So I keep thinking about this lady that stole from me. Have talked with Carmen and Brent about it. Do we give her another chance? What does the Bible say about forgiveness - 70 times 70 - but does forgiving mean you allow someone back into your home that you don't trust? Last week in Bible Study, we talked about what Jesus said about turning the other cheek - about doing to others as you want them to do to you - how does that speak to this situation. How would I want to be treated if I were the thief?
One seminar I went to said that forgiving means you give up the right to retaliation - I don't feel I've retaliated, haven't demanded the money back, haven't demanded that she be arrested for theft, haven't withdrawn fellowship - does forgiving mean that we go on as if nothing has happened?
We decided to wait and see how she is at church on Sunday - is she there? Does she approach and ask for forgiveness? Does she seek out our pastor for counseling and help? I don't know the right thing to do - my heart is still heavy. Oh Lord, give us wisdom to do the right thing.
Tuesday, January 20, 2009
Highs and Lows
I'm going to start with the Low because that's what I'm feeling now. I just had to confront the lady who has been cleaning for us about stealing. I keep some cash in my drawer in a basket - I've done it since I got here - didn't think much about it. I keep it there because I don't want to carry much on me when I go out. I suspected that she may be going into my drawer awhile back when I noticed that some papers in the drawer were moved - but I didn't want to believe that this lady - this really nice lady from church - who had a child in our preschool - who seemed so genuine and nice would steal from me. Before I left for the US for Christmas, I had withdrawn quite a bit of cash to have at Youth Summer Camp in case there was an emergency. I left 400 Rand in my drawer when I left for home because I hadn't needed it during camp. When I returned, there was only R200. I asked Carmen if she had needed it and she said no - didn't know anything about it. I wasn't absolutely positive there had been R400 - I thought maybe I had forgotten during the month at home and maybe it really was only R200. The nagging thoughts were there. This lady had cleaned my room the day I left for home - she was there when I left.
Last week I decided to lay a trap - to put a certain amount of money in the basket - write down how much it was (because I was afraid I would forget and I wanted to be certain). I put 5 twenties in the basket - I checked it mid day after she had cleaned my room and all 5 were there - I was happy - maybe I had been wrong to suspect. I had to go out, so I left the 5 twenties there - when I returned that evening after she had left, I discovered there were only 4. Oh no, did she really steal from me??? I mentioned it to Carmen - she said that this lady had asked her for R20 for transport that day and she gave it to her - so why did she steal my twenty?? Because it was easy???
I have to tell you that I still wasn't convinced enough to confront her. I was afraid that when I checked the money at mid day, that perhaps I had removed a twenty - maybe she didn't really steal. I know, I know, I think I was in denial - just didn't want to believe this was happening!
So today, I set the trap again. I left a few 10's a few 20's and a couple of 50's - wrote down exactly what was there - checked it several times last night and didn't touch it today until late. She was still here ironing when I got back from a meeting - I closed my door and checked the basket - counted out the money - checked the paper I had written the amounts on - rechecked it several times - my heart was heavy, there was R30 missing. I got on my knees to ask God to help me with the confrontation. I had prayed earlier today for God to make it clear that she was stealing - I didn't want to accuse an innocent person. It was clear. I had to confront her.
It was with a heavy heart that I sat her down and told her that I knew there was money missing. At first she seemed to deny, but then she just kept saying, "Sorry Mam" over and over. She did admit to the other amounts too - I don't know if there is more - but the total that I do know about, was R250. I told her that I didn't hate her, I don't. I told her that I was sad for her, that my heart was heavy - that is true. I am devastated that someone from church - someone I served communion to yesterday would steal from me. I will pray for her - will ask God to teach her the right ways - that she will learn from this - that she won't do it to someone else. She won't be working for us anymore - we can't trust her. Now, there is another unemployed mom out there - unemployed by her own choice - because she is a thief.
After writing all of the above and replaying the confrontation in my mind, I realized that I never asked her for the R30 back that she took today - just didn't think about it at the time. And you know, wouldn't she have wanted to give it back if she really was sorry??? hmmmm...
Okay, now the High - gotta end on a good note, right? Since coming back to SA, I've been kind of out of sorts. Its probably because of leaving home, getting back to the old routine, knowing that I'll be leaving in about 6 months, all those things. But it was also because I really didn't spend a lot of time with the Lord while I was at home. Sure, I went to church a bunch of times, prayed some, even read my Bible some - but I didn't really spend good intentional time in God's presence - I didn't dwell with him - I was out of my regular quiet time routine. I can tell you, it really made a difference in my attitude, my feelings about myself, my surroundings, others, etc.
