In my last instalment on this blog I spoke of doing something and doing it often rather than thinking about it, waiting, processing and doing it once perfectly. This is based on advice from a friend and from reading an incredible book called "Atomic Habits".
Well here we are a week (or 2?) later and the instinctive pause has happened again. I wonder why that is? As I process my desire to write, I ask myself, as I ask about many things that require repetition where does this pause, or lack of consistent practice come from? Why does it happen?
Part of me thinks this happens as it's natural. Being intentional is not natural. Our nature tends to be what I call "the drift". We don't naturally live with intention. That takes discipline which requires effort and a deep focus. In general, we live for the drift and when we drift we don't drift toward health, focus, discipline, and the things that feed into us. When it comes to eating, my drift is the path of least resistance which tends to be what comes easy and not what is healthy and takes some time to prepare. Ease over effort is my drift. As it pertains to physical health, "netflix and chill" is the path of least resistance and my drift as oppose to getting up, putting on the shoes and taking that walk or going to that gym or taking some time on the treadmill. Drift is easy. Drift is not healthy. So what do we do? Not to sounds like a broken record, but we must "do something".
Seriously... Do something..
Don't allow the drift to take over... it's easy and it will creep in should you let it.. heck you don't even have to let it.. Just do nothing.
Case and point, I want to write and I talked about writing and then I stopped writing. I want to continue in my fitness journey that I was extremely successful with last summer and I drift into old habits or toward the ease of no habits.
So here's my encouragement for you and challenge for me as I clearly need the push and then the push and then the push.
Keep doing something. It doesn't have to be the end result. In fact, it shouldn't be all the way to the end. Do something that sets you up to do the next bite size thing that leads eventually toward the end goal. Crock pot instead of microwave..
You got this. We got this. Seriously, just do something.
Grace and love.
-S-
Sunday, 26 March 2023
Seriously.. do something..
Sunday, 12 March 2023
Just Do Something.
Obligatory, "I can't believe it's been 3 years" comment.
But seriously. I can't believe it's been 3 years.
I guess nothing significant has happened since 2020 so I've had nothing to write about. That's too bad, but at least I have decided to pick the typewriter back up.
Last week, Alisha and I were on a vacation for our 10th anniversary and we were blessed to visit a wonderful resort in Cuba. While there, I picked up a book that I bought with the grandest of intentions as I began it, but as is the case with a lot of things I do, I started strong and fizzled out quickly. This bugs me about me if I am honest. So I took advantage of our time away and picked the book back up and brought it with us with the "intention" (there's that word again) to dive back in and hopefully nibble away at it to try and get myself back in the habit of reading again. Well, I didn't nibble away at this book. I DEVOURED it. I had about a third of the book read before we left for vacation and it was done the day before the last day of our 7 day vacation. This was not a thin book (at least by my standards) either, and I couldn't put it down.
What was the book you ask? That's a great question and I am happy to answer. It was "Atomic Habits by James Clear" which speaks of and teaches that small changes can have massive results in how we lead our lives and develop the habits that we want and lose the habits that we want nothing to do with. So much meat and it is a book that I will definitely have to pick up again as it all certainly bears repeating in my brain.
One of the points that stood out to me, and there were a lot was something like this. JUST DO SOMETHING. Long story short he told a story of a university professor who was teaching a photography class and had a semester long project for his class. He divided the class in two groups and both groups had the same goal for the end of the semester to achieve an A in the course, but each group were to take a very different approach. The goal was to take that "perfect picture" that captures that magic moment or image that was simply beyond words. The difference was in their approach. Group A didn't have a specific amount of pictures they needed to take. They just needed to find that moment and capture it. Group B's approach was to take as many pictures as they were able and of the piles of pics, they needed to find the one that was the one.
What the professor found was very interesting. At the end of the semester he found that group A didn't have the same quality that group B did. Why is this? While group B took hundreds and hundreds of pictures, many of which were not great, the practice and formation of their skills that were developed in the taking of many, many pictures developed (pun intended) their skill to a point that made their end result absolutely stunning.
On the other hand, those that just had to find and take the perfect pictures didn't end up taking the same volume of pictures as they used their time "looking" for that picture and "waiting" for that moment in the hopes that they'd catch it, but without the repetition, they didn't get the same stunning results.
So what's the point Scottie? Sorry... Thought that was obvious as it's my title... JUST DO SOMETHING.
So many times in life, I've set goals and not acted on it as I'd either set the goal too big and stopped as I bit off more than I could chew OR over thought to the point of trying to figure out what I was suppose to do big picture and have it paralyze me from doing anything.
What the author illustrated (and my friend JON HURD) as encouraged me to do in things that I want to do is "just do something." Even little steps are better than doing nothing and being stagnant. Small steps toward health and repeated often are better than planning without action. 10 minutes (or even 2) of walking or exercise and repeated consistently is better than sitting idle and doing nothing. Writing a little everyday in a consistent manner is better than doing nothing. What the author, professor and hopefully me someday observes is that action and movement creates more action and movement and as you do small things consistently, habits form and excellence is unintentionally (eventually intentionally) formed.
So the question for me is for you is this; what thing (big or small) are you doing today? Today I wrote this as a reminder for me and as an encouragement for you. JUST DO SOMETHING.. and then tomorrow, do something and the next day, also do something. You got this!
Appreciate you's!
Friday, 27 March 2020
P's in the Pause (peace... get it???)
It's crazy how life kind of takes off on us and next think you know 4+ years have passed and you forgot you even had a blog.
Perhaps this Blog "pause" was a practical illustration of what we are going through in life right now. Maybe? We don't like pause do we? I've said it in previous blogs, but we wear "being busy" as a badge of honor. When people ask us, "How are you doing?" we say, "Busy, just so busy" and though we sound like the exasperated victim in this statement, deep down we love it and can tend to feel empty if were it not true. Even in our vacations which is our break from the busyness we often cram in as much activity as we can during these small windows that are intended for respite and relief. We jokingly return back home saying, "Oh man I'm so tired that I need a vacation from my vacation."
Go, go, go is how we roll, roll, roll...
Like many, in this particular season in life I've been laid off at my work and though I am believing it to be a temporary season in my story, it's still an unfamiliar one none-the-less. Pause. Stay home. Avoid the regular crowds and normalcy of life they say to "flatten the curve". So as much as my extroverted self hates it, I comply. Pause.
The extent of my get out of the house is finding a trail in the forest with my wife and my dog and get some exercise walking while enjoying nature, fresh air, creation and not being inside my stinking house!!!! (that I'm extremely grateful for... )
While adjusting to this new normal that may or may not be temporary there are some things that have crossed my mind as to how my attitude should be in the midst of all this. My "P's" in the Pause.
1) Patience - this seems to be the most obvious need for likely most of us in a season like this that knocks us out of our normal routines. Kids aren't in school. We aren't at work. Folks aren't advised or encouraged to come and go freely as normal life would afford. The only one that seems to be ok with this new is my dog as she LOVES having us all home everyday. It is absolutely paramount for you and for me that we practice patience daily as we seem to be taking this day by day trying to figure it all out. Is it easy? Hahahahaha!!!! Can we get there? I believe we can. It takes practice.
2) Practical - Sometimes it can be easy to assume that work will always be there, pay will always be coming and things will always be moving in the right direction so we unintentionally can get a touch reckless. I don't thing we do this in an arrogant or flippant way, but sometimes comfort doesn't set us up for long term thinking or the potential of life's what if's. When a moment like this happens in life and the rug is pulled out from underneath you or the wind is taken out of your sales we instantly panic as we didn't realize that we may or may not have been living long term practical. For those that do and are completely prepared, you're a rockstar. For those that maybe are caught a little off guard, you're likely not alone. The beauty in a season like this though is that rather than panic we can take it as an opportunity to step back, take a breath and recalibrate on what our priorities are and what is needs vs wants. What are we doing to take care of today? Tomorrow? Longer down the road and what happens if a "state of emergency" happens? If you/we aren't there yet or haven't quite mastered it, this Pause is a great season to work through this and get better at mastering the Practical.
3) Persistence - As mentioned, getting out of the routine and having a Pause in life imposed on us can get us to a state of panic. Obviously that is not the productive response in any season, but definitely not in a season of pause. What we tend to do in the panic is get tempted to quit. How do I put this??? DON'T DO IT!!! Practice persistence in the Pause. Find new normals, new routines, start your blog again after a 4 year hiatus. Just don't quit. It won't change the season of pause. It only serves as a reminder where you are and will feed the panic. Embrace the new opportunities and stubbornly stick to it. Be persistent. As mentioned, Alisha and I have made it a point to get out everyday for a walk in nature be it great or small, we persistently do something. Amazingly in this new routine in this season of pause I've seen some pounds shed off which I desperately need for my health, heart, etc...
4) Positivity - You're spending more time with family, more time online, more time in your own head.
BE NICE!!! Do I need to say more on that one? I should hope not.
Most importantly of all...
5) Presence - Were it not for the presence of Christ in my life I don't know that's I'd have peace in my life... especially during a season like this. Want to know my Jesus? Reach out to Him. He's there. Want someone to pray with you? Reach out to me. I'm here. Let's Facetime or Zoom and I will pray that God's Peace that passes all understanding will wash over you, sustain you and help you help others in a season when serving self is the natural response. Above all, I'm so grateful for HIS Presence.
