Crystal's Ministry Updates

Turn Your Eyes Upon Jesus

2012-01-29T20:46:00.002-06:00

Hi Everyone,

As the chorus says,

Turn your eyes upon Jesus
Look full in His wonderful face
And the things of earth will grow strangely dim
In the light of His glory and grace."

2 Chronicles 20:12b "We do not know what to do, but our eyes are on You.”

Psalm 73: 21-26

"When my heart was grieved
and my spirit embittered,
I was senseless and ignorant;
I was a brute beast before you.

Yet I am always with you;
you hold me by my right hand.
You guide me with your counsel,
and afterward you will take me into glory.
Whom have I in heaven but you?
And earth has nothing I desire besides you.
My flesh and my heart may fail,
but God is the strength of my heart
and my portion forever."

Hebrews 12:2 " Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God."

Loving God Above All Else

2012-01-27T22:09:00.000-06:00

Hi Everyone,

Why do we make the right choices?

We don't just make our choices because it is simply "the right thing to do" or "it's what we were taught." While those option are definitely true, we choose to live and obey God in our lives regardless of what those without Him do around us because of even a greater and deeper reason. The choices that we make come down to one thing--loving God--truly loving God above all else that this world tries to offer us.

When we love God--we make different choices than world around us. And we hopefully keep making those choices no matter how God leads us down the path and regardless of what or does not be allowed into our lives.

Mark 12:30 "Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all of your soul and with all of your mind and with all of your strength."

May you be strengthened by His Spirit to love Him with all that you are today.

He Cares About The Smallest Desires!

2012-01-21T21:41:00.005-06:00

Hi Everyone,

This may be one of those semi longer posts. So before I get to the point, I need to give some background information.

Backing up in the history of my life, when I came here in Mexico as a short-term worker in 2005, I stayed with a lady (a lady different from Olga who I stay with now) for four months of my six month stay. Anyways she had a vinyl record made and released in Mexico that I absolutely fell in love with! Every time my host walked out the door, I would put that record on and er uh blast it through the house. (It was piano music--so no serious harm was done!!!) I think I literally memorized the songs in my head because I listened so much.

I wanted to find the record more than anything--but wasn't sure how to go about it and between coming from Mexico back to the states from my short-term trip lost the details that I had written down.

Fast forward to when I came back full time to Mexico in 2008. I had no contact with the lady I had lived with during the four months of my short-term....at least we didn't have contact until a week and a half before I was to fly back home in November of 2009 because of not doing well spiritually, emotionally, physically etc. So I remember sitting at this lady's table feeling like my world was ending, But all of the sudden I remembered that vinyl record and asked her if she still had it. She said yes-and put it on for me.

I forgot to take down the details in my awful emotional state at that point....and was still determined in my heart that I wanted to find it.....somehow.

Fast forward to the present. Okay so about a month ago before the church service started, all of the sudden I recognized a song by piano from that old record that was playing. As you can imagine, like lightening, I ran back to the "sound table" and asked the youth in charge what that music was playing from. It was playing off of a video in youtube. I took notes quite thrilled but still couldn't remember the artists name and such. I was delighted to know thta at least one song was still in existence though! (The vinyl record was recorded back in 1979)

I started intensely longing to hear all that amazing music again!

So now we are fast forwarding to tonight at youth group. At the end of the youth group one of the pastor's daughters mentioned that we are going to decorate the youth room upstairs by creatively decorating old vinyl records and putting them on the wall.

And the thought occurred to me, "Lord, that vinyl record could be in that pile---or you could even, you know, put it in there somehow.....please!"

To my great disappointment, the record did not show up in the pile---I really believed somehow it was going to be there.

But then a group of us girls were walking back to where I had to catch the bus to go home and the three young ladies would walk home to their houses which were close by. We "just missed" the bus I needed as we all approached the bus stop so it was another fifteen minute wait for the next bus. I was holding the vinyl record that I am to "decorate" when, all of the sudden, I leaned over and the album record cover in one of the girl's hands caught my eyes.

"May I just see that for a moment?" I said.

"Sure" she said

I took one look at it and my eyes must have been glowing--it was THE vinyl record---I was holding it in my hands! The one I've been wanting to listen to so bad all this time!

I looked at the girl and calmly said "Would you mind of I traded with you and took yours instead and gave you the one I have? The one you have is really special. I want to listen to it"

"Hey sure no problem! But do you have a way to play it?" she said

"No, I said, but don't worry, I'll find a way."

And we switched vinyl records!

On the bus, tears were silently streaming down my face-saying---"Wow God--you DID IT!! You cared about that? No one else knew about that desire but you--never mind that I don't have a record player---It means so much that You gave this to me! Me of little faith to doubt You! i am so sorry."

And it was as if God spoke to my heart saying, "I do care about the desires of your heart----even those big two desires of yours that are unfulfilled--Trust me---I care and love you."

Somehow I have a little more faith tonight--faith that God really might give those two big desires one day--only if it is in His will and plan obviously!

So upon arriving home, I went to the internet and found the vinyl record long out of print, but was able to buy and download a few different songs from the record that were preserved and out on other discs or re-recorded.

I am having the most awesome and relaxing evening ever listening to this amazing music!

But even bigger than having the vinyl record is the lesson of God's love and the reminder of how He cares about even the smallest desires of my heart!

P.S. Dear youth group, Sorry, there is no way I will ever "decorate" this vinyl record! I'll be asking to see if you have an extra one I can use for the project tomorrow!

Quick Video Greetings

2012-01-18T20:17:00.004-06:00

Hi Everyone,

Here is a very quick video update. Thanks for your prayers!

Blessings to all!

Christmas In January

2012-01-13T08:16:00.004-06:00

HI Everyone,

I just wanted to say that on two different days in the past week and a half when I really needed encouragement, I went to the post office box and found a postal box filled with Christmas cards and letters! Thank you soo much! You are an awesome blessing! Thank you for your prayers! :)

The Eternal Perspective

2012-01-07T22:37:00.003-06:00

Hi Everyone,

This is sort of a post with a few additional thoughts in continuation of what I wrote last night about God's will not always being easy.

Something that I was thinking about is how in the midst of hard things or unfulfilled desires we have to remember (even though it can be hard at times) that God's perspective over our lives is an eternal perspective. He is going to use us in the best purposes in relation to his eternal plan.

And the thing is that since we have not yet seen Jesus Christ face to face in eternity, we only know life in the here and now. we cn't see the whole picture yet. God's plans are so much higher than ours. We have to remember that he does have an eternal plan and walk the journey of faith and not by sight.

God's Will Isn't Always Easy

2012-01-06T22:50:00.002-06:00

Hi Everyone,

I've been thinking about something. I think it is common especially in the United States of America for some believers to think that the will of God is suppose to always be easy. That is an inaccurate assumption to make. Living in God's will has many blessings, but living a life obedient to God does not guarantee that it will be easy by any means.

Scripture tells us of people--like Job, Paul, the believers in Hebrews 11, and many others that did God's will--and it was anything but easy. They had hardships and trials pf various kinds. For many it cost them their lives. But they obeyed God and sought to do His will.

Following God's will sometimes means sacrificing our deepest desires and dreams to do what He asks us to. It means being a living sacrifice---surrendering him those deep things and letting Him have them and do what He sees as best. Sometimes it means grief and sorrow. And many times God's will means following a different plan in life- which is His plan for us instead of our own.

Sometimes I wrestle with the differences between His desires for me and the desires or dreams that I have that are good but may not be his will for me. But regardless of what happens, I have to trust Him and His ways. Thankfully, eventually, He always brings me back to a point of surrender.

We must believe as Scripture says that the will of God is good, pleasing, and perfect. There is a big difference between knowing that statement in our heads and trusting God with our whole hearts.

Will We echo the words of our Savior saying, "I have come to do Your will oh God?" (Hebrews 10:7)

Happy New Year Everyone!

2011-12-31T23:59:00.004-06:00

HAPPY
NEW
YEAR
EVERYONE!

I am looking forward to sharing with YOU all that GOD will do in
2012!!!!!!

Thanks for being a part of my life and ministry thru your prayers this past year!

Update On My Trip to Chihuahua

2011-12-23T21:38:00.013-06:00

Hi Everyone,

Here is an update of my ministry trip to Chihuahua with a short video and pictures. We were up in the mountains on the west side of the state of Chihuahua. One thing that I thought was so neat was that the pastor and his family that we were working with were Mexicans--that had been reaching out to the Tarhumara for many years.

Basically my responsibilities were to help with the children's ministry part, hand out gifts (more on that later), washing dishes, serving food, and a variety of other things where and as needed.

Here we are in a team effort making Mexican hot chocolate for the children over fire.

I tried to get a picture of us all pouring the milk at once because I thought it would look cool---but by the time the camera took the picture, most people's milk had poured out!

Here I am with others getting ready to serve food to the people that attended.
I don't have many pictures of myself working--we were all just sooo busy!

Here are the women in their traditional dress.
Here are the children

The highlight of my trip was seeing these boxes

And being in awe and humbled by the fact that God was going to use my hands along with others to distribute Operation Christmas Child Shoebox gift boxes to the children! I think I was almost more excited to give the boxes to the children than they were to receive the gifts! I have filled boxes in the past (which is so much fun!) but was praying that God would one day let me give out shoe boxes to children. I want to be able to participate in all aspects of the process of boxes being sent out. All that is left in the process is to one day be able to volunteer and help check boxes at one of the processing centers!

So here are the photos you are waiting for!!!!
The pastor had all of the children wait and open the boxes all at once. It was really hard to get good pictures of them opening the boxes because they were obviously "in action" so much.
I woke up for several nights in the early hours of the morning with tears in my eyes from an overflowing heart of joy--thinking "God, You are awesome! I had no idea this was a part of this trip! Thank you for using my hands to give the boxes to the children---and at the same time giving me a true desire of my heart!"

Here are some of the children singing the "Head and Shoulder's Knees and Toes" song in their dialect--pretty cool!

The scenery while being driven the eight hours up and back was amazing!
I got to see things that I hadn't seen for awhile:

spruce trees
A touch of snow
A train

And there were other surprises

A beautiful sunset

Rock formations that looked sort of like elephants
And apparently I have a "house" in Mexico :) After all--the translation is "House of Cristal" :)
God is good--and it was a blessing to serve Him with others! Thanks for your prayers!

Heading To Chihuahua

2011-12-15T20:00:00.002-06:00

Hi Everyone,

I praise God for the day that I had today! I went over to Maria's (the lady that I bought the birds from). It was really encouraging. I found out that her and I even have more in common. What an amazing blessing!

Tomorrow I go to Mexico City on the 3:15 am bus to catch my flight to Chihuahua where I will be working with n ethnic group called the Tahrumara. After arriving at the airport in Chihuahua we have an eight hour drive to the mountains. Pray for our safety as we are ministering and traveling. Upon arriving at the final destination, with the others that are going (one couple and four of us singles), we will join other believers that are carrying out an evangelistic Christmas event. There are different days aimed towards sharing the gospel with children and adults. As to what I will be doing? possibly helping with food preparation but wil find out more when I get there.

I return on December 23rd and will update you more with photos and all upon my return.

Thanks for your prayers!

Answered Prayer

2011-12-14T07:59:00.003-06:00

Hi Everyone,

Above is another picture of the youth last Saturday.

My big praise report is that yesterday I was able to pic up my new "Visa" or migratory form! This means that I can stay for a year without going to the border and renew it up to four times! Praise God for fast processing!

Thank you for your prayers! God is definitely at work and I am delighted to be here!

A Brief Update

2011-12-11T23:34:00.003-06:00

Hi Everyone,

Last night at youth group was great! We went to hang out at one of the youth's homes and actually had a nice devotional time together outside. It was refreshing to be outside of the city a little bit. We were enjoying hamburgers cooked on the grill when all of the sudden we realized that the ground was like seriously shaking. Turns out there was a 6.5 earthquake with the epicenter in Guerrero. (I had never felt one that big before--I wasn't scared though) Amazingly it sounds like there wasn't much damage, but three people were killed. Do pray that God would use these natural events like earthquakes to bring people to Himself, not only in Mexico, but all over the world.

