tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-53073457383869120212024-02-07T14:46:02.100-06:00The Toni TimesA new twist on an old newsletter :-)Toni Jameshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16033528842523989063noreply@blogger.comBlogger78125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5307345738386912021.post-52660993624140840132017-05-31T10:33:00.000-05:002017-05-31T10:33:28.299-05:00The Devil's in My Pocketbook - Part 3: The GPS<b>The Devil's In My Pocketbook...and Other Things I learned from Grandma (Part 3)</b><br /><br />
The GPS<br /><br />It's been awhile since I posted one of the stories/life lessons from my life with my Grandma James. She has been on my mind frequently the last few days and this particular story has come to mind many many times over the years.<br />
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About ten years ago, my dear friend, Erica and her family were living in a small town in Ohio and I was planning a trip to go see them. Because it was going to simply be a day trip (it was only about two hours from my Grandma's house) and because my Grandma was also very fond of this friend, she came with me to see Erica. However, I had never been to Erica's home before as they had moved since my last visit with her, so when we got in the car, I plugged in the GPS and put in Erica's address. The GPS started giving out directions and we started our road trip. Almost immediately after the GPS started giving out directions, Grandma because very concerned. Our conversation went something like this:<br /><br /><span style="color: red;">Grandma: How does it know where we are going?</span><br />Me: I put in Erica's address.<br /><span style="color: red;">Grandma: (<i>eyes wide...concern showing</i>) But how does it know how to get there? (<i>She clearly thought something nefarious was going on</i>)</span><br />
Me: It's computerized Grandma. There are maps in it and it follows the maps. <br />
<span style="color: red;">Grandma: But how does it know where we are going? Is it watching us?</span><br />
<span style="color: red;"><span style="color: black;">Me: No, it's simply following the map from where we are. </span></span><br />
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<span style="color: red;"><span style="color: black;">This type of conversation went on for several minutes. I finally seemed to convince Grandma that the GPS was not some scary device someone was using to track us all down and she became rather quiet. </span></span><br />
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<span style="color: red;"><span style="color: black;">After we had continued on our journey for a while with the GPS consistently giving out the directions I needed to follow, Grandma spoke up again saying quite matter of factly, <span style="color: red;">"I bet that's a lot of company for you as you drive." </span></span></span><br />
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<span style="color: red;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="color: red;"><span style="color: black;">I tried to hold it in. I really did, but I couldn't help it. I laughed and said, "Well, you know, I never thought about it that way before, but I suppose it could be." </span></span></span></span><br />
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<span style="color: red;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="color: red;"><span style="color: black;">Grandma didn't quite grasp the concept of the GPS. However, she was always concerned about any of us traveling alone. And for some reason, she felt that the GPS might make us feel a little less alone and that seemed to give her comfort. To this day, I can't turn on my GPS with out thinking of my Grandma's comment with a smile. </span></span></span></span><br />
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<span style="color: red;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="color: red;"><span style="color: black;">She was like that. She was smart, but simple in her way of looking at the world. She didn't really understand a lot of technical things, but she was content seeing them as useful items for life...even if her use for them might be slightly different than what we might think of. </span></span></span></span><br />
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<span style="color: red;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="color: red;"><span style="color: black;">I think God looks at us like that sometimes. He sees us and knows exactly what our purpose is and He will lead us toward the plan He has for us. He even gives us a "GPS" through His Word, but we sometimes don't see it as the way to get where we are going and view it as simply our "companion" who talks to us from time to time. But when we use it that way, we are missing out on all that the Word has for us. It's meant to give directions to help us get where we need to go, but it can only do that if we fully allow it to teach us...If we step away from it we are sure to get lost before very long. But thankfully, the God's Word is faithful to help us back onto the right path if we are faithful to listen to it's directions. </span></span></span></span><br />
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<span style="color: red;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="color: red;"><span style="color: black;">I will never again hear a GPS without thinking of my Grandma, and I'm not sure I'll ever view my Bible the same way either. </span></span></span></span><br />
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<span style="color: red;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="color: red;"><span style="color: black;">Until next time... </span></span></span> </span>Toni Jameshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16033528842523989063noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5307345738386912021.post-88531235954406791962016-10-13T13:23:00.002-05:002016-10-13T13:27:41.427-05:00A Shout Out for Positivity...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span data-offset-key="fn016-0-0"><span data-text="true">In the sea of negativity and outright cyberbullying that has been flooding social media as of late, I thought I would share this thought.</span></span><br />
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<span data-offset-key="fn016-0-0"><span data-text="true">A few days ago, one of my friends shared their thoughts on the person they were going to vote for this year. He did not bash the other candidate. He did not use any accusations of any kind. He simply listed the positive points about the candidate he was choosing. And I read his post. I will not say whether or not I agreed with his choice. But, his was one of the few where I sat back and thought, "Wow! This person has done some real research and had done a masterful job of showing the good points of their candidate." And the fact that he was able to do it without saying one divisive word about the other candidate made his post hold more weight than any other I have seen.</span></span><br />
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<span data-offset-key="fn016-0-0"><span data-text="true">A well thought out positive post...that will always get my attention. And I'm pretty sure I'm not the only one who feels this way. </span></span><span data-offset-key="fn016-6-0"><span data-text="true"> </span></span><br />
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<span data-offset-key="fn016-6-0"><span data-text="true">So, I'm issuing a challenge to everyone! There are 26 more days until the election. Do you have the strength to quit bashing the "other candidate" and for the next 26 days and post only positive things about the candidate you prefer. Or if you prefer not to disclose who you are voting for, post only positive things about voting in general. There used to be a song called "<a href="https://youtu.be/gifkCgoJ7SY" target="_blank">Accentuate the Positive"</a> and it pops into my head from time to time. You can click the link to hear the song, but basically it says, "Accentuate the positive, eliminate the negative, latch on the affirmative and don't mess with Mr. Inbetween." Sure it probably seems like a silly song, but if we lived by those rules, what a difference there would be in our world...and in our elections. </span></span><br />
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<span data-offset-key="fn016-6-0"><span data-text="true">Are you up for the challenge? Positivity speaks far louder than negativity, so if you really want to support your candidate, #accentuatethepositive. Use the hastag. Let's see if we can get it to trend. Maybe we can end this election season on a positive note...regardless who wins. </span></span><br />
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<span data-offset-key="fn016-6-0"><span data-text="true">Who's with me? #accentuatethepositive</span></span>Toni Jameshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16033528842523989063noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5307345738386912021.post-75567962607453417072016-07-09T10:27:00.000-05:002016-07-09T17:07:39.636-05:00Saying Goodbye...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Grandma and her faithful companion, Bear. </td></tr>
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In December of 2013, I moved in with my Grandma James. I had taken a position at Anderson Parkview and because it was part-time, would not be able to afford my own place. On the other hand, Grandma had reached the stage in life where she really needed someone around to help her. So it was a perfect match. And, though no one said so, I knew when I agreed to move in that I would be with her until she passed away. And sadly, that time is drawing very near.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Family Vacation 1998</td></tr>
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On Sunday, July 3rd, she went into the hospital and on Tuesday, July 5th, it was found that she was having a massive heart attack. Because she was also dealing with a bleeding issue, there was nothing they could do for the heart attack and because of the heart attack there was nothing they could do to find the bleed. So, the family was called in and everyone arrived hoping that they wouldn't be too late to say goodbye. But we were given an unexpected blessing. For the last few days, though her body is continually failing, her mind has been sharp and we have been able to have some wonderful times together. Reminiscing, singing, praying, laughing, and even taking Communion together. Our time with her is now quite short, but the past few days has reminded us of a few things that she had taught us over the years. Important lessons that we will never forget.<br />
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<b><span style="color: blue;">Kindness Counts</span></b><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Family Game Night</td></tr>
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If you ever met my Grandma Claudia, you know the kind of person she is. Her sweetness just pours out of her. In fact, every nurse who took care of her in the hospital commented on how sweet she is. She treats every person she meets like a friend and friends are treated like family. Every nurse that has cared for her has commented on her sweetness. Last night, when one of them realized that she would be passing away soon, she cried...and these folks only met her a few days ago. She literally leaves an impact on every person she meets...no matter the length of time she is with them. And her impact is made through her kind, gentle spirit, and her compassion for all those around her.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">We love when Grandma gets tickled.</td></tr>
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<span style="color: blue;"><b>Family is her life</b></span><br />
<span style="color: blue;"><span style="color: black;">There is never any doubt how Grandma feels about her family. We all know that her dog, Bear, is her favorite in the family, however her love for the rest of us just pours out of every part of her. Her words tell us she loves us, her actions show that she loves us, and her prayers surround us. She brightens our good times and brings comfort and support during our trials. When she is gone, there will be a hole bigger than Texas in all of our lives. </span></span><br />
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<span style="color: blue;"><b>Circumstances do NOT define who we are.</b></span><br />
<span style="color: blue;"><span style="color: black;">Though, there was a lot of joy in Grandma's life, there was a lot of pain as well. But no matter how bad the situations in her life would get, her circumstances did not define her. Her love for God showed through every situation that came her way. Through the good, through the bad, in every day life, The love of Jesus shines through Grandma.</span></span><br />
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<span style="color: blue;"><span style="color: black;"> </span></span><b><span style="color: blue;">Life is Funny</span></b><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Grandma and Laura</td></tr>
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<span style="color: blue;"><span style="color: black;">There will be funny things that happen in our lives. And those funny circumstances should be shared and laughed over. Our family has spent many many hours around the kitchen table playing games, talking about our lives, and laughing. Lots of laughing. We have many stories on Grandma and ourselves revolving around every day things that went off kilter. Laughter keeps us going and memories of those times make tough times easier. </span><b> </b></span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Aunt Rona, Grandma and Rick</td></tr>
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<span style="color: blue;"><b>Jesus is her best friend.</b></span><br />
I can't tell you how many times, I walked out of my room to find Grandma pouring over her Bible. Even when it was no longer easy for her to read because her eyesight was getting worse, she would have her Bible out. Studying the words of Scripture with a passion all her own. When it was told to her that she would probably not survive this current health crisis, her response was simply, "If Jesus lets me stay, that's fine and if He takes me home, that's fine too." But it was followed closely by words for all of us, "I want to see you all there too!" And it wasn't a haphazard remark...it was a reminder to us that she wanted us to follow Jesus and live in such a way that we would indeed see her in heaven.<br />
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We've learned a lot from Grandma...and even now, we are learning how to leave gracefully. I can not fathom what life will look like without her, but I am so blessed to have had her in my life for all these years. <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Grandma, Dad, and Aunt Rona</td></tr>
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<br />Toni Jameshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16033528842523989063noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5307345738386912021.post-83052509939435270402016-04-21T13:56:00.001-05:002016-04-21T13:57:01.021-05:00A Journey I Never Expected...<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyyg-XsO4mVU0uAHzo4Yh9UrPCf5PmbEzRLU1IOVz9NdysYVL8-WBxC1iYVTOOCOYhg-CJ6s_QlFbGwCpnPSBKqEF26IznLFbvLso9uM_enLcLZKx7Pddh-oB9KFOJjXj68xdUvbROzTw/s1600/A+Journey+I+Never+Expected....jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="268" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyyg-XsO4mVU0uAHzo4Yh9UrPCf5PmbEzRLU1IOVz9NdysYVL8-WBxC1iYVTOOCOYhg-CJ6s_QlFbGwCpnPSBKqEF26IznLFbvLso9uM_enLcLZKx7Pddh-oB9KFOJjXj68xdUvbROzTw/s320/A+Journey+I+Never+Expected....jpg" width="320" /></a>The summer between my Freshman and Sophmore year of High School, I attended Nazarene Youth Congress. That event changed the course of my life because during one of those worship services, I felt a call to full time Christian service...but I didn't know in what form as yet. So, my journey began.<br />
