Monday, December 31, 2012
Closing out 2012
Recently, we were encouraged to pull out prophetic words spoken over us in the past and read over them again. This exercise was both challenging and encouraging, because it's exciting to see how God has moved and know that He will move in our lives in the coming year. He truly is the God of Hope who will triumph in our lives!
Closing out this year, I am thankful for so many things, but right at this moment, for my sweet husband, Paul. As we complete 20 months of marriage, I know that I am a better person because of him and his undying love for Jesus and for me. I bless you, Paul, and look forward with great anticipation to all God has for us in 2013!
Sunday, December 30, 2012
New Year Thoughts
We are approaching the start of a new year on the Roman Calendar. Instead of making resolutions, I want to post something different:
My New Year's Expectations
1. I expect to see God change me so that He is increasingly glorified in my life.
2. I expect to see God move mightily in my friends' lives across the planet.
3. I expect to see Holy Spirit increase in pouring out His gifts in my life that the Kingdom of God moves forward with power.
4. I expect to see Holy Spirit move in ways we've never seen Him move in the western world as we humble ourselves and pray.
5. I expect to see God build my marriage so that we as a cord of three strands will be strong!
What are some of your expectations?
Monday, December 17, 2012
Tragedy
No one is ever ready for what happened last Friday in CT. You cannot prepare for something like that, and when it happens, everyone is left with many unanswered questions and life-long grief at levels unimaginable.
I nearly throw up every time I close my eyes and picture the faces of those little victims as they watched their friends die, one by one. The confusion, the fear, the shock, the pain, the horror. My heart grieves for the families as they start on this journey of living life without these little ones who brought nothing but joy to their lives.
We have a serious problem in this nation, and it is multi-faceted. Many people would like to narrow it down to one issue, but it is not a 'one-issue' problem. It is a multi-layered problem with one issue at the very core, which many do not want to address. At the risk of neglecting the many layers, I want to go to the core, which is the heart issue.
Our problem is our hearts. Our hearts have gone astray from that which is true and truth, that which is right, noble, and real. We've allowed everything and everyone to distract us from the One who created every heart on this planet. Some will take offense to what I am saying, but let me give you an example.
Let's say you choose to change your diet and eat nothing but donuts, cakes, soda pop, cookies, ice cream and other sweet things. It will not be long before you are sick and your body begins to go into shock. Then the ensuing illnesses emerge, and you scream because you are not receiving the proper "care" for your illness and you wonder why all these things are happening to you. You forsook good nutrition and chose to fill your body with junk. Junk in = junk out.
In a similar way, we have chosen to go a certain course...for many, that path is away from the creator of the universe, the creator of mankind, and we have chosen to believe other things, follow other values and feed our hearts, minds and spirits on things that are contrary to what we were originally intended to feed upon. For some it has been a slow process, a slippery slope...for others, it's been an outright abandonment and rebellion against a God they really don't understand, because if they did, they would realize that He's all about love according to His Kingdom. Slow or fast, the results are sickness...illness....and then when horrific, uncalled for tragedies take place like this past Friday, we wonder why and begin to complain about this or that without dealing with the heart issue.
The only things I know about the young man who committed these heinous acts of violence against innocent victims are that he was odd, an introvert, very smart, and that his mom refused to talk about family. I haven't read anywhere that he had a living relationship with the living God. If he had, maybe, just maybe, he would not have committed this crime and 28 people would still be alive today.
But they aren't...and that is the tragedy. We have to ask the hard questions, the CORE questions, rather than dance around the periphery, thinking that if we peel off the outside layer of the onion, the rotten core won't really matter. God, grant us strength to go to the core.
I nearly throw up every time I close my eyes and picture the faces of those little victims as they watched their friends die, one by one. The confusion, the fear, the shock, the pain, the horror. My heart grieves for the families as they start on this journey of living life without these little ones who brought nothing but joy to their lives.
We have a serious problem in this nation, and it is multi-faceted. Many people would like to narrow it down to one issue, but it is not a 'one-issue' problem. It is a multi-layered problem with one issue at the very core, which many do not want to address. At the risk of neglecting the many layers, I want to go to the core, which is the heart issue.
Our problem is our hearts. Our hearts have gone astray from that which is true and truth, that which is right, noble, and real. We've allowed everything and everyone to distract us from the One who created every heart on this planet. Some will take offense to what I am saying, but let me give you an example.
Let's say you choose to change your diet and eat nothing but donuts, cakes, soda pop, cookies, ice cream and other sweet things. It will not be long before you are sick and your body begins to go into shock. Then the ensuing illnesses emerge, and you scream because you are not receiving the proper "care" for your illness and you wonder why all these things are happening to you. You forsook good nutrition and chose to fill your body with junk. Junk in = junk out.
In a similar way, we have chosen to go a certain course...for many, that path is away from the creator of the universe, the creator of mankind, and we have chosen to believe other things, follow other values and feed our hearts, minds and spirits on things that are contrary to what we were originally intended to feed upon. For some it has been a slow process, a slippery slope...for others, it's been an outright abandonment and rebellion against a God they really don't understand, because if they did, they would realize that He's all about love according to His Kingdom. Slow or fast, the results are sickness...illness....and then when horrific, uncalled for tragedies take place like this past Friday, we wonder why and begin to complain about this or that without dealing with the heart issue.
The only things I know about the young man who committed these heinous acts of violence against innocent victims are that he was odd, an introvert, very smart, and that his mom refused to talk about family. I haven't read anywhere that he had a living relationship with the living God. If he had, maybe, just maybe, he would not have committed this crime and 28 people would still be alive today.
But they aren't...and that is the tragedy. We have to ask the hard questions, the CORE questions, rather than dance around the periphery, thinking that if we peel off the outside layer of the onion, the rotten core won't really matter. God, grant us strength to go to the core.
Monday, December 03, 2012
My journey to increased health
Some of my blog readers know that my husband, Paul, and I began a journey last August with the #1 weight-loss and fitness program in the nation: VISALUS.
We are LOVING the journey to health and fitness, feeling stronger, better and more alert every day. It's so simple, it's almost nuts....a breakfast shake in the morning (or the shake mix in oatmeal as Paul loves it, or pancakes like we both love it), healthy snack mid-morning, lunch shake, healthy snacks in the afternoon, and a normal dinner in the evening. Or sometimes we switch it up: breakfast shake, healthy snack, big lunch, healthy snacks and then a shake for dinner. Some of our friends are doing just one shake a day for breakfast and seeing some amazing transformations!
I decided to post my progress in pictures here. Our goal has not been weight-loss, but rather, for Paul, weight-gain in the form of muscle, and for me, losing skinny fat and putting on more lean muscle. So, since the beginning of August, I have actually put on 3% of lean muscle, lost 3% of body fat, and my body age is 30! So, here are the visual results:
We are LOVING the journey to health and fitness, feeling stronger, better and more alert every day. It's so simple, it's almost nuts....a breakfast shake in the morning (or the shake mix in oatmeal as Paul loves it, or pancakes like we both love it), healthy snack mid-morning, lunch shake, healthy snacks in the afternoon, and a normal dinner in the evening. Or sometimes we switch it up: breakfast shake, healthy snack, big lunch, healthy snacks and then a shake for dinner. Some of our friends are doing just one shake a day for breakfast and seeing some amazing transformations!
