A Story

     "The enemy has been set up as prince over the earth; his history is ruthless, malicious and backstabbing.  The rest of the world bow down their backs to be walked upon by him as they pay there due of homage, we stand resolved not to be defiled.  But as we do we set our selves up for scorn and condemnation from others and from him who lurks about seeking to whom he may devour.  Though he sees only one still standing he does not seek out to lay hold of only the one, he seeks all of us.  He sits and cast lots among the council of evil to determine when our doom shall come for us to fall once and for all at his feet to tread upon.  Whispering in the ear of the willing, poisoning their minds with whispers spoken through slithers as he did in the garden.  He has been given the signet ring, “do as you see fit.” And with that he hurries off holding the power to this world on his finger but not to the world to come.  A decree has been sent out to the ends of the earth and to all of his willing hit men to “kill, destroy and annihilate all and plunder all possessions.”  The news hits our doorstep and resounds in our core like a banging gong resonating through empty marble halls as our eyes lay hold of every word.  Perplexity and doom hang in the air like a heavy fog that’s resolved to stay.  In stark contrast our enemy sits protected and high above all perplexity drinking in the moment mimicking his indulging sips of wine. Ever aware of his effectiveness from the cries of many being poured out bitterly in the streets, that rise to his seat.  Filled with doom we tear our clothes and weep aloud bitterly for who can save us from this impending doom.   Our weeping has not only settled on the ears of our enemy it has found its way to our King, and at His right hand stands His only Son, a Savior for His people.  His Father doesn’t have to tell His Son of the cost nor what has to be done; they both know.  Knowing the cost the Son petitions and asks the Father if there be any other way.  Knowing there isn’t the Son bows to His Father in submission and says, “But not my will but Your will be done.”  The Father puts His hand on the head of His Son, lowering His head He slowly nods.  With the Father's commission the Sons says, “My presence is needed so I must leave You now, that I may fill what’s lacking.”  A table is set for the King’s Son in the presences His enemy, and though the enemy provokes Him, He waits for His Fathers timing....."  

Life's Not Fair, But God is Just

When I was little I it always frustrated me to no end when things went wrong, wasn't right or wasn't "fair".  My Mama would always have to remind me saying, " No it's not fair, life isn't fair but God is just."  I would reluctantly agree and try to go about my day without the incident of unfairness ruling it.  I tell you this because not to long ago I was sitting at church and when we went to take communion it hit me just how amazing it is for us to be able to take communion.  It reminded me of one of the days in a Bible study I had just finished, the day was titled "If you kept a record."  The author went on to talk about Psalm 130 and the chilling reality that if the Lord kept a record, who could stand?!  But that He doesn't, and that with Him there is forgiveness of sins, full redemption!  As I knelt there on the floor with tears falling down on the broken cracker and little cup of juice I wondered in awe at how I, a shameful, filthy sinner could take this communion?!  How could I take this holy offering, the offering of Christ's body broken to  unrecognizable points and His blood flowing forth from His side and brow from the crown of thorns!  I thought upon this and asked God, "How can I take this, I'm am so unworthy to even kneel here in your  presence!  It's not fair for me to be able to take advantage of this, it's not fair that Your Son should endure the cross the death of a murderer and thief such as me!  It's not fair."   The Lord reply sent chills up my spine, " No it's not fair.... But I am just."  Hearing those words felt like a whorl wind of God's love had just blown in and caught me up in it.  It was a wonderful reminder of God's ever faithful love that allows Him to put our sins in the sea of forgetfulness and cast them as far as the east is from the west.  Sometimes we need a gentle reminder of just how far those depths and reach are.  And though it isn't fair God is just.      

Old Town

I'm finally all moved into an apartment in Oregon with my sister, Sarah, which has been an absolutely ball! Since Sarah has many classes and homework, I tend to have some extra time on my hands. Which is nice in one way because it allows me to take in the history and quaintness of the little town. So here are a few pics for now, I hope you can just feel the sun soaking into you bones!

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Lilacs are one of my mama's favorite flowers, so mama these are for you!

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Okay I know I posted two of these but I really like both

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Another lilac for my mama

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This one being in black and white reminds me a lot of Nebraska,

not quite sure why but it does

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I know I have never been to Africa but when I see this I think of being in Africa. Laying down on brick colored dirt with the sahara wind sweeping across my face with the sound of African children chattering and giggling with glee.

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Now this one is my mama's absolute favorite flower and probable favorite picture as well. When I saw the tulips I instantly thought of you mama and took it just for you! The beauty in this picture reminds me so much of the soft warming beauty God has place in you!

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I don't know about you but this picture is probable one of my favorites! I just makes you want to jump up and walk down it running you hand through the long lush grass.

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