Mark 10:45 - "For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life a ransom for many."
Saturday, January 30, 2010
Thursday, January 28, 2010
Work Update...
As those who follow regularly know, the last 12+ months have been a roller coaster ride at work. There has been much change in our organization and change to my daily tasks. The Dublin office of DE has gotten progressively smaller since June, 2008 - from 70ish people down to 30ish today. On a good day we will have half that in the office - due to travel, Work From Home days and those who are regularly in the field. The mood has been rather "eh" and low - and gotten even worse after an announcement in early December revealed that the option to close the Dublin office and relocate employees/positions to DE's Pittsburgh office was be heavily considered. I really tried not to think about it during the Holidays...why worry, what can I do about the decision...it wasn't my decision to make. I didn't want it to affect my beloved Christmas season. We were told that nothing would be announced prior to Christmas - so why stress.
Most of the office took most of the two weeks prior to and after Christmas off. So needless to say everyone was refreshed and ready to start 2010...however, the pending announcement was looming overhead and tensions were rather high. We were ready to find out our "fate". We were told we'd know something by January 31, at the latest. So at exactly 4:30 p.m. on Friday, January 15 we received a meeting invite for 9:30 a.m. for Tuesday, January 19. I've never seen an office empty so quickly (well for those of us who were actually in the office - I should say!). Monday came and the buzz was the next days meeting - none of us could concentrate on the work that was pending. We were just ready to know.
I arrived at the office, and performed my normal morning routine. Settle in, turn on the laptop, open up Outlook to read e-mails that came in throughout the evening/early morning and review my "to do" list for the day - while sipping a cup of hot tea. While skimming the e-mail box for subjects that would be of importance or from senders that require immediate attention - I saw an e-mail from my boss "Please order lunch for the office to be delivered at noon - pizza please"...that was my first sign that the meeting wasn't going to be good news. Then I had my back turned and as I turned around I saw someone standing at my desk - someone that didn't "belong" to our office. She introduced herself, as I have worked with her countless times on various HR projects. Why would HR be here if the news wasn't bad? That sealed it for me...they were going to close our office - I knew the announcement before it was even made. So at 9:29 a.m., I picked up my steno pad, pen mug of tea, and headed to the 2nd floor for our meeting. The silence was deafening and the faces looked somber - close to a funeral is how I would describe the mood. I found my place in the back of the room (my safe zone) and waited. No one was talking to those around them, we just waited - then entered our VP and the HR rep. (she sat next to me, since she "knew" me). The VP was rather fumbled as he found his place. He then started the meeting by reading from a pre-typed letter..."It is with regret that I inform you that alternative locations in the Dublin area, are not being considered. The Dublin office will officially close on June 3, with our last working day to be sometime the week of May 23. You will shortly see meetings with myself and other leadership appear on your calendar to discuss your options." Ugh...my stomach fell to my toes - the silence was worse than pre-meeting and the faces went from somber to total disbelief. Questions were asked and the meeting was over by 9:50. Shortly after arriving back at my desk - my boss pulled me aside to make sure I was okay and to tell me what I'd find out in my 1:1 meeting with our VP...Pittsburgh or Separation Package. Those were my options. My meeting with the VP was scheduled for 2:15 - and it seemed to never get here. But it did, and it was confirmed that I could either stay with DE and move to Pittsburgh - same position, or take the separation package to obtain my 6 weeks severance package. Oh yeah - and we had to let the VP know our decision by Friday, February 5 - 2.5 weeks to decide if I was ready and willing to make a major life change...to move from the only city that I've known.
So that brings us to today...I've been considering my options, weighing each one very carefully and spending many hours in prayer chatting about this with God. I'm pretty sure I know the decision - but I've not make it official, and won't until February 4th - when the UPS man picks up my package containing my Declaration of Intent. I have been searching the job postings both on Monster and at various company websites. I've found a few options and thankfully I have until the end of May to really need to have something nailed down - if I stay in C-bus. If I stay in C-bus, my desire would be to stay with DE until the end - but I am going to be looking and I'm not going to pass up an opportunity, if one should come my way. I do have an interview lined up next week in C-bus with a utility company...and it looks promising. But I've given it to God, and it's His to direct - not mine. So I'll follow how and when He leads.
Please continue to pray for wisdom as I make the decisions, annoucements and transitions that are necessary during this time. Change isn't always my strong suite - but it's not my weakest either. God has seen me through bigger hurdles than this - so I know He won't turn His back on my now. Right now, I'm seeing only one set of footprints in the sand...His - because He truly is carrying me right now.
2010...it's bringing lots of change my way, and there are a few things that I've yet to tell you...those will come in another blog.
Most of the office took most of the two weeks prior to and after Christmas off. So needless to say everyone was refreshed and ready to start 2010...however, the pending announcement was looming overhead and tensions were rather high. We were ready to find out our "fate". We were told we'd know something by January 31, at the latest. So at exactly 4:30 p.m. on Friday, January 15 we received a meeting invite for 9:30 a.m. for Tuesday, January 19. I've never seen an office empty so quickly (well for those of us who were actually in the office - I should say!). Monday came and the buzz was the next days meeting - none of us could concentrate on the work that was pending. We were just ready to know.