I decided to post my progress in pictures here. Our goal has not been weight-loss, but rather, for Paul, weight-gain in the form of muscle, and for me, losing skinny fat and putting on more lean muscle. So, since the beginning of August, I have actually put on 3% of lean muscle, lost 3% of body fat, and my body age is 30! So, here are the visual results:
This was me at the beginning of August, 2012
Nice belly pooch, huh?
This is me today, December 3, 2012, leaner, meaner and feeling great!
I'm loving my new belly!
Feeling great!
Of course we'be been doing exercise as well, like sit-ups, crunches, push-ups, walking, pull-ups, and the elliptical machine at the gym, in addition to some Kettle Worx workouts. It's about changing one's lifestyle for the better! If you'd like to join me/us on our new life-time journey of health, CLICK HERE AND JOIN THE 90-DAY CHALLENGE!
Wednesday, November 28, 2012
These are two of the most amazing shelving units you could ever want in your home!
Many of you know I am a consultant with Shelf Reliance. They are having an AMAZING sale RIGHT NOW on this rotation shelving unit. It's called the Harvest 72" #10. Here are the specs:
Dimensions Capacity Up to 112 gallon-sized cansDepth 24.5"
Width 36.5"
Why am I putting this on my blog? Because this is an incredible, cost efficient and excellent way to store your large coffee-can size cans of food which is at a GREAT price right now. It's $229.00 marked down from $459.00! You have to get it through me, so leave a comment or e-mail me and I can get your order in.
Now the shelving unit below is even more exciting because it holds the large cans, then medium sized cans and small cans. Here are the specs for this one:
Dimensions Capacity Up to 460 cans
Height 72"
Depth 24.5"
Width 36.5"
Height 72"
Depth 24.5"
Width 36.5"
This shelving unit is priced at $263.19 through my website, which you can access: HERE This one you can order yourself online.
Both of these shelving units are wonderful because they totally organize your canned goods and rotate them so the oldest comes out first!
I'm putting this on my personal blog because if 3 more people buy one of these shelving units each, then I move "up" in the rankings...but that's not the most important reason. The most important reason is that I long to see people prepared, and this is a wonderful way to start preparing.
Questions? Contact me!
Praying for my adopted country, Hungary
This news is worthy of your reading:
HUNGARIAN GOVERNMENT CONDEMNS CALLS FOR LIST OF JEWS: A Hungarian far-right deputy's suggestion to compile a list of residents "of Jewish origin" sparked an outcry on Tuesday in Hungary, which has seen a series of antisemitic incidents in recent months. "The Hungarian government condemns in the strongest possible terms remarks made by far-right party Jobbik's Marton Gyongyosi in parliament," the government said in a statement. "The government is opposed to all forms or expressions of extremism, racist or antisemitic, and does everything in its power to combat it." On Monday, Gyongyosi suggested drawing up a list of those who might pose a "security risk" for Hungary, citing Israel's recent conflict with the Hamas-run Gaza Strip. (INN) Pray this blatantly antisemitic suggestion, calling for a list of residents “of Jewish origin” in Hungary, will not rear its ugly head again. Such proposals are frightfully reminiscent of the Nazi era.
HUNGARIAN GOVERNMENT CONDEMNS CALLS FOR LIST OF JEWS: A Hungarian far-right deputy's suggestion to compile a list of residents "of Jewish origin" sparked an outcry on Tuesday in Hungary, which has seen a series of antisemitic incidents in recent months. "The Hungarian government condemns in the strongest possible terms remarks made by far-right party Jobbik's Marton Gyongyosi in parliament," the government said in a statement. "The government is opposed to all forms or expressions of extremism, racist or antisemitic, and does everything in its power to combat it." On Monday, Gyongyosi suggested drawing up a list of those who might pose a "security risk" for Hungary, citing Israel's recent conflict with the Hamas-run Gaza Strip. (INN) Pray this blatantly antisemitic suggestion, calling for a list of residents “of Jewish origin” in Hungary, will not rear its ugly head again. Such proposals are frightfully reminiscent of the Nazi era.
Tuesday, November 27, 2012
Busy. Understatement of the year. It's a season, or so I keep telling myself. While I love all that is happening...or most of it...I am still finding it very challenging to fit everything I need to accomplish into a 24-hour day.
The blessings of this fall include:
Paul getting a teaching job....4th grade....VERY challenging children, though, which is wearying on him.
Us growing with our new spiritual family, The Bridge. We continue to see God do amazing things, changing people's lives and perspectives.
Business travels for both of us...we continue to hope the follow up with those contacts produces much fruit!
Visits to family; Paul's family for Thanksgiving.
What our hopes are for the next month:
Depth of relationship with Papa God, that we might come into line with His calendar, His ways, His heart for people, His perspectives on everything and everyone in every situation.
That just about sums it up!
The blessings of this fall include:
Paul getting a teaching job....4th grade....VERY challenging children, though, which is wearying on him.
Us growing with our new spiritual family, The Bridge. We continue to see God do amazing things, changing people's lives and perspectives.
Business travels for both of us...we continue to hope the follow up with those contacts produces much fruit!
Visits to family; Paul's family for Thanksgiving.
What our hopes are for the next month:
Depth of relationship with Papa God, that we might come into line with His calendar, His ways, His heart for people, His perspectives on everything and everyone in every situation.
That just about sums it up!
Tuesday, October 30, 2012
Fun in Arizona!
I spent 5 days in Arizona, two of which were working an expo in Mesa. Fun times with fun people.
But the best time was spent with my parents. As they grow older, I covet these visits more and more; sadly, these visits are rare. Sometimes I think our country is just too big.
We laughed a lot, talked a lot, and just simply enjoyed being together. We didn't have to have a lot of activity going on...just being together is priceless to me.
As I was grading papers on their back patio early Monday morning, I looked up to see two coyotes jogging across the fairway. I got up to take a picture, but they are so skittish that they both dashed off into the neighbors backyard. Fun to see wildlife in the middle of the city.
Back home now, I am pretty swamped with work...but blessed to have work! Thank you Jesus for your goodness to me!
But the best time was spent with my parents. As they grow older, I covet these visits more and more; sadly, these visits are rare. Sometimes I think our country is just too big.
We laughed a lot, talked a lot, and just simply enjoyed being together. We didn't have to have a lot of activity going on...just being together is priceless to me.
As I was grading papers on their back patio early Monday morning, I looked up to see two coyotes jogging across the fairway. I got up to take a picture, but they are so skittish that they both dashed off into the neighbors backyard. Fun to see wildlife in the middle of the city.
Back home now, I am pretty swamped with work...but blessed to have work! Thank you Jesus for your goodness to me!
Tuesday, October 16, 2012
So much has happened!!!
My humble apologies to blog readers out there as I have been negligent, so for the two of you who follow me with any regularity, here is the latest from the Czaszewicz household!
Paul is now gainfully employed, praise the LORD! He is teaching 4th grade at an elementary school just 10 minutes from our home! Challenges abound as he was hired just 2 weeks ago, so the students were already in a routine and are now having to change everything. Both of us are pulling late nights and early mornings to get things up and running in the classroom, especially with this being his first "official" year of teaching in his own classroom! Please keep him in your prayers as he ushers in the presence of the KING OF KINGS through just BEING in that classroom with his 18 precious students.
I am ever-building my business with Shelf Reliance, and I'm amazed at how God continues to breathe on it in His ways. From the get-go, I have asked the Lord to build it His way, and have tried to walk in obedience to what He is saying, which is mostly, "Be still and know that I am God." That's hard for me as a "lioness", but I am learning and seeing His faithfulness. He's bringing people from near and far, friends and random folks who googled freeze-dried foods and my name came up. Most importantly, He is teaching me that business is about people and relationships, and if the business thrives too, well that's just a bonus. I love market-place ministry!