As a youth group we were in charge of leading the Sunday church service this morning. It went well-we assigned tasks last night as we were eating together. Hopefully next time we can put more creative touches into the service--this time we just didn't have the time to do that. It really is neat seeing everyone serve together. They really are great kids!

December 12th is when many Mexicans celebrate "The virgin of Guadalupe." Pray that the truth of Jesus Christ would shine into people's hearts and lives that they may come to know Him as their Lord and Savior----for there is only one mediator between man and God and that is Jesus Christ. He is the only one worthy of our worship and praise.

Anyways it is literally almost midnight here and I am getting up early tomorrow. Thank you for your continued prayers. I just wanted to take a moment to let you know that I am still here----just busy but doing well.

Blessings to you all!

Potpouri-A Whole Mix Of Things

2011-12-06T12:12:00.002-06:00

Hi Everyone,

It has been a week since I updated again. I first of all wanted to thank you for your prayers for my change of migratory status. I was able to pick up the paper I needed in Mexico City on Thursday and was able to turn in my paperwork to immigration on Friday. So my "visa" is officially in process! THANK YOU FOR YOUR PRAYERS! Keep praying that I would obtain my new migratory status quickly.

On Sunday I was able to attend a missions conference at different church! It was so neat to see how they did it! They had different countries represented by different tables decorated with items from the specific country and different foods to try as well. I helped with the table for Nicaragua. It was fun to talk with some people from the church. It was fun to see Mexicans getting more exposed to missions also.

Keep praying for my friend Conchita. There have been some challenges lately in her life.

Thank you for your prayers!

Praise Report

2011-11-28T15:11:00.002-06:00

Hi Everyone,

I would just like to add a little praise report that I went to Religious Affairs in Mexico City this morning and came out with the joy of having my paperwork submitted! Next will be the step of going back for a piece of paper in a few days when it is ready and then going on to Immigration. Thanks for your prayers on all of this everyone!

I want to get back into blogging more regular. I feel like i have neglected my blog this month just due to a variety of things on my plate so to speak and such

Anyways, THANK YOU for your prayers and I will try to write more soon.

Thankful For You

2011-11-23T22:20:00.002-06:00

Hi Everyone,

Tomorrow is American Thanksgiving and I will be working in the morning and then going to the family of one of my team members who have so graciously invited me.

This Thanksgiving I am so thankful for all of you who have enabled me to be serving here in Mexico with your encouragement and prayers. Thank you for all you do!

Have a blessed day with thankful hearts towards the Lord today, tomorrow, and always!

Thoughts On Ministering To Others

2011-11-21T20:21:00.003-06:00

Hi Everyone,

At several times in our lives we are going to find ourselves coming alongside someone that is struggling and possibly even at a point of crisis. As we spend time with them, truly listen, get involved in their lives, and try to offer Biblical guidance, it is important to remember that we are not "their savior" and many times it isn't our role to "fix" their situation. God knows what the individual needs much better than we do.

Sometimes people make choices at points of crisis that break our hearts---but it is that individual's responsibility before God for the decisions that they make.

We have to be careful when helping people in delicate situations remembering that we are there to listen, pray, be a friend, and offer Godly advice and mentoring where that is appropriate, However, we can't get so involved in their life and situation that we start trying to completely carry it on our shoulders and allow that person's difficulties to rob us of our own joy of life and walking with God. At the end of the day we have to give it all to God---because He is more than big enough to handle it all.

These are just some thoughts I have been learning from experience lately.

Say Goodbye To "What If? And "If Only!"

2011-11-19T21:46:00.002-06:00

Hi Everyone,

I have all kinds of posts to try to get up in the next few days about various things. One thing I am thinking of lately is a saying we have here in Mexico. In Spanish it is "Hubiera no existe" which translates to 'What if does not exist."

I really like that saying because there is some truth to it. Sometimes when something hard happens or we fail in some way, we can start thinking. "If only I would have done such and such," or we can easily get into that regret mindset of "What if the situation wouldn't have happened?" etc.

The truth reflected in the Spanish saying is that walking down the "if only" road leads us to what a dear friend of mine calls "stinking thinking." It simply is not helpful, productive, or beneficial to us. If we keep continually thinking that way, we go down a road of discouragement thinking of what might have been instead of dealing with life in the present as it is and seeking what God wants to teach us through it. Thinking "if only" robs us of the joy that God wants us to experience in Him TODAY. We can't change the past--but we have been given the gift of today.

Everybody has things they either prefer wouldn't have happened or sins and failures that can give them a temptation to think "if only." But instead of thinking, "if only" we have to give them to God.

I also find in my life that I don't need to say,"if only" getting stuck in a world of regret because I have seen a glimpse of how God has taken sins, other things that I am not proud of, and even some things that maybe I wouldn't have preferred to have happen---and God has turned them into good. There isn't room to regret because God is working it into something beautiful.

So trust that God is working it all together for good according to His purposes---and all means ALL THINGS. He has promised that to those who love Him. And say goodbye to "if only."

My Short Vacation

2011-11-14T17:45:00.003-06:00

Hi Everyone,
Olga and I took off for a vacation for two days and one night. It was fun to actually be together for a change. Usually our schedules conflict so we are rarely at the house at the same time.

We went to a city called Taxco about two hours away. The buildings are all white with orange roofs and it looks kind of cool. Here are some pictures.

The city is known for it's silver mines and for an outdoor market held on Saturday mornings where people come from all over mexico to buy silver jewelry and typically sell it in other places. Olga and I found a cheap fairly nice place to stay which will serve for me when I take future vacation breaks.

It was short--but very fun!

Taking Time Off!

2011-11-10T20:46:00.004-06:00

Hi Everyone,
Here is the awesome cactus flower I took a picture of this morning! Isn't this neat?
I realized that I had only taken five days of my allotted vacation this year so far. ....and am sensing a need for a serious break. So Olga and I are going to escape to a town that is two hours away and leave early Saturday morning, stay the night and return early Sunday evening! tomorrow (Friday) I am taking off to do some things that have needed attention such as disenfect the bird cage, do Christmas cards, write my prayer letter, etc.

The exciting thing is that I also got a free movie ticket for Wednesday, so on the 16th I am hoping there is a good fun movie worth watching. Oh and I have found a few safe escape places for next year so hopefully I actually take some time off in a decent fashion at different points during the year.

It is just neat seeing God provide little ways to take a much needed break!

So I will see you all Monday when I get back to "internet land!"

Pretty Birds!

2011-11-07T20:24:00.011-06:00

Hi Everyone,

Today on my day off, I escaped to my friend Maria's house, where I bought my two cockatiels from three weeks ago. It was a fun day seeing all of the birds, helping clean the aviary, talking to Maria, and meeting her children. Not to mention, I am learning a lot of things about birds too!

I have all kinds of pictures of the birds I saw today! ENJOY!

Babies! (of various types)

The words "pretty bird" fall way short for this next one! I love the rainbow colors!

Parakeets!
Quaker parakeet! I've heard they can be really sweet when they are hand-fed!
Finches of various types!
Cockatiels galore (some of the ones she uses to breed)
And I can't forget the parrot!
He was so funny! Here is a video! All he could do was whistle and say was "soccorro!" That means HELP in Spanish! Can you imagine having a bird live for 80 years saying "Help! Help!" all day? Notice the almost florescent green tail!

Me with a cute bird!
Here is the close-up of him because I also thought he was beautiful!
And to top it all off, I had the best sunset ever on the way back to the bus station to catch the bus for the 45 minute ride home! The pictures don't even come close! (Thanks God! :) )
So that was my day today--encouraging my friend Maria, and enjoying God's creation!
Thanks for your prayers!

God is Doing Somthing Bigger Than Us "Getting Our Way"

2011-11-01T07:44:00.007-06:00

If I'd Had My Way
By Janet Paschal

1) If I'd had my way about it
I'd have danced in grassy fields and green meadows
And risen in the morning just to hear the robin's lovely melody
I'd have rested in wide spaces, high above the hurting places
And found a cross that asked much less of me
Never sailed in raging wind or troubled sea
If You'd thought it best to leave it up to me

CHORUS

But if I'd had my way
I might have been wading through the river,
when You wanted me to walk upon the sea.
And if I'd had my say
And all of my wants and whims and wishes
You knew how weak, how shallow I would be
if I'd had my way

2) If I'd had my way about it
I'd have only known Your majesty and glory
And passed that cup of sorrow to somebody else more willing to receive
I'd have written lovely phrases, inspiring lofty praises
And soared above my own humanity
Wounded wouldn't die, hearts wouldn't bleed
If all along You'd left it up to me (repeat chorus)

I trust Your wisdom over mine
'cause You've proven all the time
That in my narrow way of seeing things
I leave the best behind sometimes
I'd might not have stayed
As close if I'd had my way

Hi Everyone,
I was up at two o clock in the morning with words of the song posted above ringing in my ears even though I hadn't heard it for several years. Somehow I found it, quite amazingly considering I had no idea who sang it and the lyrics weren't on the internet til now. I've honestly probably listened to it about twenty times as I've been putting finishing touches on the team prayer day I am organizing for tomorrow.

I've been thinking about how in life God chooses to not give us everything we want, or maybe things don't go like we dreamed they would. There are those valleys of sorrow and heartache that we would rather avoid. And God takes us each through different things that aren't easy.

At the same time I have been thinking about God's incredible wisdom and love to really give what is best even when it may not seem like that to us. He loves us too much to give us a life without the challenges.

God is doing something so much bigger within those of is that are His-using those very things to do a work in us, to transform us, to mold us into the image of His Son. He knows that if we had the "picture perfect life like we thought" we certainly wouldn't depend on Him in the same way...and maybe we wouldn't sense a need for Him at all.

So as I look at my life I think of blessings-blessings of fulfilled desires and the blessings in disguise of some unfulfilled desires. I can trust that God knows what He is doing---that his plan is perfect----and that His work in my life is much bigger than me "Getting my own way." My life really belongs to Him and it really isn't "mine." to begin with.

It's a big mistake for people to think "It's MY life." How many times have we heard that statement? No, our lives are not our own.

As the song says:

"And if I'd had my say, all my wants and whims and wishes, You knew how weak how shallow I would be if I'd had my way.....I might not have stayed as close if I'd had my way."

Great Joys

2011-10-29T21:19:00.003-05:00

3 John 1:4 "I have no greater joy than to hear that my children are walking in the truth"

Hi everyone,
I wouldn't say that I have any spiritual children like John did at the time of writing his letter, but there are a few "great joys" of my heart!

GREAT JOYS

1) Last weekend the grandfather of two of the youth in my church passed away. I loved the fact that the whole youth group showed up to be a support and encouragement to the two youths and the family. One of my great joys is seeing how the youth care for one another---and they do it because they truly care. It isn't that our youth group is perfect or anything, but I just love seeing Christ's love in action.

2) Another one of my "great joys" is seeing my friend Conchita respond to God's truth. She was a Catholic many years before finally trusting in Christ after the accident three years ago---and from that previous background still has little areas where she believes things that she was always told, but those things don't line up with Scripture. It's really cool to chat with her on some of these topics, discuss how I haven't found such and such an area in Scripture, and come back a few days later seeing that she has searched it out in the Bible for herself and saying, "What I always was told was true isn't in the Bible-----according to the Bible it's like this....."

In the midst of great joys, there are challenges. I have been asked to disciple someone that seems to have no interest in that process, Pray that God would work in this person's life---or maybe that I am just wrong in how I am perceiving things. I would love to be wrong in my thinking in this case!

