"And when you pray, do not be like the hypocrites, for they love to pray standing in the synagogues and on the street corners to be seen by men. I tell you the truth, they have received their reward in full."
- Matthew 6:5
Sometimes it drives me crazy that my head is so quick to come up with words, to put them together to sound somewhat profound or intellectual. When it comes to praying, I fear that this could become my downfall - one of those things that eliminates me from fully communicating with God as I fill silence with a flurry of big words.
I won't say that when I pray out loud that I am any better at it than anyone else - so often I do find myself stumbling on trying to represent a thought that I want to take to the Lord. I fear though that sometimes I am too good at sounding good - that my prayers would intimidate others or that they wouldn't really be honest before the Lord. That I would throw in verses because they're in my head or use phrases generally reserved for speech writers simply because they pop through my mind and out of my mouth. That I wouldn't be connecting with the Lord, but instead somehow just coming across sounding pompous and austere.
I suspect that the God who made my mind understands that I don't say such things to try to impress Him (or anyone else who might overhear) - that I know the things that I pray are no more powerful than the smallest child's prayers or the most simple, sincere string of words presented to Him. I am frustrated though that simplicity so often seems out of reach for me and I fear being lumped in with the Pharisees at the beginning of this post when my prayers begin to sound like something one might read in a book.
I guess this post is just another reminder to me of how far I truly have to go. As always, thankful that His grace is sufficient and hopeful that people aren't comparing their prayers to mine in any way, shape or form.
Wednesday, April 30, 2008
Saturday, April 19, 2008
Coffee Update
Just for those of you who might be wondering, coffee and I have made up!
My world is yet again infused with the wonderful aroma and flavor of my favorite drink!
All is forgiven and we carry on!
:)
My world is yet again infused with the wonderful aroma and flavor of my favorite drink!
All is forgiven and we carry on!
:)
God and Boston
It's the end of a long day here in Boston and even though I'm tired and kind of feel every one of my years, I can't help but smile and be thankful that I'm able to be here at all. It's funny to me how much a city can get under your skin and the truth is that Boston has most definitely done this with me. I love the sights, the commotion, the accent, and everything else that makes up this crazy, wonderful city.
Most of all though I love what God is doing here. Today I was in Boston Commons and stood by Park Street Church where I have stood before and I looked up to see the lectern that perched outside the building where the word of the Lord used to be read over the people who went about their days in the streets of old-time Boston. As I saw that empty stand and thought of how people didn't hear the word spoken any longer I was filled only with hope. Hope that one day a man may stand on that metal podium and loudly proclaim the true hope that is found only in Christ. The some day men, women, boys, and girls would have the opportunity yet again to be reminded as they went about their business of the God who created them and sent His Son to rescue them from a fallen world. We might not be there today, in fact we might not even be close to such a day but I honestly believe that God is doing great things here. We may not see them as we stand on the corners and smile while handing out granola bars to strangers but I think that beneath the undercurrent of a busy city life, there is a movement of God.
I would love to someday see His name be made great among the people of Boston but even if that never comes to pass in my lifetime, I rest assured that day by day God is changing the lives of people in such a way that they will never be the same and that someday, He will be worshiped around the earth and that includes a street corner overlooking the Boston Commons. Now that's something to get excited about!
Thanks for your prayers, please carry on as we worship together tomorrow and then continue outreach throughout the city!
Most of all though I love what God is doing here. Today I was in Boston Commons and stood by Park Street Church where I have stood before and I looked up to see the lectern that perched outside the building where the word of the Lord used to be read over the people who went about their days in the streets of old-time Boston. As I saw that empty stand and thought of how people didn't hear the word spoken any longer I was filled only with hope. Hope that one day a man may stand on that metal podium and loudly proclaim the true hope that is found only in Christ. The some day men, women, boys, and girls would have the opportunity yet again to be reminded as they went about their business of the God who created them and sent His Son to rescue them from a fallen world. We might not be there today, in fact we might not even be close to such a day but I honestly believe that God is doing great things here. We may not see them as we stand on the corners and smile while handing out granola bars to strangers but I think that beneath the undercurrent of a busy city life, there is a movement of God.
I would love to someday see His name be made great among the people of Boston but even if that never comes to pass in my lifetime, I rest assured that day by day God is changing the lives of people in such a way that they will never be the same and that someday, He will be worshiped around the earth and that includes a street corner overlooking the Boston Commons. Now that's something to get excited about!
Thanks for your prayers, please carry on as we worship together tomorrow and then continue outreach throughout the city!