Thus far, I've not given up my day job at Write at Home, and I have almost 40 students this year, which means 40 papers a week to grade online. I LOVE IT! What a privilege it is to be able to pour into young people's lives all across the country (and maybe even the globe because I don't even know where my students live!) through their writing and to encourage them. I'm so blessed!
Paul and I have jumped on board a 90-day challenge as well with Visalus. You really need to check out these breakfast shakes! Our first 90 day challenge will end the second week in November and our goal was to lose our bellies that we put on during our first year of marriage. So we've actually been trying to do two protein shakes a day and then one good meal, and it seems to be working! Maybe I will post before and after pictures here. :-) Check it out HERE! We haven't yet decided what our next 90-day challenge will be, but we are so pleased with the Body By Vi shakes that we are setting some pretty rigorous goals...maybe a 40 day wilderness adventure next summer?!
In addition, I am doing a bit of editing for an amazing ministry called Exodus Cry. EC is a prayer ministry which fights human trafficking. Check out their website here.
Most importantly, Paul and I are integrally connected to a wonderful spiritual family here in Kansas City called The Bridge Ministries, International. This is a network of house churches, and we are currently a part of what is called a Training House Church each week. Those of us there are learning how, by doing, to "do" house church, and it is wonderful! The truths of the Scriptures regarding everyone coming prepared with a Psalm, a song, a word of encouragement or a teaching is playing out every week, and people are being healed, delivered, encouraged, empowered, and God is receiving the glory!
In sum, LEARNING and GROWING would be the operative words in this season. The Lord is really stretching both me and Paul and many around us as He shows us what He is doing and how He is preparing His bride for what is coming to the earth. Our only hope is Jesus...and we rejoice and rest in that fact, as He is the best ROCK upon which to build everything!
Paul is now gainfully employed, praise the LORD! He is teaching 4th grade at an elementary school just 10 minutes from our home! Challenges abound as he was hired just 2 weeks ago, so the students were already in a routine and are now having to change everything. Both of us are pulling late nights and early mornings to get things up and running in the classroom, especially with this being his first "official" year of teaching in his own classroom! Please keep him in your prayers as he ushers in the presence of the KING OF KINGS through just BEING in that classroom with his 18 precious students.
I am ever-building my business with Shelf Reliance, and I'm amazed at how God continues to breathe on it in His ways. From the get-go, I have asked the Lord to build it His way, and have tried to walk in obedience to what He is saying, which is mostly, "Be still and know that I am God." That's hard for me as a "lioness", but I am learning and seeing His faithfulness. He's bringing people from near and far, friends and random folks who googled freeze-dried foods and my name came up. Most importantly, He is teaching me that business is about people and relationships, and if the business thrives too, well that's just a bonus. I love market-place ministry!
Thus far, I've not given up my day job at Write at Home, and I have almost 40 students this year, which means 40 papers a week to grade online. I LOVE IT! What a privilege it is to be able to pour into young people's lives all across the country (and maybe even the globe because I don't even know where my students live!) through their writing and to encourage them. I'm so blessed!
Paul and I have jumped on board a 90-day challenge as well with Visalus. You really need to check out these breakfast shakes! Our first 90 day challenge will end the second week in November and our goal was to lose our bellies that we put on during our first year of marriage. So we've actually been trying to do two protein shakes a day and then one good meal, and it seems to be working! Maybe I will post before and after pictures here. :-) Check it out HERE! We haven't yet decided what our next 90-day challenge will be, but we are so pleased with the Body By Vi shakes that we are setting some pretty rigorous goals...maybe a 40 day wilderness adventure next summer?!
In addition, I am doing a bit of editing for an amazing ministry called Exodus Cry. EC is a prayer ministry which fights human trafficking. Check out their website here.
Most importantly, Paul and I are integrally connected to a wonderful spiritual family here in Kansas City called The Bridge Ministries, International. This is a network of house churches, and we are currently a part of what is called a Training House Church each week. Those of us there are learning how, by doing, to "do" house church, and it is wonderful! The truths of the Scriptures regarding everyone coming prepared with a Psalm, a song, a word of encouragement or a teaching is playing out every week, and people are being healed, delivered, encouraged, empowered, and God is receiving the glory!
In sum, LEARNING and GROWING would be the operative words in this season. The Lord is really stretching both me and Paul and many around us as He shows us what He is doing and how He is preparing His bride for what is coming to the earth. Our only hope is Jesus...and we rejoice and rest in that fact, as He is the best ROCK upon which to build everything!
Wednesday, September 05, 2012
Great video about why I'm doing Visalus
Paul and I have started drinking Visalus shakes in the morning for breakfast. WE LOVE THEM! We are exercising regularly, eating better, and have tons more energy than we have had in years!
We're doing what's called a 90-day challenge, and if you want to join us, click on the link at the bottom of this blog! In the meantime, here is a video to let you know more!
Good Video!
Join me and Paul on a 90-day challenge, and get three friends to join you and your next month's shakes are FREE! :-)
MY WEBSITE
We're doing what's called a 90-day challenge, and if you want to join us, click on the link at the bottom of this blog! In the meantime, here is a video to let you know more!
Good Video!
Join me and Paul on a 90-day challenge, and get three friends to join you and your next month's shakes are FREE! :-)
MY WEBSITE
Thursday, August 30, 2012
Hearing from God
I was presented with a spiritual challenge this week.
NO READING
Now, at first I thought, "This is nuts! I need to read my Bible and what about all the books I am currently reading? How can I go one week without reading and using that to grow in my relationship with the Lord?"
Following this challenge, the individual reminded us, "Remember the first disciples? They were illiterate, and yet heard from God."
Honestly, the past two days have been tough...I've so wanted to grab my Bible and read, pick up the books by my nightstand and read...instead, I have taken those moments to the Lord and asked Holy Spirit to speak to me. I'm pressing in to Him and His presence more than I ever have previously. In that, I'm recognizing a few things: first, I have a lot of Word in me...and Holy Spirit is mining that out. Second, Holy Spirit has a lot He wants to show me through other ways, and His whispers are sweet to my spirit, soul and body. Third, as we are returning to our covenant roots, I'm recognizing my utter bankruptcy apart from God Himself, teaching me, leading me, speaking to me face to face...I have so many props that "help" me in that conversation with Him, but it's challenging just to sit and listen and BE with Him without reading. But it is OH SO GOOD!
Thursday, August 23, 2012
Good blog post/article by our amazing coach
Monday, August 20, 2012
Body By Visalus
Paul and I are excited to announce our new business: Body By Visalus! We've joined a team of amazing folks who share the same goals, expressed in different ways.
In general, most people on the planet want to:
In general, most people on the planet want to:
Get in shape
Lose excess weight
Increase physical stamina and energy
Improve their livelihoods
Others who are already in shape and don't need to lose weight want to improve their performances in their respective fields.
The 90 Day Challenge is simple. Decide which kit you want to get depending on your goals. Set up an exercise program for yourself. Get your kit, drink your yummy shakes, do your exercise and meet your personal fitness goals. But the BEST part is getting others on the challenge with you. When you get three people on the challenge with you, your next month's kit can be FREE! So, if you are really motivated to get a bunch of friends to do the challenge with you, this could be a FREE fitness challenge program for you!
And the 90 Day Challenge is not just for weight loss. I just learned this evening that Canadian Olympic Athlete Carline Muir has joined the challenge!