Pray for strength in moments where my heart is grieved---and that every moment would be lived to the absolute fullest and for God;s glory!

It is a privilege to be here in Mexico! Thank you so much for your prayers!

A Taste Of Home!

2011-10-25T19:13:00.005-05:00

Hi Everyone,

One of my favorite things from home that I miss when I am here is Jiffy blueberry muffin mix. I have been notorious for bringing boxes of the mix with me through customs and people have sent it in care packages at times. I had never been successful in finding it at stores here.

Yesterday, however, I used my day off to invite one of the girls from youth group over to hang out and see where I live.

I got out one of the three remaining boxes that I had of the Jiffy blueberry muffin mix thinking that if my friend came wanting something to eat, mid morning before lunch, I could make her blueberry waffles. I set the box of mix on my dresser so I would remember to offer it.

Well, it ended up she couldn't come until the afternoon. In the course of the afternoon, after we had eaten lunch she mentioned the box of blueberry mix and asked where I had bought it.

I told her I had brought it from the States and wondered how in the world she knew about Jiffy Blueberry muffin mix--as far as I knew I had looked and never seen it sold in stores.

"I know where to get that here in Mexico!" she said

I was all excited asking "Where? Where?"

She mentioned a grocery store across town that I had noticed in the past carries some imported items I can't find anywhere else. I guess it must also be the one store where I never checked the baking section!

Today after work, I just HAD to go check it out!

And sure enough, I got a little overexcited and came home with six boxes of my favorite blueberry muffin mix! They are sure to last quite awhile!

Wow! I can buy my blueberry muffin mix here in Mexico for about 20 cents more a box! I think blueberry waffles are in order for my breakfast tomorrow morning! YUM!!!!!! Who wants to join me?

A taste of home! And yes, my friend still wants blueberry waffles some Saturday morning at her house.

God is good!

I Trust You And Can't Wait To Be With You!

2011-10-22T14:30:00.003-05:00

Hi Everyone,

I am enjoying my sweet little cockatiels. They seem to have adjusted very well. I still am pondering what their names will be.

I am always amazed at the littlest one. Whenever he or she sees me anywhere near the door of the cage, she runs towards the door and climbs up on my hand at the moment I open the cage door. She wants time with me.

It is as if her actions say something like, "I trust you and can't wait to be with you!"

You know what? It is amazing to see the trust of these birdies. I mean when you think about it, we are so much bigger and powerful than they are---and yet they nestle down in my hand without fear. And they are trusting and depending on someone to give them everything they need and to take care of them in ways that they can't, such as continually providing fresh food, water, and a clean disinfected environment to live in.

You know it's sort of like us and God in a way. It is easy for humanity to think they are independent of God, but that isn't true-He is the one that has provided and keeps sustaining everything on the earth with His control--and without that we wouldn't be able to survive.

But it goes deeper than that. In a sense it is like God wants us to be like that little bird-resting and trusting--nestled in his powerful hand. To God, in our actions are we like that little bird eager to spend time with Him, saying, "I trust you and can't wait to be with you!"

Amazed! Amazed!

2011-10-19T18:09:00.003-05:00

Hi Everyone,

I will never cease to be amazed at God's goodness to me-the little ways that he shows that He knows about the desires of our hearts.

In August my cockatiel had died. At first I basically decided it wasn't worth the cost when they kept dying so quickly--not to mention the emotional loss. Olga had also asked me not to get another one.

It was all quite sadly settled-no more pets for me. But I began to notice as the weeks went by that having a bird had so many advantages that I was now missing. I noticed real changes in my morale and tended to constantly throw myself into my work without taking time to just enjoy things and take a break. The last three weeks of August were truthfully some the hardest I had had since returning to Mexico in January. I began praying about talking to Olga again about the things I had realized and the positive reasons for having another bird.

But yet at the same time I was thinking that even if perhaps she would give me permission, I didn't know where I was going to get a bird from. I refused to buy from a pet store again and decided that I would only buy if somehow I could find a hand fed breeder here in Mexico. My other secret prayer request from the depths of my heart was that the breeder would be a Christian. And of course I needed Olga's permission. I thought the chances for all of these things to "line up" were next to impossible--I had looked before regarding a breeder--finding no one. But I prayed these things specifically

Finally God opened up natural opportunity for me to chat with Olga in which she gave me permission to get another bird, preferring it wasn't a cockatiel because she felt they were fragile. The amazing thing was that later that evening after the conversation-I found a breeder that hand feeds birds about an hour away from where I am living.

I began talking with the lady (the breeder) on the phone and e-mailing. I recounted the situations about my previous birds deaths, we discussed things that are hazardous to them etc. I also in my free time was doing extensive research as much as possible.

And then I was even more amazed one night when Maria, the breeder, added me as a friend on facebook--and looking at her interests and facebook page, I was able to tell one very clear thing----she was a believer!!!!! Everything in my heart was just going "Yeah God! You are doing it! You are giving me the desire of my heart!"

Later on just before our team mini conference, I talked with Olga again. I told her I was getting another bird, told her the situation that I had found---and expressed my desire to specifically get a cockatiel with the reasons why to which she said yes--provided that I asked questions about it's care and all to male sure I am doing things right.

On Monday, I went and picked up my dear precious additions to my room-Originally I just wanted one only but these two are from the same family and have never been apart--and I didn't want the one being lonely on those days that I leave at 8:00 am and don't get back til close to 9:00 in the evening.

They are eight weeks old--I still have not named them yet. They fit in the palm of my hand. (well one at a time does) They are tame, precious, and sweet.

I want to enjoy them while I have them, and since I bought them from a much better source this time, I hope they will be around longer.

I think the thing that amazes me and even gives greater joy than having the birds is knowing that God worked out that whole process so perfectly as only He could have! I feel so loved by Him and I know in a very tangible way that he cares about my heart---all the way down here in Mexico. I knew that before but wow--it was just so neat to see Him bring it all together!

And not only that-I've developed a friendship with Maria-and she said if I ever want to go to her place to just get away, I could do that. And I am delighted to be able to encourage and bless her.

So here are the pictures you are all waiting for--welcome home baby birdies!

This Weekend.....

2011-10-14T11:45:00.002-05:00

Hi Everyone,

So yesterday I had quite the interesting conversation with someone yesterday about why they believed what they believed. It is pretty scary when a whole doctrine gets based on a single bible verse that is not interpreted with the whole light and teaching of the Bible in mind. Everything I learned yesterday was about enough to have me start another cultural paper. Please pray that God would give me wisdom as I have opportunities to talk with people and that I would know how to respond to things that people say. Sometimes knowing the right response is challenging.

Other than that, tomorrow I begin discipling a lady in my church named Karen. Pray that we could both grow in the Lord together-and that I could be a friend to her as well-somehow I sense she may need a friend.

Also on Saturday I am going to attempt an informal English conversation time with kids from the youth group that are interested. Pray that it would be a fun time together and that it could be something truly beneficial to the youth that attend.

God is good! Thank you for your prayers!

Update

2011-10-13T11:04:00.002-05:00

Hi Everyone,

Thanks for praying about my trip to Mexico City on Monday. I found out that I need to have a different piece of paper in order to get my visa-so when I have that in a month or so, I will go again.

Things are busy here. I am finishing up a few things for the women's bible study this afternoon in charge of a part of it.

Thanks for your prayers--will write more soon.

Hold Me Jesus

2011-10-10T04:32:00.002-05:00

Hi Everyone,

This song is floating through mt head right now--probably for various reasons.

Hold Me Jesus by Rich Mullins

Well, sometimes my life
Just don't make sense at all
When the mountains look so big
And my faith just seems so small

CHORUS:
So hold me Jesus,
'cause I'm shaking like a leaf
You have been King of my glory
Won't You be my Prince of Peace

And I wake up in the night and feel the dark
It's so hot inside my soul
I swear there must be blisters on my heart

CHORUS

Surrender don't come natural to me
I'd rather fight You for something
I don't really want
Than to take what You give that I need
And I've beat my head against so many walls
Now I'm falling down, I'm falling on my knees

And this Salvation Army band
Is playing this hymn
And Your grace rings out so deep
It makes my resistance seem so thin

CHORUS

You have been King of my glory
Won't You be my Prince of Peace (2x)

Time To Decorate!

2011-10-08T22:31:00.006-05:00

Hi Everyone,

Yesterday I found the best cheap decorations to complete my room with the purple flowers painted on the white walls
Purple glittery butterflies that are suppose to be Christmas decorations. I always wanted a room with flowers and butterflies!

The door to my room looks like this:
Anyways, I was pretty excited!

Oh and just a prayer request--Monday I go to Mexico City to start my visa process-pray that the first of my paperwork gets accepted without any issues. Thanks and blessings to you all!

Mexico: Creative And Colorful!

2011-10-07T16:07:00.010-05:00

Hi Everyone,

There are many things that I appreciate about the people and culture here. One of those many things is the effort and tendency towards creativity to take normal things and make them beautiful when maybe some of us would just throw it away. Another thing I love is the color-lots of things are bright and colorful.

This afternoon, for example, I went to a little restaurant to eat lunch for something different by the town square. And here was what the table I sat at looked like (I sat by the big butterfly, of course!)
Here was the center of my table-isn't this neat!
So the waitress looks at me with this smile while I am taking pictures of my table-- as if people do this every day--but then I really started feeling like a crazy tourist when I started taking pictures of other tables (where no one was seated of course!)

Don't you just love the lady bug?
It amazes me that people on the planet have that kind of patience to piece little squares together one by one out of mosaic and create something out of it that looks quite aesthetic! I would never have that kind of patience. This actually is an art form here in Mexico but I don't have the name of the art form at the moment. Pretty neat, huh?

Treasuring Christ

2011-10-05T19:58:00.002-05:00

Hi Everyone,

I've been thinking a lot lately about treasuring Christ. Nothing---not our position, what we own in earthly terms, or anything else compares to the treasure of knowing Him.

Philippians 3:7-11 "But whatever were gains to me I now consider loss for the sake of Christ. What is more, I consider everything a loss because of the surpassing worth of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whose sake I have lost all things. I consider them garbage, that I may gain Christ and be found in him, not having a righteousness of my own that comes from the law, but that which is through faith in Christ—the righteousness that comes from God on the basis of faith. I want to know Christ—yes, to know the power of his resurrection and participation in his sufferings, becoming like him in his death, and so, somehow, attaining to the resurrection from the dead."

Do we treasure knowing Him above everything else in this life no matter what that costs?

On The Bus

2011-09-30T22:43:00.003-05:00

Hi Everyone,

I was on the bus the other day....and the following conversation transpired.

A woman on the bus sitting next to me for quite awhile all of the sudden out of the blue asks me, "Are you religious?"
"No," I answered " "I have a personal relationship with God which means Jesus Christ died paying the price for my sin and rose again for me and I have given Him my trust."
"Oh, I've heard that" she says
"He did the same for you! Are you going to trust Him-Just Him completely?" I ask
Unfortunately, her stop came just then and she got off the bus before we could finish the conversation

Back from My Team Conference

2011-09-28T17:56:00.002-05:00

Hi Everyone,
Being at my team conference these past three days was good! God really renewed our fellowship together. Thanks for praying for the prayer sessions that I led also. It was really neat how the information that I had gathered stretched for both of the sessions. I want to update with some devotionals soon. Please pray as I finish my required visa letters this week-planning to start that whole process on October 10th. Pray for me to be able to get back into the swing of things quickly after being out of my normal working environment these last few days--and just that what truly needs to get done each day would "get accomplished." I feel behind on some of my responsibilities and want to be faithful in all that I do, completing things well and in a timely manner. Thanks again for your prayers!

Just So You Know.....

2011-09-25T08:10:00.003-05:00

Hi Everyone,

God is doing some amazing things! To hear the whole story you are going to have to wait a month or so--maybe less--I will let you know at the right time.