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My family had been in Evangelism when I was growing up and I had a decent singing voice so I thought perhaps I was supposed to be a song evangelist. But, I really had no idea if that was what I was supposed to do. By the middle of my first semester at Trevecca Nazarene University, I was feeling pulled in a different direction and I changed my major from Vocal Performance to Music Business and I really felt like I was supposed to be used within the music industry...perhaps as a producer of Christian music or something of that nature. But, I became ill before I finished my Music Business degree (though I had finished all the music classes, I lacked some of the business courses), and it seemed like God had a different plan for me. My illness would not allow me to return to finish the few credits I lacked so I graduated with an AA in General Studies. I was determined to follow that plan, but I still didn't know what that was.<br />
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While I was praying and trying to find out God's will for me, I took jobs as a church secretary and then later secretarial positions at both Ball State and Anderson University while I tried to discern God's plan for me. For a time after college, I really thought I was supposed to make Christian films and one day own my own studio. I performed in Community Theater and learned all I could about performing and putting on performances and while I loved it, it still didn't seem like the right fit.<br />
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By this time I had moved back to Indiana and had been attending my home church in Middletown where I was a volunteer in both the children and youth departments. I helped in any way they would let me. Rev. Jill Waltz gave me added responsibilities and I was even slightly paid for a time as a leader of one of the areas. I loved working with the children and I enjoyed seeing their eyes light up as they started to understand a Biblical concept or beam with pride when they memorized a scripture. For five years, I worked with Jill and she trained me in many aspects of children's ministry...but the whole time, I was struggling. I couldn't figure out why the Lord wouldn't show me where He wanted me to work. What was His plan?<br />
<br />
And then one day, it hit me...like a lighting bolt. <i>"You are to be a Children's Pastor."</i><br />
<br />
And then the questioning began..."You can't mean me? My Dad's a Pastor. My brother is a Pastor. You surely don't need me in the pastorate too?"<br />
<br />
But God replied, gently but firmly, <i>"Yes, I do. I need you to be a Children's Pastor."</i><br />
<br />
So, I went into Children's Ministry. I received my first Local Minister's License from the Middletown Church of the Nazarene in 2003, took my first full time ministry assignment as the Children and Youth Pastor at the Muncie Southside Church of the Nazarene in 2004, was given my first District License in 2005 and have been working toward becoming and Ordained Elder since that time. <br />
<i> </i><br />
This is not a journey I ever planned to take. I knew when I started on it that it would not be easy. In fact, at first I was terrified at the thought of being a Pastor. I knew that it would include new challenges, moments of joy, heartbreak, new friends, hard work, exhaustion and exhilaration. But I also knew that the One who called me would walk through all those times with me. And from the first step of this Journey...I never again felt like I wasn't where I was supposed to be. I knew I was doing what God wanted.<br />
<br />
Twenty five years ago, I told the Lord that I would go anywhere, do anything, and be whatever He wanted me to be. So far that journey has literally taken me across the country, out of my comfort zone, and into places I never dreamed. On May 4th, after 10 years and working toward the goal on four Districts in three States, I will be Ordained as an Elder in the Church of the Nazarene. And I want to say "Thank you" to all of you who have supported me on this journey. Whether you were there when it started 25 years ago, or have come along side me at some point since then, I want you to know that you are a blessing to my life. <br />
<br />
The Journey is by no means over, but this will be a milestone marker in my life and I just wanted to take a moment and reflect on the road that has brought me to this point. God has been and continues to be my Guide, my Comfort, my Shelter, my All...and I look forward to continuing to follow His lead.<br />
<br />Toni Jameshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16033528842523989063noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5307345738386912021.post-68645455537283747612015-04-24T14:16:00.001-05:002015-04-24T14:16:40.741-05:00Grandma...my hero.<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPzFrTSvLs6Z2m7IHdEsw_LJz6JFQoQQqn_TPHMlBWmc-Klc4_zugJCrzSyKOdVQN-CQyJQpaz_ScT4Fdswl7TDahN_j1OxVMvkOAhb4JglrZbJ_YDtNZX_EVJulx56WcnSM9I_6voAE0/s1600/IMG_0956.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPzFrTSvLs6Z2m7IHdEsw_LJz6JFQoQQqn_TPHMlBWmc-Klc4_zugJCrzSyKOdVQN-CQyJQpaz_ScT4Fdswl7TDahN_j1OxVMvkOAhb4JglrZbJ_YDtNZX_EVJulx56WcnSM9I_6voAE0/s1600/IMG_0956.JPG" height="320" width="239" /></a>I've been living with my Grandma now for more than a year. She will be 81 next month and is not in the best of health. However in the last few months I have begun to see her really start to slip in her mind and that is a tough thing to be witness to. She forgets nearly anything she is told, she is easily frustrated, and I am beginning to see where I get my stubborn streak from. But the hardest to watch might be her preparation for leaving this world. She goes through old letters and papers and sets them aside as things that different family members might want. She talks often of leaving and of how much she misses her sisters and parents who have gone before her.<br />
<br />
I do not look forward to the day that she passes away. I hope it is not for a long time yet. Grandma has been a shining light in my life for as long as I can remember. She has always been a listening ear when I needed it, a prayer warrior, and encourager and one who shows unconditional love to all within her reach. She has demonstrated to me how to show the love of Jesus to those who cause her pain, how to persevere no matter the circumstance, and the joys of the little things in life. I am quite certain that I will never hear a bird sing or listen to the wind blow without thinking of her and of how she enjoys those two things so much.<br />
<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dad and Grandma</td></tr>
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The thing she doesn't realize is just how far a reach her influence has had over the years. It is not uncommon that I will meet someone whose life she has touched. She sees herself as a small person (she's not quite 5 feet tall) without much influence, but what I have seen is a mild mannered woman with a superhuman capacity to love, encourage, teach, and pray. In many ways, she is my hero.<br />
<br />
She can not drive, has difficulty walking, one arm is nearly immobile and she can not see all that well. But she is still one of the most amazing women I have ever known in my life. I am so blessed to get to live with her. I am blessed to get to help take care of her as she gets older.<br />
<br />
We often take for granted our loved ones. We get busy and forget to call or choose to let other things take priority in our lives because after all...we can talk to them later. But living with Grandma reminds me that that is simply not true. Sadly, one day they will be gone, so we must take advantage of the time that we are given.Toni Jameshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16033528842523989063noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5307345738386912021.post-67294019329507389552015-03-21T11:01:00.001-05:002015-03-21T11:01:15.598-05:00Leaving a Lasting Impression...Today I will be attending a funeral. The funeral is for Betty Whitteberry, an amazing woman of faith who I have known most of my life. She was a strong woman who was not afraid to say what was on her mind. She was a godly woman who wanted others to know her Savior as well. She and her husband, Rev. David Whitteberry have impacted my life in ways they will never fully know. Partially because they have had such a profound impact on my parent's life and the life of my grandparents as well. I have many times heard my Dad speak of Rev. Whitteberry and how much Dad has learned from him over the years. My Mom loved Betty and my Grandma refers to Betty as someone akin to a sister in her life. These three people have been some of the biggest influences on my spiritual life and some of their biggest influences were the Whitteberrys. So you can see, that though I have had the privilege of knowing both Rev. and Mrs. Whitteberry personally, their impact on my life far surpasses the time I have had with them. Though Betty is now with our loving Savior, her influence can still be seen in all who knew her.<br />
<br />
Influence is like that. We have an impact on those around us, but it can go much farther than we realize. Those who impact us, impact those we are in contact with as well. And that leaves a lasting impression on far more people than we realize. <br />
<br />
It makes me wonder what kind of impact I am leaving on those around me? What kind of impact are you leaving? The memory verse we are learning is Children's Church is James 2:17<i> "In the same way, faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead."</i> If our faith in Christ isn't being lived out in our lives through our actions, we are not leaving the kind of impression we should be.<br />
<br />
Ms. Betty left a legacy of faith being lived out through her actions that will last far longer than her earthly life. I hope someday the same can be said of me. <br />
<br />
<br /><br />
<br />
<br />Toni Jameshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16033528842523989063noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5307345738386912021.post-22779471527339464492015-02-14T18:10:00.000-06:002015-02-15T06:03:27.316-06:00Semis still scare me, but...So, today was not anything like I had expected. This morning I left the house early to get to Marion for the last day of my Supervised Ministry Class. I had been working through this class for 6 months, so it was a relief to turn in my binder of papers and complete it.<br />
<br />
Around 11:00am, class was over and I started to head for home. It had started to snow while I was in class and I was amazed at how difficult it was to see and how quickly it had changed from when I had left the house this morning. I decided to do a quick drive through for lunch and head home. Normally, I would not have eaten so early, but I just felt like it might be a good idea. I'm so glad I did.<br />
<br />
As I got on interstate 69, I was just amazed at how strange the weather was. It was bright with sunshine one minute and then nearly a whiteout the next. I was only going probably 50 miles and hour or less on at 70mph road because it was so frequent that you could not see more than a few dozen feet in front of you.<br />
<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Directly in front of me.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Then it happened. I came through at white out section and saw that in front of me was a huge group of cars and trucks...stopped. I thought to myself, if there is any ice at all here, I'm going to crash, but I hit the brakes and miraculously there was no ice and I stopped before I hit any cars. There was a large semi perhaps 50-100 yards behind me who had also stopped without hitting anything. I saw trucks and cars sliding all around me into the ditch on one side or the median on the other. There was a large group of teenagers (I assume from the school bus in the accident) who were climbing a fence into a field to get away from the oncoming cars who could not stop. I called 911 and as I talked to the operator (it was now 11:35am) I could see hear cars crunching into the semi behind me hard enough to move the semi forward and I saw parts of one of the cars fly in the air, but having that semi there, kept the cars from hitting me and the couple of cars on either side of me (one of which had 3 small children in it). Several years ago, a semi accidentally ran my Mom and I off the road, and I've been afraid to be near them ever since...but not today. Never did I feel so blessed to have a semi behind me. <br />
<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The field the teens were going to for safety at one point.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwyisH9hPrC2gkF_Br2TocNG8DCKuCpokQsjCBB6J-yaUpCAWkKG-4S4ZvqP9foImu5ZcoHY9us98vohXwViaaKoCYCTVQ8Sb8444YPkSSbfLXhyaTRHAfvDJZ5MXpFdn1OYvJw7IXvQM/s1600/Crash+4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwyisH9hPrC2gkF_Br2TocNG8DCKuCpokQsjCBB6J-yaUpCAWkKG-4S4ZvqP9foImu5ZcoHY9us98vohXwViaaKoCYCTVQ8Sb8444YPkSSbfLXhyaTRHAfvDJZ5MXpFdn1OYvJw7IXvQM/s1600/Crash+4.jpg" height="234" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The semi's who protected me</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Eventually the crashing stopped and people felt safe enough to get out of their cars and see what was happening. I, did not personally see any injured person near me, but I did not get out of my car at first. I was too nervous that some other car would come barreling through. But none did. I called my parents to let them know what had happened and my Aunt because I knew she had been north of the accident and didn't want her to get caught in it. Then I called my Grandma so she wouldn't worry (I live with her and she is prone to worry.) Then I sat in my car and waited. I knew that I was going to be there awhile. I got out and took a couple pictures and got back in my car. The police came through and told everyone to stay in their vehicles so the EMT's could work. I'm sure there were hurt people (had to be from some of the crashes I heard), but I only saw one gurney come through and only heard a couple of ambulances leave with sirens blaring so I am hopeful that most injuries were not too severe. For that I am so thankful.<br />
<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXBDjXeke8b8xgxVK9CPFwIGdPTbO8mMQkux6ptdeezU3Tbr_wG8xlaILXHVVgvth9TBRxV1RGUYyFbob_XQlCfhyia6aHk0OzVOiP6gXK36iL5erJOqmMZzQ-2DHnG7PV1lU5SEqwRpg/s1600/Crash+5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXBDjXeke8b8xgxVK9CPFwIGdPTbO8mMQkux6ptdeezU3Tbr_wG8xlaILXHVVgvth9TBRxV1RGUYyFbob_XQlCfhyia6aHk0OzVOiP6gXK36iL5erJOqmMZzQ-2DHnG7PV1lU5SEqwRpg/s1600/Crash+5.jpg" height="234" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">In front and to the left of me.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
We sat there for nearly 4 hours. During that time, I got to thinking about how crazy it was that not only didn't I hit anyone, but no one hit me. In fact, one of the policemen (or firefighters...was a little hard to tell as there were so many around) asked me several times if I was ok and seemed shocked that I hadn't hit anyone or anyone hit me. But if that semi and the one behind it, hadn't been there, this would be a very different story. A very different story. I very much feel that I was a part of a miracle. Especially, since I have not heard of one fatality from the pileup. That, is a miracle indeed.<br />
<br />
The news reports I have seen say there were at least 20 cars in this wreck. I would say it was at least double that number if not more. I myself, counted 22 and that was just the cars I could see. Not the ones blocked by the semi's and other vehicles. In fact, one of the police officers, climbed a ladder leaned against a semi in front of me to take pictures of the accident. Must have been a huge area to need to get that high. <br />
<br />
As I sit at home now, safe and sound, I am in awe of what could have happened, but didn't. I felt the prayers of those who were lifting them up. This was indeed a day that I won't soon forget. Thank you Jesus, for you protection. <br />
<br />