So, what are YOU waiting for? Join me and Paul! We are having a blast calling our friends each week who have joined us in the challenge and encouraging one another, not only with the challenge, but also in every day life.
Click on THIS LINK to learn more, sign up and get started. Call me with any questions!
Wednesday, August 15, 2012
Pictures from out West!
Doesn't this look like an Indian head?
Our first easy day-hike with our hostess, Stacey
Climbing from 10,000 ft. to 12,000 ft.
The views on the way up!
Spectacular vistas!
The way was not always flat and easy!
Paul and Arden at the top of the Snowy Range!
Canoeing!
Our canoeing crew!
An outdoor hug at the close of the adventures!
Thursday, August 02, 2012
A Thriving Kingdom: Home from Vacation
A Thriving Kingdom: Home from Vacation: When you arrive home from being away on vacation or just being away, what is one of the first things you must do? GO TO THE GROCERY STOR...
Wednesday, July 18, 2012
Monday, July 09, 2012
The latest in our household
Dear friends,
As we emerge from this heat-wave, through which the Lord has taught both me and Paul many things, we are excited about His leading in our lives. I am going to keep this very short with a few links that you can look at on your own time to glean a more comprehensive picture of what is happening with us.
Prayer requests:
1. Full-time job for Paul.
2. God's perfect leading and provision for us in every area of life.
3. God's favor and breath of life on the following:
Praises:
1. We are getting increasingly connected to our new church. Visit their ever-changing website:
2. Our garden is thriving even amidst a squash bug attack. I've put up about 15 quarts of dill pickles and frozen bags of zucchini.
Upcoming training:
Paul and I are praying about and hoping to be able to take a SOZO training this month here in Kansas City. (see our church website above for that link)
We long to join with you and your journeys in life, love and faith in Jesus! Please keep us up to date on how we can be praying for you!
By grace alone in Jesus,
Arden
Wednesday, July 04, 2012
Squash bugs
Last weekend, we discovered that squash bugs had invaded our garden. Being the novice gardeners that we are, we thought we'd dodged the proverbial bullet with these critters, but alas, the invasion, and now war, is on. Thus far, they seem to be winning, but our persistence in searching day by day seems to be paying off.
Today, as I searched, I found a large squash bug in the process of laying eggs. For a brief moment, the sensitive mom side of my welled up...VERY brief lapsing moment...and then the killer side of me came raging forward. I grabbed the momma and squished her, and then proceeded to smash all of her babies. Yes, I am a baby killer.
Hunting for these bugs has been one of the most challenging gardening events ever. After killing momma and her babies, I searched for eggs and bugs on other leaves and came across an entire colony of just hatched squash bugs, which look like small black spiders. I quickly smashed those as well as they tried to skitter away.
Leaves on our pumpkin plants are turning yellow as a result of the bug invasion, and we are praying that our pumpkins don't get infested on the inside, which is what these darn bugs do. The fruit looks beautiful on the outside and then you cut it open only to find rot on the inside.
The Lord is using this whole experience to paint a very real picture of the reality of sin as well as the evil one. I'm convinced that squash bugs are a result of the fall of man...and therefore are from the pit of hell. They do NO one any good at all and only bring death and destruction. Like sin, they hide under the leaves of plants, laying numerous eggs in the hidden-ness of the leaves, and thus from one momma sin, is produced a whole plethora of sinful issues. Once these bugs hit, they are REALLY hard to get rid of...how like sin in our lives. We open the door to something that seems harmless, or we know it's bad (one bug), and then the entire inside of us becomes rotten to the core. Sometimes on the outside, we look healthy and "ok"; but look inside and there is rot due to sin.
The enemy is like a roaring lion, prowling around looking for whom he may devour. He's constantly looking for ways to plant eggs that will destroy us. We have to be vigilant about removing the eggs so that sin does not run free and take over, ruining our lives.
I must admit, that after the first day of killing bugs and smashing eggs last weekend, I was very discouraged. The next day, I didn't even want to go out to the garden because I was afraid to find more bugs and egg colonies. In my heart, I just wanted to avoid it and hope it would go away. How true is that of our hearts sometimes with regard to sin: we know it's there, but we don't want to deal with it. I mustered up the strength and went on a bug-hunt. Sure enough, I was smashing and destroying bugs and eggs. My heart began to shift.
The next day I was excited to get out to the garden to bug-hunt! I want to rid the garden of any infestation of squash bugs and I will turn over every leaf to find every bug and destroy them as I am able. Just as with sin, this is a war, fought daily, and the lives of our 'fruit' are at stake.
Today, as I searched, I found a large squash bug in the process of laying eggs. For a brief moment, the sensitive mom side of my welled up...VERY brief lapsing moment...and then the killer side of me came raging forward. I grabbed the momma and squished her, and then proceeded to smash all of her babies. Yes, I am a baby killer.
Hunting for these bugs has been one of the most challenging gardening events ever. After killing momma and her babies, I searched for eggs and bugs on other leaves and came across an entire colony of just hatched squash bugs, which look like small black spiders. I quickly smashed those as well as they tried to skitter away.
Leaves on our pumpkin plants are turning yellow as a result of the bug invasion, and we are praying that our pumpkins don't get infested on the inside, which is what these darn bugs do. The fruit looks beautiful on the outside and then you cut it open only to find rot on the inside.
The Lord is using this whole experience to paint a very real picture of the reality of sin as well as the evil one. I'm convinced that squash bugs are a result of the fall of man...and therefore are from the pit of hell. They do NO one any good at all and only bring death and destruction. Like sin, they hide under the leaves of plants, laying numerous eggs in the hidden-ness of the leaves, and thus from one momma sin, is produced a whole plethora of sinful issues. Once these bugs hit, they are REALLY hard to get rid of...how like sin in our lives. We open the door to something that seems harmless, or we know it's bad (one bug), and then the entire inside of us becomes rotten to the core. Sometimes on the outside, we look healthy and "ok"; but look inside and there is rot due to sin.
The enemy is like a roaring lion, prowling around looking for whom he may devour. He's constantly looking for ways to plant eggs that will destroy us. We have to be vigilant about removing the eggs so that sin does not run free and take over, ruining our lives.
I must admit, that after the first day of killing bugs and smashing eggs last weekend, I was very discouraged. The next day, I didn't even want to go out to the garden because I was afraid to find more bugs and egg colonies. In my heart, I just wanted to avoid it and hope it would go away. How true is that of our hearts sometimes with regard to sin: we know it's there, but we don't want to deal with it. I mustered up the strength and went on a bug-hunt. Sure enough, I was smashing and destroying bugs and eggs. My heart began to shift.
The next day I was excited to get out to the garden to bug-hunt! I want to rid the garden of any infestation of squash bugs and I will turn over every leaf to find every bug and destroy them as I am able. Just as with sin, this is a war, fought daily, and the lives of our 'fruit' are at stake.
Monday, July 02, 2012
Colorado and the East coast
I am among the many thousands of people who think, "This will never happen to me!"
This past week in Colorado, raging fires tore through residential areas of my hometown of Colorado Springs. I spoke with my cousin who was on pre-evacuation orders. She said she was grabbing heirlooms and our grandfather's old medical bag.
It turns out that over 300 people lost their homes, a few people lost their lives. Many were completely unprepared to evacuate, and as we now know, that is downright NOT GOOD!
On the east coast, in the middle of one of the worst heat waves in the nation, millions were/are without power. For the elderly, those with small children, etc., this would be a great time to grab a 72-hour to-go bag and drive to the nearest hotel or motel that does have electricity.