So let's decide what we do with this timeout. We are in it together and like it or not we get to decide our attitudes and actions in this Pause. Can I encourage you to "Practice some P's in the Pause"?
Friday, 4 March 2016
Spiritual Draino?
Tonight's thought might be a little gross, a whole lot of random, but definitely honest. It's a work in progress as I am most definitely a work in progress. Thankfully I think we all are so I won't feel too bad about myself.
So by now you're probably asking why the nasty picture. Well it's my illustration. In the past I've used cute father/son tandem bike rides and others nicer images, but tonight this is the image that I feel to share about.
Here's my point: I wonder how easy it is or how quickly we allow these "blockages" to happen in our spiritual walk? We fill our lives. We fill our lives with "not bad" things. Our lives get clogged and then things pile up and we can become overwhelmed as our sink fills up and potentially overflows. Much like my example what piles up can be not bad things in and of themselves, but is it possible that they can create a spiritual blockage of sorts? Not to say that God can't get to us anytime, but can I have times where I feel spiritually clogged or blocked up and disconnected from God because of the things I allow to consume my time, my thoughts, my finances, my emotions, etc???
One of my favourite verses in Scripture is James 1:27. It says this:
"Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself to be polluted from the world."
Hmmm? Pollutants?
We treat being busy like a badge of honour, but can it be a pollutant that creates a blockage between us and God?
Money. Not evil in and of itself, but do we allow it to create a blockage between us and God?
Our relationships. Good things that are blessings in our lives, but put on the pedestal that belongs to God even the most beloved people in our lives can be blockages between us and God.
Our past. Technology. People's opinions and the list can go on and on... What things are we allowing to be pollutants in our lives and creating those times where we know God is with us, but we just can't seem to feel in the flow with our Heavenly Father?
Let me encourage you (and me) with this. If you're in a place where the pipe seem to be clogged spiritually and the only way you can explain your relationship with God is that there seems to be a "blockage" between you and Him, address it. Don't let it get worse and worse. Trust me, it will be messier in the long run as we allow more crud to get in.
Allow your praise to press in hard and push that "blockage" on it's way as God's spirit flows. Get in God's Word even though you don't understand what you read and you always seem to be met with resistance. STOP and make time to be quiet in God's presence to listen. Sometimes it takes more effort and we must push through like that magical elixir, Drano.
Then there are other times when you just need to take things apart, clean and dig the junk out and reset.
This feels like that scripture in Proverbs that speaks to "iron sharpening iron". Step back. Address the issue, fix it (or work the process with God and other believers) and dig it out. Get the mess out and then put it back together.
Life can be messy. That's OK. I have to believe that Jesus is not afraid of the mess. He touched the leper, played in the mud to heal the blind and laid down His life on the cross for us. He's not overwhelmed by our messes even if they've collected for a bit and clogged some drains. Seek Him and get things clear from the inside out today.
Thursday, 14 January 2016
Thoughts on (G)loving people...
This might be a bit of a broken up, dishevelled post, but I'll be honest up front. The title is pretty much what this is all about. This post is simply my thoughts on an opportunity that The Joy Network (Joy Cares) of 96.5 JoyFM had today. For a few weeks we have been promoting an event called "We Glove You 2" where many of our JoyFM listeners stepped up to donate warm items for us to give to many who are in need of the services offered at the homeless shelter and food kitchen.
We took those items today and were able to connect with many individuals and this post will simply be my highlights of the two hours we spent at this event.
1) It was cold: First off this is definitely not a complaint. In no way will I ever grumble about standing in the cold for two hours while we are serving those who will have to spend much more time in it than I ever will. I will say though that being cold was a powerful reminder of the life that some have been forced to lead and that I need not complain. Perhaps the blunt, but honest reminder is that when I am tempted to complain I should just "shut up and serve"... perhaps?
2) I felt broken for many: Two conversations that I had really messed me up were with a couple of men that I was blessed to stop and talk to. You see standing across a table from people and just handing them stuff just seems incomplete to me. I have to "connect". You'll hear that word a lot from me moving forward. One man collected some items, but really needed a pair of size 10 boots. So now my mission is to find this man some size 10 winter boots. He was so appreciative of all that we had to offer him and I told him that I would be back hopefully very soon with some boots for him.
Another man that I was able to chat with was a classic story of a many who seemingly had it all, but was distracted by habits and choices that took him off track and now is living the consequences of his choices. His attitude was very good though as he is now looking to get to the point where he can work again and serve those around him. This was a gentle reminder that none of us are exempt from life's trials and temptations. I'm grateful to God for his protection... especially when that protection is from myself.
3) "I have no pants": I won't go into the details of this story, but this was one individuals response when we asked if there was anything we could do for them. Think about that statement for a few seconds and let the reality of it sink in. This wrecked me as I considered it. This is North America and yet this statement reflects someones reality. God help us to reach out!!! I'll stop there.
4) Last but not least is a song that one lady was singing as we were handing out items (to her and others) which was nice on a cold day where complaining again could creep in. The power of this moment was not in her voice or even us handing out items, but in the song that she was singing near the end. Tell me if you've heard this one:
We took those items today and were able to connect with many individuals and this post will simply be my highlights of the two hours we spent at this event.
1) It was cold: First off this is definitely not a complaint. In no way will I ever grumble about standing in the cold for two hours while we are serving those who will have to spend much more time in it than I ever will. I will say though that being cold was a powerful reminder of the life that some have been forced to lead and that I need not complain. Perhaps the blunt, but honest reminder is that when I am tempted to complain I should just "shut up and serve"... perhaps?
2) I felt broken for many: Two conversations that I had really messed me up were with a couple of men that I was blessed to stop and talk to. You see standing across a table from people and just handing them stuff just seems incomplete to me. I have to "connect". You'll hear that word a lot from me moving forward. One man collected some items, but really needed a pair of size 10 boots. So now my mission is to find this man some size 10 winter boots. He was so appreciative of all that we had to offer him and I told him that I would be back hopefully very soon with some boots for him.
Another man that I was able to chat with was a classic story of a many who seemingly had it all, but was distracted by habits and choices that took him off track and now is living the consequences of his choices. His attitude was very good though as he is now looking to get to the point where he can work again and serve those around him. This was a gentle reminder that none of us are exempt from life's trials and temptations. I'm grateful to God for his protection... especially when that protection is from myself.
3) "I have no pants": I won't go into the details of this story, but this was one individuals response when we asked if there was anything we could do for them. Think about that statement for a few seconds and let the reality of it sink in. This wrecked me as I considered it. This is North America and yet this statement reflects someones reality. God help us to reach out!!! I'll stop there.
4) Last but not least is a song that one lady was singing as we were handing out items (to her and others) which was nice on a cold day where complaining again could creep in. The power of this moment was not in her voice or even us handing out items, but in the song that she was singing near the end. Tell me if you've heard this one:
"When peace like a river attendeth my way.
When sorrows like sea billows roll.
Whatever my lot, thou has taught me to say,
it is well, it is well with my soul".
Need I say more?
Thursday, 3 December 2015
Coasting.
Sometimes when I write I have an idea that has been brewing in my mind for a while and I have to hit the keyboard right away or else I just might burst from holding it in. Other times I have a single word that comes to mind and I just need to start typing and see where that word takes me.
Today the latter of these two scenario's happened as the single word "coasting" came to mind and I felt to speak to it. Interesting.
In general, I have found that a majority of my life has been about this word. Going with the flow. Remaining super chill and just living by the premise that "whatever will be will be". Although I think this not a bad thing in an of itself, but by it's nature coasting can lead to unhealthy habits. Not stressing is good, but being so chill to the point of letting responsibility take the back seat is problematic. I am grateful to God for providing me with a beautiful household of gals that has helped me focus this. I still try to remain unstressed even in tough times (once had a t-shirt that said, "I'm too blessed to be stressed"), but I also must be focused in as to best provided for those the Lord has given me responsibility for.
But let's focus on this word coast/coasting. What is it and what's the implications of coasting in life?
I found this definition of the word coast and it struck me.
Coast: verb (of a person or vehicle) to move easily without using power.
Initially I say, "Yup, that's what coasting means", but as I think on it for a second or two a few things dawn on me.
#1) to move - Life moves. It doesn't stand still so whether your a hyper control freak of a super chill go with the flow person, you have to move and adapt and adjust to life and it's "changes".
#2) move easily - We all want things easily. Honestly it is how we are bent. We create inventions to make things less strenuous, less time consuming and to make life easier. Coasting is moving, but moving easily. It makes sense that we could lean towards this type of lifestyle and how it is natural to coast.
#3) to move easily "without using power" - This is the point of this definition that really caught me today. We move. We try to do whatever it takes to move through life easily, but the definition says in order to do that it comes from doing it without using power.
Hmmm? This piece of the definition startled me a bit. I've coasted a good portion of my life which has given me the wonderful opportunity to untrain myself with natural frustrating habits that I have coasted into. As I read this definition and reflect on life I can easily make the connection that it's because I have coasted without a source of power. Which leads to the question, "Why?" Being relaxed and worry free is good, but seeking easy without power is not. God's power challenges our natural. God's power in our lives doesn't allow us to coast as it focuses me on the shortcomings that coasting misses.