So, last Saturday evening- I was alone here at the flat - I sat outside on the balcony in the cool late afternoon/early evening. I started reading the Beth Moore book "A Heart Like His" - I read scripture - I listened to music - I prayed - I gazed at the sky - I was silent - I felt the presence of God - it was the best feeling I've had in a long time. I felt like I could almost see Jesus - my heart was full - my emotions were running - it was a bit overwhelming. I am so thankful to Jesus for coming to me - for the presence of the Holy Spirit that evening. I needed it - I needed to reconnect with my Lord - I needed to focus on Him and not on me or anything else.
I know that living in God's presence is best - it is how I survive - it is how I thrive. Each day, I know I must dwell intentionally in God's presence - putting aside all else for a time for just me and my Lord. Preparing continually to deal with the Lows and to look forward to the Highs.
Last week I decided to lay a trap - to put a certain amount of money in the basket - write down how much it was (because I was afraid I would forget and I wanted to be certain). I put 5 twenties in the basket - I checked it mid day after she had cleaned my room and all 5 were there - I was happy - maybe I had been wrong to suspect. I had to go out, so I left the 5 twenties there - when I returned that evening after she had left, I discovered there were only 4. Oh no, did she really steal from me??? I mentioned it to Carmen - she said that this lady had asked her for R20 for transport that day and she gave it to her - so why did she steal my twenty?? Because it was easy???
I have to tell you that I still wasn't convinced enough to confront her. I was afraid that when I checked the money at mid day, that perhaps I had removed a twenty - maybe she didn't really steal. I know, I know, I think I was in denial - just didn't want to believe this was happening!
So today, I set the trap again. I left a few 10's a few 20's and a couple of 50's - wrote down exactly what was there - checked it several times last night and didn't touch it today until late. She was still here ironing when I got back from a meeting - I closed my door and checked the basket - counted out the money - checked the paper I had written the amounts on - rechecked it several times - my heart was heavy, there was R30 missing. I got on my knees to ask God to help me with the confrontation. I had prayed earlier today for God to make it clear that she was stealing - I didn't want to accuse an innocent person. It was clear. I had to confront her.
It was with a heavy heart that I sat her down and told her that I knew there was money missing. At first she seemed to deny, but then she just kept saying, "Sorry Mam" over and over. She did admit to the other amounts too - I don't know if there is more - but the total that I do know about, was R250. I told her that I didn't hate her, I don't. I told her that I was sad for her, that my heart was heavy - that is true. I am devastated that someone from church - someone I served communion to yesterday would steal from me. I will pray for her - will ask God to teach her the right ways - that she will learn from this - that she won't do it to someone else. She won't be working for us anymore - we can't trust her. Now, there is another unemployed mom out there - unemployed by her own choice - because she is a thief.
After writing all of the above and replaying the confrontation in my mind, I realized that I never asked her for the R30 back that she took today - just didn't think about it at the time. And you know, wouldn't she have wanted to give it back if she really was sorry??? hmmmm...
Okay, now the High - gotta end on a good note, right? Since coming back to SA, I've been kind of out of sorts. Its probably because of leaving home, getting back to the old routine, knowing that I'll be leaving in about 6 months, all those things. But it was also because I really didn't spend a lot of time with the Lord while I was at home. Sure, I went to church a bunch of times, prayed some, even read my Bible some - but I didn't really spend good intentional time in God's presence - I didn't dwell with him - I was out of my regular quiet time routine. I can tell you, it really made a difference in my attitude, my feelings about myself, my surroundings, others, etc.
So, last Saturday evening- I was alone here at the flat - I sat outside on the balcony in the cool late afternoon/early evening. I started reading the Beth Moore book "A Heart Like His" - I read scripture - I listened to music - I prayed - I gazed at the sky - I was silent - I felt the presence of God - it was the best feeling I've had in a long time. I felt like I could almost see Jesus - my heart was full - my emotions were running - it was a bit overwhelming. I am so thankful to Jesus for coming to me - for the presence of the Holy Spirit that evening. I needed it - I needed to reconnect with my Lord - I needed to focus on Him and not on me or anything else.
I know that living in God's presence is best - it is how I survive - it is how I thrive. Each day, I know I must dwell intentionally in God's presence - putting aside all else for a time for just me and my Lord. Preparing continually to deal with the Lows and to look forward to the Highs.