I arrived at the office, and performed my normal morning routine. Settle in, turn on the laptop, open up Outlook to read e-mails that came in throughout the evening/early morning and review my "to do" list for the day - while sipping a cup of hot tea. While skimming the e-mail box for subjects that would be of importance or from senders that require immediate attention - I saw an e-mail from my boss "Please order lunch for the office to be delivered at noon - pizza please"...that was my first sign that the meeting wasn't going to be good news. Then I had my back turned and as I turned around I saw someone standing at my desk - someone that didn't "belong" to our office. She introduced herself, as I have worked with her countless times on various HR projects. Why would HR be here if the news wasn't bad? That sealed it for me...they were going to close our office - I knew the announcement before it was even made. So at 9:29 a.m., I picked up my steno pad, pen mug of tea, and headed to the 2nd floor for our meeting. The silence was deafening and the faces looked somber - close to a funeral is how I would describe the mood. I found my place in the back of the room (my safe zone) and waited. No one was talking to those around them, we just waited - then entered our VP and the HR rep. (she sat next to me, since she "knew" me). The VP was rather fumbled as he found his place. He then started the meeting by reading from a pre-typed letter..."It is with regret that I inform you that alternative locations in the Dublin area, are not being considered. The Dublin office will officially close on June 3, with our last working day to be sometime the week of May 23. You will shortly see meetings with myself and other leadership appear on your calendar to discuss your options." Ugh...my stomach fell to my toes - the silence was worse than pre-meeting and the faces went from somber to total disbelief. Questions were asked and the meeting was over by 9:50. Shortly after arriving back at my desk - my boss pulled me aside to make sure I was okay and to tell me what I'd find out in my 1:1 meeting with our VP...Pittsburgh or Separation Package. Those were my options. My meeting with the VP was scheduled for 2:15 - and it seemed to never get here. But it did, and it was confirmed that I could either stay with DE and move to Pittsburgh - same position, or take the separation package to obtain my 6 weeks severance package. Oh yeah - and we had to let the VP know our decision by Friday, February 5 - 2.5 weeks to decide if I was ready and willing to make a major life change...to move from the only city that I've known.
So that brings us to today...I've been considering my options, weighing each one very carefully and spending many hours in prayer chatting about this with God. I'm pretty sure I know the decision - but I've not make it official, and won't until February 4th - when the UPS man picks up my package containing my Declaration of Intent. I have been searching the job postings both on Monster and at various company websites. I've found a few options and thankfully I have until the end of May to really need to have something nailed down - if I stay in C-bus. If I stay in C-bus, my desire would be to stay with DE until the end - but I am going to be looking and I'm not going to pass up an opportunity, if one should come my way. I do have an interview lined up next week in C-bus with a utility company...and it looks promising. But I've given it to God, and it's His to direct - not mine. So I'll follow how and when He leads.
Please continue to pray for wisdom as I make the decisions, annoucements and transitions that are necessary during this time. Change isn't always my strong suite - but it's not my weakest either. God has seen me through bigger hurdles than this - so I know He won't turn His back on my now. Right now, I'm seeing only one set of footprints in the sand...His - because He truly is carrying me right now.
2010...it's bringing lots of change my way, and there are a few things that I've yet to tell you...those will come in another blog.
Monday, January 4, 2010
Dream Big...
I'm excited to see what God has in store for me this year! I'm feeling very refreshed, refocused and rejuvenated as I start 2010! I've set some decent goals for myself (maybe I'll share those with you later!)and a few of them are requiring me to DREAM BIG!! Happy 2010...I'm ready! :)
Tuesday, December 29, 2009
2009 - The Recap
2009 has been a year of transition in so many ways. But God has been there with me through each transition - and I've enjoyed watching him take my hand and walking with me. Below are some of the adventures, I experienced.
January:
IBC learned that it's sweet Penny was diagnosed with a rare form of Cervical Cancer. Through 2009 the IBC family has rallied around the Hoffman Family (and their extended family) to support them with meals, childcare and the everyday practical needs that came their way. We also, along with saints across the globe, rallied around the Throne of God to lay our pleas of healing at God's feet. To date, we've not seen healing - but we haven't lost our hope and we have be drawn closer together.
I notified various individuals of my decision to step down from a few positions/roles at IBC. Only God knew the blessing that would come with this difficult task.
On the same evening I found out that two of my closest friends were going to be Mommy's for the first time. It wasn't planned that they tell us on the same evening - it just happened that way.
A reorganization annoucement was made that impacted my job greatly. It's been a high stress environment since then at work. But God has allowed me to be a testimony to those with whom I spend 40 hours a week. January 2010, will hold the annoucement of whether I'll continue to work for Direct Energy after June 3, 2010.
A Level Two Snow Emergency closed the DE Dublin office for two days and we all worked from our homes. It also closed IBC's doors for a Wednesday night prayer meeting.
February:
Brought my friends Phil & Gina back to Columbus from Clarks Summit, PA. I've enjoyed having them back home. :)
A group of ladies spent the morning and afternoon making meals at Super Suppers as a Labor of Love for the Hoffman Family.
I assisted Sophia in making a Spaghetti Dinner for the Thornton Family - to include salad, garlic bread and Chocolate Fudge Cake with Pink Icing and Sprinkles.
March:
Emily spent the months of February, March and April playing on a Club Volleyball Team.
April:
I chaperoned a class trip to Virginia Beach, VA with Hayden's classmates from the WHS Ensemble. This was the first time I'd traveled with non-christian teens...it really opened my eyes up to the world that they live in, and gave me a greater passion for that generation. It also allowed me to open up to people, as I went knowing only Hayden and handful of other students - but none of the adults. It was a huge step for me - but I'm looking forward to doing it again in the Spring of 2010.
May:
IBC celebrated 75 years of service to the westside of Columbus with a Homecoming Service and Lunch.
IBC was shocked and saddened by the news that Pastor Bill and Peggy would be leaving IBC at the end of June, 2009. They are greatly missed, but their example to follow Christ has left a wonderful impression on so many.
