face the challenges of your new day today and tomorrow?
Know that God loves you and that you are "Thumb body special!"
Saturday, August 3, 2013
The 3L's...Learning Life's Lessons
Today I was working on the final touches to my sermon for tomorrow at Chapel Next on post and listening to KLOVE radio, two songs just struck me in a real powerful way.
The first one helps us recognize who we are in the eyes of our Heavenly Father. It isn't about whether we fit the mold of the world. The most popular or the most successful. It matter that I know I belong to Him and that I am His Beloved!!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QSIVjjY8Ou8 Song By Jason Gray, Remind me who I am.
The second one was, Your Love Never Fails. Listening to it and then seeing the lyrics, really struck me...You make all things work together for my good! and Your love never changes!! These words brought an ocean of joy, peace and encouragement over me.
God works all things out even though it isn't always in our time line. Preaching last week on 1 Peter 2:4-10...I gave a one line summary..."His People and His Plan for His Purpose!" When I place all things in that perspective, my struggles, issues and concerns, pale in what He wants of me.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X_2qG22SPwU Song by Jesus Culture, Your Love Never Fails
Thank you Father that you never change, move, leave, drift, wander, question, doubt or do any of the things that I do. Thank you for forgiving me and restoring me. Thank you that part of Your Purpose is to RESTORE!! Not destroy but to RESTORE!!!
If you get a chance, listen to both of these songs and ask the Holy Spirit to just speak TRUTH into your heart, soul and mind. You will find and receive strength and peace when He delivers to His Beloved!!
My prayer as you read this and listen to the songs, that the Holy Spirit will do for you what He did for me. That He will meet you where you are and how you are and the you will surrender to Him!
May the Lord bless you as you seek Him and travel in the journey of life!
Together we can make it as we walk with and in Him together!
The first one helps us recognize who we are in the eyes of our Heavenly Father. It isn't about whether we fit the mold of the world. The most popular or the most successful. It matter that I know I belong to Him and that I am His Beloved!!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QSIVjjY8Ou8 Song By Jason Gray, Remind me who I am.
The second one was, Your Love Never Fails. Listening to it and then seeing the lyrics, really struck me...You make all things work together for my good! and Your love never changes!! These words brought an ocean of joy, peace and encouragement over me.
God works all things out even though it isn't always in our time line. Preaching last week on 1 Peter 2:4-10...I gave a one line summary..."His People and His Plan for His Purpose!" When I place all things in that perspective, my struggles, issues and concerns, pale in what He wants of me.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X_2qG22SPwU Song by Jesus Culture, Your Love Never Fails
Thank you Father that you never change, move, leave, drift, wander, question, doubt or do any of the things that I do. Thank you for forgiving me and restoring me. Thank you that part of Your Purpose is to RESTORE!! Not destroy but to RESTORE!!!
If you get a chance, listen to both of these songs and ask the Holy Spirit to just speak TRUTH into your heart, soul and mind. You will find and receive strength and peace when He delivers to His Beloved!!
My prayer as you read this and listen to the songs, that the Holy Spirit will do for you what He did for me. That He will meet you where you are and how you are and the you will surrender to Him!
May the Lord bless you as you seek Him and travel in the journey of life!
Together we can make it as we walk with and in Him together!
Thursday, May 16, 2013
Fourteen Days of Dependence
Over the past fourteen days, I have found them very difficult! It came on all of a sudden on Friday two weeks ago after our monthly CSM staff meeting. Assuming that it was simply the usual allergies that have popped up since our time in Baumholder and now in Idstein with the pollen! Oh no...it wasn't allergies.
Having spent the entire weekend taking allergy meds and no relief, then heading to a World Wide CSM staff conference, I was not winning the battle. I spent that whole week sleeping every free minute I had, coughing and feeling miserable...only to find out that I had walking pneumonia! Yep...what a shocker.
Now, fourteen days later, I am at about 60 percent of my energy and the coughing is getting better. Thank the Lord for medicine and a caring doctor! Just a few more weeks and I may be better! Can't wait!
Now, the whining is over and the lesson is being learned. The lesson, is I have to put my FULL dependence in the only ONE that can make a difference. During the sleepless cough filled nights, God and I did some serious talking. The reality that I need Him and must fully depend on HIM is crucial.