Friday, January 9, 2009
Welcome to 2009
Its January...a new year...okay, so I haven't really been updating this much lately - if you're curious why, send me an email at shuttlewoman@gmail.com and I'll tell you.
Thanks to my friend Randy, you can see how I spent many hours during my holiday time at home - Talli and I enjoyed chill time together.
Random thoughts...
I'm glad to be back in South Africa, but am wondering what the next 6 months will be like. As I wrote before, Cheryl is leaving Troyeville. A new pastor has been called and will start in April. So what happens in February and March? What will it be like working with a new pastor? Will the church work to find someone to care for the youth before I leave so that the transition will be easier for them?
I want to get in shape for 2009 - even come back home looking fit - of course, I've wanted that before - will I get my bum in gear and take my mouth out of gear to make it happen? time will tell.
What will my life look like in July 2009 - will I be employed? will I be unemployed and wondering what's next - how long will it take to find a place of service? Where will I be? Will there be less of me?
American beef appeals to me much more than SA beef - while at home, enjoyed a steak at Outback with my good friends Michelle and Mark Smith! Also had a very good burger at Checkers in the Atlanta airport.
Pork was also a treat - Smokey Pig with Amber and Erin, Texas Roadhouse with Sara, and Adams Ribs with Edie, Gayle, and Becky.
No wonder I am fat - most of my visiting at home with family and friends revolved around eating - wonder what else we could have done together???
The friends I share a flat with have gotten addicted to LOST thanks to the DVDs my friend Wanda sent...does that mean I'm a good influence or a bad one?
I haven't played guitar since November - I think my fingers are going to really hurt when I start playing again!
Is the car you have that is paid for really the best one economically? I've spent about $2000 on my Chevy Blazer that is currently sitting in my parent's driveway - two grand on a vehicle that sits all day waiting for me to get back.
I went to see Marley & Me with my mom this week - afterwards, I wondered, is the pain of losing the dog you love worth giving your heart away to one? The answer, YES! I have experienced great pain at losing my canine friends, Pepper, Caesar, and mostly Chelsea - but oh the memories I have - the love I gave and received - the joy of furry friends - painful to lose, yes, but I wouldn't trade the experience.
I was wondering why it is more difficult to talk about Jesus and my faith in him with my niece and nephew than it is to talk about him with my youth. They are all teenagers after all. I realized that the reason is that my youth, by their presence at church, have given me permission or even demonstrated an interest and my niece and nephew have not. I've ventured to bring up the subject with each of them once or twice - I long for them to know Jesus. Its hard knowing that they don't seem that interested.
The best part about South Africa? The friends I have made here, no contest.
Friday, November 28, 2008
The Day After Thanksgiving
Wow, can't believe its been over a month since I wrote anything - for those of you who check occasionally, sorry its been so long. I think that the biggest threat to my blogging is Facebook - yep, I've joined it and it is a good way to keep in touch - the only problem is that it keeps me in touch with other folks on Facebook, but not everyone.
So, what's been going on in the past month..
Went to Cape Town with Cheryl - spent one week in Blouberg Strand with Steve and Phil (short for Phyllis) - went to several meetings with folks discussing the possibilities for a ministry like Door of Hope - to establish a home to take in abandoned babies and orphans and work to get them adopted. The main problem we ran into is that the houses that the local Baptist association have available all have strings attached and are in unsafe areas for volunteers. There is one house the association owns and is currenly using for offices - they plan to leave the house eventually, but most likely have plans to sell it. We submitted a proposal to them to designate this house as a children's home - it is in a nice suburb and could be renovated to be a nice babyhouse - it is unlikely they will do this, but as Cheryl says, if God wants us to have a baby house in Cape Town, God will provide a way. After the week in Blouberg, Cheryl and I went to Gordon's Bay and spent a few days in her cousin's flat - had very nice views of the sea.
While we were there, we went to a book launch for a book written by Rachel Colenzo about her and her husbands near death experience clinging to the side of a mountain in a storm in Italy - she is donated a portion of the profits to Door of Hope. It was pretty cool going to the launch - I felt rather cultured. Rachel was very nice and down to earth. She is also doing about 12 hikes in the mountains around Cape Town to raise money for Door of Hope - the project is called Mountains of Hope - they have raised almost R100,000 so far.
Things are pretty much the same here in the flat - I spend quite a bit of time in my room - its more peaceful than out in the lounge with 2 year old Jordan and 3 month old Caeden. The good thing is that Jordan and I have become friends and he likes to hang out with me - I like to hang out with him too except for when he's having a tantrum - unfortuately, those happen quite a bit. I think he gets frustrated being cooped up inside since he used to live in the country and probably had a lot more freedom to go outside and play.