Friday, April 18, 2008
Serving Boston
Our first complete day in Boston has come and gone and as I sit down at the end of the day I feel somewhat worn out but also energized. There is something about this city that I find invigorating and interesting and I really enjoy the time that I get to spend here. We spent the morning passing out granola bars and then hanging flyers for an art festival on neighborhood doors. Following lunch at Bartley's Burgers we passed out water and then headed to Fenway to catch the Sox in a game with none other than our hometown Rangers.
All in all it made for a long day and the weather, while beautiful, was warm and left our entire team somewhat drained. As I sit here and reflect on the day though the things that stick in my mind most are how much I enjoy passing out items to the residents of this city and the unity that's formed among the group that's here.
Granola bars and water in and of themselves may be very unimportant but I believe that with each item that leaves our hands and moves into the hands of a willing recipient God is doing work. It's not always work in my life, it's just a reflection of obedience in me - but I believe that He's working among the residents...building up the faith of those brothers and sisters in the city and softening hearts of those who don't know Him already. It's quite easy for me to simply obey the Lord in this area and I'm amazed that He uses my obedience to open doors for others to know Him. I will never cease to be amazed at the things God uses to get people's attention!
I also have to mention the team here as the last mission trip I went on suffered from a lack of one-mindedness and it had a huge impact on the effectiveness we really had. There is none of that here though as God has simply pulled us each from our spots, given us all a passion for Him and reaching others, and bound us together using Boston as the base. Truthfully I feel that the biggest requirement of any mission is that all people be called by God to be there. Beyond that, anything is possible. This team is just another blessing in a life already so full and I just appreciate so much that God uses other members of the family to encourage and walk with me as I seek to follow Him.
Please continue to pray...may He do miracles in lives before our time here ends!
All in all it made for a long day and the weather, while beautiful, was warm and left our entire team somewhat drained. As I sit here and reflect on the day though the things that stick in my mind most are how much I enjoy passing out items to the residents of this city and the unity that's formed among the group that's here.
Granola bars and water in and of themselves may be very unimportant but I believe that with each item that leaves our hands and moves into the hands of a willing recipient God is doing work. It's not always work in my life, it's just a reflection of obedience in me - but I believe that He's working among the residents...building up the faith of those brothers and sisters in the city and softening hearts of those who don't know Him already. It's quite easy for me to simply obey the Lord in this area and I'm amazed that He uses my obedience to open doors for others to know Him. I will never cease to be amazed at the things God uses to get people's attention!
I also have to mention the team here as the last mission trip I went on suffered from a lack of one-mindedness and it had a huge impact on the effectiveness we really had. There is none of that here though as God has simply pulled us each from our spots, given us all a passion for Him and reaching others, and bound us together using Boston as the base. Truthfully I feel that the biggest requirement of any mission is that all people be called by God to be there. Beyond that, anything is possible. This team is just another blessing in a life already so full and I just appreciate so much that God uses other members of the family to encourage and walk with me as I seek to follow Him.
Please continue to pray...may He do miracles in lives before our time here ends!
Thursday, April 17, 2008
Boston Bound - The 2008 Version!
It's that time of year again, time for me to make my annual journey up to the wonderful city in the east! I'm excited to return to visit old friends and make new ones, to sleep on an air mattress in a church that has stood for such a very long time, and to reach out and make a positive impact on people who are passing by.
This trip challenges me in its uniqueness - it isn't a typical missions trip in any way! Rather it is a reminder of the challenge to live out my faith in everything I do - to reach out to all those I come in contact with and endeavor to reflect the light of Christ to them.
At times I wonder if the fact that I've made this journey for so many years makes me callous to what God can do through the time. However, I know as I write this that God is already preparing great things in the city of Boston, things that I can only count myself as privileged for being able to take part in. I don't know what will be done in the next six days but I'm certain that God has something big up His sleeves, whether I see it directly or not!
As always, please remember our team in prayer! Check out the prayer guide at http://www.prestonwoodyoungsingles.org/index.cfm/pageid/1218/index.html and join with us in seeking God's favor as we aim to share His love and light with those who don't yet know Him!
This trip challenges me in its uniqueness - it isn't a typical missions trip in any way! Rather it is a reminder of the challenge to live out my faith in everything I do - to reach out to all those I come in contact with and endeavor to reflect the light of Christ to them.
At times I wonder if the fact that I've made this journey for so many years makes me callous to what God can do through the time. However, I know as I write this that God is already preparing great things in the city of Boston, things that I can only count myself as privileged for being able to take part in. I don't know what will be done in the next six days but I'm certain that God has something big up His sleeves, whether I see it directly or not!