June:
Sophia accepted Christ as her Personal Savior! :)
Hayden was named as Second Team All-City for his efforts on the Baseball field.
I celebrated one year in Villa de Megalicious! :)
Kari turned 30 and Wendy turned 40! All in the same weekend! :)
July:
Kari and the kiddos moved from Mom and Dad's to their own place. Kari's first place, since returning to Columbus in 2006. They love their little place! :)
I coordinated an all church meal (for 250+) in PB & Peggy's honor. It was a privilege to be asked to coordinate. I enjoyed the experience, and the opportunity to thank PB & Peggy for the impact they made on my life during their 25 years at IBC.
I BLASTed OFF on week's adventure into "space" during IBC's VBS program. VBS is my most favorite ministry!! :)
I began serving on the IBC Pastoral Search Committee.
Emily had her first TLC experience! She loved it and knew she would! :)
August:
The Thornton Family (minus Steve, Wendy & Ashley) packed up two vehicles and headed to Panama City Beach for a wonderful time of rest, relaxation and fun in the sun. We also experienced our first Tropical Storm (Claudette) on day two of our trip! :)
Maxton Lukas entered this world!!
Hayden became a Senior in High School, Emily joined the ranks of 7 other Thornton's to enter West High School as a student. Sophia entered the First Grade, and Elijah changed Westgate Elementary history forever becoming a Kindergartner.
I become Special Events Coordinator for the WHS Athletic Booster Association. I LOVE this volunteer job! :)
September:
Olivia Sue entered this world!!
October:
Hayden was named Top Ten for the WHS Homecoming Court.
Elijah was named "Citizen of the Month" for his class! In his words, "it took a lot of hard work. I had to be very quiet!"
I enjoyed an extended weekend Staycation - topped off with my annual visit to the Circleville Pumpkin Show and going apple picking for the first time. I LOVE FALL!!
November:
IBC called Max Tucker as Interim Pastor for 3 months to begin in December, 2009.
I helped coordinate a wedding for my friends Seth & Crystal. I started taking courses earlier in 2009, and I'm still working to complete them - but the experience was great! :)
The Buckeye football team beat Michigan for the sixth straight year and again claimed the title of "Big Ten Champions"!!
Hayden was accepted to Capital University! This made his Aunt Jenni (a CU alum) very happy! :)
December:
Ashley turned 20!
Jenni became a fan of the new trend of Staycationers!! She had never done such a "trip", but I have a feeling she'll return there one day! :)
Beth came home from China to visit for two weeks during Christmas! It was wonderful to see her and to hear her share about everything she has done in the last 18 months!!
I gave Ayana her first Bible for Christmas. My tradition has been that each niece/nephew receive their first Bible on the Christmas that they are 5. However, Ayana began asking for a Bible in August, and I couldn't make her wait an entire year plus, for her own copy of God's Word. She was so excited, when she opened it on Christmas afternoon! She looked at her mom and whispered, "I love Meggie!"
2009 transformed many of the normals in my life - but most importantly, I pray that it transformed me to be closer to God and the person He wants me to be.
January:
IBC learned that it's sweet Penny was diagnosed with a rare form of Cervical Cancer. Through 2009 the IBC family has rallied around the Hoffman Family (and their extended family) to support them with meals, childcare and the everyday practical needs that came their way. We also, along with saints across the globe, rallied around the Throne of God to lay our pleas of healing at God's feet. To date, we've not seen healing - but we haven't lost our hope and we have be drawn closer together.
I notified various individuals of my decision to step down from a few positions/roles at IBC. Only God knew the blessing that would come with this difficult task.
On the same evening I found out that two of my closest friends were going to be Mommy's for the first time. It wasn't planned that they tell us on the same evening - it just happened that way.
A reorganization annoucement was made that impacted my job greatly. It's been a high stress environment since then at work. But God has allowed me to be a testimony to those with whom I spend 40 hours a week. January 2010, will hold the annoucement of whether I'll continue to work for Direct Energy after June 3, 2010.
A Level Two Snow Emergency closed the DE Dublin office for two days and we all worked from our homes. It also closed IBC's doors for a Wednesday night prayer meeting.
February:
Brought my friends Phil & Gina back to Columbus from Clarks Summit, PA. I've enjoyed having them back home. :)
A group of ladies spent the morning and afternoon making meals at Super Suppers as a Labor of Love for the Hoffman Family.
I assisted Sophia in making a Spaghetti Dinner for the Thornton Family - to include salad, garlic bread and Chocolate Fudge Cake with Pink Icing and Sprinkles.
March:
Emily spent the months of February, March and April playing on a Club Volleyball Team.
April:
I chaperoned a class trip to Virginia Beach, VA with Hayden's classmates from the WHS Ensemble. This was the first time I'd traveled with non-christian teens...it really opened my eyes up to the world that they live in, and gave me a greater passion for that generation. It also allowed me to open up to people, as I went knowing only Hayden and handful of other students - but none of the adults. It was a huge step for me - but I'm looking forward to doing it again in the Spring of 2010.
May:
IBC celebrated 75 years of service to the westside of Columbus with a Homecoming Service and Lunch.
IBC was shocked and saddened by the news that Pastor Bill and Peggy would be leaving IBC at the end of June, 2009. They are greatly missed, but their example to follow Christ has left a wonderful impression on so many.
June:
Sophia accepted Christ as her Personal Savior! :)
Hayden was named as Second Team All-City for his efforts on the Baseball field.