How strange and sad it is that we can live life without the power source in our lives.
Scripture says in 1 Corinthians 4:20
Today the latter of these two scenario's happened as the single word "coasting" came to mind and I felt to speak to it. Interesting.
In general, I have found that a majority of my life has been about this word. Going with the flow. Remaining super chill and just living by the premise that "whatever will be will be". Although I think this not a bad thing in an of itself, but by it's nature coasting can lead to unhealthy habits. Not stressing is good, but being so chill to the point of letting responsibility take the back seat is problematic. I am grateful to God for providing me with a beautiful household of gals that has helped me focus this. I still try to remain unstressed even in tough times (once had a t-shirt that said, "I'm too blessed to be stressed"), but I also must be focused in as to best provided for those the Lord has given me responsibility for.
But let's focus on this word coast/coasting. What is it and what's the implications of coasting in life?
I found this definition of the word coast and it struck me.
Coast: verb (of a person or vehicle) to move easily without using power.
Initially I say, "Yup, that's what coasting means", but as I think on it for a second or two a few things dawn on me.
#1) to move - Life moves. It doesn't stand still so whether your a hyper control freak of a super chill go with the flow person, you have to move and adapt and adjust to life and it's "changes".
#2) move easily - We all want things easily. Honestly it is how we are bent. We create inventions to make things less strenuous, less time consuming and to make life easier. Coasting is moving, but moving easily. It makes sense that we could lean towards this type of lifestyle and how it is natural to coast.
#3) to move easily "without using power" - This is the point of this definition that really caught me today. We move. We try to do whatever it takes to move through life easily, but the definition says in order to do that it comes from doing it without using power.
Hmmm? This piece of the definition startled me a bit. I've coasted a good portion of my life which has given me the wonderful opportunity to untrain myself with natural frustrating habits that I have coasted into. As I read this definition and reflect on life I can easily make the connection that it's because I have coasted without a source of power. Which leads to the question, "Why?" Being relaxed and worry free is good, but seeking easy without power is not. God's power challenges our natural. God's power in our lives doesn't allow us to coast as it focuses me on the shortcomings that coasting misses.
How strange and sad it is that we can live life without the power source in our lives.
Scripture says in 1 Corinthians 4:20
“For the kingdom of God is not just a lot of talk; it is living by God’s power.”
Not just a lot of talk. Talk is easy. It's from us. Not a ton of effort or challenge, but serving God, living for God and representing Him is more than just talk. It's living by God's power which can be stretching as it's beyond us, our thoughts and our capabilities.
So let me wrap up this way. How are we living? Yes it is good to not worry, but let's be careful to not coast without God's power leading us. Let's be intentional with how we live our lives. I guess even when I was coasting I was being intentional to not worry and let life's stresses get to me. That being said I can be intentional to not coast and miss out on those moments when my initiative can be intentional. Let me give you this definition of Generous that I recently heard from Pastor Andy Stanley.
"The premeditated (planned not spontaneous), calculated (amount), designated (knowing where it's spent) emancipation (free from bondage we create with items) of personal financial (or time, or talents, etc) assets."
So what shall we do? Coast and hope for the best or intentionally impact our life, this world and the lives of others with the power of Christ leading us the way.
Hope this makes sense. Like I said. Sometimes I just start with a word and run with it. Coasting. Who knew this word could spark so much in me. Hmmmm?
Monday, 30 November 2015
What do you see?
Hey all,
Obligatory comment about it being too long since my last post... Blah, blah, blah..
Ok, now that I've done that here's what's on my heart.
As Alisha shared on her Facebook page last night we had a neat memory time last night that happened a bit spontaneously. The best memories always seem to start that way.
Long and short the girls (Ash & Bri) and I were challenged by Alisha to get a flashlight and go to find a Christmas tree. We were told that it didn't matter what we found as it was about the adventure. So we searched in the dark with only the small light of a cell phone as our guide. We did find the tree and with my dull hatchet I began to claim our prize. Ashley then carried our trophy back to the homestead and we celebrated our accomplishment. As we took the tree into the home we discovered that this tree was not "Charlie Brown's" tree, but it was certainly close to the (just barely) big brother of Charlie Brown's tree. So we came up with some creative ways to make this tree bigger and decorated it with trinkets and decorations that were made by Alisha's children over the years. This primarily was because they were the only ornaments that were light enough to be held by the branches, but quickly turned into a sentimental time as the tree began to be decorated.
Simplicity became our theme of the night and I could sense God placing some thoughts on my heart as we had this beautiful evening of Christmas music, a make shift Christmas tree and reminders of what Christmas is all about. Alisha shared that this was the favourite tree that she's ever decorated and again my heart was pricked with some neat truth that God deposited in my heart. I then shared with the girls that, "It's not about the appearance of the tree externally, but the memories that are created around it."
You see we do this and I don't just mean at Christmas time either. We look at the external and come to conclusions that often just aren't true. What we see does not equate to fact all the time. Just like this lil tree that doesn't really look like much, but is representative of a beautiful family night of memories so too there is beauty in people and situations around us that on the outside don't look like much.
This past weekend Alisha and I were blessed to receive a video message from our sponsor child Albertho and his twin brother Jean-Bertho and it absolutely moved us and made our day. If you spend time in the community that these boys live in you would say, "Oh boy. Not much to offer here", but meeting these boys and spending some time in their community has been a very impacting experience in our lives. Another truth is that when you see their circumstances it would be easy to see the boys and feel sad for them, but in this video the boys were so full of love and smiles and I can tell you that this IS their reality. My mind says, "How can this be?" I complain about my "troubles" and these boys are so happy and full of love. I don't know if I'll ever understand this, but all I know is that what I see with my eyes isn't always what the reality is. Instead of sadness for what I see, I am reminded that these boys understand joy in rough circumstances way better than I do.
So, let's look at our lives. Let's explore our circumstances. What do we see? Now look a little deeper. What beauty can be found? If you are a follower of Christ we always have hope in the darkest of circumstance and this takes me back to Christmas. We complicate things with our stuff. Perhaps like my beautiful wife commented last night, beauty is found in simplicity. Jesus came. He died. He rose again for our forgiveness. Lord, help us zoom into this truth this Christmas season when the busyness of hectic schedules, gifts, debt, and foolish attempts to impress others with meaningless pressures we put on ourselves try to distract us.
May we keep it simple and make incredible memories with family celebrating the simple truth of Christmas this year.
Obligatory comment about it being too long since my last post... Blah, blah, blah..
Ok, now that I've done that here's what's on my heart.
As Alisha shared on her Facebook page last night we had a neat memory time last night that happened a bit spontaneously. The best memories always seem to start that way.
Long and short the girls (Ash & Bri) and I were challenged by Alisha to get a flashlight and go to find a Christmas tree. We were told that it didn't matter what we found as it was about the adventure. So we searched in the dark with only the small light of a cell phone as our guide. We did find the tree and with my dull hatchet I began to claim our prize. Ashley then carried our trophy back to the homestead and we celebrated our accomplishment. As we took the tree into the home we discovered that this tree was not "Charlie Brown's" tree, but it was certainly close to the (just barely) big brother of Charlie Brown's tree. So we came up with some creative ways to make this tree bigger and decorated it with trinkets and decorations that were made by Alisha's children over the years. This primarily was because they were the only ornaments that were light enough to be held by the branches, but quickly turned into a sentimental time as the tree began to be decorated.
Simplicity became our theme of the night and I could sense God placing some thoughts on my heart as we had this beautiful evening of Christmas music, a make shift Christmas tree and reminders of what Christmas is all about. Alisha shared that this was the favourite tree that she's ever decorated and again my heart was pricked with some neat truth that God deposited in my heart. I then shared with the girls that, "It's not about the appearance of the tree externally, but the memories that are created around it."
You see we do this and I don't just mean at Christmas time either. We look at the external and come to conclusions that often just aren't true. What we see does not equate to fact all the time. Just like this lil tree that doesn't really look like much, but is representative of a beautiful family night of memories so too there is beauty in people and situations around us that on the outside don't look like much.
This past weekend Alisha and I were blessed to receive a video message from our sponsor child Albertho and his twin brother Jean-Bertho and it absolutely moved us and made our day. If you spend time in the community that these boys live in you would say, "Oh boy. Not much to offer here", but meeting these boys and spending some time in their community has been a very impacting experience in our lives. Another truth is that when you see their circumstances it would be easy to see the boys and feel sad for them, but in this video the boys were so full of love and smiles and I can tell you that this IS their reality. My mind says, "How can this be?" I complain about my "troubles" and these boys are so happy and full of love. I don't know if I'll ever understand this, but all I know is that what I see with my eyes isn't always what the reality is. Instead of sadness for what I see, I am reminded that these boys understand joy in rough circumstances way better than I do.
So, let's look at our lives. Let's explore our circumstances. What do we see? Now look a little deeper. What beauty can be found? If you are a follower of Christ we always have hope in the darkest of circumstance and this takes me back to Christmas. We complicate things with our stuff. Perhaps like my beautiful wife commented last night, beauty is found in simplicity. Jesus came. He died. He rose again for our forgiveness. Lord, help us zoom into this truth this Christmas season when the busyness of hectic schedules, gifts, debt, and foolish attempts to impress others with meaningless pressures we put on ourselves try to distract us.