As always, please remember our team in prayer! Check out the prayer guide at http://www.prestonwoodyoungsingles.org/index.cfm/pageid/1218/index.html and join with us in seeking God's favor as we aim to share His love and light with those who don't yet know Him!
Wednesday, April 9, 2008
Quack Quack Waddle Waddle
A couple of weeks ago as I was getting ready for work Brady alerted me to potentially very scary activities outside the house. Being a 70 pound retriever who is somewhat frightened by his own shadow, I tend not to jump when he decides to hit the high decibel range that others might associate with an eminent nuclear attack. However, he was completely beside himself this morning, running from my room out to the living room and back which, after about twenty times, makes me think something really is up.
I made my way out to the back door, fully expecting to see nothing of interest. However, this time as a surprise of all surprises there actually was something to see. And that something was none other than two wayward ducks, waddling through the growing grass. As Brady did a dance of joy thinking that I was about to let him unleash all of his instinctual retrieverism on those poor ducks, they must have caught sight of us and lifted off and were soon out of view.
Here's hoping they found a lovely pond! And I stand corrected Sir Brady, sometimes there are important things in the backyard that just must be attended to RIGHT NOW! My apologies most excellent retriever dog!
I made my way out to the back door, fully expecting to see nothing of interest. However, this time as a surprise of all surprises there actually was something to see. And that something was none other than two wayward ducks, waddling through the growing grass. As Brady did a dance of joy thinking that I was about to let him unleash all of his instinctual retrieverism on those poor ducks, they must have caught sight of us and lifted off and were soon out of view.
Here's hoping they found a lovely pond! And I stand corrected Sir Brady, sometimes there are important things in the backyard that just must be attended to RIGHT NOW! My apologies most excellent retriever dog!
Tuesday, April 8, 2008
Travesty...Coffee style
I think I may have broken myself...and I blame Iron Chef, the instructions on my bag of coffee, and a late night movie!
I love coffee, adore it, cherish it, might marry it if it would have me (ok, maybe that last was a bit extreme...I'm just kidding guys). So, on Sunday evening I was sitting down after mowing the yard and playing with the dog and Iron Chef came on. I love Iron Chef anyways (I believe there might be inspiration even for the culinarily challenged there) and then the secret ingredient was coffee! Score! I settled in for a great hour of TV.
Well, after about 20 minutes all I wanted was some coffee - any form, it didn't really matter. I thought about heading to Starbucks but didn't really want to leave so I broke into my freezer and grabs some beans. Now, one of the things that the show had talked about was making the correct strength of coffee and I figured that if I'm going to learn anything from Iron Chef then it ought to be that the best coffee is made by following the instructions! So, I filled up the pot with 7 cups of water (6oz = 1 cup in coffee world) and then read the instructions which said to use 2 (that's right, TWO) tablespoons per cup. For you un-mathy people, that's 14 tablespoons of ground coffee and even though I wasn't planning to drink it all, it's always good to make more than you need, right? I went ahead and aimed for 14 tablespoons of the stuff and by the time I'd ground it and filled up the filter, I was realizing that not only was there a TON of coffee in there but there was also no way you could make the 12 cups the machine claims to be able to handle. Well, that's a different dilemma for a different day but since there was so much coffee I thought that I'd best put in a bit more water cause otherwise I was worried it would brew itself up and then jump out of the pot and attack my dog, steal my car keys, and go on a joyride of the city! So, 9 cups of water, 14 (or so) tablespoons of coffee, and some time brewing results in one THICK brew! All is fine and dandy though so I fill up my big mug and take a sip. Now, this is some very strong coffee but it tastes pretty good so I'm up for it.
Right around then I realize that I was supposed to watch a movie for my movie club the next day so I run out to rent it thinking that I can stay awake because I've got the coffee! So, one really awful movie later, I've drunk almost the entire pot of coffee. My hand is actually shaking as I brush my teeth and I'm starting to think that this is not looking good! I lay down, still tasting coffee and proceed to lie awake for about an hour - something that I never do! Well, this is a bad deal but not a travesty, not yet.
The next morning, I get up (kind of feeling icky) and get ready for work. My routine always involves me brewing up coffee and taking it to the office but when I thought about doing that this Monday morning, my mind immediately went, "Absolutely no way under any circumstances are you putting more coffee into this body." Hmmm, convincing argument. So I went to work, on a MONDAY morning, with no coffee! Thought about getting some in the afternoon - same discussion, same results. Same thing this morning!
So, it's now been two days since I've had any coffee and I'm still not sure I'm up for it. I can't believe it - it's like hating chocolate! I have no idea when I'll break the fast but I'm thinking that I might just have to force myself into it because right now my mind is still saying, "Coffee, no, I don't think that would be wise!"