I celebrated one year in Villa de Megalicious! :)
Kari turned 30 and Wendy turned 40! All in the same weekend! :)
July:
Kari and the kiddos moved from Mom and Dad's to their own place. Kari's first place, since returning to Columbus in 2006. They love their little place! :)
I coordinated an all church meal (for 250+) in PB & Peggy's honor. It was a privilege to be asked to coordinate. I enjoyed the experience, and the opportunity to thank PB & Peggy for the impact they made on my life during their 25 years at IBC.
I BLASTed OFF on week's adventure into "space" during IBC's VBS program. VBS is my most favorite ministry!! :)
I began serving on the IBC Pastoral Search Committee.
Emily had her first TLC experience! She loved it and knew she would! :)
August:
The Thornton Family (minus Steve, Wendy & Ashley) packed up two vehicles and headed to Panama City Beach for a wonderful time of rest, relaxation and fun in the sun. We also experienced our first Tropical Storm (Claudette) on day two of our trip! :)
Maxton Lukas entered this world!!
Hayden became a Senior in High School, Emily joined the ranks of 7 other Thornton's to enter West High School as a student. Sophia entered the First Grade, and Elijah changed Westgate Elementary history forever becoming a Kindergartner.
I become Special Events Coordinator for the WHS Athletic Booster Association. I LOVE this volunteer job! :)
September:
Olivia Sue entered this world!!
October:
Hayden was named Top Ten for the WHS Homecoming Court.
Elijah was named "Citizen of the Month" for his class! In his words, "it took a lot of hard work. I had to be very quiet!"
I enjoyed an extended weekend Staycation - topped off with my annual visit to the Circleville Pumpkin Show and going apple picking for the first time. I LOVE FALL!!
November:
IBC called Max Tucker as Interim Pastor for 3 months to begin in December, 2009.
I helped coordinate a wedding for my friends Seth & Crystal. I started taking courses earlier in 2009, and I'm still working to complete them - but the experience was great! :)
The Buckeye football team beat Michigan for the sixth straight year and again claimed the title of "Big Ten Champions"!!
Hayden was accepted to Capital University! This made his Aunt Jenni (a CU alum) very happy! :)
December:
Ashley turned 20!
Jenni became a fan of the new trend of Staycationers!! She had never done such a "trip", but I have a feeling she'll return there one day! :)
Beth came home from China to visit for two weeks during Christmas! It was wonderful to see her and to hear her share about everything she has done in the last 18 months!!
I gave Ayana her first Bible for Christmas. My tradition has been that each niece/nephew receive their first Bible on the Christmas that they are 5. However, Ayana began asking for a Bible in August, and I couldn't make her wait an entire year plus, for her own copy of God's Word. She was so excited, when she opened it on Christmas afternoon! She looked at her mom and whispered, "I love Meggie!"
2009 transformed many of the normals in my life - but most importantly, I pray that it transformed me to be closer to God and the person He wants me to be.
Tuesday, December 8, 2009
Stillness
Psalms 46:10a "Be STILL, and KNOW that I am God..."
Being still is something I struggle with...I like to continually be doing something and often multi-tasking. However, 2009 has taught me that always being busy and not enjoying the stillness isn't what is required of us. Each year in late October and through November, I begin a process of self-evaluation and prayer regarding my ministry responsibilities at IBC and how they will continue into the next year. I feel this process is only fair to my ministry roles, myself and most importantly God. During my years at IBC(31 to be exact), I've been involved in MANY ministries...especially and mainly during my adulthood. I LOVE to serve people, to show compassion on them and use the gifts/abilities God has graciously given to me. In addition, I have a hard time saying "no". This has always been an area where I have weakness, and unfortunately often those around me knew that - so they asked me to serve.
However, last year (2008) as I began my self evaluation - I discovered something, something that I didn't realize was there or should I say not there. There was a distraction, I was tired, I was overwhelmed. At this time I was involved in over 12 different ministries. I was stretched thin. My schedule was FULL all of the time and I wasn't being STILL. I realized that I was coming to church because I had a responsibility or meeting before, during or after a service. I was just making it happen and playing the part. I wasn't backsliding - God taught me a lot in 2008 and I was growing, I just had my priorities out of line. I was just in need of an alignment - I was stuck in the rut and I needed out. As I discovered my ugly truth - I was embarrassed and ashamed. How could I hold titles as Missions Committee Member and T.E.A.C.H. Team Coordinator - and not have my priorities together enough to make Christ and my relationship with Him my main focus when walking through the doors of IBC. In addition to my spiritual life, my personal and emotional life was hurting. I was up until all hours of the night getting laundry done or working on other household chores, and my mind was so full that I couldn't just rest. Just to make it all happen. This wasn't fair - on so many levels. So after much prayer and consideration - I removed some (not all) items from my list for 2009. Some of them were hard to remove - Missions Committee Member...I love learning about and meeting new Missionaries, and Choir Member...I love to sing (I can't carry a tune in a bucket - but I love to sing). But God was showing me, telling me and begging me to do as Ps. 46:10a says "Be STILL, and KNOW that I am God"...he wanted me to return to making Him my focus for going to IBC - not because of a meeting or obligation. As 2009 started I really struggled with having to tell people I wouldn't be in my "role" anymore and with the fact that I had more time on my hands - I felt guilty, like I wasn't using my time accordingly. Although I soon learned that it was nice to be able to come home and focus on laundry, cleaning, just relaxing or spending more time with God in His Word. I was (and still do) enjoy the extra 15-20 min. on Sunday mornings to slow down and get my heart ready for worship. In general, I was soon finding myself to not be so rushed, to be able to relax and to draw closer to God.