Our team mini-conference starts this afternoon. I've been busy this week taking care of e-mails and administration tasks for it. Please pray that God would lead us as a team in our discussion and may decisions that are made. I am in charge of two sessions of prayer Monday and Tuesday evening--so thanks for your prayers there as well.

I will be without internet for the next few days and will get in touch with you again on Wednesday evening.

The Heart Of TRUST: A Quiet Place

2011-09-24T13:48:00.004-05:00

Hi Everyone,

The heart that trusts in the Lord is a quiet place--not filled with the anxieties and fears of the world. The heart that trusts in Him knows that He will work everything out for good, that he has greater purposes even in difficult circumstances, and that God will care and provide for those that are His. The heart that trusts knows that Jesus Christ's sacrifice on the cross was sufficient and that He is the same yesterday, today, and forever.

The heart that Trusts is a heart at REST.

Psalm 28:7 "The LORD is my strength and my shield; my heart trusts in him, and he helps me. My heart leaps for joy, and with my song I praise him."

Psalm 33:21 "In him our hearts rejoice, for we trust in his holy name."

Psalm 62:8 "Trust in him at all times, you people; pour out your hearts to him, for God is our refuge."

Psalm 112:6-8 " Surely the righteous will never be shaken; they will be remembered forever. They will have no fear of bad news; their hearts are steadfast, trusting in the LORD. Their hearts are secure, they will have no fear; in the end they will look in triumph on their foes."

Have a blessed day at rest trusting in HIM!

Renew My Strength Like The Eagles

2011-09-21T23:38:00.003-05:00

Hi Everyone,

It has almost been a week since I posted last--just due to the fact that I literally have not had time to post lately. Things have been quite busy. Thanks for your prayers for me that I can get things done efficiently and timely. Our mini-conference is September 25th thru the 28th. Please pray for me and my team during that time.

May God renew my strength like the eagles!

Isaiah 40:31 "But those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint."

Mexican Independence Day Celebration Highlights!

2011-09-15T23:56:00.014-05:00

A Mexican Party (Fiesta Mexicana)

Hi Everyone,

Tonight was the Mexican Independence Celebration, which I attended at my church. Here are some of the decorations that were up for the event.

Our Church bulletin board---decorated by one of the youth! :)Here is my pastor, Luis Mundo Ocampo--just thought you might be curious what he looks like. Unfortunately I didn't get a picture of him and his wife together.
Here I am-all dressed up with a few added touches to the same outfit that I wore on Tuesday night.
Our meal time together consisted of pozole (see photo below) and tacos dorados. Pozole basically means "foamy." It is a soup that is traditionally pre-columbian. It is prepared to eat on special occasions. It consists of corn (whole hominy kernals) and meat (Most commonly either pork or chicken but can also be made with pork rinds or turkey). It is then garnished with various other items such as: (dried cilantro, chili pepper, lime juice, and chopped onion just to name a few of them) depending on a person's preferences. This is a very Mexican dish and there are different variations in the different States of Mexico. It took awhile for me to get used to eating it when I first arrived---but now I really do enjoy eating it--especially when the meat in it is chicken! YUM!!
Here are some of the tacos before they were fried. They are tortillas rolled up and filled with things such as potato, cheese, etc. They go great with pozole.
We also played all kinds of games together as a church body! Some of them were just along silly and fun lines. The highlight was groups that had to dress up as Mexican historical figures and give a five minute "drama" with their other group members. I didn't catch everything in the sketches but the mix of history with modern day was very interesting! I must say there are some very creative people in my church here! (might have to see if there are ways to put their gifts to use in the future!) Here are the "drama actors!!!!"
An important part of the celebration is called "El Grito"--the Cry of Independence. This cry dates back to September 16, 1810 and marks the beginning of the Mexican war for Independence. The cry was announced by Hidalgo, Costilla, and a Roman Catholic priest. Now each year in remembrance of the event and I would sort of say this is like an emblem of Mexico's Independence, on September 15th at 11:00 p.m, "the Grito" is carried out. People typically gather in the town square together. It is a huge national and cultural event that typically takes place in the zocalo or the town square in Mexico City and in other cities and towns throughout Mexico at the same time. In Mexico City the president rings the bell and does the independence cry and in other cities and towns either the governor of the state or other government officials are given this privilege.

In my church we didn't go to the town square-several churches have their own Independence celebrations(partly to offering a safer alternative for celebration) as I had previously mentioned. So here is our youth leader giving his version of "The Grito." My pastor made a contest out of it and we voted on who did the best "grito" between the younger children and the adults. It was fun. Hopefully some year I will actually get the actual town square event on video so you can see what it really looks like.

After The Independence Cry, we all sang the Mexican National Anthem together....and then someone decided to put off some very tiny indoor "fireworks" on the cement basketball court of our church. Lots of them just made smoke though. Anyways, it really was really safe and fun even though it probably sounds scary!

So it was a fun evening---and really neat to get to know my church members better too!

The Way We Think

2011-09-14T07:41:00.001-05:00

Hi Everyone,

The manner in which we think is so important. sometimes it can be easy to get trapped n those old patterns of thinking even when we know the truth. Satan also knows the times when we are weak. Sometimes when things happen such as expectations not being met, disappointments, hardship, or tragic circumstances, it can be easier to be tempted to believe a lie rather than the truth.

And while the temptation may be great to believe the lie, we MUST remember that believing a lie will put us in bondage but believing the TRUTH that God has said will bring us to freedom--every time. We can't always change what happens in our circumstances, but we CAN choose how we will react and what we are going to believe about God, ourselves, and others in the situation.

The way we think is very important.

Life is not about getting what we want--infact it isn't even about us.

Life is about those of us who TRUST HIM being transformed to be more like Him--and God can use anything and everything to that end--if we choose to allow Him to do so. That may not always be an easy process. We must seek to have our minds renewed in Him--and we must remember that HIS TRUTH will prevail.

Romans 12:2 "Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will."

All Ready To Celebrate

2011-09-13T19:18:00.003-05:00

Hi Everyone,

As I said it is our Mexican Independence celebration this week. Tonight I am gong to a celebration at Olag's church, tomorrow a celebration at my friend Conchita's, and Thursday I've decided to go to my church for their Noche Mexicana.

In the midst of food, fun, and cultural learning, pray that I would be used of the Lord as a testimony to others--especially with Conchita's family Wednesday evening.

More pictures to come!

Are we "Forcing" What God Doesn't Want?

2011-09-12T16:50:00.004-05:00

Hi Everyone,

I've been thinking about something and been challenged by it several times over the past few weeks.

So many times it is so easy to bring "our plans or desires" to prayer and ask God to honor and bless them---but the truth is our plans may NOT be His will for us at all.

Especially serving in a foreign country, (but I am sure it happens just the same in our ministries and lives at home), We are constantly made aware of needs or opportunities around us--it can be easy to "fill our plates" and get busy with all kinds of truly good things---but some of those may not be what God has for us at that particular time and such.

I am not saying we should just throw out our ministry opportunities, but maybe sometimes we need to seek God and really evaluate them. So I've been doing some re-evaluating lately as to what God does want me doing---and to what extent---for various aspects here.

HIS WILL IS ALWAYS THE BEST FOR US. It is far better to carry out HIS plans and will rather than our own.

Favorite Time Of Year

2011-09-09T08:44:00.005-05:00

Hi Everyone,

Mexicans are generally VERY patriotic. The patriotism is a part of the culture that many times I enjoy and appreciate. September 15th is the Independence Day celebration. This time of year is one on my favorite's here from a cultural standpoint. Last year I remember how much I longed to be here to celebrate the bi-centennial, but this year I am excited to be here for Mexico's 201th Independence celebration.
The Government building in the town square called the Zócalo is decorated for the occasion where many Mexican will participate in what s known as "the grito." More about this later!

There are stands all over the place, a month or so prior to the day, with people selling Mexican flags, decorations, cheap jewelry, and all kinds of other things in red, green and white for the celebration.
Many churches also have their own celebrations for congregation attendees and their families and friends---complete with a brief review of Mexico's history, singing the Mexican National Anthem and Worship songs, games, and tons of delicious food options. And I haven't decided if I am going to the zócalo or to my church celebration yet, but I am leaning towards going to church since my ever-awesome youth group is in charge of planning the games---should be interesting! So in a week I will let you know which one I decided and how it went!
TIME TO CELEBRATE!!!!

Video Update Praise And Prayer!

2011-09-08T10:45:00.003-05:00

Hi Everyone

Here is a video update in two segments---for some reason my blog would not upload them when I tried to join them into one segment--but enjoy--and thanks so very much for your prayers!

Today and Tomorrow

2011-09-06T20:07:00.002-05:00

Hi Everyone,

I heard an amazing testimony from one of our short-termer's today--it sounded sort of like mine. I mean, I could relate to it at least. So at the end of our meeting, I shared my testimony briefly with the short termer.

Tomorrow I am "in charge of" our team's day of prayer from 9-5. Pray that God would just take over and lead it--things are much better that way. Thanks.

Today At Church

2011-09-04T23:35:00.003-05:00

Hi Everyone,

I absolutely LOVE this picture-it has become precious to me!--This is the youth group from my church---almost all of us--actually together! The photo was taken today at our church where we had Pastoral Recognition and Celebration--because our main Pastor celebrated 20 years of ministry there today--but we also celebrated the rest of the pastoral team as well.

We had an awesome Mexican style lunch--where people brought stuff to share. It was delicious--but everyone kept wanting to put food on my plate!!! (I felt like I was getting spoiled like those childhood memories at Grandma's house!) I guess people are getting to know who I am now----now I just need to get the names down of more people in the congregation. Anyways, it was fun--too bad you all couldn't have been here!

Living A Life Of Purity And Holiness For His Return

2011-09-03T08:24:00.004-05:00

Hi Everyone,

We live in a world that says, "you can do whatever you want regarding sin and that if everyone else is doing something, it's ok for you to do so." We live in a world where things such as "social pressure" and "freedom of personal choice" have basically been used as excuses to just about justify every type of sin imaginable.

It isn't anything new......and even those that claim to have trusted Christ are falling into thee world's traps, belief system, and mindsets of thinking.

We cannot forget that HIS NAME IS HOLY--and He has set us apart and said, "Be Holy as I am Holy." (I Peter 1:16)

Obviously we all struggle and sin in many ways--and not one of us but Jesus Christ alone is perfect. However, we, as people that have trusted in Christ, do not have excuses to live in sin gratifying the flesh as the world does. With His strength, we must stand firm no matter how silly or strange it looks to the world for WE ARE HIS BRIDE--and He will return.

God's righteous standards do not "change with the times." He is the same yesterday, today, and forever. Our goal should be to live as pure and obedient as possible to Him preparing for the day that we will see Him face to face, reflecting Him to the world----and how we live matters very much to Him.

I Thessalonians 4:7 "For God did not call us to be impure, but to live a holy life."

Hebrews 12:14 "Make every effort to live in peace with everyone and to be holy; without holiness no one will see the Lord."

2 Peter 3:9-13 " The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. Instead he is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance. But the day of the Lord will come like a thief. The heavens will disappear with a roar; the elements will be destroyed by fire, and the earth and everything done in it will be laid bare. Since everything will be destroyed in this way, what kind of people ought you to be? You ought to live holy and godly lives as you look forward to the day of God and speed its coming. That day will bring about the destruction of the heavens by fire, and the elements will melt in the heat. But in keeping with his promise we are looking forward to a new heaven and a new earth, where righteousness dwell. "

The Joy Of Having Our Treasure In What Is Eternal!

2011-09-02T17:21:00.004-05:00

Hi Everyone,

I have been thinking and reflecting upon the great joy that it is to have our treasure in what is eternal---and not being weighed down by the concerns and cares of this life.

Matthew 10:8b "Freely you have received, freely give."

Acts 20:35b "Jesus Himself said, 'It is more blessed to give than to receive.'"