May we keep it simple and make incredible memories with family celebrating the simple truth of Christmas this year.
Thursday, 17 October 2013
Mile 3 Moments
I am not sure if the title of this post means something else or has been the name of other things, events or concepts as I have not copyrighted this, but let me explain to you what I mean when I use the term "Mile 3 Moments".
Recently I have taken up the hobby of running. (Sort of) Truth be told I am actually enjoying this somewhat and I have let a particular individual in my church invite me to run in a 5k race that is happening early November in Nackawic. The really crazy part of this proposition??? I accepted!!! What is wrong with me? Ah well, I think I will survive and truth be told at the age of half way to 70 it is probably time I took getting in/staying shape a little more seriously.
I have discovered a bit of a pattern though when I am running. I tend to start strong and feel very good and usually as I end my run I feel good, but there is a point in the middle of the run that my body begins to crash a bit or perhaps second guess my sanity for embarking on such a venture. Typically at this point it would be much easier to find a bench, a rock or a squirrel to sit on and call it a day as it pertains to my run. This is what I call my "Mile 3 Moment" in each run.
It is at this point when I am faced with a choice. Do I wrap it up and walk home or do I press on and finish my run. I would like to say that I get this right every time and just the right song comes on and launches me to the finish line in my record time, but that isn't true. The journey to being in shape is not an easy one for me, but I feel the most fulfilled when I do press on and finish strong even if that means I limp to the finish. :)
Isn't this how it happens in life? We can be cruising along feel really good about our surroundings and how things are going and then "WHAM" it feels like we are hit right between the eyes with life and it's trials and the wind is taken out of our sails. Mile 3 tells us it would be easier to give up, (it is) complain (it is) and to quit (it is). Truth be told what is easy isn't the most beneficial. In the moments when my stubbornness kicks in and I continue to waddle my little legs along the trail are the moments when my run feels the most complete and most fulfilling. I don't break any land speed records, but finishing and not quitting makes the task so rewarding and is ultimately is the most beneficial for my body I'm sure.
Let me simply encourage you with this thought and challenge:
When your "Mile 3 Moments" come, keep going. Don't freeze and continue to put one foot in front of the other until you cross that line. Mile 3 passes, but only if we keep moving forward and the reward is at the end of the race. No matter what you are facing today, keep going and trust God to give you the strength to get you through. I believe it was Winston Churchill who said, "When you are going through hell, keep going. Don't stay where you are."
Paul says it this way,
"Not that I have already obtained all this, or have already arrived at my goal, but I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me." Philippians 3:12 (emphasis mine)
Mile 3's come and go. My choice is do I stop and let them end my journey or do I face the resistance they provide and celebrate as I grow stronger each time I pass them by.
Press on my friends. Press on.
Recently I have taken up the hobby of running. (Sort of) Truth be told I am actually enjoying this somewhat and I have let a particular individual in my church invite me to run in a 5k race that is happening early November in Nackawic. The really crazy part of this proposition??? I accepted!!! What is wrong with me? Ah well, I think I will survive and truth be told at the age of half way to 70 it is probably time I took getting in/staying shape a little more seriously.
I have discovered a bit of a pattern though when I am running. I tend to start strong and feel very good and usually as I end my run I feel good, but there is a point in the middle of the run that my body begins to crash a bit or perhaps second guess my sanity for embarking on such a venture. Typically at this point it would be much easier to find a bench, a rock or a squirrel to sit on and call it a day as it pertains to my run. This is what I call my "Mile 3 Moment" in each run.
It is at this point when I am faced with a choice. Do I wrap it up and walk home or do I press on and finish my run. I would like to say that I get this right every time and just the right song comes on and launches me to the finish line in my record time, but that isn't true. The journey to being in shape is not an easy one for me, but I feel the most fulfilled when I do press on and finish strong even if that means I limp to the finish. :)
Isn't this how it happens in life? We can be cruising along feel really good about our surroundings and how things are going and then "WHAM" it feels like we are hit right between the eyes with life and it's trials and the wind is taken out of our sails. Mile 3 tells us it would be easier to give up, (it is) complain (it is) and to quit (it is). Truth be told what is easy isn't the most beneficial. In the moments when my stubbornness kicks in and I continue to waddle my little legs along the trail are the moments when my run feels the most complete and most fulfilling. I don't break any land speed records, but finishing and not quitting makes the task so rewarding and is ultimately is the most beneficial for my body I'm sure.
Let me simply encourage you with this thought and challenge:
When your "Mile 3 Moments" come, keep going. Don't freeze and continue to put one foot in front of the other until you cross that line. Mile 3 passes, but only if we keep moving forward and the reward is at the end of the race. No matter what you are facing today, keep going and trust God to give you the strength to get you through. I believe it was Winston Churchill who said, "When you are going through hell, keep going. Don't stay where you are."
Paul says it this way,
"Not that I have already obtained all this, or have already arrived at my goal, but I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me." Philippians 3:12 (emphasis mine)
Mile 3's come and go. My choice is do I stop and let them end my journey or do I face the resistance they provide and celebrate as I grow stronger each time I pass them by.
Press on my friends. Press on.
Monday, 8 July 2013
Seasons
King Solomon spoke of the seasons of life and how everything has a "time". Life has seasons and it ebbs and flows and ultimately it is up to us if we flow with it or resist and try to swim up current. Some have also described this as the rhythms of life. I am not sure if you've heard a drummer, percussionist or someone with a tambourine or clapping their hands off beat, but if you have you know how distracting it can be.
I also think of the picture of someone on a canoe or kayak. If they are paddling upstream against the current instead of paddling in the direction the water is flowing things are much more difficult. Simple truth, but I think it illustrates a valuable life lesson.
Life has seasons. A time for everything. Do we flow with it or try and control things the way we feel like we need to do it ourselves?
As of late I have been enjoying some transitions of life and changing of seasons. Having a new marriage, new home to rent, new step children has definitely shown me the value of appreciating change and going with the flow. As a male in a new home filled with ladies, life is not the same and this is not a bad thing.
So I ask, in these transitions (personally, professionally, etc) do I "go with the flow" or do I get freaked out, out of my comfort zone and lose focus on the one who controls the seasons. Reality is that in the transition He is there with us in it and knows what we are feeling better than we are. Truth is that what we may have just gone through has given us experiences (good or bad) that can prepare and equip us for what is next to come so transition is not a bad thing.
As I am going through this season of transition and seeking God in it I want to briefly challenge you to join me. Perhaps God has been taking you through a season of change or challenging you to a deeper depth with Him in some areas. Embrace that and seek Him in those seasons of change.
Are there some relationships that you need to cut out... or pursue?
Is there a ministry that you need to join on with and become a part of to change someone's story?
How are you using your finances??? nuff said.. lol
As Solomon said, there is a time for everything and I want to ask you, "What time is it for you?"
We don't often like change or transition, but if we are going with the flow, paddling with the current or clapping on beat it can be a beautiful, uplifting thing.
Seek Him first and go for it!!!
Blessings,
Scottie
I also think of the picture of someone on a canoe or kayak. If they are paddling upstream against the current instead of paddling in the direction the water is flowing things are much more difficult. Simple truth, but I think it illustrates a valuable life lesson.
Life has seasons. A time for everything. Do we flow with it or try and control things the way we feel like we need to do it ourselves?
As of late I have been enjoying some transitions of life and changing of seasons. Having a new marriage, new home to rent, new step children has definitely shown me the value of appreciating change and going with the flow. As a male in a new home filled with ladies, life is not the same and this is not a bad thing.
So I ask, in these transitions (personally, professionally, etc) do I "go with the flow" or do I get freaked out, out of my comfort zone and lose focus on the one who controls the seasons. Reality is that in the transition He is there with us in it and knows what we are feeling better than we are. Truth is that what we may have just gone through has given us experiences (good or bad) that can prepare and equip us for what is next to come so transition is not a bad thing.
As I am going through this season of transition and seeking God in it I want to briefly challenge you to join me. Perhaps God has been taking you through a season of change or challenging you to a deeper depth with Him in some areas. Embrace that and seek Him in those seasons of change.
Are there some relationships that you need to cut out... or pursue?
Is there a ministry that you need to join on with and become a part of to change someone's story?
How are you using your finances??? nuff said.. lol
As Solomon said, there is a time for everything and I want to ask you, "What time is it for you?"
We don't often like change or transition, but if we are going with the flow, paddling with the current or clapping on beat it can be a beautiful, uplifting thing.
Seek Him first and go for it!!!
Blessings,
Scottie
Monday, 22 April 2013
Reflections, Ponderings, Process
It seems the theme "de jour" for me as of late is process and the test dummy for this theme is yours truly. As I have been walking this beautiful thing called life and stepping into some new adventures I've realized how easy it is too fool myself into believing that I've got it together when the reality is that I am still a lump of clay being molded just like every other human being sucking air in their lungs.