I think one of the biggest adjustments I face in the future is that Cheryl has submitted her resignation to the church effective January 31st. The leadership are now meeting to discuss the calling of another pastor. It will be strange for me to serve with someone else at Troyeville. Fortunately, I know the guy they are talking to a bit - if he is called, at least it won't be a stranger. I was telling Cheryl the other day that if we want to see each other after she goes, that it will have to be intentional because we have little reason to meet - the only organization we will work together on is International Door of Hope and right now, there is not a lot going on with that. Next year will be strange I think.
Its camp time for the YOuth - there are 20 signed up - hopefully 20 will show up on Saturday morning the 6th to go - I will be frustrated and a bit angry if someone just doesn't show up because I've already paid R770 for them to go and feel like it would be irresponsible and a waste of God's money - okay, not really a waste, I guess since it is going to the Baptist Union - but I'm sure they have paid for the student to be at camp and can't recoup their money either.
I had to make a really tough decision about camp - one of my guys was short almost R100 of the R300 he needed to raise to go. I had told the youth over and over again at every meeting we had that everything had to be in by November 2nd. I had given them many many opportunities to work at the church to earn their fees - I even allowed them to have friends work for them - even gave them books to read and write about to earn fees. This guy had ample opportunities to get his fees in and he waited until the last day to realize he didn't have enough. He did the same thing last year and I let him slide - couldn't in good conscience do it again. It was really hard to tell him he couldn't go - but I explained to him that he made choices all along the way the past 3 months that led to this conclusion. What really stinks is that he is graduating from high school and his family is moving to another area, so I may not see him again - he has so much potential, but is drawn into poor choices by non Christian friends - seems he's too weak willed to stand up to them and make good choices. Please pray for him - he is a good hearted guy, but he struggles - he waffles on his faith and I'm not sure if he has really chosen to follow Jesus or not.
Okay, so this week, I've been putting together Christmas bags for all the kids at church. We were able to get one suitcase full of stuff from the states. THANKS to my mom and dad's Sunday school class at Mt Vernon for collecting stuff at the last minute so a team could bring it over. That was quite frustrating! I contacted the mission board back in August asking if the teams coming could bring stuff - the team leaders were contacted, but it took several weeks for anyone to get back to me on it - finally one of the last teams coming agreed a week before they left to bring stuff - mom had to mobilize the class quickly to get stuff. The frustrating thing is that teams bring a bunch of donations, but they don't ask first what we need - so they end up bringing stuff we don't need or things that could wait until more urgent needs are filled. We could have gotten a lot more donations for the kids if I'd had better luck working with the teams - oh well - we got stuff and I was able to suppliment with stuff from here, so all the kids will get something.
I've got youth tonight - November 28th - we're going to have our Christmas Party since this is the last Friday night together before camp and before I leave for home for Christmas! I've been trying to think of something for us to do - figured Christmas Pictionary might be fun. Also have gifts for them and candy - hopefully they will appreciate it!
Guess that's all for now. HOpefully my posts will be a bit more regular - but may be not. who knows. Thanks for continuing to check.
So, what's been going on in the past month..
Went to Cape Town with Cheryl - spent one week in Blouberg Strand with Steve and Phil (short for Phyllis) - went to several meetings with folks discussing the possibilities for a ministry like Door of Hope - to establish a home to take in abandoned babies and orphans and work to get them adopted. The main problem we ran into is that the houses that the local Baptist association have available all have strings attached and are in unsafe areas for volunteers. There is one house the association owns and is currenly using for offices - they plan to leave the house eventually, but most likely have plans to sell it. We submitted a proposal to them to designate this house as a children's home - it is in a nice suburb and could be renovated to be a nice babyhouse - it is unlikely they will do this, but as Cheryl says, if God wants us to have a baby house in Cape Town, God will provide a way. After the week in Blouberg, Cheryl and I went to Gordon's Bay and spent a few days in her cousin's flat - had very nice views of the sea.
While we were there, we went to a book launch for a book written by Rachel Colenzo about her and her husbands near death experience clinging to the side of a mountain in a storm in Italy - she is donated a portion of the profits to Door of Hope. It was pretty cool going to the launch - I felt rather cultured. Rachel was very nice and down to earth. She is also doing about 12 hikes in the mountains around Cape Town to raise money for Door of Hope - the project is called Mountains of Hope - they have raised almost R100,000 so far.