The extra time in the evenings has allowed me to take on some additional opportunities - every now and again. I'm volunteering as a Special Events Coordinator for a local High School's Booster Association - and I'm really enjoying that opportunity, as it's not a huge time commitment and I get to use my organizational/planning skills in a secular realm. In addition - I've been able to minister in a practical way to those around me through food...one of my passions. A few years ago I started a ministry - "Meg's Meal Ministry". This ministry isn't one that's listed on the IBC annual report, and it's not one that too many people are even aware exists. It was "created" during a time when I was really struggling with not having a family of my own, and that God opened my eyes to this practical needs ministry. God has given me a love and ability to cook/bake - I just didn't understand why He would allow me to have this gift - if He didn't allow me to use it to fed a family - my own family. After a few days of grumbling and complaining to God - God in His loving way showed me that I can use this gift to minister to my family members who don't live in my home, with members of my IBC family, neighbors and co-workers. There were people all around me who were hurting, healing, sick, lonely and just in need of some encouragement. Food is a great way to minister to people. He reminded me of the verse that says..."when you were hungry, I fed you". So over the past 3-4 years, as God has laid someone or a family on my heart - I have prepared a meal for them. Some are people who I knew were going through a rough patch, experiencing a sickness/illness, or just needed some encouragement - and others God gives me their name and I have no idea of the need. Whoever it is I contact them to let them know that a meal would be in the IBC refrigerator, that I would be dropping something off to their house, or that I would be placing something in the work refrigerator for them. Often it's a meal that is ready to go into the oven, or the crock-pot just needs turned on - for whatever day that week that works for them. It's simple, is very much behind the scenes (where I'm most comfortable) and yet it's a way of showing Christ's love in a practical way (I love practical) - and I LOVE doing this for people. This year - I was able to encourage a family who had a "not so pleasant" doctor's appointment to attend, and I knew that dinner would be the last thing they wanted to think about - so while they were meeting with the doctoer - dinner was cooking in the crock-pot and ready when they got home. I (along with many others) helped a friend going through chemo and radiation, and again two other times after very important surgeries - so that neither she nor her husband would have to worry about dinner for their family. I was able to make a meal for a friend who needed some encouragement and who actually used it for her son's birthday dinner - as the meal I made, just so happened to be his favorite (who knew? God knew!). I was able to be a testimony to a non-believing co-worker who had a baby. I made dinner for two friends who were recovering from delivering babies and another during her recovery from out-patient surgery. I used it to minister to friends as we traveled to a ladies retreat and enjoyed a soup lunch along the side of the road. I'm looking forward to blessing one of the teens at IBC with his favorite dish, as he recovers from surgery later this month. These are just a few of the ways God has used this ministry this year. He's used it more this year than in any other year. And I can't help but believe it's because this year I was being STILL - slowing down, sitting back, listening to the needs of others, looking at those around me, seeing the need and following God's leading. What a blessing it is to "Be STILL and know that HE is God".
Being still is something I struggle with...I like to continually be doing something and often multi-tasking. However, 2009 has taught me that always being busy and not enjoying the stillness isn't what is required of us. Each year in late October and through November, I begin a process of self-evaluation and prayer regarding my ministry responsibilities at IBC and how they will continue into the next year. I feel this process is only fair to my ministry roles, myself and most importantly God. During my years at IBC(31 to be exact), I've been involved in MANY ministries...especially and mainly during my adulthood. I LOVE to serve people, to show compassion on them and use the gifts/abilities God has graciously given to me. In addition, I have a hard time saying "no". This has always been an area where I have weakness, and unfortunately often those around me knew that - so they asked me to serve.
However, last year (2008) as I began my self evaluation - I discovered something, something that I didn't realize was there or should I say not there. There was a distraction, I was tired, I was overwhelmed. At this time I was involved in over 12 different ministries. I was stretched thin. My schedule was FULL all of the time and I wasn't being STILL. I realized that I was coming to church because I had a responsibility or meeting before, during or after a service. I was just making it happen and playing the part. I wasn't backsliding - God taught me a lot in 2008 and I was growing, I just had my priorities out of line. I was just in need of an alignment - I was stuck in the rut and I needed out. As I discovered my ugly truth - I was embarrassed and ashamed. How could I hold titles as Missions Committee Member and T.E.A.C.H. Team Coordinator - and not have my priorities together enough to make Christ and my relationship with Him my main focus when walking through the doors of IBC. In addition to my spiritual life, my personal and emotional life was hurting. I was up until all hours of the night getting laundry done or working on other household chores, and my mind was so full that I couldn't just rest. Just to make it all happen. This wasn't fair - on so many levels. So after much prayer and consideration - I removed some (not all) items from my list for 2009. Some of them were hard to remove - Missions Committee Member...I love learning about and meeting new Missionaries, and Choir Member...I love to sing (I can't carry a tune in a bucket - but I love to sing). But God was showing me, telling me and begging me to do as Ps. 46:10a says "Be STILL, and KNOW that I am God"...he wanted me to return to making Him my focus for going to IBC - not because of a meeting or obligation. As 2009 started I really struggled with having to tell people I wouldn't be in my "role" anymore and with the fact that I had more time on my hands - I felt guilty, like I wasn't using my time accordingly. Although I soon learned that it was nice to be able to come home and focus on laundry, cleaning, just relaxing or spending more time with God in His Word. I was (and still do) enjoy the extra 15-20 min. on Sunday mornings to slow down and get my heart ready for worship. In general, I was soon finding myself to not be so rushed, to be able to relax and to draw closer to God.