This is not a topic that is exclusive to one area in my life, but seems to be something that I struggle with as a whole. I go along being a nice guy and convince myself the world is a better place because of me. I can do this in my walk with God and the titles I give myself that way. I can do it as a dad or a husband and convince myself that my family is blessed to have me and yet my actions show that Scottie is still very much a "Scottie centric" individual.
Yet in all of this God reminds me that I am to daily seek Him for wisdom and learning. I have to believe that with that comes growth. Oh goodness, I hope that with that comes growth. LOL.
I am NOT content with being the picture boy for insanity. (You know? Doing the same thing over and over and expecting a different result?)
As much as I have great disdain for my wife and step daughters being over an hour away from me during the week until June, I can say that perhaps there is a purpose in it. Perhaps God needed some extra time to work this process in me and I needed some one on one teaching without the distraction of the beautiful ladies of my life. It's all process and the question is, "Am I willing to learn? Am I willing to be changed?"
In all areas in life I need wisdom to change, grow and be molded into the image of my Savior. To follow Jesus as His disciple means that ultimately I am going to become more like Him. This gives me hope. Though I think I can be a nice guy I get what Paul was saying about, "doing what he does not want to do and not doing what he wants to do." This tends to be my pattern as well. I do stuff, speak hastily or get into situations that make me think, "uh oh, how did I get in this mess???"
So what's the neat and tidy conclusion for this blog post? Um? I'm not sure, but I do know this... I am grateful for the love of my Savior and the patience and love of my friends and family as I know I am not an easy person to be around, talk to or love at times. Grateful might be an understatement. I might not be so patient with ole Scottie boy. LOL.
My blog has been called "Clay Sharpening Clay" since day one and it's because I honestly don't feel strong enough most days to be called iron. So here's my challenge and I will say that since I am putting it on the interweb for all to see, those of you who know, love and support me have the right to call me on this and see how moldable I am being during my process called life.
My life's agenda is very simple and I want to continue to grow, learn and become more like Christ so that I may more fully achieve these goals:
1) Love/Serve God
2) Love/Serve my wife/kid/step kids
3) Love/Serve my community (local/globally)
Lord help me to be more teachable, more loving and more like you so that those around may be more blessed by You in me...
Love y'all,
Blessings!!!
This is not a topic that is exclusive to one area in my life, but seems to be something that I struggle with as a whole. I go along being a nice guy and convince myself the world is a better place because of me. I can do this in my walk with God and the titles I give myself that way. I can do it as a dad or a husband and convince myself that my family is blessed to have me and yet my actions show that Scottie is still very much a "Scottie centric" individual.
Yet in all of this God reminds me that I am to daily seek Him for wisdom and learning. I have to believe that with that comes growth. Oh goodness, I hope that with that comes growth. LOL.
I am NOT content with being the picture boy for insanity. (You know? Doing the same thing over and over and expecting a different result?)
As much as I have great disdain for my wife and step daughters being over an hour away from me during the week until June, I can say that perhaps there is a purpose in it. Perhaps God needed some extra time to work this process in me and I needed some one on one teaching without the distraction of the beautiful ladies of my life. It's all process and the question is, "Am I willing to learn? Am I willing to be changed?"
In all areas in life I need wisdom to change, grow and be molded into the image of my Savior. To follow Jesus as His disciple means that ultimately I am going to become more like Him. This gives me hope. Though I think I can be a nice guy I get what Paul was saying about, "doing what he does not want to do and not doing what he wants to do." This tends to be my pattern as well. I do stuff, speak hastily or get into situations that make me think, "uh oh, how did I get in this mess???"
So what's the neat and tidy conclusion for this blog post? Um? I'm not sure, but I do know this... I am grateful for the love of my Savior and the patience and love of my friends and family as I know I am not an easy person to be around, talk to or love at times. Grateful might be an understatement. I might not be so patient with ole Scottie boy. LOL.
My blog has been called "Clay Sharpening Clay" since day one and it's because I honestly don't feel strong enough most days to be called iron. So here's my challenge and I will say that since I am putting it on the interweb for all to see, those of you who know, love and support me have the right to call me on this and see how moldable I am being during my process called life.
My life's agenda is very simple and I want to continue to grow, learn and become more like Christ so that I may more fully achieve these goals:
1) Love/Serve God
2) Love/Serve my wife/kid/step kids
3) Love/Serve my community (local/globally)
Lord help me to be more teachable, more loving and more like you so that those around may be more blessed by You in me...
Love y'all,
Blessings!!!
Wednesday, 27 March 2013
Whatcha Got?
Whatcha got? Strange title. Strange way to start a blog post I admit, but it seems to be what is resonating within me. The more I dive into ministry the more I see people with wonderful gifts wondering how God could possibly use them for His purposes. As someone who loves diving into peoples lives and seeing the change happening that only God can do, I am daily reminded of how exciting it is to see people get (understand) what they got (gifts) and beginning to tap into them. The excitement that people feel as they realise that they can be used for God is such a cool experience.
An experience that I was able to have many years ago illustrates this.
In the summer of 1998 I was given the opportunity to go on a sports missions trip to the British Isles where we used sports as an opportunity to meet people and then share with them about what God has done in our lives. After one particular game of basketball I was particularly bummed out as I had a really poor game and was very annoyed with my performance. As I wore this on my face/body language one of the other ball players approached me and we talked about my attitude. He then told a story of a boy who had a very close relationship with his dad as his father attended every basketball game. The story went on to tell of how this kids father passed away before his championship game and how he was not sure if he would play in this game or not. As he considered this further he was approached by someone who gave him this thought; "Play every game for your father as it was his work that gave you this gift."
He then said to me, "Scottie, use your gift as if it's for your (Heavenly) Father who has given you the gift no matter how great or small. If you have a good game or a bad game, give your Father glory."
So my question is this... "Whatcha got and how are you using it? How are you using your gifts to give your Father glory? Don't have any gifts you say? I call false on that and say let's sit for coffee and figure out what your gifts are because the reality is that we all have something and they all have a purpose. My gifts are not your gifts and yours probably aren't mine, but we all have something.
One of our ministry locations for Boaz is seeing this happen in a small degree, but it's been an amazing thing. Some of the mom's love to cook and have a talent for finding the best deals in the grocery store. So we made the trek and they made some incredible food. Reality is that was them using their gifts to bring our Heavenly Father praise. It's an awesome experience when people see what they have as a gift and that there is a purpose for it no matter how great or small.
So once more I ask... Whatcha got cuz we don't got to do anything for God as if He needs us, but we get to use our gifts for God in changing this world as He allows us to be a part of His story.
Feel free to connect with me and message me at anytime if this strikes a chord with you and you want to tap into your gifts and be used. I'd love to help in that process.
An experience that I was able to have many years ago illustrates this.
In the summer of 1998 I was given the opportunity to go on a sports missions trip to the British Isles where we used sports as an opportunity to meet people and then share with them about what God has done in our lives. After one particular game of basketball I was particularly bummed out as I had a really poor game and was very annoyed with my performance. As I wore this on my face/body language one of the other ball players approached me and we talked about my attitude. He then told a story of a boy who had a very close relationship with his dad as his father attended every basketball game. The story went on to tell of how this kids father passed away before his championship game and how he was not sure if he would play in this game or not. As he considered this further he was approached by someone who gave him this thought; "Play every game for your father as it was his work that gave you this gift."
He then said to me, "Scottie, use your gift as if it's for your (Heavenly) Father who has given you the gift no matter how great or small. If you have a good game or a bad game, give your Father glory."
So my question is this... "Whatcha got and how are you using it? How are you using your gifts to give your Father glory? Don't have any gifts you say? I call false on that and say let's sit for coffee and figure out what your gifts are because the reality is that we all have something and they all have a purpose. My gifts are not your gifts and yours probably aren't mine, but we all have something.
One of our ministry locations for Boaz is seeing this happen in a small degree, but it's been an amazing thing. Some of the mom's love to cook and have a talent for finding the best deals in the grocery store. So we made the trek and they made some incredible food. Reality is that was them using their gifts to bring our Heavenly Father praise. It's an awesome experience when people see what they have as a gift and that there is a purpose for it no matter how great or small.
So once more I ask... Whatcha got cuz we don't got to do anything for God as if He needs us, but we get to use our gifts for God in changing this world as He allows us to be a part of His story.
Feel free to connect with me and message me at anytime if this strikes a chord with you and you want to tap into your gifts and be used. I'd love to help in that process.
Monday, 18 March 2013
"I've Got To Do Something..."
This is a line that I've had running through my head for a few weeks now. As I've connected with people through various ministry opportunities, I've noticed that there is a stirring in people to help out in some way. I know that sounded like a vague statement, but that is the statement I've been hearing. They see needs everywhere they look, their heart is stirred and they feel like they need to do something .
I've heard it said this way.. They have their firestorm of frustration moment or their moment of Holy discontent. It's kind of like Popeye. You remember Popeye right? That spinach eating sailor who had the incredible privilege of dating the incredibly attractive Olive Oil. Each time that Bluto would come in and try to steal away Popeye's love, he would say that classic line that stated, "That's all I can stands and I can't stands no more." Many people seem to be seeing the world around them and have that same mind set and feel the need to "do something".