Matthew 6:19-21 “Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moths and vermin destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moths and vermin do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also."

I am daily challenged to ask myself, Where TRULY is my treasure?" As we realize all that JESUS did for us, hopefully we reflect lives of wanting to bless others out of the gratitude of all that He has given to us--eternal life, forgiveness of sin, peace with God, every spiritual blessing in Christ-and so much more!

It all reminds me of this song.

The Lilies Of The Field--bu John Michael Talbot

Consider the ravens;
They do now sow and they do not reap.
Yet God, the Father, provides for them
Yet upon the earth these are among the smallest things.

Consider how the lilies grow;
They do not spin, and they do not reap
Yet I tell you now, not even Solomon
In all of his splendor was arrayed like any one of these

Chorus
So seek ye first the Kingdom of God
And the Wealth of HIS righteousness
For wherever your treasure lies
There will you find your heart

Be not concerned for your life,
Or your body;
What to eat, what to wear,
Or what you will do for tomorrow.

Seek out instead His heavenly kingdom
And the rest upon the earth in it's own time will follow

(repeat chorus twice)

There will you find your heart

Lessons From A Cricket

2011-08-30T15:51:00.005-05:00

Hi Everyone,

So not having my bird has been an adjustment these past three weeks. It has been neat to see God's faithfulness in the midst of the fact that I miss having something to come home to, take care of, and enjoy. However I think there are many ways that God is reminding me to enjoy my relationship with Him.

About four days ago, when I came home, I was just like, "Lord, I miss having something in my room--can't you just like---send me something?" Strangely that same night there was a cricket chirping quite loudly all night long. At first it drove me crazy-all i wanted it to do was "please be quiet!" I thought about killing it, but somehow throughout the next day, I remembered what I had prayed and the little cricket began to grow on me---and I am actually enjoying it's presence now.

So I guess the cricket is my "pet" for now.....and every time I hear him chirp away it reminds me that God cares about the deep desires of my heart----and knows the answer to my needs before I even ask.

The cricket is quite cozy heading between the floor under my night stand and the floor under my bed. It feels like I am camping out every night (without the mosquitoes!)

God is good---May our hearts be overflowing in gratitude towards Him!

I Will Be Your Shield

2011-08-29T21:29:00.004-05:00

Hi Everyone,

I had another post that I was going to put up today--but a dear friend of mine sent me these words in an e-mail--and I couldn't resist posting them! They touched my heart in a really special and deep way--one of those "just what THE DOCTOR ordered things!) You should hear the song! it is beautiful--reminded me of "old-time" adult Christian Contemporary Music from 25 years ago somehow. The words are packed with TRUTH!!! We must not forget God's promises even in the midst of challenges.

All I know, as a result of my research, is that the words at least are written by Rachel Wissman. So, with great privilege of posting this, here are the words to "I Will Be Your Shield." May they bless you-----From God's perspective--to YOU!!!

I Will Be Your Shield

My child, are you discouraged

By the sorrows of the day?

Does it seem that life is crumbing,

The skies have turned to gray?

Don’t forget I gave you promises

To guide you every hour

In the moment of your heartbreak

Let me show you my great power

Chorus:

And I will be your shield

When the battle rages on

And I will be your light

When the way ahead is dark

I will be your strong tower

And guide you every hour

Just place your life

Completely in my hands

I know it won’t be easy

I never said it would,

But my grace will always be there

My plans for you are good!

Remember that your weaknesses

Are perfect in my sight

Only when you hand them to me

Can I turn them into might

(Chorus)

Bridge:

And someday you will understand

Why I sent this trial

And someday you will see the end

And know it’s overcome

(Chorus (and key change))

Friday Night Youth Birthday Celebration

2011-08-27T09:57:00.003-05:00

Hi Everyone,
Last night we the youth had a gathering at my Pastor's house to celebrate a few birthdays of the youth. It was a fun time together. We had sushi rolls and cake. We played games and hung out. I continue to be so grateful for these kids. Have a great weekend.

Blessings

2011-08-26T10:27:00.004-05:00

Hi Everyone,

I know the song below is really popular right now but that is not why I posted it.

"Blessings" By Laura Story

We pray for blessings
We pray for peace
Comfort for family, protection while we sleep
We pray for healing, for prosperity
We pray for Your mighty hand to ease our suffering
All the while, You hear each spoken need
Yet love us way too much to give us lesser things

Cause what if Your blessings come through raindrops
What if Your healing comes through tears
What if a thousand sleepless nights
Are what it takes to know You’re near
What if trials of this life are Your mercies in disguise

We pray for wisdom
Your voice to hear
And we cry in anger when we cannot feel You near
We doubt Your goodness, we doubt Your love
As if every promise from Your Word is not enough
All the while, You hear each desperate plea
And long that we'd have faith to believe

Cause what if Your blessings come through raindrops
What if Your healing comes through tears
What if a thousand sleepless nights
Are what it takes to know You’re near
And what if trials of this life are Your mercies in disguise

When friends betray us
When darkness seems to win
We know the pain reminds this heart
That this is not, this is not our home
It's not our home

Cause what if Your blessings come through raindrops
What if Your healing comes through tears
And what if a thousand sleepless nights
Are what it takes to know You’re near
What if my greatest disappointments
Or the aching(s) of this life
Is the revealing of a greater thirst this world can’t satisfy
And what if trials of this life
The rain, the storms, the hardest nights
Are Your mercies in disguise

My guess is that nearly every one of us has desires and longings that may seem right to us and that we pray about, but yet God in his wisdom, who sees the whole picture, says "no" or sometimes "wait." Or there may be circumstances that are hard that we can't change that God has allowed, and yet He has purposes much higher than our own. As this song says, He, knowing our hearts loves us too much to give us anything less than the absolute best--and the "Real True Best" may look totally different than what we would have ever imagined it to be. When it all comes down to the grind of living it out day by day, in the midst of the challenge, it comes down to TRUSTING that what He has said is best--IS BEST. That isn't always easy, but with His strength it is more than possible.. As the song says our greatest disappointments and the achings of this life reveal a deeper thirst---a thirst only met by Him that only He can satisfy....and maybe someday we will understand the blessing and the perfect plan that He had for us behind that hard circumstance or even why He said "no." Somehow the pain, the longing, the disappointment, the surrender (sometimes over and over again), and our trust in His perfect will, in the midst of a sinful world, can be part of the process to transform us to be more like Him---if we allow them to---and refuse to turn bitter instead.

A Slight Sense Of Completion

2011-08-24T22:49:00.005-05:00

Hi Everyone,

Today we had our monthly New Worker's meeting and I (at least to my knowledge) have turned in all of my assignment requirements. The New Worker's orientation committee will get back to me if I am lacking anything else. I feel quite a slight sense of relief and completion.

Huge praise report that I chose to get out of my room intentionally away from my duties for a a few hours this evening--it was very nice to have a slight break.

Regarding Breaks: I am realizing that when I had my birds, I would take breaks a few times a day to play with them, enjoy their companionship, and spend time with them----but now that they are gone--my tendency is to work rather constantly.

My next big projects are organizing my sending base leaders' garage in such a way that others will be able to barrow things they lack. I also still need to finish organizing the prayer day for September 7th that I am in charge of, and finish organizing the upstairs office of our Sending base room in my leader's house.

Thanks for sticking with me! I will try to get a video and some devotionals up when things slow down. Praise God for His faithfulness!

"Now, What Is It You Do Again?"

2011-08-23T07:29:00.004-05:00

Hi Everyone,

About two weeks ago I had some opportunities to share the Gospel on my street because it became obvious that there was a little confusion about "What I am doing here." One person thinks I am some sort of official type counselor (Not true-I've just learned to practice listening to people and learned some tools to help others along the way.) And a few others were absolutely convinced that I was a Catholic nun. (Not true either----they probably partly think that because I am not married.)

So needless to say, I had some explaining to do about why I am here--(because of trusting in Jesus Christ and wanting others to trust Him too) and what I do. It really opened up some interesting conversations with people.....where I also got to learn where they are at in a spiritual sense.

You never know what people are thinking----and the opportunities that God will give you through it!

Greetings

2011-08-21T21:29:00.002-05:00

Hi Everyone,
I just wanted people who may be wondering that I am OK----just been really busy-----and will try to post more this week. I realize it has been five days since you heard from me. More tomorrow evening--Lord willing!
Crystal

Obeying When It's Hard

2011-08-16T07:43:00.001-05:00

Lord,
Give me an obedient heart to you even when it is hard. I want to honor You above all and live a life that is pleasing to you.

O Jesus I have Promised--Hymn

2011-08-15T16:34:00.004-05:00

Hi Everyone,

A dear friend e-mailed me this hymn a day or so ago. I loved the words. What an awesome reminder no matter what our circumstances to stay committed to following Christ and living lives of obedience and service to Him. So Here it is.

"O Jesus I Have Promised"
Words by John E. Bode 1868
Music by Arthur H. Mann-1881

O Jesus I have promised to serve thee to the end;

Be thou forever near me my master and my friend;

I shall not fear the battle if thou art by my side,

Nor wander from the pathway if thou wilt be my guide.

O let me feel thee near me, the world is ever near;

I see the sights that dazzle, the tempting sounds I hear;

My foes are ever near me around me and within;

But, Jesus, draw thou nearer, and shield my soul from sin.

O let me hear thee speaking in accents clear and still,

Above the storms of passion, the murmurs of self-will;

O speak to reassure me, to hasten or control;

O speak and make me listen, thou guardian of my soul.

O Jesus, thou hast promised to all who follow thee,

That where thou art in glory there shall they servant be;

And, Jesus, I have promised to serve thee to the end;

O give me grace to follow, my master and my friend.

Youth Group Update

2011-08-14T21:15:00.003-05:00

Hi Everyone,

Last night leading the youth group went awesome! They had a blast with the new game that I taught them and the teaching time went great too. I wish every youth group could have the unity and care for one another that these kids have---it is really something God has given to us. We spent time praying together for one another also.

It really was a huge bright spot being with them in spite of the challenges of the last few days.

Thank you for praying and for your continued prayers.

News and Prayer

2011-08-13T10:09:00.003-05:00

Hi Everyone,

So I came home from work yesterday and found my bird, Angel, dead. I am disappointed---and, as I said, am not planning to get another one because finding a tame one here is nearly impossible, and they are very expensive (whether tame or not). If I could get one that lived for ten years I could possibly justify the expense, but obviously as we know, that has not been the case. I am going to miss having a critter to care for---the companionship and entertainment-----simple pleasures are the best.

Otherwise, I am giving the Bible study time and in charge of the youth group time tonight. Pray that God would give me the words to say and that I would be able to bless the kids----and be ministered to as well. am hoping we will have time afterwards to hang out together.

I am also still working on organizing our team prayer day for September 7th. Pray that the Lord would bring it together!

Thanks for your prayers everyone! Please do pray for Conchita and for Elizabeth--another friend of mine----both are going through hard times right now.

Have a great day in Him!

Conchita And I

2011-08-10T21:01:00.004-05:00

Hi Everyone,

I thought I had posted a picture on my blog of Conchita and I but that does not appear to be the case. I went and talked to her tonight for about two hours. I gave her a copy of the Joni-Autobiography in Spanish that I had brought from the states. Pray that it would encourage her and that the Lord would continue to encourage her as well.Pray that I would continue to be have a true heart to listen and that I would know how to minister to her. Keep praying for the salvation of her husband and her two nearly adult children. Thanks!

Trust is A Treasure!