I am so glad that HE is a loving and patient GOD that loves me even when it takes me a while to learn the lesson HE has for me.
After having to cancel the last several days of ministry due to my health, I asked the Lord to provide the strength to teach on Wednesday night at Refuge, (our high school ministry) and HE did. I went to the office to get final prep done and then to hang out with our students at our coffee shop, Chatterbox, and then having several of our volunteers there, they ran games, the meal and I just observed. Then, it came time to teach the lesson...GOD was so good...Thank you Lord. My energy came back, sustained me for the entire time and in addition, HE held of any coughing fit the entire time I was teaching HIS Word and the lesson this week on..."I AM in Christ!" A series that I have been working through with the students for the last few weeks!
Thanks Lord for helping me learn to fully depend on YOU! YOU are always faithful and I am grateful for that.
Having spent the entire weekend taking allergy meds and no relief, then heading to a World Wide CSM staff conference, I was not winning the battle. I spent that whole week sleeping every free minute I had, coughing and feeling miserable...only to find out that I had walking pneumonia! Yep...what a shocker.
Now, fourteen days later, I am at about 60 percent of my energy and the coughing is getting better. Thank the Lord for medicine and a caring doctor! Just a few more weeks and I may be better! Can't wait!
Now, the whining is over and the lesson is being learned. The lesson, is I have to put my FULL dependence in the only ONE that can make a difference. During the sleepless cough filled nights, God and I did some serious talking. The reality that I need Him and must fully depend on HIM is crucial.
I am so glad that HE is a loving and patient GOD that loves me even when it takes me a while to learn the lesson HE has for me.
After having to cancel the last several days of ministry due to my health, I asked the Lord to provide the strength to teach on Wednesday night at Refuge, (our high school ministry) and HE did. I went to the office to get final prep done and then to hang out with our students at our coffee shop, Chatterbox, and then having several of our volunteers there, they ran games, the meal and I just observed. Then, it came time to teach the lesson...GOD was so good...Thank you Lord. My energy came back, sustained me for the entire time and in addition, HE held of any coughing fit the entire time I was teaching HIS Word and the lesson this week on..."I AM in Christ!" A series that I have been working through with the students for the last few weeks!
Thanks Lord for helping me learn to fully depend on YOU! YOU are always faithful and I am grateful for that.
Thursday, March 14, 2013
Time Flies Bye!
It made me realize one thing...time flies bye quickly!
We have been in Germany almost a year at the end of March and we can not believe it. We know that the Lord is moving and working in the hearts and lives of many of the families that we have the privilege of serving. We have weekly been working with middle schoolers in our OASIS program, REFUGE for high schoolers and Connect SL for our dependents that are college age.
Weekly we hang out with students with Bible studies, youth group as well as in our Chatterbox Cafe'...our coffee shop at the youth house! It is so much fun and daily working with them we see God moving. We see God doing some incredible things in their lives.
Just last week, one of the students came to me and said, "I am so glad that you, Melanie and Mama Shack are here! You have helped me and my family out in ways you will never know!" "Thank you for coming and obeying God!"
Time is is precious and we are thankful for the time we do have with each of the families and students. Thank you for taking time to pray for us regularly as we minister to our friends. It is make an eternal difference!
Saturday, December 29, 2012
Hard to say GOODBYE!
Two weeks ago at the end of Refuge, our high school ministry, we had to say goodbye to yet another one of our students. This is something that is all to common in ministry to the military. You see, having grownup as a military brat, I am somewhat used to it. Although, it is still tough.
When you invest your heart and life into working with people, there is always the heart strings that get attached. When the heart strings are attached, there comes a time when they are stretched, wound so tight as they join you close. They are interconnected with others. They strengthen you when you are down and sad. They hold you when you are discouraged. They are tightened during adversity and tough times. They spring and bounce when joy and happiness is celebrated. You see heart strings are the binding agent that connect us with people.
Well, on that night of Refuge, our heart strings were pulled on hard. You see, "G" was leaving and moving back to the states. (the term is PCSing/Permanent Change of Station). He would no longer be there on Wednesday, at the Christmas Dinner, at Spring break camp...and you see for us, spring break camp was big...that is where "G" met Jesus for the first time in a real and personal way.
He simply trusted Jesus with his life and gave control of his life over to Jesus. "G" began to grow in his relationship and sought to understand the Bible and learn about his new friend, Jesus. Their heart strings were eternally connected!