This is where my heart comes in. As God has been increasing my "vision" of big picture stuff and stirring my heart for the lost and broken in our community and of the world, God has been giving me a passion to connect people with opportunities to fuel their fire. As people say, "I've just got to do something" I want to say, "Let sit down and see how this plays out for you. What is it that you want to do? What is your thing that you can't stands..."
There are needs all around us and many different ways to serve and bless those who need to be blessed. For those who feel like they just have to do something there are needs in many local churches for people to step up and be a blessing to many areas of ministry. For others there are local para church and non church opportunities to bless those in need all around our city and any community that they may be a part of. For others still there is a global need that we as super blessed and often spoiled North Americans can dive into and find areas to invest. The reality is that there is always something to be done, always areas to serve and always opportunity to change someones world.
The question is, "What is that something you've got to do?"
Don't worry, It's a question I must also ask myself.
For opportunities to serve with Boaz or otherwise connect with me and let's chat. It's a big world with lots of need and people need your help in many ways.
Blessings all,
~Scottie~
I've heard it said this way.. They have their firestorm of frustration moment or their moment of Holy discontent. It's kind of like Popeye. You remember Popeye right? That spinach eating sailor who had the incredible privilege of dating the incredibly attractive Olive Oil. Each time that Bluto would come in and try to steal away Popeye's love, he would say that classic line that stated, "That's all I can stands and I can't stands no more." Many people seem to be seeing the world around them and have that same mind set and feel the need to "do something".
This is where my heart comes in. As God has been increasing my "vision" of big picture stuff and stirring my heart for the lost and broken in our community and of the world, God has been giving me a passion to connect people with opportunities to fuel their fire. As people say, "I've just got to do something" I want to say, "Let sit down and see how this plays out for you. What is it that you want to do? What is your thing that you can't stands..."
There are needs all around us and many different ways to serve and bless those who need to be blessed. For those who feel like they just have to do something there are needs in many local churches for people to step up and be a blessing to many areas of ministry. For others there are local para church and non church opportunities to bless those in need all around our city and any community that they may be a part of. For others still there is a global need that we as super blessed and often spoiled North Americans can dive into and find areas to invest. The reality is that there is always something to be done, always areas to serve and always opportunity to change someones world.
The question is, "What is that something you've got to do?"
Don't worry, It's a question I must also ask myself.
For opportunities to serve with Boaz or otherwise connect with me and let's chat. It's a big world with lots of need and people need your help in many ways.
Blessings all,
~Scottie~
Tuesday, 22 January 2013
Life Updatey-ness... (Life of Leighton)
So not a whole lot to post about, but as it's been a while I figured it was time for an update for the 2 people who read this blog. Ok, maybe 3. Ok fine, there is also lots going on... Pitter patter, let's get at 'er...
Over Christmas I had the incredible opportunity to ask for the hand of a beautiful lady that I am crazy about and she said yes. On June 22nd Miss Alisha Horsman and I will begin our lives together as husband and wife and my life will never be the same. I go from a single dude that has his son every other weekend to a married guy with 2 full time girls in my home, also with two guys that I expect to have on a part time, but hopefully frequent basis as well. Full House episode much??? For those that know me you know that for me to say that I can't wait for this is a major understatement. Never a dull moment is about to take on a whole new meaning.
Another update that is happening in the Life of Leighton is that I'm feeling God is expecting me to "STEP UP" regarding my role with BOAZ. A couple areas that I'm feeling lead to do this through potentially leading and directing the Mentoring Program which includes overseeing the current mentor/mentee relationships and the administration of that while also recruiting and training new potential mentors.
Another area of increase I am feeling is in the area of running sports camps for the children that we are blessed to work with. Some of these camps will be run by me and other Boaz volunteers. Other camps will need to be lead by others. To more fully dive into this I will need to dedicate more time into program planning and starting to take some steps in that direction. Also included in my vision of the sports ministry is raising funds and collecting equipment so that our families can more fully have their children participate in local sports programs with no restrictions.
It's also been given to me to be dreaming and overseeing the ministries of our Hawkins/Neville location.
So again to say that 2013 is a year full of incredible potential is a major understatement, but I am very excited to really dive in and see what God has in store for me. It's a process to learn to ignore the voices of practicality and attempt to FULLY serve as Jesus would have me serve, but it's where my heart truly is fulfilled. Funny how obedience to HIS plan will do that eh?
Here's how I need your help. If I am to more fully dive into these incredible avenues of ministry with BOAZ (especially with a family on the way) I need a big increase in my support raising. Currently I am expected to raise $400 monthly and Boaz pays me in faith trusting that I'll raise it. So far I have met that goal, but have been challenged to step out into the increase that God desires to provide for me in this ministry.
So here is my challenge I have been presented with by our director.
20 people @ $100/month = $2000/month in support for my increased opportunities with Boaz ministries. Can you do this?
Will you allow God to increase your faith by diving into this ministry this way. Some people are called to dive in on the ground level and believe that God will provide the finances. Some people are called to give and support and trust that God will provide in their obedience. To be honest this is a very stretching thing for me to ask for, but I just want to be obedient. Will you join me?
First 10 people to be willing to explore this and join me I will take to Second Cup and buy coffee and share the vision of what God is doing in the Life of Leighton as well as how your support helps increase the ministry of Boaz in specific ways.
Please pray and thank you in advance for believing in Gods calling in my life.
Connect with me anytime and I'd love to share coffee/life/stories with you...
Blessings,
Scottie
Over Christmas I had the incredible opportunity to ask for the hand of a beautiful lady that I am crazy about and she said yes. On June 22nd Miss Alisha Horsman and I will begin our lives together as husband and wife and my life will never be the same. I go from a single dude that has his son every other weekend to a married guy with 2 full time girls in my home, also with two guys that I expect to have on a part time, but hopefully frequent basis as well. Full House episode much??? For those that know me you know that for me to say that I can't wait for this is a major understatement. Never a dull moment is about to take on a whole new meaning.
Another update that is happening in the Life of Leighton is that I'm feeling God is expecting me to "STEP UP" regarding my role with BOAZ. A couple areas that I'm feeling lead to do this through potentially leading and directing the Mentoring Program which includes overseeing the current mentor/mentee relationships and the administration of that while also recruiting and training new potential mentors.
Another area of increase I am feeling is in the area of running sports camps for the children that we are blessed to work with. Some of these camps will be run by me and other Boaz volunteers. Other camps will need to be lead by others. To more fully dive into this I will need to dedicate more time into program planning and starting to take some steps in that direction. Also included in my vision of the sports ministry is raising funds and collecting equipment so that our families can more fully have their children participate in local sports programs with no restrictions.
It's also been given to me to be dreaming and overseeing the ministries of our Hawkins/Neville location.
So again to say that 2013 is a year full of incredible potential is a major understatement, but I am very excited to really dive in and see what God has in store for me. It's a process to learn to ignore the voices of practicality and attempt to FULLY serve as Jesus would have me serve, but it's where my heart truly is fulfilled. Funny how obedience to HIS plan will do that eh?
Here's how I need your help. If I am to more fully dive into these incredible avenues of ministry with BOAZ (especially with a family on the way) I need a big increase in my support raising. Currently I am expected to raise $400 monthly and Boaz pays me in faith trusting that I'll raise it. So far I have met that goal, but have been challenged to step out into the increase that God desires to provide for me in this ministry.
So here is my challenge I have been presented with by our director.
20 people @ $100/month = $2000/month in support for my increased opportunities with Boaz ministries. Can you do this?
Will you allow God to increase your faith by diving into this ministry this way. Some people are called to dive in on the ground level and believe that God will provide the finances. Some people are called to give and support and trust that God will provide in their obedience. To be honest this is a very stretching thing for me to ask for, but I just want to be obedient. Will you join me?
First 10 people to be willing to explore this and join me I will take to Second Cup and buy coffee and share the vision of what God is doing in the Life of Leighton as well as how your support helps increase the ministry of Boaz in specific ways.
Please pray and thank you in advance for believing in Gods calling in my life.
Connect with me anytime and I'd love to share coffee/life/stories with you...
Blessings,
Scottie
Monday, 24 September 2012
Sweet spot...
Hey all. I recognize that it's been a while since I've posted. Definitely not for lack of desire because I've had this one on the brain for over a month now. It's a fairly simple thought, but it's taken on new life and proven itself over and over each new week that passes by.
I've called it sweet spot and of course that is a term that comes from my sports nerdiness. This concept applies for most every sport, but the two in particular that I want to focus on are basketball and baseball. The sweet spot in baseball typically means that spot on the baseball bat where when it is hit you get the best performance and most impactful hit off of the bat. Often times if the ball hits a few inches higher or lower on the bat a vibration goes through the bat that makes the hit not nearly as hard and it really does not feel good on the hands. In basketball if we find a sweet spot it typically means that there is a particular place on the court that we find where we seem to be able to hit our shots at a much higher percentage than other places on the court and our confidence in shooting from this area is much greater than other places.
In life it would seem that I've found my sweet spot and it is my desire that (like the bat) my life would make the biggest impact and (like in basketball) I would be able to walk confidently daily as God seemingly opens door after door to bless and meet the needs of those that the ministries of Boaz comes in contact with. It is incredible that we seem to be continuing to say, "Look what God did" as we strive to serve and meet the "felt needs" of others with the knowlege that as we meet those needs the hearts of many will be softened to the amazing, life changing truth of the Gospel of Jesus Christ.