An acquaintance of mine has a suggestion which you can listen to HERE.
I also have an even better suggestion, in my opinion of course. Why should you have to spend time shopping around, collecting all sorts of items you would need for a "go bag" when they are already expertly put together FOR YOU? Follow this LINK to find pre-assembled emergency "go bags" for 1, 2, 3 or 4 people. You not only have the essentials in there like some water and food, but toilet paper, first-aid supplies, etc. It's so convenient, and all you need to do is grab it and go.
My husband and I have a 2-person 72-hour bag from Shelf Reliance that is inside our house. We have just ordered 1-person bags to keep in each of our cars just in case we have to get out and we are not at home. We are also making copies of all important documents to put in the bags as well.
How much wiser and better is it to be prepared than not? Make the investment NOW, so that later, you can help others who have not prepared.
This past week in Colorado, raging fires tore through residential areas of my hometown of Colorado Springs. I spoke with my cousin who was on pre-evacuation orders. She said she was grabbing heirlooms and our grandfather's old medical bag.
It turns out that over 300 people lost their homes, a few people lost their lives. Many were completely unprepared to evacuate, and as we now know, that is downright NOT GOOD!
On the east coast, in the middle of one of the worst heat waves in the nation, millions were/are without power. For the elderly, those with small children, etc., this would be a great time to grab a 72-hour to-go bag and drive to the nearest hotel or motel that does have electricity.
An acquaintance of mine has a suggestion which you can listen to HERE.
I also have an even better suggestion, in my opinion of course. Why should you have to spend time shopping around, collecting all sorts of items you would need for a "go bag" when they are already expertly put together FOR YOU? Follow this LINK to find pre-assembled emergency "go bags" for 1, 2, 3 or 4 people. You not only have the essentials in there like some water and food, but toilet paper, first-aid supplies, etc. It's so convenient, and all you need to do is grab it and go.
My husband and I have a 2-person 72-hour bag from Shelf Reliance that is inside our house. We have just ordered 1-person bags to keep in each of our cars just in case we have to get out and we are not at home. We are also making copies of all important documents to put in the bags as well.
How much wiser and better is it to be prepared than not? Make the investment NOW, so that later, you can help others who have not prepared.
Wednesday, June 27, 2012
Colorado ablaze
Monday, June 25, 2012
To take offense or not to take offense; that is the question.
Over a month ago now, I began posting a series of blog posts connected to my journey away from cessationist theology and into, what I believe, a more fully biblical perspective on the gifts of the Holy Spirit.
After posting three blog entries, I received a phone call from someone who was offended by one of my posts. The interesting part in all of this is that someone ELSE had actually read the blog, jumped to a false conclusion, took up an offense, called another person and told them to read the blog, and that person drew his/her own conclusion, took up an offense even though the blog entry had nothing to do with them, and subsequently called me. This person didn't call to get clarification but to sever ties.
In order to maintain peace according to the Bible...do everything within your power to maintain the bond of peace....I deleted all three blog entries having to do with my spiritual journey. A friend of mine in response said, "Why did you do that? Your heart was right and what you wrote had nothing to do with anyone in particular or even collectively? You should be able to write what the Lord is teaching you." I agreed with this friend, but I sensed that Holy Spirit was encouraging me to take the low road and honor the Lord in this way. In the process, I had to come before Jesus and see if I was offended by what had happened because quite easily a seed of offense leads to more offense if one does not pluck the seed for that nasty weed out quickly. I was not offended, but just saddened by the unfolding of the entire scenario. The Lord reminded me, however, of His Truth:
"Woe to the world because of offenses! For offenses must come, but woe to that man by whom the offense comes!" (Matt. 18:7)
and again,
"Then He said to the disciples, 'It is impossible that no offenses should come, but woe to him through whom they do come!'" (Luke 17:1)
These are powerful words because in both cases, Jesus declares WOE to those through whom offenses come. I don't want to be one who causes offense; thus, I deleted the posts because I was being misunderstood and someone else took offense and then through them, others took up offenses. In the end, it's the responsibility of the people reading not to take up an offense over something that has nothing to do with them, but in the light of the love of God, it is my responsibility to do everything within my power not to put a stumbling block in the way of my brothers and sisters.
Some may ask, "So why even address this? Let it drop." If the issue only involved one person, I would do so, but sadly, it involves a whole group of people, and out of love and honor for them, I sensed the need to clarify, even though not asked, that my blog entry had nothing to do with any individuals or groups of people...it was simply a reflection on my personal journey with the Lord. I apologize for any misunderstandings which may have unfolded as a result of me sharing my heart. I bless all those involved and hope that the Lord brings His bride into unity in the Spirit for the days ahead when we will need each other like never before.
After posting three blog entries, I received a phone call from someone who was offended by one of my posts. The interesting part in all of this is that someone ELSE had actually read the blog, jumped to a false conclusion, took up an offense, called another person and told them to read the blog, and that person drew his/her own conclusion, took up an offense even though the blog entry had nothing to do with them, and subsequently called me. This person didn't call to get clarification but to sever ties.
In order to maintain peace according to the Bible...do everything within your power to maintain the bond of peace....I deleted all three blog entries having to do with my spiritual journey. A friend of mine in response said, "Why did you do that? Your heart was right and what you wrote had nothing to do with anyone in particular or even collectively? You should be able to write what the Lord is teaching you." I agreed with this friend, but I sensed that Holy Spirit was encouraging me to take the low road and honor the Lord in this way. In the process, I had to come before Jesus and see if I was offended by what had happened because quite easily a seed of offense leads to more offense if one does not pluck the seed for that nasty weed out quickly. I was not offended, but just saddened by the unfolding of the entire scenario. The Lord reminded me, however, of His Truth:
"Woe to the world because of offenses! For offenses must come, but woe to that man by whom the offense comes!" (Matt. 18:7)
and again,
"Then He said to the disciples, 'It is impossible that no offenses should come, but woe to him through whom they do come!'" (Luke 17:1)
These are powerful words because in both cases, Jesus declares WOE to those through whom offenses come. I don't want to be one who causes offense; thus, I deleted the posts because I was being misunderstood and someone else took offense and then through them, others took up offenses. In the end, it's the responsibility of the people reading not to take up an offense over something that has nothing to do with them, but in the light of the love of God, it is my responsibility to do everything within my power not to put a stumbling block in the way of my brothers and sisters.
Some may ask, "So why even address this? Let it drop." If the issue only involved one person, I would do so, but sadly, it involves a whole group of people, and out of love and honor for them, I sensed the need to clarify, even though not asked, that my blog entry had nothing to do with any individuals or groups of people...it was simply a reflection on my personal journey with the Lord. I apologize for any misunderstandings which may have unfolded as a result of me sharing my heart. I bless all those involved and hope that the Lord brings His bride into unity in the Spirit for the days ahead when we will need each other like never before.
Ark International
I am getting to know some very quality people here in Kansas City, down-to-earth, real, giving, loving, caring, and very aware people who are fun and exciting to be around. Janet and Everett Marsh head up an amazing group of folks called ARK INTERNATIONAL (click on the name to open the link to their website).
They are knowledgeable, helpful, fun-loving, and the real deal kind of people who want to see others in this city and in the nations well-prepared for such common things as power-outages due to any kind of storms coast to coast, unexpected "surprises" like needing to evacuate your home due to raging forest fires or flooding, and whatever else life may throw at people. Their goal is to equip people physically, emotionally and spiritually to be ready and reduce the stress levels that always accompany these kinds of situations.