"G" also was connected with the other students at Refuge and his high school. They enjoyed hanging out with him, playing video games, talking and just spending time with "G". You see, "G" was connected. His heart was attached!
When someone leaves our youth group, we take a time at the end to have them sit in the middle of the room on a chair and we speak words of life to them. We share with them what they have meant to us, how they impacted us, how they changed us and how we will miss them. Of course, it is tough and yet, it is a heart felt time of investing and encouraging. Tears flowed as friends and classmates shared of "G"'s impact in their life. When we were all done, "G" said, "Can I say something?". Of course I said yes and as he spoke of how he would miss all of us, he challenged the students that were there to stay in youth group, grow in Jesus and me an encouragement to each other.
WOW!!! What a powerful thing to say to his peers and friends!
So you see, it is hard to say GOODBYE and yet, knowing that lives are being changed and impacted and that they will go out and make a difference after leaving here, well, the goodbyes are a tad bit easier.
If you would like to receive our email prayer updates, feel free to email me and I would love to include you into Team SHACKELFORD updates!
When you invest your heart and life into working with people, there is always the heart strings that get attached. When the heart strings are attached, there comes a time when they are stretched, wound so tight as they join you close. They are interconnected with others. They strengthen you when you are down and sad. They hold you when you are discouraged. They are tightened during adversity and tough times. They spring and bounce when joy and happiness is celebrated. You see heart strings are the binding agent that connect us with people.
Well, on that night of Refuge, our heart strings were pulled on hard. You see, "G" was leaving and moving back to the states. (the term is PCSing/Permanent Change of Station). He would no longer be there on Wednesday, at the Christmas Dinner, at Spring break camp...and you see for us, spring break camp was big...that is where "G" met Jesus for the first time in a real and personal way.
He simply trusted Jesus with his life and gave control of his life over to Jesus. "G" began to grow in his relationship and sought to understand the Bible and learn about his new friend, Jesus. Their heart strings were eternally connected!
"G" also was connected with the other students at Refuge and his high school. They enjoyed hanging out with him, playing video games, talking and just spending time with "G". You see, "G" was connected. His heart was attached!
When someone leaves our youth group, we take a time at the end to have them sit in the middle of the room on a chair and we speak words of life to them. We share with them what they have meant to us, how they impacted us, how they changed us and how we will miss them. Of course, it is tough and yet, it is a heart felt time of investing and encouraging. Tears flowed as friends and classmates shared of "G"'s impact in their life. When we were all done, "G" said, "Can I say something?". Of course I said yes and as he spoke of how he would miss all of us, he challenged the students that were there to stay in youth group, grow in Jesus and me an encouragement to each other.
WOW!!! What a powerful thing to say to his peers and friends!
If you would like to receive our email prayer updates, feel free to email me and I would love to include you into Team SHACKELFORD updates!
Thursday, December 27, 2012
A bit of NW Humor
THIS IS WHAT JEFF FOXWORTHY HAS TO SAY ABOUT ‘LIVING IN OREGON’…
• If someone in a Home Depot store offers you assistance and they don’t work there, you live in Oregon.
• If you’ve worn shorts, sandals and a parka at the same time, you live in Oregon.
• If you’ve had a lengthy telephone conversation with someone who dialed the wrong number, you live in Oregon.
• If you measure distance in hours, you live in Oregon.
• If you know several people who have hit a deer more than once, you live in Oregon.
• If you have switched from ‘heat’ to ‘A/C’ and back again in the same day, you live in Oregon.
• If you install security lights on your house and garage but leave both doors unlocked, you live in Oregon.
• If you can drive 75 mph through 2 feet of snow during a raging blizzard without flinching, you live in Central, Southern or Eastern Oregon.
• If you design your kid’s Halloween costume to fit over a 2 layers of clothes or under a raincoat, you live in Oregon.
• If driving is better in the winter because the potholes are filled with snow and ice, you live in Oregon.
• If you know all 4 seasons: almost winter, winter, still winter, and road construction, you live in Oregon.
• If you feel guilty throwing aluminum cans or paper in the trash, you live in Oregon.
• If you know more than 10 ways to order coffee, you live in Oregon.
• If you know more people who own boats than air conditioners, you live in Oregon.
• If you stand on a deserted corner in the rain waiting for the “Walk” signal, you live in Oregon.