This hit a whole new level of awesome for me this past weekend as I was able to see my son participate in Boaz ministry. He calls himself "Jr. Staff" and I love having him be a part of what I do with this. This weekend past we were able to spend some time with an amazing little guy (8) who it appears does not have a lot of friends and our ministry has been given many opportunities to provide for this family. As my son (8) and this guy began to hang out there was zero awkwardness of meeting someone new and they played football (catching and kicking) for over and hour and could have gone all day. As we drove to McDonald's Vaughn was thrilled that he got to see Johnny again and said, "I call dibs on sitting next to Johnny!!!" How this crybaby (me) kept it together is still a mystery to me.
As we got home that night I told Vaughn how proud of him I was and how impacting his friendship to this new friend was for so many reasons. Vaughn's response was simply, "I like him. He's cool. I want his number so we can play more." Simple. Just the night before my son said to me, "People don't love Jesus? Impossible!" This football and McDonalds day gave me such a great opportunity to show Vaughn just how much he showed his new friend and his family the love of Jesus by simply being in their world.
So yeah, this is my sweet spot as God increases His heart in me for these amazing people I come in contact with weekly and now I see my son becoming (maybe unknowingly) a missionary of love to the city around him... many of which don't know/love Jesus... He (Vaughn) will change that I'm sure. To say I am blessed and grateful would be a gross understatement.
I do want to quickly ask you to conider something though. I've been challenged to step up with my support raising to make this ministry more effective for myself and those I come in contact with. My current goal is $1200 over the next 3 months and I have $330 committed to me. That leaves me with $870 to raise over those months. Would you consider being a part of that? Some of you who read this could do that in one shot and some can contribute in part. All support is greatly appreciated as it increases my ability to dive in and give all I have to this ministry. Reality is this. If I need approx $900 then all I need is 10 people to say they will give 30 dollars a month and the goal is reached. (can of pop or coffee/day.. I know.. shouldn't mess with coffee)
If God so lays it on peoples heart to bless beyond that, fantastic, but that is my goal for now. Will you be a part of this? Contact (facebook, twitter, 999-1355 or s.leighton2@gmail.com) me if you want to do this and I will gladly help you help myself and this amazing ministry where God is blessing many, including myself. So much be done in this "sweet spot". Please consider joining my team. See what I did there??? :)
I've called it sweet spot and of course that is a term that comes from my sports nerdiness. This concept applies for most every sport, but the two in particular that I want to focus on are basketball and baseball. The sweet spot in baseball typically means that spot on the baseball bat where when it is hit you get the best performance and most impactful hit off of the bat. Often times if the ball hits a few inches higher or lower on the bat a vibration goes through the bat that makes the hit not nearly as hard and it really does not feel good on the hands. In basketball if we find a sweet spot it typically means that there is a particular place on the court that we find where we seem to be able to hit our shots at a much higher percentage than other places on the court and our confidence in shooting from this area is much greater than other places.
In life it would seem that I've found my sweet spot and it is my desire that (like the bat) my life would make the biggest impact and (like in basketball) I would be able to walk confidently daily as God seemingly opens door after door to bless and meet the needs of those that the ministries of Boaz comes in contact with. It is incredible that we seem to be continuing to say, "Look what God did" as we strive to serve and meet the "felt needs" of others with the knowlege that as we meet those needs the hearts of many will be softened to the amazing, life changing truth of the Gospel of Jesus Christ.
This hit a whole new level of awesome for me this past weekend as I was able to see my son participate in Boaz ministry. He calls himself "Jr. Staff" and I love having him be a part of what I do with this. This weekend past we were able to spend some time with an amazing little guy (8) who it appears does not have a lot of friends and our ministry has been given many opportunities to provide for this family. As my son (8) and this guy began to hang out there was zero awkwardness of meeting someone new and they played football (catching and kicking) for over and hour and could have gone all day. As we drove to McDonald's Vaughn was thrilled that he got to see Johnny again and said, "I call dibs on sitting next to Johnny!!!" How this crybaby (me) kept it together is still a mystery to me.
As we got home that night I told Vaughn how proud of him I was and how impacting his friendship to this new friend was for so many reasons. Vaughn's response was simply, "I like him. He's cool. I want his number so we can play more." Simple. Just the night before my son said to me, "People don't love Jesus? Impossible!" This football and McDonalds day gave me such a great opportunity to show Vaughn just how much he showed his new friend and his family the love of Jesus by simply being in their world.
So yeah, this is my sweet spot as God increases His heart in me for these amazing people I come in contact with weekly and now I see my son becoming (maybe unknowingly) a missionary of love to the city around him... many of which don't know/love Jesus... He (Vaughn) will change that I'm sure. To say I am blessed and grateful would be a gross understatement.
I do want to quickly ask you to conider something though. I've been challenged to step up with my support raising to make this ministry more effective for myself and those I come in contact with. My current goal is $1200 over the next 3 months and I have $330 committed to me. That leaves me with $870 to raise over those months. Would you consider being a part of that? Some of you who read this could do that in one shot and some can contribute in part. All support is greatly appreciated as it increases my ability to dive in and give all I have to this ministry. Reality is this. If I need approx $900 then all I need is 10 people to say they will give 30 dollars a month and the goal is reached. (can of pop or coffee/day.. I know.. shouldn't mess with coffee)
If God so lays it on peoples heart to bless beyond that, fantastic, but that is my goal for now. Will you be a part of this? Contact (facebook, twitter, 999-1355 or s.leighton2@gmail.com) me if you want to do this and I will gladly help you help myself and this amazing ministry where God is blessing many, including myself. So much be done in this "sweet spot". Please consider joining my team. See what I did there??? :)
Thursday, 23 August 2012
Give me Faith (an Update)
(Apologies for the run on paragraph. Not sure how to fix this.)
This may not be a real deep, thought provoking blog, but I at least wanted to give as many people as possible and that are interested chance to catch up in the roller coaster that is my life. By the way, despite the occasional terrifying moments, I really do like roller coasters. Guess I am a sucker for punishment or I love the rush of the unboring, you never know what is next life. Somedays I ask God, "Why can't I hae a normal, boring life?" and He reminds me that with Him, truly serving Him there is no such thing as a normal, boring life.
So here is where Scottie is at as of August 23rd, 2012.
I am still the part time youth pastor of an amazing group of young people at Morning Gate Church and that is a good thing. I love these teens more and more every time I get to spend time with them. We had our mid week meeting last night and we played sports, danced and prayed together. Despite only having 8 show up last night we "prayed" together. I never know what to expect when we do our prayer time, but last night the 8 youth in front of me really prayed for each other. As the final amen was said we were all shocked to look at the clock and realize that it was 50 minutes later. Whoa!!! Awesome... I am AMPED to dive into the Fall with this amazing group of young people and see where God takes us and how He uses us/THEM in impacting our city, their schools and where ever else He wants His light to shine.
In other news for those who do not know, I have quit my human services job and am diving into a faith based ministry in the city. www.boazministries.com
Yup, faith based, doesn't pay, I have to raise support... All of the above. I've heard the comments about I should have done it this way or that way, but my reality is this; God told me to move and I did what I felt He wanted me to do even though it didn't financially make sense. Do I see the complete financial picture of how all this is going to play out? Not even close, but I am trusting that the one who called me to this ministry is more than able to provide. Can you help? Absolutely. I am in need of a monthly support team to help me fully invest in this ministry and in the lives I come into contact with. You can be a part of that and I would love it if you would be. I need one time givers and all time prayers. Reality is that God is moving in this ministry and lives are being changed. As I've been able to dive in, I see relationships changing, being built and practical needs being met. I've lead kids who are unchurched in sessions of unhindered, raw times of worships. I was able to share at teen camp this past Monday and 10-15 young people recomitted their lives or made 1st time decisions for Christ. Things are happening. Get on board!
I've seen people buy into this ministry in sooooo many ways because it is making a difference in our community and it will globally as God's people buy in. Daily I am tempted to apply for other jobs to financially make up the difference of what "I'm" not making, but each time there is an anxiety in my heart that I cannot explain, so I trust God that He will provide as He has lead me to this place though often times I don't see or understand how things will be taken care of.
So this is where I am at in this point of my life. Is it where I expected to be at the age of 34? Nope. Am I okay with this? Yup. God has been asking me some tough questions as of late and to be honest I know the right answer to them and some of them I struggle with, but again when I look at what He does daily how can I not recklessly drop my nets and "immediately" follow him? I may never buy my son the "stuff" that other kids have, but my desire is that he would look at his Dad and say, "He followed God, even if it didn't make sense to others."
Let me end with this. If while reading this something stirred in you to be a part of this ministry or come along side me in this ministry that would be amazing. Your time, prayers and financial contributions are all greatly appreciated as they increase what this amazing ministry is able to do. It is changing lives and you can be a part of it. Contact me and I would love to talk to you as to how you can be a part or if possible I would love to come and speak at your churches or other events or meetings to share about the exciting work that God is doing through Boaz Lighthouse International Ministries.
s.leighton2@gmail.com or (506)999-1355
I heard this song the other night and it quickly has become an anthem of mine.