Things are pretty much the same here in the flat - I spend quite a bit of time in my room - its more peaceful than out in the lounge with 2 year old Jordan and 3 month old Caeden. The good thing is that Jordan and I have become friends and he likes to hang out with me - I like to hang out with him too except for when he's having a tantrum - unfortuately, those happen quite a bit. I think he gets frustrated being cooped up inside since he used to live in the country and probably had a lot more freedom to go outside and play.
I think one of the biggest adjustments I face in the future is that Cheryl has submitted her resignation to the church effective January 31st. The leadership are now meeting to discuss the calling of another pastor. It will be strange for me to serve with someone else at Troyeville. Fortunately, I know the guy they are talking to a bit - if he is called, at least it won't be a stranger. I was telling Cheryl the other day that if we want to see each other after she goes, that it will have to be intentional because we have little reason to meet - the only organization we will work together on is International Door of Hope and right now, there is not a lot going on with that. Next year will be strange I think.
Its camp time for the YOuth - there are 20 signed up - hopefully 20 will show up on Saturday morning the 6th to go - I will be frustrated and a bit angry if someone just doesn't show up because I've already paid R770 for them to go and feel like it would be irresponsible and a waste of God's money - okay, not really a waste, I guess since it is going to the Baptist Union - but I'm sure they have paid for the student to be at camp and can't recoup their money either.
I had to make a really tough decision about camp - one of my guys was short almost R100 of the R300 he needed to raise to go. I had told the youth over and over again at every meeting we had that everything had to be in by November 2nd. I had given them many many opportunities to work at the church to earn their fees - I even allowed them to have friends work for them - even gave them books to read and write about to earn fees. This guy had ample opportunities to get his fees in and he waited until the last day to realize he didn't have enough. He did the same thing last year and I let him slide - couldn't in good conscience do it again. It was really hard to tell him he couldn't go - but I explained to him that he made choices all along the way the past 3 months that led to this conclusion. What really stinks is that he is graduating from high school and his family is moving to another area, so I may not see him again - he has so much potential, but is drawn into poor choices by non Christian friends - seems he's too weak willed to stand up to them and make good choices. Please pray for him - he is a good hearted guy, but he struggles - he waffles on his faith and I'm not sure if he has really chosen to follow Jesus or not.
Okay, so this week, I've been putting together Christmas bags for all the kids at church. We were able to get one suitcase full of stuff from the states. THANKS to my mom and dad's Sunday school class at Mt Vernon for collecting stuff at the last minute so a team could bring it over. That was quite frustrating! I contacted the mission board back in August asking if the teams coming could bring stuff - the team leaders were contacted, but it took several weeks for anyone to get back to me on it - finally one of the last teams coming agreed a week before they left to bring stuff - mom had to mobilize the class quickly to get stuff. The frustrating thing is that teams bring a bunch of donations, but they don't ask first what we need - so they end up bringing stuff we don't need or things that could wait until more urgent needs are filled. We could have gotten a lot more donations for the kids if I'd had better luck working with the teams - oh well - we got stuff and I was able to suppliment with stuff from here, so all the kids will get something.
I've got youth tonight - November 28th - we're going to have our Christmas Party since this is the last Friday night together before camp and before I leave for home for Christmas! I've been trying to think of something for us to do - figured Christmas Pictionary might be fun. Also have gifts for them and candy - hopefully they will appreciate it!
Guess that's all for now. HOpefully my posts will be a bit more regular - but may be not. who knows. Thanks for continuing to check.
Thursday, October 16, 2008
McDonalds
confession time....
I just went to McDonalds and got a double cheesburger and a coke light...okay and also a McFlurry for later.
Why do I go to McDonalds? I can think of a few reasons...
I can - its convenient - we have a new one up the road from the flat
Its a taste from home - the burgers at McDs taste the same here as they do at home - the other burgers here do not
I like it - okay call me strange, I've had enough McD's in my life to never want any again - being a youth minister will do that do you - but I like it
Its a diversion - I spent all day at home, okay not all day, most of the day -but the afternoon was getting long and I wanted out - took Prudence (she cleans for us now) to the taxi stand and then cruised up to McDs.
Oh yeah, and I was hungry - guess that's the best reason...maybe
anyway, McD's - not healthy for my heart, but healthy for my psyche - sometimes you just need that.
I just went to McDonalds and got a double cheesburger and a coke light...okay and also a McFlurry for later.