The extra time in the evenings has allowed me to take on some additional opportunities - every now and again. I'm volunteering as a Special Events Coordinator for a local High School's Booster Association - and I'm really enjoying that opportunity, as it's not a huge time commitment and I get to use my organizational/planning skills in a secular realm. In addition - I've been able to minister in a practical way to those around me through food...one of my passions. A few years ago I started a ministry - "Meg's Meal Ministry". This ministry isn't one that's listed on the IBC annual report, and it's not one that too many people are even aware exists. It was "created" during a time when I was really struggling with not having a family of my own, and that God opened my eyes to this practical needs ministry. God has given me a love and ability to cook/bake - I just didn't understand why He would allow me to have this gift - if He didn't allow me to use it to fed a family - my own family. After a few days of grumbling and complaining to God - God in His loving way showed me that I can use this gift to minister to my family members who don't live in my home, with members of my IBC family, neighbors and co-workers. There were people all around me who were hurting, healing, sick, lonely and just in need of some encouragement. Food is a great way to minister to people. He reminded me of the verse that says..."when you were hungry, I fed you". So over the past 3-4 years, as God has laid someone or a family on my heart - I have prepared a meal for them. Some are people who I knew were going through a rough patch, experiencing a sickness/illness, or just needed some encouragement - and others God gives me their name and I have no idea of the need. Whoever it is I contact them to let them know that a meal would be in the IBC refrigerator, that I would be dropping something off to their house, or that I would be placing something in the work refrigerator for them. Often it's a meal that is ready to go into the oven, or the crock-pot just needs turned on - for whatever day that week that works for them. It's simple, is very much behind the scenes (where I'm most comfortable) and yet it's a way of showing Christ's love in a practical way (I love practical) - and I LOVE doing this for people. This year - I was able to encourage a family who had a "not so pleasant" doctor's appointment to attend, and I knew that dinner would be the last thing they wanted to think about - so while they were meeting with the doctoer - dinner was cooking in the crock-pot and ready when they got home. I (along with many others) helped a friend going through chemo and radiation, and again two other times after very important surgeries - so that neither she nor her husband would have to worry about dinner for their family. I was able to make a meal for a friend who needed some encouragement and who actually used it for her son's birthday dinner - as the meal I made, just so happened to be his favorite (who knew? God knew!). I was able to be a testimony to a non-believing co-worker who had a baby. I made dinner for two friends who were recovering from delivering babies and another during her recovery from out-patient surgery. I used it to minister to friends as we traveled to a ladies retreat and enjoyed a soup lunch along the side of the road. I'm looking forward to blessing one of the teens at IBC with his favorite dish, as he recovers from surgery later this month. These are just a few of the ways God has used this ministry this year. He's used it more this year than in any other year. And I can't help but believe it's because this year I was being STILL - slowing down, sitting back, listening to the needs of others, looking at those around me, seeing the need and following God's leading. What a blessing it is to "Be STILL and know that HE is God".
Monday, September 7, 2009
A Lady In Waiting...
Per my Facebook status I am..."I'm waiting. I'm waiting on You, Lord - and I am hopeful. I'm waiting on You, Lord - though it is painful. But patiently, I will wait. I will move ahead, bold and confident - taking every step in obedience. While I'm waiting I will serve You. While I'm waiting I will worship. While I'm waiting I will not faint. I'll be running the race - even while I wait."
I love this song!! The words are so true in my life, because the song says exactly how I feel right now. I've usually been a good "waiter", and patience is something that I practice often and very well - if I must say. I do really good waiting in line at the store, waiting as I save money for something I want or need, or waiting until it's my turn for _________. HOWEVER, right now - I feel like the only thing I'm accomplishing is waiting. 2009 has been a year of many transitions and changes - God has given me a "new normal" (as Jenni would say), in so many ways. At times, I feel like God has wrapped a rubber band around me and is pulling it - waiting to see how far it will stretch and how far I will stretch with it. I'm not complaining about this "experiment" - because God really has drawn me closer to him...but I wonder how much longer it will be - how long do I show Him that I can wait? After, typing that last question I realize that it will be until I've learned the lesson - and apparently I have learned it...if I'm asking "how much longer"?
Maybe you are asking...what is "it" that I'm waiting for? Well none of the answers to that question will be a surprise, as I've been fairly open on here about the situations in my life. But, since I'm a list maker - I will "jot" my list down for you. I ask that you join me in praying for me as I wait...pray that I will continue wait patiently and realize when it's time to wait no more. Pray that I will clearly see God opening and closing doors - so that I can clearly see His plan. Most importantly pray that I don't grow weak in well doing, and that I remember that I am living for God - not for the praise of man.
**DISCLAIMER - I realize my "trials" may seem small and meaningless compared to others, but please don't discount them...because they are my trials and God has given each of us a burden we must carry. Some greater than others - but all are burdens.**
Meg's Waiting List:
- Work...most of the transitions have been made, and my work load is slow these days. I spend many days finding mindless projects that fill my time. I really don't see how they can justify keeping me - but they do PTL! I continue to look for other opportunities - but nothing has opened up. DE is apparently where God needs me and wants me these days - but the lack of work is concerning and frankly, boring. Pray that I will be content and not become complacent.
- Church...God is working at IBC and I pray that He is working in the hearts of the people at IBC - most of all me. We as a congregation continue to wait to see who will come and lead us. It's hard! We wait to see how much longer PR and family will be with us. We wait to see what the financial situation will be like as all this transition takes place. I'm on the Pastoral Search Committee and I continue to wait to see when we will have our next meeting to begin to move forward. Some ministries and events are being put "on hold", until more definitive answers are provided. Please pray that IBC will have unity, will be content and not become complacent - and most importantly that we will look for God's Agenda. Pray that I will not be a stumbling block - but a person that will set the example for others to watch.