For the record, I'm still rather afraid of semis...but I am so thankful this one was there today.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Toni Jameshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16033528842523989063noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5307345738386912021.post-90315583692293423302014-12-30T14:41:00.001-06:002014-12-30T14:41:17.535-06:00A Few Words About Movies...From A Fan<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="macro"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="toa heading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Bullet"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Number"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Bullet 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Bullet 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Bullet 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Bullet 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Number 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Number 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Number 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Number 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="10" QFormat="true" Name="Title"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Closing"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Signature"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="1" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" Name="Default Paragraph Font"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Body Text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Body Text Indent"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Continue"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Continue 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Continue 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Continue 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Continue 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Message Header"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="11" QFormat="true" Name="Subtitle"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Salutation"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Date"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Body Text First Indent"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Body Text First Indent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Note Heading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Body Text 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Body Text 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Body Text Indent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Body Text Indent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Block Text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Hyperlink"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="FollowedHyperlink"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="22" QFormat="true" Name="Strong"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="20" QFormat="true" Name="Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Document Map"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Plain Text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="E-mail Signature"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Top of Form"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Bottom of Form"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Normal (Web)"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Acronym"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Address"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Cite"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Code"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Definition"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Keyboard"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Preformatted"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Sample"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Typewriter"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Variable"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Normal Table"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="annotation subject"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="No List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Outline List 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Outline List 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Outline List 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Simple 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Simple 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Simple 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Classic 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Classic 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Classic 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Classic 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Colorful 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Colorful 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Colorful 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Columns 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Columns 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Columns 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Columns 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Columns 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table 3D effects 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table 3D effects 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table 3D effects 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Contemporary"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Elegant"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Professional"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Subtle 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Subtle 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Web 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Web 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Web 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Balloon Text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="Table Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Theme"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" Name="Placeholder Text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="1" QFormat="true" Name="No Spacing"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" Name="Medium Shading 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" Name="Medium List 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" Name="Medium Grid 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" Name="Medium Grid 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" Name="Colorful Shading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" Name="Revision"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="34" QFormat="true"
Name="List Paragraph"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="29" QFormat="true" Name="Quote"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="30" QFormat="true"
Name="Intense Quote"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="19" QFormat="true"
Name="Subtle Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="21" QFormat="true"
Name="Intense Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="31" QFormat="true"
Name="Subtle Reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="32" QFormat="true"
Name="Intense Reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="33" QFormat="true" Name="Book Title"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="37" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" Name="Bibliography"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" QFormat="true" Name="TOC Heading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="41" Name="Plain Table 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="42" Name="Plain Table 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="43" Name="Plain Table 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="44" Name="Plain Table 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="45" Name="Plain Table 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="40" Name="Grid Table Light"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46" Name="Grid Table 1 Light"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="Grid Table 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="Grid Table 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="Grid Table 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="Grid Table 5 Dark"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51" Name="Grid Table 6 Colorful"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52" Name="Grid Table 7 Colorful"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="Grid Table 1 Light Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="Grid Table 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="Grid Table 3 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="Grid Table 4 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="Grid Table 5 Dark Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="Grid Table 6 Colorful Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="Grid Table 7 Colorful Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="Grid Table 1 Light Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="Grid Table 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="Grid Table 3 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="Grid Table 4 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="Grid Table 5 Dark Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="Grid Table 6 Colorful Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="Grid Table 7 Colorful Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="Grid Table 1 Light Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="Grid Table 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="Grid Table 3 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="Grid Table 4 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="Grid Table 5 Dark Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="Grid Table 6 Colorful Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="Grid Table 7 Colorful Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="Grid Table 1 Light Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="Grid Table 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="Grid Table 3 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="Grid Table 4 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="Grid Table 5 Dark Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="Grid Table 6 Colorful Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="Grid Table 7 Colorful Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="Grid Table 1 Light Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="Grid Table 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="Grid Table 3 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="Grid Table 4 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="Grid Table 5 Dark Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="Grid Table 6 Colorful Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="Grid Table 7 Colorful Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="Grid Table 1 Light Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="Grid Table 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="Grid Table 3 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="Grid Table 4 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="Grid Table 5 Dark Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="Grid Table 6 Colorful Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="Grid Table 7 Colorful Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46" Name="List Table 1 Light"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="List Table 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="List Table 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="List Table 4"/>
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<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;"></span></b><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span><b><span style="font-weight: normal;">In recent years, we have seen an
upswing in the number of Christian movies that are being made.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I am beyond thrilled by this because it is a
wonderful way to teach others about the love of Christ or for the Lord to open
a door to conversation about Him. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Films
like “Fireproof”, “God’s Not Dead”, “The Grace Card” and “Courageous” are all
powerful films you could bring anyone to and they would hear about God’s
love.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>However, not all movies that claim to be
Christian or are touted by others as such are very Christ Like.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And this
bothers me and has bothered me for some time.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Let me explain.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></b></span><b><span style="font-weight: normal;">
</span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span></span></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span> Years ago, there was a movie out
called “The Cross and the Switchblade.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>It was a wonderful film (though cheesy and dated by today’s standards)
that portrayed the true story of a preacher who reached out to gangs in New
York.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The fact that it was about real
people and showed real situations made it powerful.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Though it was showing gang life (a tame
version I’m sure, but still eye-opening), it did this by not only showing the
vicious fighting that occurred, but also by making you use your imagination
some.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And while I’m sure the gangs in
question did not speak like choir boys, there </span></span></b><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;">were</span></span><b><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;"> only a very few swear words
in the film.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And the movie showed the
power of God’s love to change you for the better and how He doesn’t give up on
anyone.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>No matter your background and no matter what you've done, God still loves us and wants us in His family. I
still find the film powerful, though it is more than 30 years old.</span></span></b></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span></span></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>In contrast, I went to see a more current movie with my brother awhile back. (I’m not going to use the
movie name here, but if you ask me I’ll tell you what it was.)<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And while I was not a really a fan of the person the
film was about to begin with, I had heard the name and good things about their
talent </span></span></b><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;">plus</span></span><b><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;"> I enjoy biographical films.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></span></b><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;">But mostly</span></span><b><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;">, I just wanted to hang out with my brothe</span></span></b><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;">r. It was</span></span><b><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;"> a treat for me since I rare have that opportunity.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"></span> </span></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;"> </span></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;"> I left the movie having no desire to ever hear anything about or by the
person the movie revolved around.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>My
opinion of the person, from that film (and only from that film as I h</span></span></b><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;">ad</span></span><b><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;">
nothing else to base it on), was that the person </span></span></b><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;">was</span></span><b><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;"> paranoid that people would leave or not like the person, was one of the most joyless people I had ever seen portrayed<b> </b></span></span></b><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;">and was quite selfish.</span></span><b><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> Not selfish </span></span></span></b><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">where money or time is concerned, but more in the fact that everything had to revolve around him. His needs, his issues, his feelings. If it didn't revolve around him, then it didn't matter. Even the charity work him did seemed to be more to make the person feel better about himself. Now the actual person was perhaps not this way, but that was what was portrayed in the film. </span></span></span><b><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><br /></span></span></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;"> </span></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;"> I understand that not everyone is happy
all the time and I know that being a Christian does not mean that everything
goes well in our lives all the time.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But