Have a look at their website as they have an excellent training coming up at the end of this week which may be of interest to you.
They are knowledgeable, helpful, fun-loving, and the real deal kind of people who want to see others in this city and in the nations well-prepared for such common things as power-outages due to any kind of storms coast to coast, unexpected "surprises" like needing to evacuate your home due to raging forest fires or flooding, and whatever else life may throw at people. Their goal is to equip people physically, emotionally and spiritually to be ready and reduce the stress levels that always accompany these kinds of situations.
Have a look at their website as they have an excellent training coming up at the end of this week which may be of interest to you.
Monday, June 11, 2012
Do you eat food?
You may laugh reading this blog post, but I'm serious. Do you eat food?
Here's my follow-up question: How much food do you throw out in a month because it has gone bad in your fridge or expired on the shelf?
If you are an average American, you throw out 25% every year! If that doesn't make you sit up and read further, maybe being more specific will...it did me:
Monthly food budget: $400
Average amount tossed out: $100
LOSS: $100/month X 12 = $1200/year!
So, essentially, the average American household is flushing $1200 down the drain or tossing it in the garbage, and quite needlessly. If you simply redirected that amount of money toward THRIVE FOODS....LINK HERE then you would be doing 3 things:
1. Saving money on your food budget.
2. Eating healthy, non-GMO foods.
3. Saving time because of not running to the store so often.
Click on the link above or right here: http://www.shelfreliance.com/ArdenCz3 and get started today!
Oh, plus, there's the added bonus that you could become a consultant yourself and earn income. Can you say it's a win-win situation?
Why am I blogging about this on my personal blog? Because I believe it in so strongly, and I am hoping to start my friends and blog readers on a path to healthier living and eating! Eventually, I'll have a THRIVE blog, but for now, click, browse the site, contact me, or just go ahead and place an order. My initial suggestions for those who may be skeptical are to order the following:
1. Pantry size can of instant milk. (Run a blind taste test with your family and see if they can tell the difference)
2. Pantry size can of whole egg powder. (No more running to the store to get eggs for that recipe)
3. Pantry size can of any fruit that you love...try them dry and then try them rehydrated. My personal favorite is the blueberries!
4. Any of the THRIVE EXPRESS meals...very quick, no preservatives, non-GMO, and GREAT for busy families!
What better time than now to give it a try? What will you lose? Nothing! What will you gain? Health, time, and savings on many levels! Have fun and begin your THRIVING LIFE!
Here's my follow-up question: How much food do you throw out in a month because it has gone bad in your fridge or expired on the shelf?
If you are an average American, you throw out 25% every year! If that doesn't make you sit up and read further, maybe being more specific will...it did me:
Monthly food budget: $400
Average amount tossed out: $100
LOSS: $100/month X 12 = $1200/year!
So, essentially, the average American household is flushing $1200 down the drain or tossing it in the garbage, and quite needlessly. If you simply redirected that amount of money toward THRIVE FOODS....LINK HERE then you would be doing 3 things:
1. Saving money on your food budget.
2. Eating healthy, non-GMO foods.
3. Saving time because of not running to the store so often.
Click on the link above or right here: http://www.shelfreliance.com/ArdenCz3 and get started today!
Oh, plus, there's the added bonus that you could become a consultant yourself and earn income. Can you say it's a win-win situation?
Why am I blogging about this on my personal blog? Because I believe it in so strongly, and I am hoping to start my friends and blog readers on a path to healthier living and eating! Eventually, I'll have a THRIVE blog, but for now, click, browse the site, contact me, or just go ahead and place an order. My initial suggestions for those who may be skeptical are to order the following:
1. Pantry size can of instant milk. (Run a blind taste test with your family and see if they can tell the difference)
2. Pantry size can of whole egg powder. (No more running to the store to get eggs for that recipe)
3. Pantry size can of any fruit that you love...try them dry and then try them rehydrated. My personal favorite is the blueberries!
4. Any of the THRIVE EXPRESS meals...very quick, no preservatives, non-GMO, and GREAT for busy families!
What better time than now to give it a try? What will you lose? Nothing! What will you gain? Health, time, and savings on many levels! Have fun and begin your THRIVING LIFE!
Tuesday, May 22, 2012
Diatomaceous Earth for your garden
As my husband and I expand our garden this year, we realize that critters abound who are set on destroying all of our hard work. Many folks recommended a natural insect killer called food grade diatomaceous earth, or food grade DE. Thus far, we have seen great results in keeping the destructive critters away. I am not good at explaining how DE works, but I want to send you to a DE LINK that I know you will find helpful and extremely informative! The gentleman 'in the know' is named Paul Wheaton, and I'm thankful for his expertise!
The Bait of Satan - by John Bevere
I'm still reading the FABULOUS book by John Bevere called The Bait of Satan. This is my second reading and I'm being challenged again, and encouraged at the same time.
In a nutshell, the bait is offense. From the garden, where the serpent planted the seed of offense in both Adam and Eve's hearts...offense toward God, who appeared to be 'holding out' on them...much of what we deal with in life, including sin (see post below this one) is based in offense. I will not go into book detail here; you will have to read it yourself.
I'm saddened by people who take up offenses. I've been saddened when I myself have taken up offenses. Yet even more frightening to me is when people are looking for offense. Someone will read something or hear something and look for any hint of some sort of connection to something so that they can pick up an offense. Sad, sad, sad.
Yesterday, I had a conversation with a precious friend about this topic, and he said, "It's just sad because where is the ability to express an opinion or even express the truth?"
I"m laughing because I have to ask myself this: "Am I offended when someone takes up an offense over something I say or write that was not intended to offend?"
Finally, I'm reminded of one who took up NO offenses, but many CHOSE to take up offenses in response to things He spoke: Jesus. Everything He said was life-giving, even when He brought 'correction'. Oh that I could speak the truth in love and not be moved if people are offended by what I say. I do know this, I need to grow in the area of speaking in love. The deepest desire of my heart is to bring LIFE, to speak the life and hope freedom that can only be found in the LIFE-GIVER Himself: Jesus!
In a nutshell, the bait is offense. From the garden, where the serpent planted the seed of offense in both Adam and Eve's hearts...offense toward God, who appeared to be 'holding out' on them...much of what we deal with in life, including sin (see post below this one) is based in offense. I will not go into book detail here; you will have to read it yourself.
I'm saddened by people who take up offenses. I've been saddened when I myself have taken up offenses. Yet even more frightening to me is when people are looking for offense. Someone will read something or hear something and look for any hint of some sort of connection to something so that they can pick up an offense. Sad, sad, sad.
Yesterday, I had a conversation with a precious friend about this topic, and he said, "It's just sad because where is the ability to express an opinion or even express the truth?"
I"m laughing because I have to ask myself this: "Am I offended when someone takes up an offense over something I say or write that was not intended to offend?"
Finally, I'm reminded of one who took up NO offenses, but many CHOSE to take up offenses in response to things He spoke: Jesus. Everything He said was life-giving, even when He brought 'correction'. Oh that I could speak the truth in love and not be moved if people are offended by what I say. I do know this, I need to grow in the area of speaking in love. The deepest desire of my heart is to bring LIFE, to speak the life and hope freedom that can only be found in the LIFE-GIVER Himself: Jesus!
Old verse, new levels of understanding
I was on a walk with my sweetie yesterday when we passed by a church's sign on which was written an age-old verse in a bit more modern-day language:
"Sin is paid by death..."