Why do I go to McDonalds? I can think of a few reasons...
I can - its convenient - we have a new one up the road from the flat
Its a taste from home - the burgers at McDs taste the same here as they do at home - the other burgers here do not
I like it - okay call me strange, I've had enough McD's in my life to never want any again - being a youth minister will do that do you - but I like it
Its a diversion - I spent all day at home, okay not all day, most of the day -but the afternoon was getting long and I wanted out - took Prudence (she cleans for us now) to the taxi stand and then cruised up to McDs.
Oh yeah, and I was hungry - guess that's the best reason...maybe
anyway, McD's - not healthy for my heart, but healthy for my psyche - sometimes you just need that.
Wednesday, October 15, 2008
Watching LOST
So I'm sitting here in my room watching an episode of LOST - season 3 - I've almost watched all the ones my friend Wanda sent to me - then what? Evenings will probably be pretty boring soon - television is not so good here and I don't have my Sara and Amber to talk to or watch videos with any more - so...hmmm. I really don't know - maybe I'll borrow several seasons of The Office from Russell.
So, its been awhile since I wrote - mainly b/c I've been putting things on FaceBook and writing emails - that doesn't bode well for my blogging.
I'm into my second year hear - am doing pretty much the same thing - Youth, leading the Worship Team at church, helping with Children's church and serving on the International Door of Hope Board. Of course that board position doesn't really entail anything much except going to meetings and getting frustrated by the lack of progress on the house in Cape Town. Its been quite frustrating - waiting for the local Baptist association to decide whether they want to provide their house for a children's home to be run by International Door of Hope or not - they keep meeting and promising to call and give the verdict, and they don't follow through. It makes me wonder if we really want to enter into any type of agreement with them - if they won't follow through and constantly drag their feet.
I wonder sometimes if the Lord wants us in Cape Town or not - it seemed like everything was going so well - the house was there, Alison was going to be the director and she had great contacts and seemed to have a tender heart for the kids, a church in the US was helping finance things, the association wanted to work with us, several folks in CT had volunteered to help - all seemed to be coming together and then back in August, Alison decided that she didn't want to work with IDOH, that she wanted to work independently - now what? What is the right thing to do? We're seeking God's direction and wisdom - what is to happen with the kids? the house? As I said, Very Frustrating!
I was really looking forward to doing something with IDOH - at one time, I was going to go down to CT with Cheryl to help with the transition in getting Alison out, placing the kids in other homes, and then getting things set up for IDOH to reopen the house in January up to DOH standards. BUT the Baptist association in CT has been dragging its feet. I wanted to go because I wanted a new challenge -- seems I get bored with I do the same thing for awhile. Its gotten rather routine doing youth each week, figuring out music for Sundays, etc. Its not that I don't like doing what I'm doing, its just that I want more.
I sometimes wonder if I have any more ideas left for the Youth - wondering what else to tell them, how else to encourage them, what else to do on Friday nights - I struggle to come up with new ideas. Sunday mornings have been good in Sunday school - did a series called Epic from John Eldridge that my friend Wanda sent with the LOST videos. The youth seemed to like it and get something out of it. Now we're doing a study of Corinthians from a Youth Specialities book called Creative Bible Lessons in Corinthians - so far its been pretty good. John is going to lead this Sunday. Wednesday nights are also pretty good - although I don't think we have enough time in the small groups to go through the scriptures adequately - think the intro time before the video is too long. Actually, as I've said before, Wednesdays are fun for me - I love going through the scriptures with the youth and answering their questions.
So, its been awhile since I wrote - mainly b/c I've been putting things on FaceBook and writing emails - that doesn't bode well for my blogging.
I'm into my second year hear - am doing pretty much the same thing - Youth, leading the Worship Team at church, helping with Children's church and serving on the International Door of Hope Board. Of course that board position doesn't really entail anything much except going to meetings and getting frustrated by the lack of progress on the house in Cape Town. Its been quite frustrating - waiting for the local Baptist association to decide whether they want to provide their house for a children's home to be run by International Door of Hope or not - they keep meeting and promising to call and give the verdict, and they don't follow through. It makes me wonder if we really want to enter into any type of agreement with them - if they won't follow through and constantly drag their feet.
I wonder sometimes if the Lord wants us in Cape Town or not - it seemed like everything was going so well - the house was there, Alison was going to be the director and she had great contacts and seemed to have a tender heart for the kids, a church in the US was helping finance things, the association wanted to work with us, several folks in CT had volunteered to help - all seemed to be coming together and then back in August, Alison decided that she didn't want to work with IDOH, that she wanted to work independently - now what? What is the right thing to do? We're seeking God's direction and wisdom - what is to happen with the kids? the house? As I said, Very Frustrating!
