Tree Hugging Jesus Worshipper

I had a wonderful learning experience this afternoon. The boys and I stopped by the park on the way home from school. My oldest son immediately gravitated towards the other children, as he always does, and began making friends. The other family had brought a soccer ball with them and they organized a game. Once the teams were set they began to play. One of the brothers was rather good and kept scoring over and over, which frustrated the younger participants. His Mom quickly stepped in and reminded him he was playing with littler kids.


This sparked up a conversation between his Mom and myself. We talked a little about our families, where we were from, how many were in our family and finally where our kids went to school. Come to find out, she home schools her children. I think that is awesome. But, it is the words that she chose to tell me about her homeschooling that taught me a HUGE lesson.

She was excited about homeschooling and enjoyed it very much. I asked her if she belonged to a large community of families who home school... and come to think of it, this question is what prompted her comment. She said, "yes, it is growing." "People often think that homeschooling is done only by Christians." ...and I thought, what an odd thing to say!

I then told her where my kids go to school (at our Lutheran church) and I think she was slightly embarrassed, but I didn't make a big deal about it and continued our conversation as if I didn't even catch it.

We ended up leaving the park at the same time and we said our goodbye's and nice to meet you's before climbing in our mini-vans. While passing her vehicle I noticed the most interesting bumper sticker that read, "Tree Hugging Dirt Worshipper"... And it totally called me out.

During the past year I embarked on a journey of self-discovery. I have become an advocate of natural health and healing. What I've noticed is that many people who embrace this lifestyle have formed communities, places to share their ideas with others who are like-minded. What I've found in these communities is that more often than not, the members are not Christian, or they don't promote their Christianity. The sad part is that neither did I.

Just like the woman at the park thought homeschooling is stereotypical of Christians, I thought that natural health and the green movement is stereotypical of Non-Christians.

The bottom line is I am excited for her and inspired by her. She went out on a limb and accomplished her goals despite feeling as though she did not fit in. Now she has a community of like-minded people to share her ideas. I doubt she would have realized how much we actually have in common. I couldn't help but wish I had a bumper sticker on my van that read,

Today I Pray

God, I use your gift of my miracle body to love and serve others.

Matthew 25:40, "I tell you the truth, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me."

"Instructions For A Body" Marty McConnell (Def Poetry)

In her poem, Instructions For a Body, Marty McConnell gives us a truly inspirational picture of our miracle bodies!  Certainly, God's work of art in us is something to be praised! 

What better way to praise God for our magnificent bodies then by using them to help others?  We can use our hands to serve meals to the hungry, our ears to listen to someone in need, and our hearts to love one another.  We are all a part of God and His creation.  Through this understanding and love we can bring peace to every situation.

Praise God for my miracle body!

Full of the Spirit

I can't tell you how many times I have heard someone say with contempt, "and they're supposed to be a Christian."  This statement has always bothered me a great deal.  In fact, as I type it I can see myself crinkling up my nose, shaking my head from side to side, and using an annoying, high-pitched, sing-song tone to my voice as I speak it out loud.  After all, aren't Christians sinners too?  Why are their actions and attitudes often scrutinized by others as if they set some sort of behavioral standard?

As I dive deeper into my journey with the Lord I am better prepared to answer these questions.  Yes, Christians are sinners too and make mistakes just like everyone else.  When in relationship with God we want to hold a higher standard for ourselves.  When God's spirit fills our hearts we yearn to be used for His glory.  We pray that the fruits of His presence within us can't help but overflow into everything we do.

Ephesians 5:14 "Wake up, O sleeper, rise from the dead, and Christ will shine on you."

Blessings through Service

Nick was 16.  He struggled with medical issues his whole life.  I do not know a lot about his condition other than this past year had been especially tough on him, being hospitalized with infection after infection, which his doctors had a hard time controlling.  Last Thursday he fought his last struggle and was taken home to heaven.  Today was his funeral.

I am on one of the funeral luncheon teams we have established at my church.  It was our turn to serve the meal today for Nick's family and friends.  It was one of the largest luncheon's ever served with over 250 people there to give their love and support.

It is amazing to see the people of the church in action.  That morning, people dropped off dish after dish of salads, jellos, pastas, and desserts.  The meal was beautiful.  Throughout the day additional people came to help set up, serve, and clean up when it was over.

My biggest blessing was being able to witness the genuine appreciation and relief of Nicks parents and family.  With everything on their minds and hearts, serving lunch to the 250 + people who came to provide their condolences was something they didn't need to stress over.  It was truly miraculous to experience such a powerful moment of grace during such a difficult time.

Praise God!        

Wonder

Detroit Zoo 2010

"How many are your works, O Lord!  In wisdom you made them all; the earth is full of your creatures."  Psalm 104:24