The more traditional version is: "For the wages of sin is death."
I meditated for a minute or two on this newer translation, allowing it to sink in deeply. Death itself pays us when we sin continually and repeatedly. So, I began to contemplate what that 'death' really looks like because there certainly is a lot of sin in the world around us (and we too are sinners), but we don't see 'literal' death happening every time someone is engaged in sin. So, I've concluded the following about what this "death" looks like as a result of sin:
Death in relationships and life to conflicts of every kind.
Death in motivation to move forward in life and life to lethargy, passivity and general malaise.
Death in perspectives on life and situations and life to moroseness and directionlessness.
Death in vitality and life to laziness.
Death in selflessness and life to self-centeredness.
Death in Spirit-filled living and life to living out of our soulish nature.
Death in life-giving thoughts and life to stinkin' thinkin'!
NOTHING good results from sin....nothing. The devil truly is a liar, but we have bought into his lies and given ourselves over to that which ushers in death, and in doing so, instead of being carriers of life, we are carriers of death.
Sorry this is such a heavy blog post....but the reality is that many people seem to think they can engage in sin and be "ok" because they are not seeing 'death' in the traditional way resulting. In fact, they believe they are gaining life, but it's a completely false reality.
I will end with the second half of that verse:
"But the GIFT OF GOD is ETERNAL LIFE in Christ Jesus!"
God Himself has given us a way OUT of sin and it's a GIFT to be received, which brings nothing but LIFE! That gift is Jesus, the eternal one, living, moving and breathing inside of us when we choose, by grace, to walk in Him!
Monday, May 21, 2012
How do you deal with pain?
We live in a fallen world. This is a sad but true reality. Yes, there is redemption, always hope and even when wronged, we can choose to forgive. Forgiveness doesn't change the reality of the fallen-ness, it simply sets the forgiver free.
I've been having to do a lot of forgiving recently, and I've had to ask for forgiveness. Something that strikes me as continually challenging in Christian cultures is the way that people talk about forgiveness and the way they walk it out. Myself included.
I wish I understood even 1/100th of God's heart toward people...then I would really walk in the freedom that forgiveness brings.
There's an old addage which remains true: hurt people hurt people...or even better put: hurting people hurt people. Even if we don't want to, we hurt people simply by virtue of being a living person on planet earth. The key is how we deal with that hurt.
Do we turn our backs? Do we say "it doesn't matter". Do we dismiss those people who have hurt us or those we love and as my good friend used to say: FIDO: Flush It and Drive On. I believe in FIDO in some cases, but when you do it out of hurt rather than out of health, it is emerging out of deep-pain.
So, how do we deal with pain? There is one who endured the most brutal pain anyone could ever imagine...betrayal, beating, mockery, false accusation, and death on a cross. His response: "Father, forgive them for they know not what they do."
Do we speak this over our situations and over those in our lives who have caused us pain? More importantly, do we speak this over ourselves when WE have caused others pain? The greatest truth in all of this is this: Our God is the God who is the promise-keeper, and He has kept and will keep every promise He has ever made! He knows every heartache, every wrong word spoken, every dream dashed, every brokenness in every person's heart, and His promise is to make ALL THINGS NEW!
Tapping in to the grace and mercy of God in the midst of pain is one of the most wonderful adventures we have been afforded as believers in Yeshua! Only God can do the God-things in our lives, and as we let Him, He will transform us into His likeness, from glory to glory, that His glory will be manifest on the earth in and through us!
I've been having to do a lot of forgiving recently, and I've had to ask for forgiveness. Something that strikes me as continually challenging in Christian cultures is the way that people talk about forgiveness and the way they walk it out. Myself included.
I wish I understood even 1/100th of God's heart toward people...then I would really walk in the freedom that forgiveness brings.
There's an old addage which remains true: hurt people hurt people...or even better put: hurting people hurt people. Even if we don't want to, we hurt people simply by virtue of being a living person on planet earth. The key is how we deal with that hurt.
Do we turn our backs? Do we say "it doesn't matter". Do we dismiss those people who have hurt us or those we love and as my good friend used to say: FIDO: Flush It and Drive On. I believe in FIDO in some cases, but when you do it out of hurt rather than out of health, it is emerging out of deep-pain.
So, how do we deal with pain? There is one who endured the most brutal pain anyone could ever imagine...betrayal, beating, mockery, false accusation, and death on a cross. His response: "Father, forgive them for they know not what they do."
Do we speak this over our situations and over those in our lives who have caused us pain? More importantly, do we speak this over ourselves when WE have caused others pain? The greatest truth in all of this is this: Our God is the God who is the promise-keeper, and He has kept and will keep every promise He has ever made! He knows every heartache, every wrong word spoken, every dream dashed, every brokenness in every person's heart, and His promise is to make ALL THINGS NEW!
Tapping in to the grace and mercy of God in the midst of pain is one of the most wonderful adventures we have been afforded as believers in Yeshua! Only God can do the God-things in our lives, and as we let Him, He will transform us into His likeness, from glory to glory, that His glory will be manifest on the earth in and through us!
Saturday, May 19, 2012
Learning curves as we grow
I am learning that I still have much to learn, especially about loving friends. You would think that as a life-long communicator and teacher of communications of many sorts that I would be an expert by now. However, I realize that I am not, and even more-so, that I have a long way to go when it comes to how I communicate so that what I say is not misinterpreted.
I love learning curves that bring me closer to the Father's heart for others.
Friday, May 11, 2012
My two cents worth...for what it's worth
Status updates and posts have been popping up all over social media in the wake of President Obama's announcement that he supports gay marriage. I thought about posting a thoughtful status update on Facebook but then considered how my perspective might be misconstrued in light of the topic. And so, while I am going to post this blog entry on Facebook, I am giving more than just a short, pointed thought, and I would welcome and love to have thoughtful, intelligent, respectful, loving discussion with anyone willing to engage in such exchange.
So, had I posted a Facebook status update, it might have read something like this:
"I support the biblical view of God, the biblical view of God's love for humanity, the biblical view of the brokenness of all of humanity (including my own brokenness), the biblical solution to that brokenness, the biblical view of love, and the biblical view of marriage."
Now, I am keenly aware that, given the recent announcements by both the President and Vice-President of the U.S., my perspective will appear to be out of the supposed 'mainstream' of U.S. society on that last point. Possibly, but really, my views on all the points above quite often don't jive with 'mainstream U.S. society'. My views do express Truth, though, as I am reminded every day of my own brokenness and the brokenness of those around me. I work and live with broken people because I work and live on planet earth, and because I look at myself in the mirror every day. And that is why the message of the Gospel is such good news to me and every person on this wonderful planet because it is grace, mercy, love and healing for every broken part of every person.
Let's face it folks, whether our brokenness is alcohol addiction, a propensity toward gossip, unfaithfulness to our heterosexual spouse, addition to pornography, same sex attraction, violent and physical displays of anger, involvement in human trafficking of any kind, cheating on our taxes, or just plain unloving words spoken toward another because of our own insecurities, we're all broken and in need of redemption.
Thankfully, the biblical view of redemption includes healing for all of the above and much more. The two statements I cling to often when faced with dilemmas such as our nation and our world are facing today are these:
So, had I posted a Facebook status update, it might have read something like this:
"I support the biblical view of God, the biblical view of God's love for humanity, the biblical view of the brokenness of all of humanity (including my own brokenness), the biblical solution to that brokenness, the biblical view of love, and the biblical view of marriage."