- Marriage & Children...to date God has decided that He isn't willing to share me yet. Right now, He wants to keep me all to himself. While that is a flattering thought - it honestly is a hard pill to swallow. And one that I'm starting to struggle with more and more these days. For a long time I've been very content in being single - it has given me great freedom and opportunities to minister and serve. Yet, for as long as I can remember, God has given me the desire to be a wife and mother - but he hasn't fulfilled to those desires. People say... "in time", or look at what happened with ______. But those aren't the things you tell someone who is single - that makes them feel even more different than most people already make them feel and treat them. (I should do a blog on the things you don't tell a Single Person!) This year I turned 33...two years from my scary age (the age where my plans were to be __________, and what if they aren't). I know that having a "scary age" sounds very humanistic and not at all the way a Christian should feel - but I'm being honest here friends. I fear that I'll reach 35 alone - meaning never having experienced the blessings, trials and love a marriage, or have felt "how sweet to hold a new born baby" that is mine. I've always wanted to go to Hawaii - but I was saving that vacation for my Honeymoon. But the other day I started looking at the cost of a trip - for my 35th Birthday - not because I can't wait any longer, but because the reality of not having a Honeymoon is starting to set-in. Don't mistake me - I hope I'm wrong and that I will get a Honeymoon - but the practical/realistic person in me says "you better go now, otherwise you will never get there." Very few of my friends understand this situation - many, they really like to blow it off if the subject is raised. They roll their eyes (as if to say "here we go") or cut me off. So I've learned that there are two very close people, who can totally understand. So we share this burden together and encourage one another. I've been praying for a husband/family for 12 years. Since I turned 16 I've prayed almost daily for "my husband" - that God would keep him close to Himself, that he would bring Godly influences into his life and that he would find his way to me or me to him. But in recent months the prayer has changed slightly - I still pray for "my husband", but I'm praying for God to either fill these two desires or to completely take them away, to throw them in the deepest most furthest pit. Because for these two areas - I'm having a hard time with the waiting and I'm close to my "rubber band snapping in two". As I pray - I pray that if He does take them away - that He will provide me with the peace that I will need to realize that truth. This has become such a hard issue for me this year - and I try to remain positive, but it truly is THE hardest issue I'm facing.
So tonight, I blog as a lady in waiting...waiting for the Lord to move in my life in these three areas. I am hopeful - although it is painful. But I'm trying hard to continue to wait - and as I wait, no matter what - I will serve, worship and run the race...all the while relying solely on my God to lead me every step of the way.
I love this song!! The words are so true in my life, because the song says exactly how I feel right now. I've usually been a good "waiter", and patience is something that I practice often and very well - if I must say. I do really good waiting in line at the store, waiting as I save money for something I want or need, or waiting until it's my turn for _________. HOWEVER, right now - I feel like the only thing I'm accomplishing is waiting. 2009 has been a year of many transitions and changes - God has given me a "new normal" (as Jenni would say), in so many ways. At times, I feel like God has wrapped a rubber band around me and is pulling it - waiting to see how far it will stretch and how far I will stretch with it. I'm not complaining about this "experiment" - because God really has drawn me closer to him...but I wonder how much longer it will be - how long do I show Him that I can wait? After, typing that last question I realize that it will be until I've learned the lesson - and apparently I have learned it...if I'm asking "how much longer"?
Maybe you are asking...what is "it" that I'm waiting for? Well none of the answers to that question will be a surprise, as I've been fairly open on here about the situations in my life. But, since I'm a list maker - I will "jot" my list down for you. I ask that you join me in praying for me as I wait...pray that I will continue wait patiently and realize when it's time to wait no more. Pray that I will clearly see God opening and closing doors - so that I can clearly see His plan. Most importantly pray that I don't grow weak in well doing, and that I remember that I am living for God - not for the praise of man.
**DISCLAIMER - I realize my "trials" may seem small and meaningless compared to others, but please don't discount them...because they are my trials and God has given each of us a burden we must carry. Some greater than others - but all are burdens.**
Meg's Waiting List:
- Work...most of the transitions have been made, and my work load is slow these days. I spend many days finding mindless projects that fill my time. I really don't see how they can justify keeping me - but they do PTL! I continue to look for other opportunities - but nothing has opened up. DE is apparently where God needs me and wants me these days - but the lack of work is concerning and frankly, boring. Pray that I will be content and not become complacent.
- Church...God is working at IBC and I pray that He is working in the hearts of the people at IBC - most of all me. We as a congregation continue to wait to see who will come and lead us. It's hard! We wait to see how much longer PR and family will be with us. We wait to see what the financial situation will be like as all this transition takes place. I'm on the Pastoral Search Committee and I continue to wait to see when we will have our next meeting to begin to move forward. Some ministries and events are being put "on hold", until more definitive answers are provided. Please pray that IBC will have unity, will be content and not become complacent - and most importantly that we will look for God's Agenda. Pray that I will not be a stumbling block - but a person that will set the example for others to watch.