if they were wanting to make a movie about how God’s love can change you, how
God’s love is amazing, or how God’s love is powerful, they missed the mark. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’m not saying the person didn’t have a walk
with the Lord…please don’t take that from my words.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Just that, the movie portrayed this person in
a way that made me…well, pity him.</span></span></b></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span></span></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-indent: 0.5in;">
<b><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;">I saw someone online recently
talking about what a wonderful Christian movie </span></span></b><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;">a certain film was</span></span><b><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;">.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> (Again, I am not posting the movie name, but if you ask, I will tell you.) </span>I had not heard about the film so I looked it
up.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>When I saw that it was rated R and
had around 30 F words (according to a secular website) as well as a bunch of
other stuff that I wouldn't want to see/hear. I questioned the person about it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>They responded in part, that it was a powerful Christian film and that the </span></span></b><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;">main character</span></span><b><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;"> in the film is constantly shown as a light against the darkness around
them and was able to speak to them because of that.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span> </span></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-indent: 0.5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-indent: 0.5in;">
<b><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;">That may well be, (I have not seen the film and do not plan to) but here is the bottom
line as I see it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>When I go to a
Christian film I was to learn about Christ.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I want to see the difference He makes in people’s lives.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And though I know we need to see the
difference between those who walk in the darkness and those who walk in the
light, I don’t want to be accosted by a barrage of swear words, smut, or
innuendo in order for them to do that.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And if the screenwriter is any good at all, I
don’t need to be. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></span></b><b><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;"></span></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-indent: 0.5in;">
<b><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;"></span></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-indent: 0.5in;">
<b><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;"></span></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-indent: 0.5in;">
<b><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;"></span></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-indent: 0.5in;">
<b><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"></span></span></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-indent: 0.5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-indent: 0.5in;">
<b><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Many years ago, Dick Van Dyke, was
asked by a magazine why his show (at the time he was on “Diagnosis Murder”)
didn’t have more sex and violence in </span></span></b><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;">it</span></span><b><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;">. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The magazine felt he wasn’t showing life as it
is.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>His response was, “What’s wrong with telling
like it ought to be?”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I love that.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If he, as a secular artist, felt that way
shouldn’t we, as Christians be even more vigilant about that?</span></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-indent: 0.5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-indent: 0.5in;">
<b><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;">We see the bad.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s
all around us.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We don’t need Hollywood
to inform us that the world is a dark place. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We are called to be the light in that
darkness.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>God gives us creativity.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He gives talent.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I am not a screenwriter by any means, but I
know that God has given some people an incredible talent for that.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We serve an amazing God.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He has overcome the world and we have been
called to bring the world to Him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Tell
me, how making someone who is already dealing with the darkness around them,<b> </b>trudge through even more of it is a good way to reach them for Christ?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></span></b></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-indent: 0.5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;"> I have often heard people talk about movies being good
because they are “real”.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Well, “real” is overrated.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We all know real.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And for some, the reality of life is more
overwhelming tha</span></span></b><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;">n</span></span><b><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;"> for others.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> We are here to show them the life God has for them. <b> </b> </span>I’m with
Dick Van Dyke on this one.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“What’s
wrong with telling it like it ought to be?” </span></span></b></div>
Toni Jameshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16033528842523989063noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5307345738386912021.post-77259837237040547852014-11-29T14:09:00.000-06:002014-11-29T16:16:18.356-06:00Love is more powerful than hate...Care to help me demonstrate?Winter has arrived! I am so excited.<br />
<br />
I know...start telling me how crazy I am. It's ok. Everyone does. I'll wait...<br />
<br />
Feel better now? Ok, I'll continue then.<br />
<br />
Actually, the reason I am excited is because it is the holiday season. My favorite holiday is Christmas. I love it. I love the smiles I see on people's faces. I love how we start decorating everything with pretty lights, figurines, and ornaments that bring back fond memories of days gone by.<br />
<br />
And I love the goodwill people tend to show to their fellow men. Well, usually they do. This year, seems to be starting out with folks finding that challenging. I know some people are mad about the grand jury verdict in Missouri and others are relieved that the officer involved was not indited for doing his job. But seriously people...how does destroying stuff and hurting people benefit anyone? I mean, if I got mad at my neighbor and so I decided to go break the windows of the folks three blocks away, then I would be clearly in the wrong and most people would think that there was something wrong with me mentally. After all, even if I really did have reason for my anger toward my neighbor it would be absolute lunacy to take it out on a random person who is clearly not involved in the situation. Not that violence of any kind is ok simply because someone is angry.<br />
<br />
Part of my devotions today came out of Proverbs and how interesting that it seems to address just such an issue.<br />
<br />
<i>Proverbs 29: 8, 10-11 (NIV)</i><br />
<i>Mockers stir up a city, but wise men turn away anger.</i><br />
<i>Bloodthirsty men hate a man of integrity and seek to kill the upright.</i><br />
<i>A fool gives full vent to his anger, but a wise man keeps himself under control.</i><br />
<br />
It seems, we as a people, have had trouble with our anger for centuries. But, how wonderful that God doesn't leave us in our selfish way of thinking. He gives us warnings of how letting our anger control our actions will do nothing but cause more problems...and most of the time make us look bad too.<br />
<br />
We have entered the Advent Season...a season of expectation and joy as we await celebration of the coming of our Lord. A Savior who came knowing full well our faults. Knowing we are a messed up people. But also knowing that we could be saved. It is not a season of anger but of peace. It is a season of joy...a season of love...and most of all a season of hope.<br />
<br />
Can you imagine what would happen in our world if people were as vocal and demonstrative about spreading peace, joy, love and hope as they have been in spreading their anger and hate? We all know which is more powerful. The change we would see in the world would be mind boggling. If fact, it would be world changing. <br />
<br />
So do you really want to change the world for the better? Really want to make a difference? Join me in sharing God's peace, joy, love and hope in the world this season. Love is much more powerful than hate. Care to help me demonstrate?<br />
<br />
Let's change the world! Toni Jameshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16033528842523989063noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5307345738386912021.post-40773563880710378732014-09-15T13:58:00.001-05:002014-09-15T13:58:30.608-05:00So, what do you do for a living?I have been in Children's Ministry for over ten years now, and I love my job. Truly! I do. It's an amazing job and every day is different. I am allowed and encouraged to be creative. I get to be around amazing children and adults. AND I get to tell them about Jesus! It is indeed a fantastic position and I am honored to be a Children's Pastor. <br />
<br />
However, there is one question that I have gotten many many times over the years. And that is this: "What do you do for a living?" I respond, "I'm a Children's Pastor." To which the response is then, "Yes, but what do you do for a job?" This surprised me at first. After all, being a Children's Pastor is my job. If I had responded, "I am a teacher" or "I am a welder" would the response have been, "Yes, but what do you do for a job?" But it rapidly became clear that many people do not know what a Children's Pastor does. Perhaps they think that we simply babysit on Sundays and Wednesdays and if that is the case, then I do indeed understand the confusion. <br />
<br />
So, below you will find some of the duties of a Children's Pastor. This is not an exhaustive list by any means, but at least it will hopefully help answer the questions about what a Children's Pastor does. You will notice that in the list I have not placed<b> PRAYER</b> or <b>BIBLE STUDY.</b> This is not because we don't do it, but because of all the things people wonder about ministry, those two things are a given and we must do them if we want to be effective in our ministry and grow as a Pastor and as a Christian. <br />
<br />
<b>Preparation for services: </b><br />
This takes up a good portion of the week's work. How much will depend on how long the service is, how much of the program needs to be learned because it is "brand new," if we are writing the curriculum or using a purchased one, etc. And it includes not just the message, but also the games, music, object lessons, review sections, prayer activities, preparing the agendas, technical/video needs, and prep for the volunteers who help as well. <br />
<br />
<b>Contacts and/or calling</b>: <br />
While many Children's Pastors do not do as many home visits as perhaps a Sr. Pastor does, we do try to attend the events or programs that our children are involved in...when we know about them. We can not attend everything, but we do try to attend what we can. We also often help with the regular calling of the church to hospitals, nursing homes, shut-in's etc. This also includes correspondence via email, postal mail, social media and etc. <br />
<br />
<b>Event Preparation</b>: <b></b><br />
Events such as Bible School, Easter Eggstravaganza, Trunk or Treat, Special Family Sundays, and Revivals take lots and lots of planning. Most people only see the event itself, but for each 2 hour event there is probably 50-75 hours of planning (or more) that was done prior to that event to get things ready so that it goes smoothly and properly. And that doesn't include the hours put in by the volunteers who help to plan the event. <br />
<br />
<b>Meetings: </b><br />
In most churches, there is a weekly staff meeting that will be about an hour or so. Then over the course of the week there are other smaller meetings as things get planned or talked about. Some may not be seen as a regular sort of meeting, but they are still meetings of a sort and are vital to making sure all bases are covered. Then there are the Zone or District Meetings that we attend. They are not as often as our staff meetings, but some are on a monthly basis and some are several times a year. Again, these can last from 1-3 hours or so and for District Meetings will often involve driving to another location 45 minutes or more away. <br />
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<b>Shopping:</b><br />
I know it probably seems odd that shopping is a part of my regular duties, but in order to do things well and using a tight budget (which nearly all Children's Pastors have), it takes a lot of time to search for the best buys on items needed. Shopping can occur online (so from the office) or having to go to the actual store. There is always an event coming up so something always seems to be needed. Shopping is something that is never really finished.<br />
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<b>Publicity/Information Sharing </b><br />
This takes many forms. From creating monthly newsletters to creating a poster or flyer for an upcoming program, to updating the department facebook or twitter account or even putting new information on the bulletin board. And let us not forget the many sign up sheets and permission slips that are needed. <br />
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<b>Research </b><br />
Children's trends change by the minute it seems and if we want to be able to minister to them, we need to know what is important to them. From the popular TV shows and movies, to the music and video games that are bombarding them. And let us not forget the books and magazines they read. Aside from our own studies into how to reach children, we need to keep up with what is currently reaching for them from every side. Sometimes that means watching a movie that they are all talking about or reading the book that they can't put down. If it is important to them, it has influence and if we want to be able to influence them for the Lord, we have to know about what is important to them.<br />
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<b>Paperwork </b><br />
There are Board Reports, expense vouchers, and other office details that must be taken care of as with any other sort of position.<br />
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<b>Other Teaching...</b><br />
Many Children's Pastors teach outside the regular services in some capacity from time to time. Sometimes it is being asked to preach in an adult service or it could be leading a workshop within the church or at another event. Some also may speak at a chapel service of a local school, or help with an after school program. <br />
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I'll stop there. As I said, this is not an exhaustive list, there are many other things I could have included, but it's a start. Yes, it's a big job, but I think my Children's Pastor friends would all agree that we wouldn't want to do anything else. We love what we have been called to do and get excited about the things we plan. God called us to minister to children and their families and we are honored to answer that call. To Him be all the glory!<br />