• If you consider that if it has no snow or has not recently erupted, it is not a real mountain, you live in Oregon.
• If you can taste the difference between Starbucks, Seattle’s Best, and Dutch Bros, you live in Oregon.
• If you know the difference between Chinook, Coho and Sockeye salmon, you live in Oregon.
• If you know how to pronounce Sequim, Puyallup, Clatskanie, Issaquah, Oregon, Umpqua, Yakima and Willamette, you live in Oregon.
• If you consider swimming an indoor sport, you live in Oregon.
• If you know that Boring is a city and not just a feeling, you live in Oregon.
• If you can tell the difference between Japanese, Chinese and Thai food, you live in Oregon.
• If you never go camping without waterproof matches and a poncho, you live in Oregon.
• If you have actually used your mountain bike on a mountain, you live in Oregon.
• If you think people who use umbrellas are either wimps or tourists, you live in Oregon.
• If you buy new sunglasses every year, because you cannot find the old ones after such a long time, you live in Oregon.
• If you actually understand these jokes and forward them to all your OREGON friends, you live or have lived in Oregon.
• If someone in a Home Depot store offers you assistance and they don’t work there, you live in Oregon.
• If you’ve worn shorts, sandals and a parka at the same time, you live in Oregon.
• If you’ve had a lengthy telephone conversation with someone who dialed the wrong number, you live in Oregon.
• If you measure distance in hours, you live in Oregon.
• If you know several people who have hit a deer more than once, you live in Oregon.
• If you have switched from ‘heat’ to ‘A/C’ and back again in the same day, you live in Oregon.
• If you install security lights on your house and garage but leave both doors unlocked, you live in Oregon.
• If you can drive 75 mph through 2 feet of snow during a raging blizzard without flinching, you live in Central, Southern or Eastern Oregon.
• If you design your kid’s Halloween costume to fit over a 2 layers of clothes or under a raincoat, you live in Oregon.
• If driving is better in the winter because the potholes are filled with snow and ice, you live in Oregon.
• If you know all 4 seasons: almost winter, winter, still winter, and road construction, you live in Oregon.
• If you feel guilty throwing aluminum cans or paper in the trash, you live in Oregon.
• If you know more than 10 ways to order coffee, you live in Oregon.
• If you know more people who own boats than air conditioners, you live in Oregon.
• If you stand on a deserted corner in the rain waiting for the “Walk” signal, you live in Oregon.
• If you consider that if it has no snow or has not recently erupted, it is not a real mountain, you live in Oregon.
• If you can taste the difference between Starbucks, Seattle’s Best, and Dutch Bros, you live in Oregon.
• If you know the difference between Chinook, Coho and Sockeye salmon, you live in Oregon.
• If you know how to pronounce Sequim, Puyallup, Clatskanie, Issaquah, Oregon, Umpqua, Yakima and Willamette, you live in Oregon.
• If you consider swimming an indoor sport, you live in Oregon.
• If you know that Boring is a city and not just a feeling, you live in Oregon.
• If you can tell the difference between Japanese, Chinese and Thai food, you live in Oregon.
• If you never go camping without waterproof matches and a poncho, you live in Oregon.
• If you have actually used your mountain bike on a mountain, you live in Oregon.
• If you think people who use umbrellas are either wimps or tourists, you live in Oregon.
• If you buy new sunglasses every year, because you cannot find the old ones after such a long time, you live in Oregon.
• If you actually understand these jokes and forward them to all your OREGON friends, you live or have lived in Oregon.
Sunday, December 9, 2012
A new church adventure
Today the three of us had a new adventure! The entire garrison closed chapels due to the snow fall that hit early this morning dropping 4 to 5 inches of beautiful snow on the ground. Making the road conditions to RED.
So, instead of driving in to post for chapel, we walked about 30 steps from our front door to the door of the local evangelical church right outside our windows.
We had been there before mid week to view the architecture and the beautiful murals that are on the ceiling. The church dates back to the 12th century and is pretty impressive. Marble columns, stained glass windows, cathedral altar area gated off to the public, preaching points where even Martin Luther is to have visited and preached.
As you can imagine, it doesn't look anything like the churches in the states or even on post here. It is unique and beautiful.