Now, I am keenly aware that, given the recent announcements by both the President and Vice-President of the U.S., my perspective will appear to be out of the supposed 'mainstream' of U.S. society on that last point. Possibly, but really, my views on all the points above quite often don't jive with 'mainstream U.S. society'. My views do express Truth, though, as I am reminded every day of my own brokenness and the brokenness of those around me. I work and live with broken people because I work and live on planet earth, and because I look at myself in the mirror every day. And that is why the message of the Gospel is such good news to me and every person on this wonderful planet because it is grace, mercy, love and healing for every broken part of every person.
Let's face it folks, whether our brokenness is alcohol addiction, a propensity toward gossip, unfaithfulness to our heterosexual spouse, addition to pornography, same sex attraction, violent and physical displays of anger, involvement in human trafficking of any kind, cheating on our taxes, or just plain unloving words spoken toward another because of our own insecurities, we're all broken and in need of redemption.
Thankfully, the biblical view of redemption includes healing for all of the above and much more. The two statements I cling to often when faced with dilemmas such as our nation and our world are facing today are these:
"Today, you will be with me in paradise."
and
"Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do."
Both of these were spoken by a broken man on a cross who had every right to respond in the opposite spirit, but chose the HOPE-FILLED perspective of His Papa. The first statement is utter grace extended to a man who, in the world's eyes, 'deserved' what he was getting - death on a cross. This man knew his own brokenness and in his own words, cried out for mercy and grace and received it. His ways were not the ways of the Kingdom and he knew it; deep down, he knew it, and reached out to the only One who could extend mercy: The Son of the King Himself. I love that man's words:
"Remember me..."
Take that first word apart: RE-MEMBER...put me together again...I'm broken...lost...have chosen my way over and above the ways of Your Kingdom, and it has led me here...please re-member me...put me back to my true identity, the way I was intended to be.
And it was the man Jesus, the Son of God, the gracious, merciful, loving, kind, gentle, powerful, righteous One, who looked out over broken humanity and made a bold proclamation:
"Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do."
It wasn't just about their actions in that moment; this statement, I believe, was a prophetic declaration from the place of forgiveness, the cross, for every person there that day and every person to come.
The key is seeing the two statements together. Forgiveness is available as is healing, but we must bring our brokenness to the only One who can heal our broken hearts, and thus our broken lives. Then and only then can we walk in true identity, true freedom, true wholeness because only then are we one with the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit, the authors of life.
So, as I put my hand in the hand of the only One who can RE-MEMBER me, I extend my hand to all who recognize their own brokenness; I have one thing to offer: love, and the longing to have them walk into the loving, healing arms of Papa, whose embrace brings life, healing, true identity, and love immeasurable!
Wednesday, May 09, 2012
All the blessings of friends
This sounds super cliche, but the older I get, the more I realize that the most important things in life are the people God has blessed us with in our lives. Some of those amazing people have read one or both of the books I've written (so far), and here's what they have to say about Walking Forward - Discoveries in Freedom and Forgiveness and The Senders:
“Arden is passionate in all she does. She has a heart for missionaries and those who support them. "The Senders" specifically recognizes and applauds this behind the scenes group of people that make it possible for missionaries to do what God has called them to do. She also has a longing to see the broken healed. Her first book "Walking Forward" is a helpful tool for those individuals to begin that process of healing. She is a blessing to us all.”
Arden is a detailed, yet concise writer who displays the importance of the Body of Christ coming together as a whole to not only be sent but also to send in her book titled, "The Senders." She captivates the readers eye through her personal experiences and her desire to include various perspectives of those who have sent out missionaries. I highly recommend Arden's book titled, "The Senders". I believe this is the beginning of a new wave of missions on the rise that will cause the Church to rise to another level of involvement of God's redemptive plan for all mankind to know HIM and make HIM known.”
Arden is a remarkable woman who has labored as a teacher in the U.S. and Europe, and has tremendous insight into the application of gospel principles to modern living. Her book The Senders reflects a side of modern missions rarely studied - the sacrificial and committed support that is required to send a missionary abroad, and a look at the people who provide that support - their motivations, their character, and their hopes for making the world a better place.”
“I am writing on behalf of Arden Czaszewicz to highly endorse her character, her work and her two books, "Walking Forward-Discoveries in Freedom and Forgiveness" and "The Senders". Sincerely, Mary Kay Ohaneson-Laughton”
“I came to know Arden on a trip to Kansas City. As two professionals passionate about education, we hit it off immediately. I have read her books and feel they are valuable to Christian audiences. I highly recommend both books.”
“Arden is a brilliant author. When she teaches you a lesson you remember it when the conversation is through. She's a person after God's own heart and the anointing the she has on her life will have an impact on your own.”
“Arden is a gifted writer and storyteller. Her two books are a gem for those who want to grow in their faith. I have enjoyed reading them both and look forward to her next effort. She is an inspiration and has much to teach all of us!”
If, after reading these comments, you are curious to know more or get your own copies from the author, e-mail me at tmhunarden@gmail.com
To God be the glory!
“Arden is passionate in all she does. She has a heart for missionaries and those who support them. "The Senders" specifically recognizes and applauds this behind the scenes group of people that make it possible for missionaries to do what God has called them to do. She also has a longing to see the broken healed. Her first book "Walking Forward" is a helpful tool for those individuals to begin that process of healing. She is a blessing to us all.”
Arden is a detailed, yet concise writer who displays the importance of the Body of Christ coming together as a whole to not only be sent but also to send in her book titled, "The Senders." She captivates the readers eye through her personal experiences and her desire to include various perspectives of those who have sent out missionaries. I highly recommend Arden's book titled, "The Senders". I believe this is the beginning of a new wave of missions on the rise that will cause the Church to rise to another level of involvement of God's redemptive plan for all mankind to know HIM and make HIM known.”
Arden is a remarkable woman who has labored as a teacher in the U.S. and Europe, and has tremendous insight into the application of gospel principles to modern living. Her book The Senders reflects a side of modern missions rarely studied - the sacrificial and committed support that is required to send a missionary abroad, and a look at the people who provide that support - their motivations, their character, and their hopes for making the world a better place.”
“I am writing on behalf of Arden Czaszewicz to highly endorse her character, her work and her two books, "Walking Forward-Discoveries in Freedom and Forgiveness" and "The Senders". Sincerely, Mary Kay Ohaneson-Laughton”
“I came to know Arden on a trip to Kansas City. As two professionals passionate about education, we hit it off immediately. I have read her books and feel they are valuable to Christian audiences. I highly recommend both books.”
“Arden is a brilliant author. When she teaches you a lesson you remember it when the conversation is through. She's a person after God's own heart and the anointing the she has on her life will have an impact on your own.”
“Arden is a gifted writer and storyteller. Her two books are a gem for those who want to grow in their faith. I have enjoyed reading them both and look forward to her next effort. She is an inspiration and has much to teach all of us!”
If, after reading these comments, you are curious to know more or get your own copies from the author, e-mail me at tmhunarden@gmail.com
To God be the glory!
Monday, April 30, 2012
Friday, April 27, 2012
Spring flowers
Springtime is one of my favorite seasons of the year...along with everyone else on the planet probably. This spring is very special as my husband, Paul, and I celebrate our one-year wedding anniversary, and prepare for many years ahead together.
A while back, I wrote a post about knock-out roses and how significant that word, 'knock-out', is to me and to us. As you can see in the pictures above, our knock-out roses are flourishing and present a picture to the world of the Lord's goodness to us and what He thinks of us!
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