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<br />Toni Jameshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16033528842523989063noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5307345738386912021.post-37335025614335213892014-08-04T11:31:00.000-05:002014-08-04T11:31:50.094-05:00#WeAreN...Let us not be silent!Imagine being told that in your town that being a Christian was no longer allowed. That you now have the choice of converting to a different religion, paying a huge tax (much more than you could afford), leave your town, or you will be killed. And to make sure that others know you are a Christian household a letter "N" is spray painted on the side of your home. Now imagine that you choose to leave, but when you get to the edge of your town, you are forced to hand over everything you own except the clothes on your back. As you leave you find that the church you used to attend has been overtaken and is now being used for another religion. You hear of people that you used to worship with, but who chose not to leave the town are now being murdered in unspeakable ways. Now those same people who took over your town have their sights set on other towns to do the same thing in. <br />
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And now imagine that the world is hearing of these horrible events, but no one is doing anything to stop them. Imagine that news about the injury of a sports star, the ongoing drama in celebrity lives, and the continual bickering of government officials is flooding the mainstream media, but the holocaust that you are living through is being virtually ignored.<br />
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You really don't have to imagine any of this because it is actually happening! Granted, it isn't here in the United States...yet, but it is happening in Iraq. Our Christian brothers and sisters have been faced with that exact scenario I described and what am I seeing on the news and across the internet? These are actual headlines I copied from the news section of AOL today:<span class="dl-copy-overlay"></span><br />
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<a class="lnid-sec1_lnk2 icid-maing-grid7|maing10-news|dl3|sec1_lnk2&pLid=510204" href="http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2014/07/31/yellow-lobster-supermarket_n_5639098.html?icid=maing-grid7%7Cmaing10-news%7Cdl3%7Csec1_lnk2%26pLid%3D510204" name="om_dl3_hdln">Rare lobster rescued from grocery store</a></h2>
<h2>
<a class="lnid-sec1_lnk2 icid-maing-grid7|maing10-news|dl4|sec1_lnk2&pLid=510531" href="http://www.aol.com/article/2014/08/04/man-who-shot-nyc-chokehold-video-has-been-arrested-on-unrelated/20941261/?icid=maing-grid7%7Cmaing10-news%7Cdl4%7Csec1_lnk2%26pLid%3D510531" name="om_dl4_hdln">Man who filmed NYC chokehold death arrested</a></h2>
<h2>
<a class="lnid-sec1_lnk2 icid-maing-grid7|maing10-news|dl1|sec1_lnk2&pLid=510583" href="http://www.aol.com/article/2014/08/04/third-person-attacked-by-vicious-otter-on-the-pilchuck-river/20941381/?icid=maing-grid7%7Cmaing10-news%7Cdl1%7Csec1_lnk2%26pLid%3D510583" name="om_dl1_hdln">'Cute' creature puts third person in hospital</a></h2>
<h2>
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Now, granted there were other articles too. A bit about the conflict happening in Israel, and other military issues around the world, but seriously...the above articles were more important than a literal HOLOCAUST happening in Iraq? REALLY???? <br /><br />
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The news reports, I read (from non mainstream places of course) show situations frighteningly similar to what Hitler did to the Jews in World War II. I remember studying that war and thinking, "How is it that the world didn't stand up for the Jews? Why didn't they try to stop Hitler?" It was mind boggling to me that even one concentration camp could have been built before someone stepped in and said, "There will be no more murders!" And yet, I read the reports now and think..."So, that's how it happened." Perhaps the world didn't step in because it didn't know...and those who did know stood by and silently watched doing nothing. <br /><br />Well, not me! I may not be able to go to Iraq and literally stand with my Iraqi brother and sisters, but I can certainly do my part to get the word out about their plight! Maybe my words won't do any good in the long run, but that won't stop me from trying! SOMEONE STEP IN!!! If it can happen there, it can happen here. <br /><br />The "N" being painted on the homes of Christians stands for Nazarene...or Christian. So I am proudly standing with my Christian Family around the world to say #WeAreN and we will not go away. I saw this picture on someone's twitter feed (My apologies that I can't remember whose) and I loved it. May we all stand with our Iraqi brothers and sisters.<br />
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<br />Toni Jameshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16033528842523989063noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5307345738386912021.post-49261671578023436822014-07-29T12:23:00.000-05:002014-07-29T12:23:04.525-05:00The Devil's In My Pocketbook - Part 2: Gas Pump Adventures<b>The Devil's In My Pocketbook...And Other Things I Learned From Grandma (Part 2)</b><br />
Gas Pump Adventures<br />
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Several years ago, (and by several I mean probably 15 or so) my cousin and my Grandma were out together and Grandma noticed that her car was in need of gas. She pulls up to a gas pump and my cousin (who was probably around 12 at the time if that old) hops out of the car to pump her gas for her. He quickly notices that she has pulled the car up on the wrong side so he tells her that she is going to have to pull around to the other side so that he can get to the gas tank. Grandma puts the car in gear and literally drives the car in a full circle ending up directly where she was at first...with the gas tank of the opposite side of the car from the gas pump. <br />
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My cousin, no doubt giggling a little, tells her that she is still on the wrong side and that she will have to pull the car around to the other side so that he can get to the gas pump. So, she once again puts the car in gear and makes a full circle around the pump ending up exactly where she started...still with the gas tank on the opposite side from the pump. By now, my cousin is laughing full out and Grandma is quite confused. Finally, after at least one more failed attempt to circle the gas pump (I'm not certain how many tries it took because I was not there) Grandma realized what had happened and got the car's gas tank next to the pump so that the gas could be added. But, her misadventures with that gas pump are a part of our family lore to such an extent that if ever I am driving a car and pull up to the wrong side of a pump (which has happened to me on more that one occasion), Grandma's adventure is the first thing I think of. :-)<br />
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It's funny to think of Grandma driving around that gas pump in circles. Each time she thought she was in the right place and each time she had ended up exactly where she had started and with the same problem she had started with. But as I think of her predicament (and I must admit that I have done the same thing she did before) I am reminded that we often do similar things in life. <br />
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How many times have you found yourself running and running only to find that you keep ending up in the same spot with the same problem you started with? We seem to get stuck in something that we know is going to be a problem, but each time we try to change it on our own we end up in the same place we started...and with the same problem. And it could be a myriad of things that causes us to feel this way. It could be financial issues, a destructive habit, a relationship that is harmful in some way (physically, mentally, or spiritually), or any number of other things. Some people run when they hear God calling them to something outside their comfort zone. Some run when they realize they need God, but are afraid to trust Him.<br />
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But thankfully, we do not have to stay in that same spot. Just like my cousin was there to point out that Grandma was on the wrong side of the gas pump, God is right there willing to help us through our struggle and when we follow His guidance, he will lead us out of that circle and help us continue down the path He has chosen for us. But unlike my cousin, God will never laugh at our problems. God understands our struggles and wants only to reach out and say, "This way...follow me. I'll show you the way out." Jesus says in Matthew 11:28-30 <span class="text Matt-11-28" id="en-NIV-23488"><span class="woj"><sup class="versenum"> </sup><i>“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.</i></span></span><i> <span class="text Matt-11-29" id="en-NIV-23489"><span class="woj"><sup class="versenum"> </sup>Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.</span></span> <span class="text Matt-11-30" id="en-NIV-23490"><span class="woj"><sup class="versenum"> </sup>For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.”</span></span> </i><br />
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We often try to run away from our problems, but that tends to bring us back to where we started. All of our running in circles gets tiresome. What a blessing to know that it isn't necessary. We need only to run to Jesus and let Him be our guide. And with Him leading us, though the path may not always be an easy one, we can trust that He will lead us down a path that is exactly where we need to be...and we can say goodbye to that frustrating circle where we had once found ourselves.<i> </i><br />
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It's another lesson God has taught me through my Grandmother's life.Toni Jameshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16033528842523989063noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5307345738386912021.post-82023025286836957482014-07-14T08:36:00.001-05:002014-07-14T08:36:34.545-05:00The Devil's in My Pocketbook...and Other Things I learned from Grandma (Part 1)<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCe7nNsAP4MmZmRiScEoXxUaCHB9-EakSj3OsbJiNcnH_oqofTaUSbxOd-GFOX7s-sxzhe6v8iN0YpO8-dIE4dNrqk-QQz3s7DcP5mVGHJmc-E_ME8AMZq0gZiUT4i6rKHzNMYAcG0okI/s1600/Alex+and+Great+Grandma+March+2014.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCe7nNsAP4MmZmRiScEoXxUaCHB9-EakSj3OsbJiNcnH_oqofTaUSbxOd-GFOX7s-sxzhe6v8iN0YpO8-dIE4dNrqk-QQz3s7DcP5mVGHJmc-E_ME8AMZq0gZiUT4i6rKHzNMYAcG0okI/s1600/Alex+and+Great+Grandma+March+2014.jpg" height="238" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Grandma and Alex. I can't wait until he can enjoy these stories too. </td></tr>
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For years my family has been saying that we were going to write a book about Grandma and include all the funny things she has done. We always told her that we would have to publish it in the fiction section because no one would believe that it was all true. However, as good as our intentions have been, we have yet to finish said book. So, I thought I'd start it in my blog. It won't be completed in one blog, but will be a series of them that I'll post from time to time. Though these stories are funny, they do have something to teach us...well, some of them do. Some are just a scream and had to be included. :-) So, if you see the above title, you'll know...there's some humor ahead.<br /><br />
So, first I'll explain the story of the title of this book. "The Devil's In My Pocketbook...and Other Things I learned from Grandma."<br />
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Many years ago, my cousin was ill and had to go to the doctor. On this occasion, my Aunt was working and could not take him, so Grandma took him to the doctor. Since my Aunt didn't want to miss what the doctor said, she sent a small tape recorder with Grandma to record what the doctor said. No big deal...except come Sunday, Grandma still had the tape recorder in her purse. Sunday morning Grandma heads out to church and as she drives along she starts to hear this low growl and isn't sure where it is coming from. She checks her radio and realizing it isn't on, she continues on to church, but the low growl and grumbling continues. By the time she arrives at church she is convinced that the devil is in her car. When she drove up to the church and handed her car off to a young person to park her car for her (a service offered for the elderly at that time) she warned them that something seemed to be in her car. The young person parked the car without incident and Grandma headed into the sanctuary. As service began, she could hear the low growl continue and was becoming concerned. Those around her had easily realized that the sound was coming from her purse and eventually she realized it too. She gingerly started opening her pocketbook, unsure of what she would find. When the pocketbook was opened it was found that that small tape recorder had turned on, but in the 1/2 speed setting, which of course made the doctor's recorded voice sound quite ominous. When Grandma turned it off, she turned to her friend next to her and said in a very relieved manner, "Oh thank goodness. I thought the devil was in my pocketbook!" <br />
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Now, it is important to note, that during all of the above story, except for when she got to church, Grandma was alone and none of the family was sitting with her in the service. We would never have known of this hysterical escapade except that she shared the story with us during lunch. We laughed and laughed. We could just picture her confusion and concern. My Uncle asked her, "So, really...of all the things that sound could have been, the only thing you thought it could be was that the devil was in your pocketbook?" To which Grandma replied, "Well, I had already checked the radio!"<br />
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We have laughed about that story for probably 20 years now. But as I look back on it, I realize that she probably isn't too far off in some ways. Though, I am certain that the devil is NOT in my pocketbook, he sometimes uses the things in my pocketbook to try and keep me "too busy" for God. My calendar gets full, my to do list lengthens, and my wallet is constantly wanting more money in it. Plus in this present day and age, the internet, the phone, my music, tv shows and even movies will all easily fit into my pocketbook. If you stop to think about it, if I'm not careful, the devil could indeed worm his way into my pocketbook. Grandma's funny story reminds me to be ever careful. He's not there now, but he's always going to try to get in...only I won't hear a low growl warning me he's arrived. <br />
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So, that's Part O<br />
ne! There's many more to go, but that's all for now. Have a great day everyone!Toni Jameshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16033528842523989063noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5307345738386912021.post-74979537234210209812014-07-01T04:59:00.000-05:002014-07-01T04:59:38.471-05:00Peace in the Midst of the StormAs anyone who knows me could attest, I am not a fan of summer in the slightest, but I do enjoy the rain. I like hearing the raindrops hit the roof and windows. I enjoy how calm and peaceful a summer shower can be to listen to. But with Summer, we also get storms. <br />
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Now, I am not as big a fan of storms. I like them fine until they get an attitude and start busting out tornadoes and such. Storms have a way of putting us on edge and making us alert to our surroundings all the more so we can watch for the strong winds and sometimes flooding. Not much of a fan of those kind of storms. <br />
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Because we were in evangelism, my family lived in a trailer or a motor home for most of my childhood. When a storm came, not only could you hear it, but often you could feel it because it would cause the trailer to sway some. The wind used to scare me in those situations. But, my Grandma James, used to always call the wind her friend. She liked to listen to it come through the trees and she would smile. Or we would hear it outside the house and she would say, "That's my friend saying hello." So when it would get windy, Mom and Dad would say, "Don't worry. That's just Grandma's friend" and somehow it didn't seem so scary anymore. <br />