Well, part of the adventure was that the entire service was done in Deutsch including the 6 songs we sung. It was interesting trying to catch words and phrases we know and understand but the fun was the hymn numbers. Instead of saying one hundred and sixty two, they say the two then the sixty then the hundred and by the time my mind reversed it all, I forgot the number...oh well...thankful for the Rosetta Stone we were blessed with and need to keep working on it.
The other interesting adventure was we were never verbally greeted by anyone there. When we walked in, we were handed a hymnal and a song sheet. We greeted them with the standard, Guten Tag, meaning Good Day. No response back.
We made our way to three seats and sat there. No one greeted or acknowledged us. When we left, no one thanked us for coming except for one man that I approached and initiated a conversation in some Deutsch and mostly english. Even at that, it was all business about the question I asked.
My take away from this adventure, it is crucial to greet people, welcome people and engage them in conversation when at church. The isolation that I felt in a church that didn't speak my native tongue and did things differently, was very not inviting or welcoming. That makes me aware of what I need to do when I see someone at chapel that I don't know or have never met.
So, instead of driving in to post for chapel, we walked about 30 steps from our front door to the door of the local evangelical church right outside our windows.
We had been there before mid week to view the architecture and the beautiful murals that are on the ceiling. The church dates back to the 12th century and is pretty impressive. Marble columns, stained glass windows, cathedral altar area gated off to the public, preaching points where even Martin Luther is to have visited and preached.
As you can imagine, it doesn't look anything like the churches in the states or even on post here. It is unique and beautiful.
Well, part of the adventure was that the entire service was done in Deutsch including the 6 songs we sung. It was interesting trying to catch words and phrases we know and understand but the fun was the hymn numbers. Instead of saying one hundred and sixty two, they say the two then the sixty then the hundred and by the time my mind reversed it all, I forgot the number...oh well...thankful for the Rosetta Stone we were blessed with and need to keep working on it.
The other interesting adventure was we were never verbally greeted by anyone there. When we walked in, we were handed a hymnal and a song sheet. We greeted them with the standard, Guten Tag, meaning Good Day. No response back.
We made our way to three seats and sat there. No one greeted or acknowledged us. When we left, no one thanked us for coming except for one man that I approached and initiated a conversation in some Deutsch and mostly english. Even at that, it was all business about the question I asked.
My take away from this adventure, it is crucial to greet people, welcome people and engage them in conversation when at church. The isolation that I felt in a church that didn't speak my native tongue and did things differently, was very not inviting or welcoming. That makes me aware of what I need to do when I see someone at chapel that I don't know or have never met.
Thursday, October 18, 2012
What's in a box?
Just yesterday, our boxes that we shipped over in the two crates that some great men of God built for us ARRIVED! A 40' tractor and trailer backed up to stairs to our flat. Myself, Randy Adams, Dan Haas and Chris Johnson began to unload 72 boxes!!
Up and down 41 stairs, we finally completed this in about 48 minutes!!
With the arrival of our stuff that we did ship, mind you we left our furniture and other boxes in the states, Julie, Debbie Bickel and Monica Brown began to open boxes, sort and yes, put things where they were to go!!
Melanie and I had to leave just shortly after all the boxes were unloaded to go to Refuge, our youth group that we have the privilege of leading. What struck me the most was that, although we had an inventory list, we still wondered..."What was in the box?"
It reminded me of the days as a boy that my folks would get us each a box of Cracker Jacks and we would excitedly open the box just to see, "What was in the box!!" Well, we have that same feeling going on in our home now...
I am reminded though, you can't tell what is on the inside of the box by how it appears on the outside. It takes us opening the box, looking at the contents to truly know what is in the box.
You know, the same is true with our hearts! We may look all put together on the outside. We might say the right answers and attend the right church or chapel. We might even give our money to the church and all but, the question is really this..."What's in the box?" In this case, "What's in the Heart?"
If we fill our heart with everything that is superficial, that is what we are. If we fill it with all that we desire, then it will be empty and used up. However, if we fill our heart with the ONLY TRUE ONE that can FILL IT, we will find, peace, hope, joy, love and the void that was there, will be filled.
What's in your box? What is on the inside? Have you looked lately? We know that the world offers so much blink and distraction and yet, God offers fulfillment and so much more. If you haven't recently reflected on what is in your box, I challenge you too. If you know what is there and yet, you aren't feeling the fullness of His Joy in your life, take a moment and confess that to Him. Ask Jesus to fill that void and emptiness and to make Himself real to you once again.