2011-08-08T15:18:00.003-05:00

Hi Everyone,

The other day I found this picture above and realized I had never posted it. This is of Speckles. I must say I truly love Angel---but something in me at times misses Speckles. I saw what she would have looked like of she had grown up---uniquely beautiful! Indeed these two are very different birds. Angel trusts me but almost no one else, whereas Speckles trusted and was loving to everyone. But I must say I am so thankful Angel does trust me---what a different life it would be if she didn't.
So all of that said, I am AMAZED that such a little creature actually can get to the place of trusting something so much bigger than he or she is! It really is a treasure and oh so beautiful--and it makes a world of difference!
Lately I find myself quite grateful for Genesis 1:28 where man was given dominion over the fish of the sea, the birds of the air, and the living creatures. A tiny piece of God's creation lives right in my room with me! My birdie Angel is so precious----but the most wonderful thing is that she trusts me--I don't think anything else that she would "do" could match the joy of her trusting me--there is not a better gift she could give me than that!

And it all makes me think again in a greater way how OUR TRUST is the greatest gift we can give to the Lord--all He wants is our trust---it s the basis of having a personal relationship with Him. It brings Him joy. God is so much bigger than we are--He has the control of everything in this world in His hands. He provides and cares for us.

TRUST IS A TREASURE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Where Has The Bible Gone From Our Bible Studies?

2011-08-07T20:16:00.007-05:00

Image is used open license from www.freefoto.com

Hi Everyone,

Sometimes I wonder what is happening when so many of our Bible studies that are typically used are full of comments or ideas from others--but seldom looking at the Word. Other peoples insights can be helpful, but are we simply studying? Or is it true Bible Study? There are definitely good materials out there but there is a lot of fluff and doctrinally incorrect stuff too. Just a thought--not that I claim to know everything---just a caution to be sure we are correctly dividing the Word of Truth-----and growing from the Word!

Women's Bible Study

2011-08-06T08:27:00.002-05:00

Hi Everyone,

Last Sunday a woman at church invited me to a Bible study tat is on thursday nights from 6:00 to 7:45. I decided to go partly for spiritual growth, partly to get to know other people at church besides the youth group. We will be meeting every Thursday for the next six months and there are 11 of us--sometime I will try to get a photo. On Thursday we all shared our testimonies of how we came to know the Lord so that was really neat to hear

Today the youth are all heading to an area pool and recreation park--I actually decided not to go and to stay here at home working on various different things that I really need to get done--so pray that this day would be really productive for me.

May the Lord bless you all! Thank you for sending me to Mexico! :)

Awesome Tamale Making Day!

2011-08-03T17:37:00.019-05:00

Hi Everyone,

This morning Olga (The lady whose house I rent a room at), Ivy (My Sending base leader's wife), and I got together and made yummy tamales! We took tons of pictures! Ivy was up really early cooking the green salsa, meat, mole, and vegetables.

After everything was cooked (a huge job) Olga and I arrived at Ivy's house. I cleaned the corn husks that the tamales are cooked in.

Olga made the dough with Ivy helping too. The dough is just right to use for the tamales when a small amount of it floats on top of a glass of water.
Pictured above: Olga is on the left and Ivy is on the right

We filled the corn husks with a little dough, the ingredients and put dough on the top, wrapping the corn husks

They then cook with water boiling water at the bottom for 45 minutes in the pressure cooker or longer in a regular pot.
And the end product is the best ever!!!! Deliciously tasty when they are made right! YUM!!!!!
We all had fun working together.
Well I need to quit posting on my blog and get back to work! Thanks for your prayers!

Pictures And Update

2011-08-02T11:06:00.004-05:00

HI Everyone,

I've been quite busy working on preparing the Bible Study time to give to the youth group at my church in two weeks, am in the next month hoping to start a children's club as an outreach to kids on my street, planning a prayer day for September, and am trying to work on some of my office administrator responsibilities.

Here are some pictures for you

Oranges anyone? Ripened on the tree and Not painted ! :)

Another one of Olga's awesome roses!

Have a great day everyone!

Gratitude

2011-07-31T15:56:00.003-05:00

Hi Everyone,

Nearly every Sunday at my church here in Mexico, we recite this verse together---I think part of the reason why we do so is to remember how God has blessed us beyond anything we deserve and to remind us to have hearts of gratitude to Him.

Psalm 68:19 (NKJ) "Blessed be the Lord, who daily loads us with benefits, The God of our salvation."

Quote from my pastor this morning 'He who has learned to have a spirit of gratitude has learned many things."

The Solid Rock

2011-07-30T11:10:00.002-05:00

Hi Everyone,

I am doing well here in Mexico. Had a great talk with my sending base leaders yesterday to get caught up from my border trip and am looking forward to heading out to evangelize and pray with people at a hospital in a little while and am looking forward to hanging out with the youth group tonight too! :) God is good! My birdie Angel is also enjoying the fact that I have returned!

This hymn has been going through my head lately---might have posted it before but will do so again.

On Christ the solid rock I stand--all other ground is sinking sand!

Blessing to you all and thanks for praying!

The Solid Rock

Words by Edward Mote 1834

Music by William B Bradbury 1863

My hope is built on nothing less
Than Jesus’ blood and righteousness.
I dare not trust the sweetest frame,
But wholly trust in Jesus’ Name.

Refrain

On Christ the solid Rock I stand,
All other ground is sinking sand;
All other ground is sinking sand.

When darkness seems to hide His face,
I rest on His unchanging grace.
In every high and stormy gale,
My anchor holds within the veil.

Refrain

His oath, His covenant, His blood,
Support me in the whelming flood.
When all around my soul gives way,
He then is all my Hope and Stay.

Refrain

When He shall come with trumpet sound,
Oh may I then in Him be found.
Dressed in His righteousness alone,
Faultless to stand before the throne.

Refrain

The Connection Between Contentment And Thankfulness

2011-07-27T13:41:00.002-05:00

"Those who rise above their circumstances understand that God uses every experience for good (Rom. 8:28). To trust that principle, we must realize that anything we experience is under the authority of a kind, loving Father.... God never allows anything to touch us that He will not turn to our benefit and the good of His kingdom." ~Charles Stanley

Hi Everyone,

I found this quote yesterday and it was such a reminder for me that regardless of my circumstances, I have to trust that God is working through them for His glory. Sometimes the things that happen in life really don't make sense to us--there are things that God allows into our lives that at first glance, we would prefer not to face, or maybe things we wish were different. But God knows what he is doing. He knows how shallow we would be if life was easy without the trials (sometimes heartbreaking) that he uses to transform us to be more like Him. We can rest in Him that He will take EVERYTHING and work it all together for the good of those who love him.

As I was sitting in the airport yesterday, eating some lunch and having a conversation with God about a current issue I have been struggling with where I am desiring to find contentment in it, God brought to my mind that having a correct view of our circumstances even when they are tough is not only trusting his good and perfect will and sovereign control as was mentioned above, but I also sensed that he was reminding me to be thankful. Why? Because being content and being thankful go hand in hand. When we are truly thankful to God and grateful for the many undeserved blessings of today, we find ourselves more content to live in the moment He has given us--and maybe thinking a tiny bit less about some of those circumstances that really are in His control----and not our own.

It doesn't mean that this current issue for me has become a non-issue, but maybe in a small way I am able to trust God a little bit more with it.

Lord, give us hearts overflowing with gratitude and the ability to trust you-and your perfect wisdom---that you are working everything out for our good--even when from our perspective it might not seem that way at first.

Praise the Lord that I arrived back in Mexico safely!

Tonight's Video

2011-07-25T18:41:00.002-05:00

Hi Everyone,

Here is a quick video for tonight! Thanks so much for your prayers! I head back to Mexico tomorrow.

Border Trip Update

2011-07-21T18:40:00.003-05:00

Hi Everyone,

My time at the border trip has been amazing! It is fast but oh so good! For starters, I got to talk to my parents by phone for over an hour after only connecting twice and talking a total of maybe 15 minutes these last five and a half months in Mexico. It has also been awesome to have God bring people across my path that I wanted to talk to, but didn't have a chance to call and set up a time to get together. And another amazing thing is that God has provided some really special opportunities for me to receive some ministry from others and vice versa. Time is going by fast, but there have been many blessings and I am so thankful. Thank you for your prayers! God is so good! May the Lord bless you all and most likely I will be updating you again when I get back in Mexico on the 26th.

Beautiful Flowers I Have Seen!

2011-07-19T08:23:00.001-05:00

Hi Everyone,

Wherever we are in the world, there are so many beautiful aspects of God's creation to enjoy! These are some flower pictures I took on a walk last night!

Busy Bumblebee! He was moving around way to o much to get a clear picture--but it was still neat!
All of God's creation is wonderful!

So Good To Be Here!

2011-07-18T08:33:00.005-05:00

Hi Everyone,

It is REALLY good to be back here at the house of hope for a few days! It feels like home in a precious way! Pray for a truly refreshing time for me and that the Lord would continue to work in my heart and life as I am here in this beautiful and memorable place--where God did so many wonderful things last Summer! God is very good!

Freed From Depression!

2011-07-16T21:08:00.003-05:00

Hi Everyone,

I arrived safely last night! It was a real blessing to be home for a friend's wedding today! A few friends also had a belated birthday celebration for me, which was awesome! One of the things that they asked me was what my highlight of this past year has been.

I had to think about it because this past year has been so incredible! God not only brought me to Himself and saved me, but this year has been filled with amazing blessings that I could not even begin to count! So on top of saying that I also mentioned a highlight is realizing what it has been like to live free from depression. Yes, realistically there are times of discouragement, but life is so much better without that heavy depression I used to experience! It is all a result of God's work in my life! Before, I never could have imagined my life being the way it is now, and I love it! God has indeed been so very good to me and blessed me in so many ways! All the glory is His!

So praises to Him again who has indeed made me forever free indeed!

Thoughts Before Flying Out Tomorrow!

2011-07-14T23:37:00.003-05:00

Hi Everyone,

It is pretty amazing to think that I am going to be seeing some of you by this time tomorrow night--- I am excited about that--but NOT excited about having to miss youth group for two whole Saturdays.

Thanks for your prayers about the infection I had this week. I am on antibiotics and am feeling better already! (Amazing what a few little pills can do taken in the right circumstances!) Of course more than anything, we know that the Lord's role in healing us is important too! Now, If I can just get some decent sleep.....

Well I guess that is all for now- I have to be up early tomorrow to get to Mexico City and take the flight out. May the Lord bless you all!

Praises

2011-07-12T21:34:00.002-05:00

Hi Everyone,

I have several praises and a few prayer requests!

Praise! I JUST e-mailed my completed cultural paper and another paper to the orientation committee! Praise the Lord that I have finished these big requirements and only have a few very small things to finish upon my return from my border trip! Thank you for your prayers over these last few months!

Praise! Yesterday my sending base leader and I talked and I will be taking on the position of Office Administrator for the sending base! I learned through the conversation what this will mean and what is expected! Pray for me as I serve in this role. I am excited and want to do my best unto the Lord's glory.

Please PRAY for my health---I have been having some issues the last day and a half and am praying that I won't have these issues when I fly on Friday. Please pray for me to regain strength, and to be able to complete the other things that I need to before I leave. Thank you so very much for joining in and praying with me on these matters.

Looking forward to seeing several of you in just a few short days from now.

The Last Few Days.....

2011-07-09T20:12:00.002-05:00

HI Everyone,

I guess I have stuck true to my word about not updating my blog much this week. Things have just been extremely busy with trying to talk to people to finish my cultural paper, and a few other things. I am thankful for your prayers! I can't believe it has been four days since I updated (that is a long time for me not to update!)

Last night I went to our youth group girl's sleep over. It was sooo much fun hanging out--although unfortunately I was the first one to crash and go to sleep at about 11:45. One of the girls was so sweet-she let me sleep on her bed instead of the floor--and I am so thankful because the sleep was necessary to get things done well today and not feel like a zombie! :) In the morning we had delicious pancakes and sincronizadas for breakfast (Tortillas heated up with ham and a little cheese.) It truly was a great time together and I am so thankful for all of those young adults!

I just got back after chatting with some more people for my paper this afternoon! God is good!