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In life, we also will have storms. They come in all shapes and sizes. Some are small and easily dealt with, but some are so strong that we wonder if we will make it through. But through the storms, big or small, there has always been a constant. We are not alone. Jesus is always in control. Even when life seems out of control, it is never out of His control. <br />
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I love that old song, "Peace in the Midst of the Storm" by Shirley Ceasar. Many times over the years the lyrics of the chorus of that song will cross my mind. Today they came to mind again:<br />
<br />"There is peace in the midst of storm-tossed life<br />
There's an Anchor, there is a rock to build my faith upon<br />
Jesus Christ is my vessel, so I feel no alarm<br />
He gives me peace in the midst of the storm"<br />
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No matter what goes on in my life, I know that I can trust Him to guide my path...even when the path veers off to places I didn't really want to go. He's still in control and I trust Him to guide me to wherever I need to be. <br />
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Today is one of those times that the path is going a bit off of where I'd like. My Grandma James (who I live with) has been quite ill as of late and this morning we are taking her in for a Heart Cath.<br />
I am praying that they are able to fix the issue that she is dealing with...though we aren't quite sure what issue that is yet. But even as we take her for this procedure, I am trusting that the Lord will guide the doctor's hand and that all will be well. This storm isn't forever, and this storm isn't bigger than God's umbrella. I'll just hold a little tighter to Him until it passes. After all, giving peace in the midst of the storm is His specialty. Thank you Jesus. Toni Jameshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16033528842523989063noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5307345738386912021.post-39216229538978906392014-05-26T21:38:00.003-05:002014-05-26T21:38:38.723-05:00Here We Go Again...In my family, there is one thing that is pretty much a given and that is that we will move around. Since I was a child I have moved 21 times not including all the traveling we did in Evangelism or college moves (except one when I lived in an apartment). Twelve of those have been since college. My parents have moved something like 28 times since they got married (including moving to Kenya for a couple years) and Dad is closer to 39 times for his lifetime total. In fact, the only one of us to stay in the same city for more than half a dozen years is, my brother Rick. He's lived in Springfield, OH for more than a decade (though he has lived in three locations at least...so he has moved too). <br />
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Because of all these moves, we know what it is like to live close together (you really can't be much closer than 4 people living in a mobile home during our years in Evangelism), and we know what it is like to be far away from each other. When my parents lived in Kenya, I was living in Sacramento, CA. If you used a globe and put one finger on Sacramento and the other on Nairobi, you would find that we were literally at opposite sides of the planet. But, we have learned something...you are only as far away as you allow yourself to be. <br />
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Now it is my parent's turn to move again. They are moving to Oak Hill, West
Virginia where Dad is going to be the Sr. Pastor at the Nazarene Church
there. It sounds like a wonderful place and I am excited for them. In this world of computers, cell phones, ipads and more, you really can be connected to anyone no matter how far away they are. You can chat in instant message, text, email, you can skype or facetime...or you can even write an actual letter. (GASP!!! Yes, we do indeed still use the US Postal Service.) Though, it would be easy to let days and weeks go by and not talk to them, no matter how far away my parents are, I generally still talk to them about every day and sometimes several times a day. I want to know what they are up to. They want to know how I'm doing. We have even been known to play games like Yahtzee while on skype. With my brother, though we do not talk all the time, we do text some and I check his
Facebook page nearly every day and I often make comments about the
things he posts. I catch myself hoping that he or Jenn will post a new picture of my nephew or perhaps they will write about something he has done. Rick keeps us updated on his schedule and opportunities that way too. I have messaged my brother theological questions or simply questions about different types of thinking and he always takes the time to answer...even when he is busy. It takes an effort to connect when people do not live nearby, but it is totally doable...if you are willing to put in the work necessary.<br />
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The same can be said of our walks with the Lord. It is so often easy to get wrapped up in the happenings of our day that we forget to take time to chat with the Lord. He's always there ready to listen, but we are not always ready to share. Sometimes, I feel like we treat him like on of those Facebook Friends that we don't really expect to hear from, but are excited with they "like" something we post because it reminds us that we need to touch base with them soon. This is something that I struggle with sometimes too. But, like keeping up with far away family, if we put in an effort to begin something, soon it becomes a part of our day and something that we miss when we don't do. <br />
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For me, I have an audio Bible that I listen to when I get into my car. It is my morning ritual to start my day by listening to several chapters. It helps me focus and prepares me for what it ahead. I like praying in my car too. The people around me might think I look funny since I often pray aloud in the car, but when I haven't talked with God for a couple days, I miss it. I need that time with Him and He wants that time with me. <br />
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So, as my parents begin yet another new adventure in a new place, I plan to go along for the ride with them...from afar of course. They will get texts, and calls and I can pretty much guarantee there will be notes from me in their mail carrier's pouch because I will miss them more than I can express. But, we serve the same God and He has amazing plans for them in West Virginia and I am excited to find out what they are. And besides...they like to hear from me.<br /><br />And if you pass me in my car chatting away, I'm not crazy...I'm just touching base with my Heavenly Father as well. He likes to hear from me too. :-)<br />
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<br />Toni Jameshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16033528842523989063noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5307345738386912021.post-41088879930637905012014-04-09T15:05:00.000-05:002014-04-09T15:05:41.390-05:00Ever feel like a mouse?This past Sunday, I showed a clip to the kids that was shown at a kids camp a couple years ago. Below is the link. If you haven't seen it, I would suggest you watch it before you continue reading...or else this blog won't make a bit of sense to you. <br />
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I have seen this commercial many times now, but it was recently that it hit me in a new way. We, as humans, sometimes feel like this mouse. We get ourselves into situations where we feel trapped or pinned in by life. That can happen in many ways, but one of the things that I see most often is when we allow ourselves to be scared by things that we have no control over. And, much like mice, we can be scared by just about anything. And fear, my friends, can be debilitating.<br />
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Now, sometimes we tell ourselves that we aren't afraid. We are just "wondering." We wonder what the future will hold. We wonder where we will get the money to pay that bill that looms over our head. We wonder what the government is up to. We wonder what will happen to our freedoms. We wonder about all manner of things. But many times, we aren't "wondering" we are worrying. And worry can make us feel like that little mouse that's stuck in the trap. <br />
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But it's the end of that commercial that I love. The mouse takes the situation that seems hopeless and just changes everything. That bar across him is no longer a trap...it's a tool for exercise. We should do that same. Those things that have us scared, need to be tools to exercise our faith. I mean think about it. We have a Friend who is bigger than the storms that blow through our lives. And He's not some far off deity that looms overhead...He's our FRIEND. He loves us and wants what's best for us. And no matter what is happening in our lives...our God is NEVER overwhelmed by our problems. He knows what we need and He knows when we need it...we simply have to trust Him.<br />
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Next time a worry starts to take over your thoughts...remember our mousy friend here and change that worry trap into a tool to exercise your faith. <br />
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Bet you never look at a mousetrap in the same way. :-)Toni Jameshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16033528842523989063noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5307345738386912021.post-55125396927644818782014-02-15T11:38:00.001-06:002014-02-15T11:38:57.345-06:00If you could see what I see...There is snow all over the place. It's piled so high in some places that it is difficult to see oncoming traffic. It makes travel difficult and it makes work outside something of a challenge. But I love this time of year.<br />
<br />
In fact, without question, this has been my favorite winter weather in years. I love how the trees look full and beautiful with their winter coats of white snow. I love how the ground is pristine and pure looking after a new snowfall. I love the cold air that hits me every time I step outside. It is, quite simply, a beautiful time of year.<br />
<br />
Many people, however, do not enjoy this time of year. They do not feel energized, as I do, when the blast of cold hits their skin. They focus on the dirty snow that piles up on the roads and the difficulty that snow and ice can cause in travelling. They long for warmer temperatures and are ready for any hint of winter to be gone as soon as it arrives. I sort of feel sorry for those people...they are missing out.<br />
<br />
Life is all about the way you look at it. Personally for me, I am not at all a fan of summer and probably am just as miserable in the summer as those aforementioned folks are in the winter months. But (most of the time anyway) even in the heat of summer, I can find something of beauty to comment on. Granted, for me, in the summer that may take some doing, but I enjoy a challenge. However, since it comes easier for me in the winter, allow me to share with you a few things that I see in the winter. Perhaps it will help you see the beauty around you as well.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiz47QXOvAm8pJSqxL24Qvo9aYcYNh6bOYe1fdgtK-fpPfbPnDhxJV8XbLUQEqpBprzayNBKtGWiOta2CapmMDDhPvENJMSPJQ1r1vR6fCPilBCOeZrwyJ8QlNWshVk-mFt1u6bTTFSfrQ/s1600/IMG_1165.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiz47QXOvAm8pJSqxL24Qvo9aYcYNh6bOYe1fdgtK-fpPfbPnDhxJV8XbLUQEqpBprzayNBKtGWiOta2CapmMDDhPvENJMSPJQ1r1vR6fCPilBCOeZrwyJ8QlNWshVk-mFt1u6bTTFSfrQ/s1600/IMG_1165.JPG" height="297" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The view out Grandma's picture window.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
As I sit at my Grandmother's table, I can look out her picture window that faces the back yard and it simply makes me smile. There are things that you notice when the ground is covered in snow that are easily missed at other times of year. For example, yesterday, two bright red cardinal's decided to stop in the back yard for a bit. Grandma noticed them right away and called my attention to them. I must admit that without the white covering of snow, I might not have seen them. But two of God's creation graced us with their presence and the snow allowed me to notice them and remember their visit. <br />
<br />
In the snow, footprints of those who have gone before us are easily seen and followed. And we will often follow those footsteps more readily in the snow than at any other time of year. Foot prints remind me of those who have gone before me. Of those who's lives I have watched and continue to inspire me. People like my parents (Randy and Mary Jane James), saints of the church who I watched leave a lasting legacy as I grew up like Ray and Margarite Hensley, Francis Tullin, Elsie Hale, Rev. David Whitteberry, and Rev. Merlin Hunter and so many other people I have known. Some of these people have passed and some are continuing to leave footprints for others to follow. I hope as I see the footprints around me in the snow, it will remind me that I am not alone in this journey to follow the Father's path. There have been many before me and there will be many after me.<br />
<br />
Finally, the winter allows me to really notice and enjoy the sun. When the sunlight hits a pile of new snow, it shines in a way that simply makes me marvel. It makes what could be dreary days bright and cheerful as if the Father is saying, "Hello! I love you! Have a wonderful day!". <br />
<br />
These are just a few of many reasons I love snowy winters. Perhaps they are not your cup of tea, and that's fine. Do me a favor then and when summer comes around, write a blog for me about the beauty you see. I think I'd enjoy that. <br /><br />Have a great day everyone!<br />
Toni Jameshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16033528842523989063noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5307345738386912021.post-26983695057744426962014-01-31T07:38:00.000-06:002014-01-31T07:38:25.467-06:00You might be a member of my generation if…
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Maybe it is because I have moved to a place that holds so
many childhood memories or maybe it is because I will be having another
birthday in a little less than a month, but my mind is beginning to reminisce.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">I’m a part of Generation X and I always hated that
name.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s like my whole generation got
dropped into an algebra problem and everyone was trying to “find” us.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>However, aside from our unfortunate generational
name, we are a pretty interesting group.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>And we grew up in an ever changing world that was just beginning to use
computers, loved music videos, and some of our crew could nearly touch the
clouds just by the height of their hair (and yes, boys are included in this
statement).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>So, if you will indulge me,
today I thought I’d reminisce a little.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Remembering
this stuff made me smile…maybe it will do the same for you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></o:p><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">You Might Be A Member
of My Generation if: <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">You remember watching “Saved By the Bell” when it first came
out.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">You were keeping the hair spray, mousse, or hair gel
companies in business in Jr. High and High School.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Mullets were the popular hairstyle for guys. (Even MacGyver had one!)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">You played video games on an Atari 2600<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">You had a set of “Socker Boppers.” (FYI: I saw these in a
store recently…apparently they are making a comeback.)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">You owned or wanted to own your own Laser Tag set.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">You ever tried to talk as fast as the guy in the Micro
Machine commercials.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Trying to figure out how to transform your Transformer toy
the first time was always a thrill.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">New Kids on the Block were THE group…unless you were a