Only HE, JESUS, can fill our heart!!! He is waiting to do that!
Up and down 41 stairs, we finally completed this in about 48 minutes!!
With the arrival of our stuff that we did ship, mind you we left our furniture and other boxes in the states, Julie, Debbie Bickel and Monica Brown began to open boxes, sort and yes, put things where they were to go!!
Melanie and I had to leave just shortly after all the boxes were unloaded to go to Refuge, our youth group that we have the privilege of leading. What struck me the most was that, although we had an inventory list, we still wondered..."What was in the box?"
It reminded me of the days as a boy that my folks would get us each a box of Cracker Jacks and we would excitedly open the box just to see, "What was in the box!!" Well, we have that same feeling going on in our home now...
I am reminded though, you can't tell what is on the inside of the box by how it appears on the outside. It takes us opening the box, looking at the contents to truly know what is in the box.
You know, the same is true with our hearts! We may look all put together on the outside. We might say the right answers and attend the right church or chapel. We might even give our money to the church and all but, the question is really this..."What's in the box?" In this case, "What's in the Heart?"
If we fill our heart with everything that is superficial, that is what we are. If we fill it with all that we desire, then it will be empty and used up. However, if we fill our heart with the ONLY TRUE ONE that can FILL IT, we will find, peace, hope, joy, love and the void that was there, will be filled.
What's in your box? What is on the inside? Have you looked lately? We know that the world offers so much blink and distraction and yet, God offers fulfillment and so much more. If you haven't recently reflected on what is in your box, I challenge you too. If you know what is there and yet, you aren't feeling the fullness of His Joy in your life, take a moment and confess that to Him. Ask Jesus to fill that void and emptiness and to make Himself real to you once again.
Only HE, JESUS, can fill our heart!!! He is waiting to do that!
Sunday, September 30, 2012
Boy is HIS timing ever good!!!
Copied from my recent post on Facebook regarding the travels of my ladies and how God uses the lessons of the week during my sermon prep to see Him Move!!! The girls were unable to get on the first two flight options. Looking at about a 8 hour wait for the next flight that was full, the counter staff at Delta said, "we can make it work!"
In doing that, they fly from PDX to St Paul then to Atlanta!! There in lies the Here and Now!! HE had it planned along and God met them there at the airport and met a heart felt desire and need for Julie to connect with her mentor and life coach!! WOW....That is great!!!
To God be the Glory!!!
Here and Now!!!! Just saw the Lord working...Julie wanted so badly to connect with many of our friends and all but time, pressures and house consumed her time, energy and focus. Then preaching the sermon God gave me today titled Here and Now, I see why they didn't make their flights. Her life mentor and coach is in Atlanta and she really wanted to see her and her husband. The only way that would happen is if she missed her flight and had to stay over in Atlanta...well, they board at 3ish Sunday afternoon via St Paul to arrive at midnight and then spend most of the day with Mary Pinkerton and Mike!!!!!!! God is so GOOD!!!!! WOW...Here and Now!! Julie McCaw Shackelford you get a blessing to see them!!!! Thank you Lord!!!!
In doing that, they fly from PDX to St Paul then to Atlanta!! There in lies the Here and Now!! HE had it planned along and God met them there at the airport and met a heart felt desire and need for Julie to connect with her mentor and life coach!! WOW....That is great!!!
To God be the Glory!!!
Here and Now!!!! Just saw the Lord working...Julie wanted so badly to connect with many of our friends and all but time, pressures and house consumed her time, energy and focus. Then preaching the sermon God gave me today titled Here and Now, I see why they didn't make their flights. Her life mentor and coach is in Atlanta and she really wanted to see her and her husband. The only way that would happen is if she missed her flight and had to stay over in Atlanta...well, they board at 3ish Sunday afternoon via St Paul to arrive at midnight and then spend most of the day with Mary Pinkerton and Mike!!!!!!! God is so GOOD!!!!! WOW...Here and Now!! Julie McCaw Shackelford you get a blessing to see them!!!! Thank you Lord!!!!
Just had to share this with those that don't have Facebook but read our blog!!
Here and Now!