A God Who Hears

2011-07-05T23:16:00.002-05:00

Hi Everyone,

If you would have heard me praying this week, it would have sounded like this. "God, I know my value is not in what I do--but I am here to do Your will for me in Mexico. I want to be more involved and be more of a part of things--especially after my orientation requirements are done. I want to know better how to help my church, how to serve on the sending base, and have opportunities to share with,the youth investing more directly into their lives....and at the same time I am not always sure what my giftings are either."

I'll be honest--I was starting to get impatient and frustrated---instead of just trusting God's timing.

This evening, a handful of us from the youth group went out to see a movie as a mid-week treat and hang out time together. I love being with them and always come away feeling refreshed, loved, and accepted without condition. After the movie, the youth leader pulled me aside and said, "Crystal, would you be willing to give the Bible study portion of the youth group next Saturday?" I said, "yes, I would be delighted to," but would have to wait til I got back in town from my visa renewal trip.

And then I got home tonight and a letter from my Pastor was in my e-mail---saying he has a lady in mind that he wants me to come alongside disciple. COOL!!!!!

I am very excited, to say the least,....and again clearly reminded that God hears my prayers, knows what I feel, cares so very much, and has plans for me here in Mexico.

Thank you Lord!

Things I am Looking Forward To This Week

2011-07-03T21:43:00.004-05:00

Hi Everyone,

It has been three days since I have put an update up. Part of this was due to the fact that the internet service that I had finally contracted for a year after living here almost six months wasn't working--and I FINALLY figured out how to restore it. Another reason for the lack of update is just for the fact that I spent the evening at a team member's house and internet was not available there. Things are also getting crazy busy-scrambling to finish orientation stuff (still need another handful or two of people to talk to for my research paper THIS WEEK) before heading out to my border trip in two weeks.

Needless to say, things may be a little quieter on my blog over these next few days.

Last night I discovered a new way to get to my church---I was a little late for youth group but at least I made it.

This week I am looking forward to a sleep over with the girls in the youth group on Friday night. (will have some great pictures I am sure!). I am also looking forward to prayer at the sending base tomorrow, and starting to concentrate on planing a day of prayer for our team in early September. So I am going to get to bed here soon--expecting to be up late several nights working on orientation stuff.

Thanks for your prayers!

Quick Video Update

2011-06-30T15:26:00.002-05:00

Hi Everyone,

Yeah! Blogger is letting me upload videos again--so here is a quick update!

Bless you all and see several of you soon!

Holding Our Possessions Loosely

2011-06-28T08:48:00.002-05:00

Hi Everyone,

I've been thinking about the past week and I think the biggest reminder that I have taken away from it is to hold my possessions loosely----The more stuff we have, the more complicated life can get. Every good gift comes from Him. God has given us things to enjoy--and there is nothing wrong with enjoying things--but our real treasure has to be Him----and knowing Him. And NOTHING compares to having Him as our greatest treasure!

Luke 12:15" Then he said to them, “Watch out! Be on your guard against all kinds of greed; life does not consist in an abundance of possessions.”

Matthew 6:20-21 "But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moths and vermin do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also."

Psalm 62:10b "though your riches increase, do not set your heart on them."

Introducing Angel

2011-06-27T17:14:00.007-05:00

Hi Everyone,

Today I am introducing to you Angel--the bird that I got given in replacement for Speckles--yes He is tame---but I had to go through quite the questioning which the favorite question by the Pet store clerks was, "Did you squish your bird?" I was thinking--um no! Why would I buy a bird and treat it poorly? They asked me about four or five times without even examining the body of course.

So here in Angel!---I hope he is healthy and all---He seems fine but you never know.

And I just had a not so cool completely accidental escape with Amarillo--so in short I've lost two birds in one week. (MUST keep angel's wings clipped!!!----Amarillo NEVER would have let anyone touch him to do such a thing.)

Life Is Fragile...But God is Good!

2011-06-26T08:25:00.003-05:00

Hi Everyone,

So this week had a few challenges.

On Monday I got the news that a friend that I cared about very much had gone home to be with the Lord--her death was not expected--very sad, but how wonderful to know that she is rejoicing.

Last night I took speckles out and showed her to my friends that live on my street--it was so great walking down the street with my bird on my shoulder. I ended up at Conchita's---and then we had that hard conversation that I wasn't expecting us to have---Her being honest about the complications of he health since the accident----and her saying, "Sometimes I feel like God might take me home soon." I know that that statement certainly possible---but then only God knows-and the more Conchita and I talk--the closer we become. We must enjoy each day that we are given.

Walking home with my bird speckles nestled into a towel sitting under my neck with one hand lightly covering her to protect her from the drops of rain, I was praising God for the beautiful blessing of such a tame bird as I hurried home---and tried to put her in the cage, but she refused and nestled back against me. I petted her softly and talked to her, tried to put her in the cage again, and she refused a second time---so I sat holding her for over half an hour---until all of the sudden she died and fell to the floor. She seemed relatively healthy so it was a surprise to me. It was so deeply sweet, precious, and yet bitter at the same time.

I thought to myself how sad it is that creation is affected as a result of man's sin. All of creation groans and awaits in hope for the glorious freedom of the children of God.

I woke up late this morning since I was up late with Speckles----and Amarillo is singing God's praises still---and even though he isn't friendly and doesn't trust me---His singing every morning reminds me that God is always worthy of our praise no matter what happens.

Yes, life is fragile, BUT GOD IS GOOD!

Quite The Cute Pair

2011-06-25T21:58:00.000-05:00

Hi Everyone,

Quite the cute pair indeed!

Youth Evangelistic Outreach Concert

2011-06-24T21:01:00.008-05:00

Hi Everyone,

We had a concert tonight at church as part of the evangelistic outreach week w e have had! It was neat! A group called Santiago (James) from Mexico City came and played--awesome solid lyrical content. The photo is all of is with the band members. Two youth expressed interest in placing their trust in Jesus for salvation. The youth from my church also did two Christian mimes that they had been practicing and they were neat and well done.

Today I also attended the graduation of my friend Ruth, one of the Pastor´s daughters--so it was a packed and blessed day! God is so good!

Amarillo´s Delight...And My Precious Simple Pleasure!

2011-06-23T20:26:00.002-05:00

Hi Everyone,

I had no intentions of buying what I did yesterday----but I bought it---There were four people behind me that would have bought her if I had no done so.

I honestly went to find a graduation gift for my friend and came home with something else---and that usualy never happens. Yes, this is the absolutely last addition to my room--When Amarillo saw it he went crazy singing for over an hour straight--his reaction was priceless--I had no idea how lonely he was---

But we´ve killed two birds with one stone (pardon the expression amarillo) but I accidentally found a very tame baby cockatiel-----and she totally trusts me----I love her to death! She sits on my finger, on my shoulder, lets me pet her all over the place--and hangs out in my room when I am home--hasn´t bitten me yet. Amarillo also has a companion now--so he´s happy as can be--some days are long, which is great for me because I am here to work and serve, but for Amarillo, he is by himself a lot--(well used to be.) Ministry does not end at 5:00 p.m.

So now I have Yellow speckles (Amarillo and the new one I named Speckles for her mix of yellow and light brown in the feathers)--one male and one female--and they get along great....and it is a good thing they live for 15 to 20 years!

Amarillo and speckles--they are both special---but Speckles and I have something so wonderful---a relationship because she trusts me.

Simple pleasures are the best.....I think Amarillo would agree!

Introducing Speckles...............

A Time For Everything

2011-06-21T13:41:00.004-05:00

Hi Everyone,

Ecclesiaties 12:1-11

¨There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens:

a time to be born and a time to die,
a time to plant and a time to uproot,
a time to kill and a time to heal,
a time to tear down and a time to build,
a time to weep and a time to laugh,
a time to mourn and a time to dance,
a time to scatter stones and a time to gather them,
a time to embrace and a time to refrain from embracing,
a time to search and a time to give up,
a time to keep and a time to throw away,
a time to tear and a time to mend,
a time to be silent and a time to speak,
a time to love and a time to hate,
a time for war and a time for peace.

What do workers gain from their toil? I have seen the burden God has laid on the human race. He has made everything beautiful in its time. He has also set eternity in the human heart; yet no one can fathom what God has done from beginning to end. ¨

I´ve been reflecting on the news I recieved yesterday---I told someone about it yesterday and started crying very briefly---and their response wsa that I was ¨suppose to always be joyful and not cry about it.¨

I think that person meant well---but their answer wasn´t correct...because sometimes hard stuff hapens---we live in a sinful and fallen world--we are not home yet...we aren´t always going to have a smile on our face---there are going to be tears in this life at times.

There is a time for everything under the sun--and God gave us tear ducts for a reason---We also see that Jesus also wept.--Sometimes I wonder if being joyful always doesn´t also include that inner peace of knoing that God has things all in control and that He really knows about each and every situation.

As the rain refreshed the ground last night, my tears alone with Him refreshed my being---finally after several hours I drifted asleep, and woke up this morning with a slight sadness--but also peace---because I KNOW that He know and cares so very much---and everything is in His hands.--He will make everything beautiful in its time!

God Holds The Answers To My Questions

2011-06-20T12:28:00.002-05:00

Hi Everyone,

I got some disappointing news today....actually I would qualify it more as sad news.

I have questions--and although my questions may not be answered---I know that God knows and holds the answers to those questions.

And I am glad that God is my comfort, refuge, and strength.

What a wonderful God we serve.

Hanging Out With The Youth Again

2011-06-18T21:16:00.008-05:00

Hi Everyone,

I had made a really neat video update for you all but I am unable to upload videos to my blog at this time and am not sure why.

Today I went to hang out with the youth for a volleyball game with another church--it was fun--we came back in the evening for youth group as usual.

A few prayer requests---

Please pray for my church in these next few days--we are having a week of EVANGELISTIC OUTREACH. Please pray for all of those that are helping with this. Pray that the Lord would open up opportunities to share the gospel with people in our church neighborhood and other places as well--Pray that the Lord would touch hearts and lives and that people would´place their trust in Jesus Christ for Salvation. Pray that the gospel would be communicated clearly.

Please pray for me as I have about a month before I go to the States for ten days on border trip to renew my visa, briefly visit my sending church etc. I feel extremely busy with things that I am trying to finish up before leaving such as my cultural paper, other orientation requirements, and various other responsabilities and requests that are being added to my under-taking. Pray that I would have the Lord´s wisdom as to which certain requests from others can wait for the moment and that what really needs to get done would be completed. I desire to do everything well and unto the Lord´s glory.

Pray for the planning of the ten days that I am in my home-state and with my sending church. It isn´t enough time to see everyone that I would like to, but´pray that God would direct my time and that those days would be a blessing and refreshment and that I would not feel overwhelmed in any way.

Pray for me to be strengthened in my walk with the Lord and to keep Him first in all that I do.

I am looking forward to seeing several of you soon--Thank you for your prayers!

Because of Jesus,
Crystal

My Yoke Is Easy And My Burden Is Light!

2011-06-17T09:59:00.000-05:00

Hi Everyone,

When I was minitering ewith the youth last weekend, the picture above was one I was able tpo take. I thought it was kind of neat--these two animals shari=ing the weight of the toke between them so they will go at the same pace and stride.

It reminded me of this verse Matthew 11:28-30 “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. 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. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.”

Jesus said these words. The only way that we can take His yoke upon us is for each person to have a personal relationship with Him by trusting in Jesus Christ's all sufficient paynent on the cross for our sin. When we trust Him we discover that we learn much from Him and that we find rest for our souls because we have the certainty of a home in Heaven with Him for all eternity. His yoke is easy and His burden is light. This does not mean that we do not face hard times or difficulties, but that we know He cares for our needs and has purposes in everything that we face--it is like the weight of things is shared between us and Him so to speak. We also learn that it is a delight to obey Him and that His commands are not burdonsome.