Country Music Fan, in which case switch that to Garth Brooks.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">You remember going to computer class and being asked to
actually type code into the computer.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Typing class (on typewriters) was a requirement in school.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">You remember the other characters that used to be in the
McDonalds Commercials (Hamburgler, Grimace, etc.)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Grey Poupon mustard makes you think of people in limos.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">You can quote the theme song to the “Fresh Prince of Bel-Air”…and
are probably doing so right now in your head…or maybe out loud. </span><span style="font-family: Wingdings; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-char-type: symbol; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;"><span style="mso-char-type: symbol; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;">J</span></span><o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">When you were growing up, there was always a popular show on
television that starred Michael Landon.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">You know where the phrase “Punky Power” comes from.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">If your Youth Group ever went to a Carman concert. (Always Good
concerts and always free!)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">If you wanted to play a game with a friend, you actually
went over to that friend’s house or they came to yours.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>No need for a computer.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">You wrote handwritten letters to friends…and couldn’t wait
to get a response in the mail.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">You got your world news from “Channel 1” in school every
day...and you probably still associate Anderson Cooper with that news show as opposed to his current show. (or maybe that's just me)</span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">You loved watching “The A-Team” and found it interesting
that no matter how many buildings, vehicles, or random objects blew up during
the show and though bullets were flying all the time…no one ever died or was
even seriously hurt (unless it was a plot point).<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">TGIF meant “Full House”, “Perfect Strangers”, “Step By Step”,
and “Family Matters” would be on.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">People rarely asked “Do you go to church?”, but rather “What
church do you go to?” because it seemed that everyone went to church somewhere…even
if they didn’t attend all the time.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">You loved watching “The Muppet Show” and always wondered how
Gonzo was going to goof up the ending of the theme song each week.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">You had at least one friendship bracelet that you wore for
ages. (Ok…probably just a few weeks)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">You knew LeVar Burton as the “Reading Rainbow” host long
before you ever heard of “Geordi LaForge”.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Twitter was something a bird did.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">If you are a girl, You probably read “The Babysitter’s Club”
or “Sweet Valley High” books all the time.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">You were determined to find “Carmen Sandiego” <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">You carried a camera and took lots of pictures, but never
seemed to get all the film developed. (I’m pretty sure I still have some
somewhere.)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Lots of good memories.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>There are, of course, many more.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>What’s your favorite memory of Generation X?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
Toni Jameshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16033528842523989063noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5307345738386912021.post-70725490240971605392014-01-06T10:10:00.001-06:002014-01-06T10:10:39.256-06:00Moving to a Not So New Place... So, as you know, if you've been following this blog or Facebook, I have been looking for a new place to serve because the church in North Vernon could no longer afford an Associate. It took several months and much prayer, but God has opened a new door for me that seems to be just what I needed. He's so good like that. <br />
<br />
Starting this Sunday, January 12th, I'll be the new Children's Pastor at the Parkview Church of the Nazarene in Anderson, IN. I even get to preach next Sunday night so if you're in the area, stop in and say hello. I'm looking forward to this new place and getting to know these people. Why is this such an answer to prayers? Well, not only am I convinced this church going to be a really great place to serve, my friends, let me share with you how good God is.<br />
<br />
First of all, Anderson is my old stomping ground. I am familiar with the area and have lots of friends and family around. Second, this opened a door for me to be able to move in with my Grandmother and help her out as well. Thirdly, my new church is literally right next door to the school where my oldest and one of my dearest friends teaches. Fourth, within 30 minutes of where I now live, there are 4 other Children's Pastor friends with whom I can connect. And lastly, because I am still in Indiana, that means I will be able to attend SPARK in March. SPARK is an annual retreat for children's workers from all over the state where we are able to attend workshops, connect with other churches, swap ideas and more. It's a blessing that I was truly hoping I wouldn't have to miss.<br />
<br />
God is so good. Even now, I am sitting in the midst of a snow day (my favorite kind of day). Grandma and I are about to relax and spend some time watching movies and enjoying seeing the beautiful snow that is just outside our doors. We have about a foot so far and the temperature at the moment is -13 and it feels like -47 outside...so we won't be venturing out today.<br />
<br />
I hope your new year is as blessed as mine has started out to be. Until next time, as my Dad always says, "Be blessed and be a blessing."Toni Jameshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16033528842523989063noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5307345738386912021.post-26517197066166896522014-01-04T17:32:00.000-06:002014-01-04T17:32:29.391-06:00Cyber bullying...Sports EditionIt's a new year. I promise I will post a blog within the next week about my new position and location, because I am very excited about that, but today I must speak about something that has been gnawing at me for quite a while and I am wondering if I am the only one who is seeing this?<br />
<br />
We, as adults, have been doing everything we can to teach children and teens that bullying in any form is wrong. Bullying is one of the biggest problems that young people are facing today and it comes in so many forms it is mind boggling. But, I am amazed at how many people I see on a regular basis participating in cyber bullying on Facebook. It happens every time there is a sporting event. And it can get NASTY!<br />
<br />
If your team is losing, then you see people posting about how terrible this player or that player is. Or maybe some derogatory comment will be made about the coach or coaching staff. If your team is winning, then the chatter changes from how bad your team is, to how bad the other team is, or worse yet (and I can't even believe this is happening, but I see it all the time) people fuss about how terrible it is that their team isn't winning by MORE! Seriously...it is enough to make me want to scream sometimes...and not because I care at all about sports. I don't. Trust me. I have nothing invested in any team anywhere except for the teams out of my alma mater and that is simply for nostalgia reasons or pride in my college. So, please understand that I am saying this for no other reason than the fact that there are eyes watching all that we do and this seems to be getting out of hand. <br />
<br />
First, every player on every sports team is indeed a person. They have family, friends, and wait for it...FEELINGS! They may get paid extremely well for what they do (or maybe not if it is a college player which means they are hearing all these terrible comments AND trying to deal with all the regular college life pressures), and if they are a professional, playing this sport, granted is their job and they knew that people would be watching them do their job. But let us look at them from a different perspective. Would you like it if everyone in the country had the opportunity to watch you do your job (whatever that was) and then post their thoughts about how well you are doing it, or not doing it for all their friends to see? Would you allow your child to do such a thing to someone they knew? Especially if they were going to post that person's name as well? Would you enjoy having your Aunt/Uncle/Cousin/Son/Daughter/Mom/Dad/Brother/Sister see your name be maligned all over the internet? No? Well, that is what is happening to these sports figures. Why is it ok to do it to them?<br />
<br />
I can hear you now, "Toni, none of those players are ever going to see what I post and besides they're making a bazillion dollars a year! They should be better at the game!" Ok, so by that logic, then I can post whatever I want about anyone I want in a public forum...but so long as the person I am posting about never sees it and they make a lot of money, then it is ok. And even if they did see it, they don't know me, so that's ok too. REALLY???? Is that what we want to teach our children? It's ok to post something very hurtful online about someone (and even use their name) so long as they make a lot of money, they won't see it, and you don't know them. WHAT??? I don't think so!<br />
<br />
And lets talk about the horrible talk that comes up about the referees. All those refs have hugely difficult jobs. They are doing the best they can. Some will absolutely make bad calls, but I'd dare say they don't do it on purpose and it doesn't help matters if you become irate over the calls they make. My Dad was a ref for several years back when I was in High School, and you would not believe the stories he would come home with from those games. People sometimes get downright violent if a call doesn't go their way. I would often pray that nothing would happen to Dad. He never tried to make bad calls, but on occasion I'm sure he would probably miss something (after all, even though he's awesome...he is human). And people do not like when the ref misses a call. And he was reffing for Jr. High games. It's so much worse when you get into college or pro ball games. Give the refs a break!!!<br />
<br />
Here is all I am saying: CUT OUT THE CYBER BULLYING!!!! Can you really tell your child or any other child that they shouldn't say hurtful things about others if all they have to do is look at your Facebook or Twitter feed and see stuff like, "Oh my goodness! George Footballplayer dropped the ball AGAIN! Wish they'd get rid of him." Or "Wow, Henry Sportscoach sure is doing a terrible job! Wish they'd fire him." If you want to say something about your team, say something encouraging. "Come on XYZ TEAM!!! The game's not over yet!" or "Pass the ball to Henry Footballplayer! He's having a great game!"<br />
<br />
We as Christ followers are supposed to show Christ to the world around us and the online world is not exempt from that. Before you post something online, ask yourself, "Is this detrimental to my Christian witness," and then ask yourself, "Would I allow my child/grandchild say this about someone they know?" If your answer is "No" then don't post it. <br />
<br />
End of rant...back to your sporting events.Toni Jameshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16033528842523989063noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5307345738386912021.post-35371458616037521022013-11-26T08:00:00.001-06:002013-11-26T08:00:32.713-06:00R-E-S-P-E-C-T<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">I've been working with children in some capacity for around 12 years. In that time, I've noticed a change in the attitude of children. The change is in their respect. And not just their respect for others, but their respect for themselves. Now, it is important to note that this change does not come from the kids, but from their parents. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Here are a few things I have noticed:</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>Kids often run the house. </b> </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Now, I know that sounds crazy, but it is true. I have seen it over and over again. The parents bend over backwards to do whatever their children want. Whether it is a sporting event, a concert, a party, or simply making sure their child gets their own way. The kids have priority over everything else. Now, making children a priority is wonderful and I applaud parents who make it a point to spend time with their children, but those kids need to know that they are not the most important person in the world. It is important that they know that their parents have worth as well. That the things that are important to their parents are indeed important. If Mom or Dad want to have a date night and it conflicts with something the child wants to do, well it's ok that that child misses their event from time to time. They need to know that others are as important as they are. Knowing this helps them respect others and their time. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<b><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Kids are not allowed to fail.</span></b><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">This is something that has been happening for years and it's terrible. I remember being a teenager and hearing an adult putting a stop to keeping score at a ball game because they didn't want anyone to lose. REALLY??? It was insane then and it is insane now. Kids need to learn not only how to be good winners, but how to act when they lose. And if they don't learn that, they are sadly unprepared for life...BECAUSE YOU DON'T WIN ALL THE TIME IN LIFE. I have had children (younger and older children) burst into tears because they lost a simple game in church. What will happen to that child when they grow up and he/she loses a job, misses out on a promotion, or simply doesn't get the credit they deserve in life. Will they cry then too? Will they throw a fit and march off in a huff? (Yep, I've had that happen too.) That will earn them lots of friends. We have to let them learn how to win and lose as children to prepare them for life. Plus, it helps them to respect the work it takes to win. Those who work hard do well...those who don't, not so much. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<b><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Parents no longer expect respect.</span></b><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Parents allow their children to speak to them rudely. They allow their children to give them attitude and talk back. When I was a child, if I even tried to be sassy, my parents would have stepped in and put a stop to it. They let me know in no uncertain terms that that type of talk was not acceptable and THEY MODELED THAT BEHAVIOR WITH THEIR OWN PARENTS. I saw how they took care an respected their own parents and realized that this was the proper way to treat my parents. My parents didn't talk back to their parents. They didn't sass them. They obeyed them...even as adults. That is powerful in the eyes of a child. Words only have meaning if they are followed up by actions. My parents, then expected me to treat them with respect and I would be punished if I did not. Did I always "feel" respectful of my parents? Did I always "want" to do what they asked? No. In fact, sometimes I would fume because I didn't agree with them...but I fumed to myself. I respected their decisions even if I did not always agree with them. </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">My friend, Matt posted this on his Facebook page yesterday:</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><i>"Our sons will begin listening to their parents and doing what they're told without arguing and excuses. They will show us respect. If I have to quit my job, pull them from school, sell our house, throw away our TV, take away every activity, remove them from every friend and move us to the middle of nowhere, THEY WILL DO IT, or I will die trying."</i></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><i><br /></i></span>