Today I had the opportunity to preach at one of the Chapels on post. The title to the message the Lord gave me was Here and Now. We looked at Psalms 13, John 14:1-4 and Philippians 3:13-17. In all three of the texts, the writer is either experience a traumatic or life changing event. They are encountering difficulties that Here and Now are big to them.
As we worked through the passages, it was evident that in our times of needs, difficulty, struggles, trial and LIFE, the only constant thing that we can hold on to is...THE LORD IS FAITHFUL!!!
He is our Rock! He is our Fortress! He is our Salvation! He is our Refuge! He is our Anchor! He is our GOD!!! He is EVERYTHING!!!
Because He is, we can rest in the uncertainties of everyday living and life. Julie and Melanie are flying back home to Idstein on standby and even though they didn't make the flight as it was full, I KNOW that the Lord Knows!! I know He is working it out!! He has something else planned that right now we don't see but tomorrow or next week or next year, we will know exactly why.
What is your Here and Now moment? Do you see His hand on you? Leading you? Holding you? Taking you through the times is His opportunity to show Himself a little more to each of us! His will and His way for HIS GLORY!!
I trust that you will find encouragement in the lessons of life as you seek Him for the Here and Now!!
As we worked through the passages, it was evident that in our times of needs, difficulty, struggles, trial and LIFE, the only constant thing that we can hold on to is...THE LORD IS FAITHFUL!!!
He is our Rock! He is our Fortress! He is our Salvation! He is our Refuge! He is our Anchor! He is our GOD!!! He is EVERYTHING!!!
Because He is, we can rest in the uncertainties of everyday living and life. Julie and Melanie are flying back home to Idstein on standby and even though they didn't make the flight as it was full, I KNOW that the Lord Knows!! I know He is working it out!! He has something else planned that right now we don't see but tomorrow or next week or next year, we will know exactly why.
What is your Here and Now moment? Do you see His hand on you? Leading you? Holding you? Taking you through the times is His opportunity to show Himself a little more to each of us! His will and His way for HIS GLORY!!
I trust that you will find encouragement in the lessons of life as you seek Him for the Here and Now!!
Tuesday, August 14, 2012
When ministry is not only a blessing it is FUN!!
Ministry comes at you in so many different ways and sometimes it is extremely difficulty and challenging. Other times, ministry is not only a blessing it is FUN!! Today was one of the latter!!
After a full morning of PWOC for the ladies in my house and running ministry errands and doings some last minute paperwork, we borrowed a friends suburban and drove home. Now, yes, for a moment I felt like I was back in the states driving a full size suburban and it was FUN!!
Once we arrived at home in Idstein with the suburban, the three of us began to help our german neighbor moving a large armoire as well as her paintings and other boxes. She is moving after living there for over two and half years. We have only known her for four months and it has been great!
We have had several opportunities to practice our Deutsch with her and she her english with us. We will miss that! One thing though, Julie has had the opportunity to have a couple of spiritual conversations with her. She has experienced a lot of heartache and pain but despite losing her son to be with the Lord a couple of years ago, she knows that he is in heaven.
Knowing that, at the end of our day moving and literally wrestling the armoire down 6 half flights of stairs, we made it and got it set in her new house. We really wanted to give her something and I remembered that our friend and team mate, Randy Alcorn and given me copies of his Heaven book and Grace and Truth books in Deutsch. We presented them to her and as she left the flat on final time, she pointed to the title of the Heaven book and said...when I leave here, I will be there too!
With hugs and tears, we really found that ministry was FUN!!!! Hard and emotional but FUN!!! To know that she knows our Jesus, was a real thrill!! We will miss her and now, praying that the Lord brings another good renter to the small studio that Brigett has left vacant. Wish Melanie could rent it...that would be fun for her!!! Oh well, the Lord knows who He wants there that we can minister to as well.
So the next time you think about reaching out to your neighbor, do it!! It is FUN!!!
After a full morning of PWOC for the ladies in my house and running ministry errands and doings some last minute paperwork, we borrowed a friends suburban and drove home. Now, yes, for a moment I felt like I was back in the states driving a full size suburban and it was FUN!!
Once we arrived at home in Idstein with the suburban, the three of us began to help our german neighbor moving a large armoire as well as her paintings and other boxes. She is moving after living there for over two and half years. We have only known her for four months and it has been great!