- Marriage & Children...to date God has decided that He isn't willing to share me yet. Right now, He wants to keep me all to himself. While that is a flattering thought - it honestly is a hard pill to swallow. And one that I'm starting to struggle with more and more these days. For a long time I've been very content in being single - it has given me great freedom and opportunities to minister and serve. Yet, for as long as I can remember, God has given me the desire to be a wife and mother - but he hasn't fulfilled to those desires. People say... "in time", or look at what happened with ______. But those aren't the things you tell someone who is single - that makes them feel even more different than most people already make them feel and treat them. (I should do a blog on the things you don't tell a Single Person!) This year I turned 33...two years from my scary age (the age where my plans were to be __________, and what if they aren't). I know that having a "scary age" sounds very humanistic and not at all the way a Christian should feel - but I'm being honest here friends. I fear that I'll reach 35 alone - meaning never having experienced the blessings, trials and love a marriage, or have felt "how sweet to hold a new born baby" that is mine. I've always wanted to go to Hawaii - but I was saving that vacation for my Honeymoon. But the other day I started looking at the cost of a trip - for my 35th Birthday - not because I can't wait any longer, but because the reality of not having a Honeymoon is starting to set-in. Don't mistake me - I hope I'm wrong and that I will get a Honeymoon - but the practical/realistic person in me says "you better go now, otherwise you will never get there." Very few of my friends understand this situation - many, they really like to blow it off if the subject is raised. They roll their eyes (as if to say "here we go") or cut me off. So I've learned that there are two very close people, who can totally understand. So we share this burden together and encourage one another. I've been praying for a husband/family for 12 years. Since I turned 16 I've prayed almost daily for "my husband" - that God would keep him close to Himself, that he would bring Godly influences into his life and that he would find his way to me or me to him. But in recent months the prayer has changed slightly - I still pray for "my husband", but I'm praying for God to either fill these two desires or to completely take them away, to throw them in the deepest most furthest pit. Because for these two areas - I'm having a hard time with the waiting and I'm close to my "rubber band snapping in two". As I pray - I pray that if He does take them away - that He will provide me with the peace that I will need to realize that truth. This has become such a hard issue for me this year - and I try to remain positive, but it truly is THE hardest issue I'm facing.
So tonight, I blog as a lady in waiting...waiting for the Lord to move in my life in these three areas. I am hopeful - although it is painful. But I'm trying hard to continue to wait - and as I wait, no matter what - I will serve, worship and run the race...all the while relying solely on my God to lead me every step of the way.
Tuesday, June 9, 2009
"I want to go to Heaven..."
Sunday was a happy day in the Thornton family, after months of asking questions Sophia went forward after the morning service at IBC, to accept Jesus Christ as her Savior!! PTL!!
Later that evening, I was sitting on the front porch of my parents house with Sophia and Ayana. Ayana was busy reading books to Raspberry and Rainbow Sunshine - her two favorite stuffed animals. I began to talk to Sophia about the decision she had made. Making sure she did completely understand her decision I asked, "Sophia - now that you asked Jesus to be your Savior, what does that mean?" She responded, "It means I get to go to Heaven!" Ayana quickly turned her head and the conversation went as follows:
Ayana: "Sophie, you get to go to Heaven?" (in a some what jealous voice)
Sophia: "Yes!"
Ayana: "That means you will get to see Bert. Bert is in Heaven. I want to see Bert. I want to go to Heaven."
Sophia: "Well then you need to ask Jesus to come into your heart, Ayana."
Ayana then looked at Sophia with a somewhat confused look on her face...the normal response of a four year old to that subject matter.
Ayana: (in a determined voice) "I miss Bert and I want to see her. I want to go to Heaven."
Ayana then walked off the porch.
I asked where she was going. She pointed to the sky and said, "I'm going to go to Heaven to see Bert." Then walked down the sidewalk with a look of determination on her little face.
Ahh...the innocence of a child, makes me smile and often makes me giggle or laugh!
I love that Sophia was so quick to respond with how someone can get to Heaven, I pray that continues. Especially as she shares her news with her Dad, his family and her friends at school.
I love that Ayana still remembers Bert (Ayana speaks OFTEN about Bert and missing her), even though Bert hasn't been with us for almost a year. I love her desire to go to Heaven - even if it isn't for the reason of wanting to avoid Hell, at least in her 4 year old mind she knows what Heaven is and that it is a place she wants to go. I pray that this desire remains and that she too will one day proclaim Jesus as her one and only way to Heaven.
Later that evening, I was sitting on the front porch of my parents house with Sophia and Ayana. Ayana was busy reading books to Raspberry and Rainbow Sunshine - her two favorite stuffed animals. I began to talk to Sophia about the decision she had made. Making sure she did completely understand her decision I asked, "Sophia - now that you asked Jesus to be your Savior, what does that mean?" She responded, "It means I get to go to Heaven!" Ayana quickly turned her head and the conversation went as follows:
Ayana: "Sophie, you get to go to Heaven?" (in a some what jealous voice)
Sophia: "Yes!"
Ayana: "That means you will get to see Bert. Bert is in Heaven. I want to see Bert. I want to go to Heaven."
Sophia: "Well then you need to ask Jesus to come into your heart, Ayana."
Ayana then looked at Sophia with a somewhat confused look on her face...the normal response of a four year old to that subject matter.
Ayana: (in a determined voice) "I miss Bert and I want to see her. I want to go to Heaven."
Ayana then walked off the porch.
I asked where she was going. She pointed to the sky and said, "I'm going to go to Heaven to see Bert." Then walked down the sidewalk with a look of determination on her little face.
Ahh...the innocence of a child, makes me smile and often makes me giggle or laugh!
I love that Sophia was so quick to respond with how someone can get to Heaven, I pray that continues. Especially as she shares her news with her Dad, his family and her friends at school.
I love that Ayana still remembers Bert (Ayana speaks OFTEN about Bert and missing her), even though Bert hasn't been with us for almost a year. I love her desire to go to Heaven - even if it isn't for the reason of wanting to avoid Hell, at least in her 4 year old mind she knows what Heaven is and that it is a place she wants to go. I pray that this desire remains and that she too will one day proclaim Jesus as her one and only way to Heaven.
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