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="line-height: 18px;">I really don't expect Matt and his wife, Kristen to move to the middle of nowhere, but I applaud their hard work in this area with their children. And it is hard work. I'm not a parent, but even I know it's not easy to discipline consistently. Sometimes your kids get mad at you. Sometimes, they might even say they "hate" you (which they don't, but they will say it anyway...I know, because I used to think sometimes that I "hated" my parents, but I never actually did.) Kids get mad at me at church at times because I have rules and I expect them to follow them. But I learned a long time ago...if they like me all the time, I'm not doing my job right. They will not always get their way with me. They won't always like my rules. But they are my rules and if they want to be apart of the programming I plan, they will follow the rules. End of discussion.</span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="line-height: 18px;">You might read this and think, "She doesn't have children...she doesn't know what she's talking about." But here is the bottom line: In all my years of working with children, this is the constant: The children who show respect for their elders also have more respect for themselves. They have more confidence and they have better outlooks on life. Nine times out of ten, the children who are disrespectful are also more angry and bitter at the world around them. They lash out more often and generally seem more sad. That is what I have seen working with children over 12 years in three states.<br /><br />But they can't learn this on their own. It has to begin at home. </span></span><br />
Toni Jameshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16033528842523989063noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5307345738386912021.post-76589343361623126102013-11-14T11:31:00.001-06:002013-11-14T11:31:48.591-06:00Some Places Just Feel Like HomeThere are some places in the world that just feel like home. They are the places that when you arrive, you feel like you belong. You feel at peace with your surroundings and you are always glad to be there. For me, Trevecca Nazarene University is one of those places. When I walk onto that campus, it is as if all the worries and problems of life seem to dissipate and I can just relax and enjoy the presence of the Lord. His peace just seems to permeate the entire campus.<br />
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This past weekend, I was thrilled to be able to attend Homecoming at my Alma Mater, Trevecca Nazarene University. This year was my 15 year reunion (technically, next year would be since I graduated a year late, but why split hairs...the class of 1998 is my class) and it is hard to believe that so many years have passed since I was a student at Trevecca. Before I started college, I came to campus to visit with a friend of mine and her mother. At that point, I had been to the campus several times, so I was showing my friend around. When we left the campus, her mom said something that I never forgot. She said, "I feel such a peace on that campus." I am reminded of those words when I come back to visit. Many things have changed. There are new buildings and many of the old buildings have been remodeled to be used in different ways. There are new teachers, new programs, and new fields of study...but the atmosphere is the same. There is a peace that can only come from the Prince of Peace. <br />
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Homecoming was great fun. And I loved getting to catch up with old friends and tour old haunts. But, for me, getting to feel the presence of the Father in a fresh way was just what I needed. I am so glad that Trevecca is a University that knows the importance of that time with the Father and encourages its students to learn that importance as well. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMhL39mEkGw2pMDzM9sgQYmzOXrB0yeRVKvVMkxE7xDfX6YofORrQbJ-Qtd1M6jfd1HbRr5Jopp8hPrUQvxaStrgAa6DHdarvc_z8pcrmgYtCW0SkelVEMsFC4fZJSGpqoN2EWaZQetgM/s1600/Jesus+Statue.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMhL39mEkGw2pMDzM9sgQYmzOXrB0yeRVKvVMkxE7xDfX6YofORrQbJ-Qtd1M6jfd1HbRr5Jopp8hPrUQvxaStrgAa6DHdarvc_z8pcrmgYtCW0SkelVEMsFC4fZJSGpqoN2EWaZQetgM/s400/Jesus+Statue.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
There is a statue at the main intersection of campus that succinctly<br />
puts what Trevecca aims for it's students to accomplish in life. As the picture shows...it is a powerful verse.<br />
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May we all strive to fulfill His call on our lives.<br />
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<br />Toni Jameshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16033528842523989063noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5307345738386912021.post-78194723811149704832013-10-16T10:20:00.000-05:002013-10-16T10:20:02.126-05:00A few thoughts about Hollywood...Ok, I'll admit it. I'm a fan of celebrities. Not all of them, mind you, but some. I am interested in who they are and what they do. Why, you ask? I have no answer for you, but I think it started when I was a kid. <br />
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See, when I was a child, I got $1 a week for an allowance (it would actually end up 90 cents after I took out my tithe) and I loved to read. But books cost more than $1 and I was never very good at saving for more than a few weeks at a time. But the TV Guide was about 90 cents to buy and it looked like a book (not like now...now it looks like a regular magazine). So, I would buy it and read it practically from cover to cover. They used to have little synopses of all the movies that would be on that week in the back of the magazine and I would read them...especially the ones about old movies. Since we traveled all the time in evangelism, I didn't have many friends that I saw often. We were in a different town, state, and church every week. I think it was then that I started to really enjoy following celebrities. They were the "friends" of my childhood. I suppose it sounds silly, but I really do think that is where it started.<br />
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Now, don't get me wrong, I'm not a superfan type stalker person. I don't idolize these people. I am just curious about them and hope that they are doing well. And when a celebrity that I am interested in has a problem, I feel for them. I pray for them. After all, these celebrities have a lot of pressure on them and are literally watched constantly. Can you imagine being watched all the time, every day, and having people just waiting to take a picture or video of some silly thing you might say or do? I always thought that being a preachers kid was living in a fish bowl, but it's nothing compared to those who choose to brave the lime light. They deserve our prayers. If you do not like something you are seeing coming out of the film industry or television, you can bellyache about it, you can rail against the horrible thing you are seeing...or you can pray about it. Prayer is a powerful tool that I do not think we are using enough when it comes to Hollywood.<br />
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We all know that Hollywood influences the people of our society...for good or for not so good. And most of us will never have a meeting with anyone who has any real influence over what Hollywood puts out. But we all have open access to the One who is in charge of everything and He has the power to influence people way more than Hollywood ever will. And we should be praying for those involved with the shows we like as well as those we do not. These people are influencing our young people in ways we can not imagine. Some take that responsibility seriously and try to be good influences, others seem not to care at all what their actions say to others. But no matter who they are, or how they live their lives, they are people Christ died for and they need our prayers. If they are Christians, they need our prayers for strength and encouragement. If they are not, they need our prayers all the more.<br />
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So, I have decided that for the rest of this year, I am going to choose one television show or movie cast/crew/production team each week and pray for them. Pray for their safety. Pray for their families. Pray for them. I don't have to know all their names to pray for them. I know the One who knows all their names. I'm a firm believer that prayer changes things.<br />
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Anyone care to join me?Toni Jameshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16033528842523989063noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5307345738386912021.post-67466699769266765602013-10-02T14:33:00.000-05:002013-10-02T14:33:39.478-05:00"We Need A Spaceship!"<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgve4xNq-li2k41M34r7mZUOh1sTJrwOGV1NKJrnP-xU0riJjfp-A2K3GwUxnDYDLainKHuJl8kaBDjwjeduD2yAw7k9Jz40-IrcXrqOkmC53V3qq4FHoiObN10PdIxz5rsZ5HnucVMaYs/s1600/1277681_10151927272165350_16364232_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgve4xNq-li2k41M34r7mZUOh1sTJrwOGV1NKJrnP-xU0riJjfp-A2K3GwUxnDYDLainKHuJl8kaBDjwjeduD2yAw7k9Jz40-IrcXrqOkmC53V3qq4FHoiObN10PdIxz5rsZ5HnucVMaYs/s320/1277681_10151927272165350_16364232_o.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Great Friends! Luke, Jeremy, Me, Lynnette, and Jordan</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Last week, I got to take a vacation. I went to Phoenix, Arizona and spent the week with some very dear friends who I never get to see. They are like family to me and I am so blessed to be "Aunt Toni" to their son, Luke. It was a joy to spend time with them, see some sights, visit with other friends, and cheer on Jordan at his football game last Friday.<br />
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While his parents, Jeremy and Lynnette were at work, I got to take care of Luke. He is this amazing 3 year old with a huge imagination. He looks at life with such wonder and excitement. In fact, there is no problem that cannot be fixed with his new tools that he got for his birthday.<br />
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTuKhNqfwlRuGtS-Z8vrS95uFyyXIz8en8LfQAb4lH8-okm0rh5E1WBoYbMlvYv44PVqvLNwvfDz2ZjmQzCimV6TkLN0CjasbYddx8-ehN057bDecFULS3NI-UEVN6NVRUK9mpTN44aFI/s1600/IMG_1274%5B1%5D.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTuKhNqfwlRuGtS-Z8vrS95uFyyXIz8en8LfQAb4lH8-okm0rh5E1WBoYbMlvYv44PVqvLNwvfDz2ZjmQzCimV6TkLN0CjasbYddx8-ehN057bDecFULS3NI-UEVN6NVRUK9mpTN44aFI/s320/IMG_1274%5B1%5D.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Aunt Toni and Luke</td></tr>
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On my first day with him, Luke and I went outside and were watching a hummingbird that was in the tree in their front yard. As it flitted around (as hummingbirds do) our conversation went something like this:<br />
Luke: Catch it, Aunt Toni.<br />
Me: I can't Luke. It's too high.<br />
Luke: We need a spaceship!<br />
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Then Luke, went about finding and fixing his needed spaceship...which turned out to be the same tree that the hummingbird had enjoyed flying around. Luke went inside and got his tools, brought them out and went to work. Soon, he said, "Ok, Aunt Toni! Get on." (My spot was next to a particular knothole of the tree). <br />
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Luke: Ready?<br />
Me: Yes. Where are we going?<br />
Luke: Uh oh. It's broken.<br />
Me: It's broken? Can you fix it?<br />
Luke: Yes.<br />
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And he would then go about fixing whatever the day's problem was. Once it needed gas, once the key didn't work, etc. Each day, he worked...but just because the problem never seemed to go away, he wasn't deterred. It was just onto whatever the next issue to fix was. The problems were not really a big deal. They just had to be dealt with.<br />
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I wonder how often we are not as determined as Luke about the problems in our own lives. When one comes up, do we fix it? And if we fix it, but it breaks again, do we continue to try or do we just give up?<br />
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Too many times, I see people give up on fixable issues. They live life for "happiness" and if it doesn't make them happy, then they quit. But what they do not seem to realize is that the joy in life does not just come from the things that make us happy for a moment, but also through the work it took to get to that moment. And the work it will take to get to the next part of our lives. Often the things that we have to work on the hardest not only bring us joy, but also satisfaction. I am happy when I have a birthday party, but I get joy out of throwing one for someone else. You see the difference? Both are enjoyable, but joy comes out of the one that requires work. <br />
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I can pretty much guarantee you that Luke's Spaceship will never leave Earth, but he sure is having a great time working on it. He continues to go out and when a problem comes up, he'll "fix" it. He's enjoying the journey. For him, building the Spaceship is simply about the job at hand. He's working on it...and he's not giving up. <br />
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Don't be afraid of the adventures that road blocks in life can bring. After all, road blocks often involve detours, and you can learn a lot from a detour. They often take us places we would not have thought to go otherwise. So, next time a road block shows up, what will you do? Will you give up? Will you worry and fret about the change in direction? Or will you "build a spaceship" and keep going. Personally, I agree with Luke. "We need a spaceship."<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihhu-ttFoGNnW-AzUfm8PGkXbHffjUdVV0P2V1zc5ahGb8EOM57VMIx5YHVfmMSA3r_liLOw1VqU4raBoZBVwrSkYLaAnJQij7GWCwgeocPkLPmCYPscKh5oNZW6pKipQ5-eRb6lMfATo/s1600/IMG_1279%5B1%5D.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihhu-ttFoGNnW-AzUfm8PGkXbHffjUdVV0P2V1zc5ahGb8EOM57VMIx5YHVfmMSA3r_liLOw1VqU4raBoZBVwrSkYLaAnJQij7GWCwgeocPkLPmCYPscKh5oNZW6pKipQ5-eRb6lMfATo/s400/IMG_1279%5B1%5D.JPG" width="298" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Luke and his Spaceship</td></tr>
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Toni Jameshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16033528842523989063noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5307345738386912021.post-40775025331952646462013-08-20T12:08:00.000-05:002013-08-20T12:08:23.143-05:00A Garage Sale In My Future...I've been trying to figure out how to write this blog for the past few days. Sometimes, things happen and there are simply no words to express your feelings. I have been having a few days like that recently. <br />
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This past Tuesday night, our church board met and because of some financial issues that are not improving, they decided to eliminate my position at the church. This did not come as a shock to me because I knew that they would probably have to make a change. They have been very kind and are giving me until the end of the year (if needed) to find a new position somewhere else. In the mean time, I will continue to lead the children and teens at our church to the best of my ability. They are awesome kids and teens and I will miss them, but I am blessed that I got to be a part of the their lives for the past two years and 8 months. <br />
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As I look toward the future, at this point, I do not know where I will end up or how quickly a position will open, but I am looking forward to my new assignment and trust that the Lord will open the right door to the right place at just the right time. He is faithful and I trust Him implicitly. <br />
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So, I guess a garage sale is in my future as I start to pack things up. God is good, all the time. It is so good to know that though, I do not always know where my life is leading, I know without a doubt Who is leading my life...and I am content to follow His lead.Toni Jameshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16033528842523989063noreply@blogger.com0