We have had several opportunities to practice our Deutsch with her and she her english with us. We will miss that! One thing though, Julie has had the opportunity to have a couple of spiritual conversations with her. She has experienced a lot of heartache and pain but despite losing her son to be with the Lord a couple of years ago, she knows that he is in heaven.
Knowing that, at the end of our day moving and literally wrestling the armoire down 6 half flights of stairs, we made it and got it set in her new house. We really wanted to give her something and I remembered that our friend and team mate, Randy Alcorn and given me copies of his Heaven book and Grace and Truth books in Deutsch. We presented them to her and as she left the flat on final time, she pointed to the title of the Heaven book and said...when I leave here, I will be there too!
With hugs and tears, we really found that ministry was FUN!!!! Hard and emotional but FUN!!! To know that she knows our Jesus, was a real thrill!! We will miss her and now, praying that the Lord brings another good renter to the small studio that Brigett has left vacant. Wish Melanie could rent it...that would be fun for her!!! Oh well, the Lord knows who He wants there that we can minister to as well.
So the next time you think about reaching out to your neighbor, do it!! It is FUN!!!
Tuesday, August 7, 2012
Offsite office time in a familiar place!
This morning we found ourselves getting up at 0300 hours to take a dear friend to the Frankfurt Hahn airport about an hour and fifteen minutes from our house for a flight he had to England. Well, we brewed a pot of God's brew and went out the door. We made it on time, he made it on time and all is well.
We decided though that we would take the opportunity to have the girls spend the day with a team member of our ministry in Kusel. We stopped in this morning early, caught up, visited and then they were off for a girls day! Window shopping, lunch, thrift store visit and then dinner.
Now you maybe wondering what this has to do with an offsite office time for me...well, I did say "girls time" so I made my way to the Java Cafe where sixteen months ago, it was my office! Coffee, quiet time, ministry prep, sermon prep and just some good old office work!!
That is right, I made my way back today to Baumholder, Germany! Where we began the physical part of our ministry journey to Germany! So, only fitting that after some lesson prep, planning time for the upcoming fall events and a sweet time of Face to Face (F2F) that I would do some office time here!
We were truly blessed that the Lord would allow us to come here over a year ago and be ministered to, minister to others and find a new start to a season of life that is exciting, ever changing and fresh! Ministry with the military has been and will continue to be a solid passion and commitment we are engaged in!
During my prep time, I was reminded that the Lord is faithful in all deeds to all of His people. We have experienced that in so many ways! We know that He is and always will be FAITHFUL!!
Thank you Lord for always being constant, faithful, loving and real! Thank you for allowing us to have this time in our lives to serve You, Your people and those that need to know you! Thank you for the opportunity to minister in so many fun, unique and wonderful ways!! We are Yours and we are glad that you choose to and want to use us!
From an offsite office, thank you ALL for being a part of what the Lord is doing in our lives and the lives of our students and their families!!! Without each of you on our team, Pray, Play and Pay, we couldn't do this!!
We decided though that we would take the opportunity to have the girls spend the day with a team member of our ministry in Kusel. We stopped in this morning early, caught up, visited and then they were off for a girls day! Window shopping, lunch, thrift store visit and then dinner.
Now you maybe wondering what this has to do with an offsite office time for me...well, I did say "girls time" so I made my way to the Java Cafe where sixteen months ago, it was my office! Coffee, quiet time, ministry prep, sermon prep and just some good old office work!!
That is right, I made my way back today to Baumholder, Germany! Where we began the physical part of our ministry journey to Germany! So, only fitting that after some lesson prep, planning time for the upcoming fall events and a sweet time of Face to Face (F2F) that I would do some office time here!
We were truly blessed that the Lord would allow us to come here over a year ago and be ministered to, minister to others and find a new start to a season of life that is exciting, ever changing and fresh! Ministry with the military has been and will continue to be a solid passion and commitment we are engaged in!
During my prep time, I was reminded that the Lord is faithful in all deeds to all of His people. We have experienced that in so many ways! We know that He is and always will be FAITHFUL!!
Thank you Lord for always being constant, faithful, loving and real! Thank you for allowing us to have this time in our lives to serve You, Your people and those that need to know you! Thank you for the opportunity to minister in so many fun, unique and wonderful ways!! We are Yours and we are glad that you choose to and want to use us!
Middle school boys Bible study in Baumholder
Overview of the town and installation of Baumholder
Some of our students from Baumholder 2011
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