So, a somewhat sad week in Jen world...I'd hate to have to change my blog's header and for the record, the instructions may be right but they're insane, the Iron Chef doesn't know what he's talking about, and the movie totally wasn't worth it!
:)
I love coffee, adore it, cherish it, might marry it if it would have me (ok, maybe that last was a bit extreme...I'm just kidding guys). So, on Sunday evening I was sitting down after mowing the yard and playing with the dog and Iron Chef came on. I love Iron Chef anyways (I believe there might be inspiration even for the culinarily challenged there) and then the secret ingredient was coffee! Score! I settled in for a great hour of TV.
Well, after about 20 minutes all I wanted was some coffee - any form, it didn't really matter. I thought about heading to Starbucks but didn't really want to leave so I broke into my freezer and grabs some beans. Now, one of the things that the show had talked about was making the correct strength of coffee and I figured that if I'm going to learn anything from Iron Chef then it ought to be that the best coffee is made by following the instructions! So, I filled up the pot with 7 cups of water (6oz = 1 cup in coffee world) and then read the instructions which said to use 2 (that's right, TWO) tablespoons per cup. For you un-mathy people, that's 14 tablespoons of ground coffee and even though I wasn't planning to drink it all, it's always good to make more than you need, right? I went ahead and aimed for 14 tablespoons of the stuff and by the time I'd ground it and filled up the filter, I was realizing that not only was there a TON of coffee in there but there was also no way you could make the 12 cups the machine claims to be able to handle. Well, that's a different dilemma for a different day but since there was so much coffee I thought that I'd best put in a bit more water cause otherwise I was worried it would brew itself up and then jump out of the pot and attack my dog, steal my car keys, and go on a joyride of the city! So, 9 cups of water, 14 (or so) tablespoons of coffee, and some time brewing results in one THICK brew! All is fine and dandy though so I fill up my big mug and take a sip. Now, this is some very strong coffee but it tastes pretty good so I'm up for it.
Right around then I realize that I was supposed to watch a movie for my movie club the next day so I run out to rent it thinking that I can stay awake because I've got the coffee! So, one really awful movie later, I've drunk almost the entire pot of coffee. My hand is actually shaking as I brush my teeth and I'm starting to think that this is not looking good! I lay down, still tasting coffee and proceed to lie awake for about an hour - something that I never do! Well, this is a bad deal but not a travesty, not yet.
The next morning, I get up (kind of feeling icky) and get ready for work. My routine always involves me brewing up coffee and taking it to the office but when I thought about doing that this Monday morning, my mind immediately went, "Absolutely no way under any circumstances are you putting more coffee into this body." Hmmm, convincing argument. So I went to work, on a MONDAY morning, with no coffee! Thought about getting some in the afternoon - same discussion, same results. Same thing this morning!
So, it's now been two days since I've had any coffee and I'm still not sure I'm up for it. I can't believe it - it's like hating chocolate! I have no idea when I'll break the fast but I'm thinking that I might just have to force myself into it because right now my mind is still saying, "Coffee, no, I don't think that would be wise!"
So, a somewhat sad week in Jen world...I'd hate to have to change my blog's header and for the record, the instructions may be right but they're insane, the Iron Chef doesn't know what he's talking about, and the movie totally wasn't worth it!
:)
Monday, April 7, 2008
Seriously
So I'm coming to realize that maybe, just perhaps, life is too interesting and silly and fun to take things so seriously all of the time! Maybe every experience doesn't need to have a life lesson to teach, doesn't need to make me reconsider how God moves in the world, doesn't need to be just so SERIOUS!
With this said and as I'm realizing just how much crap there is out there that I can't control anyways, I'm going to attempt to write some more entertaining, silly, offsides, weird, funny stuff and not always make my work sound as if you just picked up a devotional guide!
After all, if you can't laugh at the things that are around you every day then what can you laugh at? Life shouldn't require a stand-up comic to make us giggle...God made it quite interesting enough without that being a requirement. So here's to some more light-hearted topics and thoughts - you only thought you knew what went through my mind up 'til now! :)
With this said and as I'm realizing just how much crap there is out there that I can't control anyways, I'm going to attempt to write some more entertaining, silly, offsides, weird, funny stuff and not always make my work sound as if you just picked up a devotional guide!
After all, if you can't laugh at the things that are around you every day then what can you laugh at? Life shouldn't require a stand-up comic to make us giggle...God made it quite interesting enough without that being a requirement. So here's to some more light-hearted topics and thoughts - you only thought you knew what went through my mind up 'til now! :)
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