Hebrews 4:1 " Therefore, since the promise of entering his rest still stands, let us be careful that none of you be found to have fallen short of it."

The Best Surprise!

2011-06-14T17:50:00.004-05:00

Hi Everyone,

Yesterday I received the best surprise eve! I had come back from working at the sending base, settled down to take a tiny nap and all of the sudden I heard a knock on my bedroom door.

I woke up half way confused--"Who would be knocking on my door?," I thought. "Surely I must have been dreaming." I settled back down to lay there a few more minutes.

But thwn I heard the knock again-----wow I was not dreaming---someone really was at my door.

I opened it to the best surprise ever!

Olga was standing there!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I wasn´t thinking she would come for a few more weeks yet.

After long overdue greetings of joy, I invited her into my room and we sat on my bed-----and I told her my testimony about how God saved me about eleven months ago-

The cool part was-----she totally believed it!!!!

So we´ve been having fun getting caught up and working very hard cleaning the house, fixing up the plants etc.

I am so glad that she is back--what a blessing! Praise the Lord!

The Wonderful Cross!

2011-06-13T11:23:00.001-05:00

Hi Everyone,

Almost a year ago a friend of mine from my home church took me for an awesome day of paddle-boating and fellowship for my birthday. While we were paddling, we saw this amazing cross made from a tree trunk or branches on the shore!

I´ve been wanting to post this for nearly a year--and looking at this picture and remembering that day and the joy of those months as a new believer that had trusted Christ made and makes me think of this wonderful hymn.

When I Survey the Wondrous Cross
Words: Isaac Watts, 1707. Music: Lowell Mason, 1824

When I survey the wondrous cross
On which the Prince of glory died,
My richest gain I count but loss,
And pour contempt on all my pride.

Forbid it, Lord, that I should boast,
Save in the death of Christ my God!
All the vain things that charm me most,
I sacrifice them to His blood.

See from His head, His hands, His feet,
Sorrow and love flow mingled down!
Did e’er such love and sorrow meet,
Or thorns compose so rich a crown?

Were the whole realm of nature mine,
That were a present far too small;
Love so amazing, so divine,
Demands my soul, my life, my all.

To Christ, Who won for sinners grace
By bitter grief and anguish sore,
Be praise from all the ransomed race
Forever and forevermore.

Youth Ministry Event

2011-06-12T13:28:00.005-05:00

Hi Everyone,

Saturday was a long day--I got up really early and took the bus to meet several of the youth in my church as well as youth from other churches. I wasn´t sure where we were headed---(my fault for not reading the flyer) I thought it was a youth conference or something---turns out it was a community service and evangelism type thing like what I do with the doctors and dentists of Amigos Sin Frontera--I was so excited!

As I said in the video, the dentists were not able to come, but it was a blast anywyas! Hee are a few more pictures---the oversized toothbrush (which was really cool and hand-made was suppose to be a prop for the dentists) Honestly we found a few ways to entertain ourselves with it at the end of the afternoon!

When I got back to Cuernavaca, it was time for regular youth group--so I got to hang out with the youth more! It was a great day of ministry!

Beautiful Moth

2011-06-11T09:10:00.003-05:00

Hi Everyone!

As I was watering Olga´s plants yesterday, I saw this beautiful moth!

I wanted to see if he would open his wings for me-----I touched them just slightly--they were so soft and fuzzy---He opened his wings and looked like this!

Such a beautiful little thing...guess he wanted a drink of water too!

Compelled To Sing..................

2011-06-10T09:30:00.002-05:00

Hi Everyone,

God uses my little cockatiel to teach me so many little object lessons.

Amarillo surprises me every morning! He sings every morning as I get ready for work--and the nice thing is that He doesn't do so until I am actually up and out of bed. However I do not think we are making much progress in his growth if trusting me yet.

Are we compelled to praise our Lord like Amarillo demonstrates so clearly every morning? Rejoicing in our hearts with overflowing gratitude and thankfulness regardless of the circumstances?

Psalm 28:7 "The LORD is my strength and my shield; my heart trusts in him, and he helps me. My heart leaps for joy, and with my song I praise Him."

Psalm 65:8 "The whole earth is filled with awe at your wonders; where morning dawns, where evening fades, you call forth songs of joy. "

Psalm 69:30 "I will praise God’s name in song and glorify him with thanksgiving."

Psalm 89:1 "I will sing of the LORD’s great love forever; with my mouth I will make your faithfulness known through all generations."

God Knows Our Needs Before We Ask!

2011-06-09T21:26:00.001-05:00

Hi Everyone,
I am so thankful that God knows our needs before we ask--and it is so great that we can tell Him absolutely everything. He knows the needs that we would never be able to share with another person---He cares and provides for them. He is good--and has proved Himself faithful in my life again today.

Do We Use Prayer As An Excuse Sometimes?

2011-06-08T11:43:00.003-05:00

HI Everyone,

At prayer Monday morning at the sending base one of my collegues talked about God´s command to pray without ceasing---which definitely we should do. But He also mentioned and questioned that if sometimes we use prayer as an excuse not to act or help others. He said that sometimes it is easy to say that we will pray for someone about their need but at the same time in certain situations we may not realize that we can be a tool of the Lord for the answer to their prayer. I am just mentioing this because it is something I am thinking about---and praying "Lord, how can you use me to be Your instrument to be more atentive to those around me and be a blessing??" What do you want me to do about the needs I see around me--obviously I can´t help every single one but make me obedient to You.

Conchita

2011-06-07T20:25:00.005-05:00

HI Everyone,

"We have to live eacd day as if it was our last."----Convhita

"Crystal we have so much in comon---someday we are going to talk about everything----" Conchita

Conchita is a precious blessing--just a few weeks ago I was feeling somewhat lonely for not having someone to share the commonalities of life with--God provided Conchita as an answer to that prayer.

Please pray that we two would enjoy each day that we are given to the fullest--we don´t know how long we have.

Conchita made me the best meatballs I had ever ate before in my life last night--and I didn´t get sick from eating them either! Before the accident she was a cook and arranged the details for huge events.

More of God´s Creation To Enjoy

2011-06-06T09:06:00.000-05:00

Hi Everyone,

Here are some pictures from the weekend! Enjoy!

Papaya´s growing froma tree admist Olga´s (the lady I rent from) flowers and plants in the outdoor patio-----It will be interesting to seehow long the papayas take to fully mature--my guess is quite awhile!

And here are some orange and red roses from her flowers too!

I live in the best place ever! (minus the cockroaches in the bathroom sometimes) :o)

Reflections From Youth Group

2011-06-05T09:53:00.001-05:00

Hi Everyone,

I was reminded last night as I was with the youth of all that God has done in my life in the last year. I have not forgotten. Someone mentioned the internal fight that sometimes takes place before one finally trusts Christ--and it instantly made me reflect back---I remember those days of inner turmoil--it was the hardest time of my life--but I would never change it for the world.

And yet almost exactly at the same time, as I reflected for a moment--I had this amazing peace and calm--and sat reveling in the fact that nothing will ever be able to take away the fact that I trust Him----and THAT is the most beatiful thing--nothing in the world compares to the joy and peace He gives--nothing!

I have come to realize that being with this group of youth is something that I eagerly look forward to--and is the first time I have ever enjoyed being part of a youth group and realize I can fully be myself and not have to pretend to be something I am not--I am sure part of that has to do with God´s work in my life. But I just also appreciate the fact that everyone gets along and they genuinely care for eachother---while some are closer in reltionship to certain ones than others there are no "clicks" and I have yet to hear someone say a word of gossip about another.

God has restored to me more blessings than I can ever begin to count---and the thing dof the past before Christ seldom come to mind.

GOD IS GOOD!

Important To Share The Gospel Clearly

2011-06-04T11:23:00.004-05:00

Hi Everyone,

I´ve heard some gospel presentations--where the gospel has not been presented clearly--i

When we share the gospel with someone---we are encouraging them to consider TRUSTING in Christ alone for their salvation. I understand that we use the words like "receive Jesus in your heart"--but talking about TRUSTING in Christ, in my opinion, is so much more acurate as to what is needed for salvation.

Jesus being the Father´s one and only Son was concieved by the Holy Spirit, born of a virgin (Mary--who also needed a Savior and did not have sinless perfection as some claim), lived a life without sin, and died willingly on the cross taking our punishment for sin upon Himself. Three days later He arose from the grave proving that He was and is God--His death was all suffcient once and for all. No one else could ever do what Christ has done for us.

A person´s eternal destiny depends on who or what they trust in--and only trsuting in Christ alone is going to get us to heaven---not our good works---trying to be good---following church tradition, being raised in a Christian home etc.....or anything else.

Another thing I´ve been thinking about is just that we need to be careful about asking people to "pray the prayer" too quickly. There is nothing wrong if someone prays and gives their trust to Christ whle doing so-----that is great and that is just fine---but just because someone "prays the prayer" does not necesarially mean they are saved or trusted Christ (This was assumed in a gospel presentation I heard recently--and I found out later that the individual thought it was "hogwash and wanted people off of their case." Also especially here in the culture and religion--people "repeat prayers after others like a mantra a lot." People can so easily pray a prayer--and still not have a clue. We just need to be careful.

So it is really important to stress that it is trusting Christ that saves--and that people aren´t trusting in a prayer to save them either.

Lord, use us as your instruments to share the gospel truthfully, simply and clearly--that others may be drawn to know You the one and only living God.

Searching For Significance?

2011-06-02T11:28:00.002-05:00

Hi Everyone,

Are you searching for significance?

It is so easy to start believing that our significance is found having a spouse, in our job, in our achievements, or in what we own.

But our significance is found in one place--JESUS CHRIST----and nothing else in life is going to be more significant than Him.....and the fact that we trust in Him alone. As much as we are tempted to try to look to the things of this world--nothing is going to satisfy like Him.

I am not sure why I write so many blogs like this lately--maybe more than anything I am reminding myself of these truths as well.

EPHESIANS 2:1-10

"As for you, you were dead in your transgressions and sins, in which you used to live when you followed the ways of this world and of the ruler of the kingdom of the air, the spirit who is now at work in those who are disobedient. All of us also lived among them at one time, gratifying the cravings of our flesh and following its desires and thoughts. Like the rest, we were by nature deserving of wrath. But because of his great love for us, God, who is rich in mercy, made us alive with Christ even when we were dead in transgressions—it is by grace you have been saved. And God raised us up with Christ and seated us with him in the heavenly realms in Christ Jesus, in order that in the coming ages he might show the incomparable riches of his grace, expressed in his kindness to us in Christ Jesus. For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God— not by works, so that no one can boast. For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do."

Trust Hix Heart

2011-06-01T11:18:00.004-05:00

Hi Everyone,

This song has been going through my head lately--Some people use it for funerals but that isn´t why I am thinking of it. I thought maybe it would bless some of you.

Trust His Heart
by Babbie Mason

All things work for our good
Though sometimes we can´t
See how they could.
Struggles that break our hearts in two
Sometimes Bbind us to the truth.
Our Father knows what´s best for us
His ways are not our own
So when your pathway grows dim
And you just can´t see Him
Remember He´s still on the throne.

Chorus
God is too wise to be mistaken
God is too good to be unkind
So when you don´t understand
When you don´t understand
When you can´t see His hand
Trust His Heart

He sees the master plan
He holds the future in His hands
Don´t live as those who have no hope
When our hope is found in Him.
We see the present clearly
But He sees the first and the last
And like a tapesty, He´s weaving you and me
To someday be just like Him.

Repeat chorus

He alone is faithful and true
He alone knows what is best for you!

Repeat chorus

When you can´t trace his hand
when you don´t see His plan
When you don´t understand
Trust His heart

On Other Topics

On Thursday the housegroup that mets on my street is going to evangelize in the community--pray that the gospel would be presented clearly to those we come in contact with.