I was really looking forward to doing something with IDOH - at one time, I was going to go down to CT with Cheryl to help with the transition in getting Alison out, placing the kids in other homes, and then getting things set up for IDOH to reopen the house in January up to DOH standards. BUT the Baptist association in CT has been dragging its feet. I wanted to go because I wanted a new challenge -- seems I get bored with I do the same thing for awhile. Its gotten rather routine doing youth each week, figuring out music for Sundays, etc. Its not that I don't like doing what I'm doing, its just that I want more.
I sometimes wonder if I have any more ideas left for the Youth - wondering what else to tell them, how else to encourage them, what else to do on Friday nights - I struggle to come up with new ideas. Sunday mornings have been good in Sunday school - did a series called Epic from John Eldridge that my friend Wanda sent with the LOST videos. The youth seemed to like it and get something out of it. Now we're doing a study of Corinthians from a Youth Specialities book called Creative Bible Lessons in Corinthians - so far its been pretty good. John is going to lead this Sunday. Wednesday nights are also pretty good - although I don't think we have enough time in the small groups to go through the scriptures adequately - think the intro time before the video is too long. Actually, as I've said before, Wednesdays are fun for me - I love going through the scriptures with the youth and answering their questions.
Monday, September 15, 2008
Wednesdays at Troyeville
Wednesday night Bible Study is great! On Wednesdays, I usually get to church around 3 pm to meet with Cheryl and Russell to go over stuff and pray together. Then at 4ish, the worship planning team meets to pick out songs and talk about the upcoming service. This has been both good and bad - I had this vision of the team working together creatively to plan services and come up with cool worship experiences - multi sensory, etc. BUT it hasn't really worked out that way - I don't always feel very creative - neither do the others - also, its hard because we rarely know much about the sermon topics or have multi week themes. Usually I come with a list of songs that I've picked during the week and we chose from them. Sometimes someone will come up with a new idea or suggestion, but usually its just getting songs together. Oh well, at least we're meeting together to discuss things. After the 'planning' meeting, we gather with the rest of the worship team to practice the songs. Unfortunately, folks tend to straggle in around 5:15 - 5:30, so we really don't have a lot of time to practice. Its mainly working on intros and transitions it seems. I felt on this past Sunday like we hadn't even practiced on Wed. seems like the collective memory forgets whatever we went through on Wed. afternoon and we have to go through it all again on Sunday morning - can be frustrating for me! Anyway, at 6 pm after practice, we go into the prayer chapel for prayer - That is a very cool time - people from the church gathering together for prayer - sometimes there are prayers in different languages. I love that Cheryl is very committed to prayer - I think I've prayed more corporately at Troyeville than I ever have at any other church I've been to. Also look back and see that one of the youth was part of the initiative to get us gathering together for prayer on Wednesday nights - how cool is that!
After prayer from 6 - 6:30, Ivan (the church caretaker) puts out tea, coffee, bread, peanut butter and jam for us to have a light supper - some of the youth come at that time for the food, which is really only supposed to be for the ones who are already there for practice and/or prayer, but oh well - its gets them in the door. Its interesting to see how folks will make 2-3 sandwiches for themselves without regard for the fact that the food is running out and some may not get any. I've asked the youth several times to only make 1 sandwich first and to wait to make sure everyone has at least 1, but they quickly forget after a week or two and go back to old habits. Its not just the youth, though, the adults do it too. Fortunately for me, when I've come after its all gone, Ivan frequently has some bread tucked away for such times.
After the 'tea' time, we have a video of a chapter of the Gospel of Luke. The video is old - probably shot in the 70's, but it does give you a decent picture of life when Jesus walked on the earth. The dialogue is verbatim from the Bible - not sure what translation, but at least its not KJV! Actually, the narrator is reading English - while in the background, you hear the characters speaking in Aramaic, I think - adds to the authenticity some. After about a 15 - 20 minute video of a chapter, we break up into small groups to discuss questions Janice, the leader, has prepared for us. Back in January when we discussed having this type of Bible Study on Wednesdays, I told Janice I would come and lead a small group for Youth and encourage them to come.
The youth are the primary ones that do come - the adults have fallen off a bit - What's awesome is that I really don't have a small group, I have about 15-20 each week! We gather around the table and go through the questions - i answer questions they have about the passages, try to explain to them the context and meaning - I LOVE IT! I've told several people that Wed. night Bible Study is my cake - I cherish sitting around the table with the youth discussing Scripture. There are several young adults that are out of high school who come - some this is the only night they can because of work or school - so its been a great way to stay connected to youth who have matriculated (graduated) and others who have never come to youth. It has shown me one of the areas of ministry that I really enjoy and will make sure is a part of my future endeavors!
One of the things that is a little frustrating is that we usually have to wrap up around 8 and hurry out to get people home at a decent hour. I don't have time afterwards to talk with anyone much. Have had a couple of occasions when one of the youth has had some questions or needed to talk and our time has been limited by needed to leave - I find that difficult. After we break up our small groups, everyone gathers in the hall for a closing prayer. If I have someone with questions, I usually stay behind in our room with them and miss the closing prayer, but at least we've had a few moments to talk or pray together.
After the prayer, we arrange rides for people that live further out. Its not safe to walk to some places after dark, so those of us with cars give people a lift. I usually carpool with Russell or Cheryl to save petrol, so sometimes we're limited on how many people we can take.
When I get home, usually have a snack - my one pbj doesn't usually last long and chill. I'm glad I go on Wednesday nights - its a good night.
It continues to puzzle and delight me that so many youth come on Wednesday nights - some who are atheists, some who are seeking, some who are following Jesus somewhat, some who are devoted followers - all gathered to talk about scripture - no games, no activities, no competitions, just the Bible - wow! How cool is that!
After prayer from 6 - 6:30, Ivan (the church caretaker) puts out tea, coffee, bread, peanut butter and jam for us to have a light supper - some of the youth come at that time for the food, which is really only supposed to be for the ones who are already there for practice and/or prayer, but oh well - its gets them in the door. Its interesting to see how folks will make 2-3 sandwiches for themselves without regard for the fact that the food is running out and some may not get any. I've asked the youth several times to only make 1 sandwich first and to wait to make sure everyone has at least 1, but they quickly forget after a week or two and go back to old habits. Its not just the youth, though, the adults do it too. Fortunately for me, when I've come after its all gone, Ivan frequently has some bread tucked away for such times.
After the 'tea' time, we have a video of a chapter of the Gospel of Luke. The video is old - probably shot in the 70's, but it does give you a decent picture of life when Jesus walked on the earth. The dialogue is verbatim from the Bible - not sure what translation, but at least its not KJV! Actually, the narrator is reading English - while in the background, you hear the characters speaking in Aramaic, I think - adds to the authenticity some. After about a 15 - 20 minute video of a chapter, we break up into small groups to discuss questions Janice, the leader, has prepared for us. Back in January when we discussed having this type of Bible Study on Wednesdays, I told Janice I would come and lead a small group for Youth and encourage them to come.
The youth are the primary ones that do come - the adults have fallen off a bit - What's awesome is that I really don't have a small group, I have about 15-20 each week! We gather around the table and go through the questions - i answer questions they have about the passages, try to explain to them the context and meaning - I LOVE IT! I've told several people that Wed. night Bible Study is my cake - I cherish sitting around the table with the youth discussing Scripture. There are several young adults that are out of high school who come - some this is the only night they can because of work or school - so its been a great way to stay connected to youth who have matriculated (graduated) and others who have never come to youth. It has shown me one of the areas of ministry that I really enjoy and will make sure is a part of my future endeavors!
One of the things that is a little frustrating is that we usually have to wrap up around 8 and hurry out to get people home at a decent hour. I don't have time afterwards to talk with anyone much. Have had a couple of occasions when one of the youth has had some questions or needed to talk and our time has been limited by needed to leave - I find that difficult. After we break up our small groups, everyone gathers in the hall for a closing prayer. If I have someone with questions, I usually stay behind in our room with them and miss the closing prayer, but at least we've had a few moments to talk or pray together.
After the prayer, we arrange rides for people that live further out. Its not safe to walk to some places after dark, so those of us with cars give people a lift. I usually carpool with Russell or Cheryl to save petrol, so sometimes we're limited on how many people we can take.
When I get home, usually have a snack - my one pbj doesn't usually last long and chill. I'm glad I go on Wednesday nights - its a good night.
It continues to puzzle and delight me that so many youth come on Wednesday nights - some who are atheists, some who are seeking, some who are following Jesus somewhat, some who are devoted followers - all gathered to talk about scripture - no games, no activities, no competitions, just the Bible - wow! How cool is that!
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