The bridge says, "I may be weak, but Your Spirit's strong in me. My flesh may fail. My God You never will." -Give Me Faith- Elevation Worship
Lord Give me faith to do what You want no matter what I see, others say, and what circumstances dictate. Jesus above all is the hope of the world.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n_Voi3JM8ZA
Sunday, 29 July 2012
Wow.
Pretty boring title I know, but it's all I can manage to spit out at the moment in terms of creativity. The boringness of the title certainly does not reflect the excitement level that I am feeling right now and the excitement level of today's event and today's post. All I can say is that I am in awe and what the what??? Simply blown away.
Now you are asking me to spit it out and must be wondering why if you do not already know. Most of you probably do because I am not able to keep secrets well when I get excited and to say that I am excited right now would be an understatement.
Here we go. I am blessed that I will have had opportunities to participate in 3 different ministries in our city in the near future. The newest one that is possibly happening real soon is getting on board with our local Christian radio station Joy FM. http://www.joyfm.ca/ The other is one that I have mentioned recently and am currently raising my support for and that is Boaz Ministries http://www.boazministries.com/ The third of course is my position at Morning Gate Church as their youth pastor. This has been a blessing to me and I have learned a ton. Sometimes I have had to learn some things the hard way, but the youth in this group have blessed me over and over as I've attempted to give leadership to them in this role. That being said a couple of months ago I felt lead to start talking about baptism to them as a number of them had made commitments to Christ in the last year or so. Many of them stepped up at different times and in different ways, yet all who stepped up to take this next step in their faith did it in their own way, in their own timing, doing it for themselves and not because someone else was. All in all in our youth group (which has peaked at 20 since I've come on) had 15-17 young people step up and say that this is what they wanted to do. This has boggled my mind as we also have a number in our group who have already been baptized or did not step up as they were away this summer or not there yet spiritually. I have been very much challenged in this equation to not try and figure out God's economy because I am not God so why would I try.
So today is the day. A number of our students could not make today's baptism so we planned on doing who could be done today and then we will have to plan a day for the rest. As we came into service today we had 7 for sure that wanted to be baptized with one more that I thought may show up, but I was not 100%. We began our service and it was a very encouraging crowd (in terms of size and enthusiasm) and the weather was very cooperative despite it looking like it might rain on us. We carried on in our service and Pastor Scott shared a great word before we got to the main event of baptizing our 8 young people plus a couple who came through one of our families as well as a 6 year old girl who told her Nanny and Grampy (from our church) that she wanted to be baptized. So 7 or 8 turned into 11. After we celebrated with those who planned and did not plan, but stepped out in obedience we asked if anyone else wanted to step out. One man did. What a blessing!!! (12)
We prayed and then carried on with our meal and BBQ and began to enjoy sharing a meal together as church family. While we ate it was brought to mine and others attentions that there were two more young people (brother and sister) that wanted to be baptized, but were not able to as their mother was not there and she would not have wanted to miss it. I then celebrated that we would be having more added to those who want to be baptized our next time we do a service. Shortly after this was mentioned their mother arrived and the young people decided today was their day. Amazing!!! (14) An amazing addition to this part of the story is that the mother of the brother and sister also decided that she was going to proclaim God’s place and plan in her life also this day by being baptized with her children. (15)
Also while we ate a gentleman arrived and asked some of our people what we were doing and was told we were having our church service and having a baptism. He was so surprised as he and his wife had been praying for an opportunity for her to be baptized as she was leaving the country for a time and wanted to be baptized before she left. They then asked if we could baptize her and we gladly did this. Amazing how God sets things up that are so much bigger than us and beyond our comprehension. (16)
Last but not least as we were out of the water again, one of our teens who has been a leader in our group shyly mentioned that she would like to be baptized too. She did not have a change of clothes or a towel but this did not matter to her. She knew today was her day. This was a big deal as this teen is very near and dear to our Sr. Pastor. (17)
All and all what an amazing day. We had plans and were pumped about what we thought God had in store for today. Little did we know what God was going to do was so much bigger than what we imagined. I don’t say this to brag on numbers or suggest that our success of today was about number, but every time someone steps up and says publically in this manner that they want to live for, follow and serve Jesus I have to believe that God is honored and way more pumped than we could ever be. The challenge now is this… For those who made that commitment today we must uphold them in prayer and come along side and celebrate, lift up and bless them as they continue to walk life in its good times and bad… For we know that God has big things for them yet life is still tough.. Fortunately we serve a God who is bigger than life and it’s tough moments.. ;)
What a day!!! What a God!!!
Wow…
Wednesday, 25 July 2012
Faith, Fear, Facebook and Finances
Today's post is going to be one of those "post as you go" type of blogs. I have had a bunch of random thoughts running around in my head this morning and I am hoping that by the end of this they will have worked themselves into a coherant group of thoughts.
I woke up this morning and the main thought that was buzzing in my head was "Faith vs. Fear". As many (of the thousands and thousand who read this.. lol) of you know I have recently taken a step of faith in my life regarding employment. I am embarassed to say that I feel it has been a long time since I have stepped out into the realm of faith as I perhaps should have. Bills, responsibilities and safety took over my thinking and I lost a boldness that was part of who I am and was made to be. The "practical" became common place in my thinking. Not that there is a problem with practical as I believe God has given us a brain in our heads to use, but if practical gets in the way of obedience to God then it is problematic. So hear I am. Trying to seek out God as I believe He's directed me to step out. In this step I am feeling a great excitement as I reach out to some amazing people and do what I can do to bless them and be in life with them. This also excites me as I realize that if God directs there is a need for the ministry of BOAZ in any community so if God called me to move someday this career does not change. Yet as I feel all this excitement I regret to say that I feel anxiety and fear. I know I should not, but if I'm honest I do. The only thing that causes this is the big "F"... finances. Before you start throwing awesome quotes and Scripture at me, I know. :P
God is bigger... He has not given me a spirit of fear... He cares for the birds, so He cares for me... If it's the King's will, it's the King's bill... what God wants, God pays for or provides for..
I wrestle with this even as I type it. I know what I know and yet I still feel what I feel. I ask myself how this lines up. Perhaps it doesn't and I need an alignment.. again. Yet I just take the next step. I've shared with many over this past year that we need to be a people who when God asks us to step out we do it even though we don't know where our foot may land. Guess I need to live out what I speak. So again, here I am.
One thing I do see happening on an increased level is some amazing conversations where fellow believers challenge me at the core of who I am. Admittedly I spend too much time on facebook and need to tone it down, but as of late God seems to be redeeming my conversations on fb and people have blessed me with their words as they challenge me with my faith, patience and other areas. For this I am grateful.
So as I end this post today I have to admit that I am a bit annoyed that I can't seem to tie it up in a neat little bow as I would like to, but here is where my heart is. I want to live in the place God wants me to... today and tomorrow and the future will be awesome when they arrive. I am praying for crazy blessings that I could never accomplish living on my own means. I want to increase the amount of people (believers and non believers) that I am in community with to bless, challenge and help come to know God better daily. I want to be an awesome man of God, dad, husband, step dad, brother, servant, and many other things as God leads me. May my legacy be that I was obedient even if I looked crazy. ;)
I want to leave this song. It's by John Waller. I've been searching through more of his music as I am getting excited about the concert that Jo is putting on in Woodstock and I found this gem. It speaks to where my heart is. Yes I have my personal dreams and desires that I would someday like to see, but ulitmately I want to do something so big in this life that if God doesn't show up I'm in trouble.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6HiS-Aj2-7U
Blessings all,
I woke up this morning and the main thought that was buzzing in my head was "Faith vs. Fear". As many (of the thousands and thousand who read this.. lol) of you know I have recently taken a step of faith in my life regarding employment. I am embarassed to say that I feel it has been a long time since I have stepped out into the realm of faith as I perhaps should have. Bills, responsibilities and safety took over my thinking and I lost a boldness that was part of who I am and was made to be. The "practical" became common place in my thinking. Not that there is a problem with practical as I believe God has given us a brain in our heads to use, but if practical gets in the way of obedience to God then it is problematic. So hear I am. Trying to seek out God as I believe He's directed me to step out. In this step I am feeling a great excitement as I reach out to some amazing people and do what I can do to bless them and be in life with them. This also excites me as I realize that if God directs there is a need for the ministry of BOAZ in any community so if God called me to move someday this career does not change. Yet as I feel all this excitement I regret to say that I feel anxiety and fear. I know I should not, but if I'm honest I do. The only thing that causes this is the big "F"... finances. Before you start throwing awesome quotes and Scripture at me, I know. :P
God is bigger... He has not given me a spirit of fear... He cares for the birds, so He cares for me... If it's the King's will, it's the King's bill... what God wants, God pays for or provides for..
I wrestle with this even as I type it. I know what I know and yet I still feel what I feel. I ask myself how this lines up. Perhaps it doesn't and I need an alignment.. again. Yet I just take the next step. I've shared with many over this past year that we need to be a people who when God asks us to step out we do it even though we don't know where our foot may land. Guess I need to live out what I speak. So again, here I am.
One thing I do see happening on an increased level is some amazing conversations where fellow believers challenge me at the core of who I am. Admittedly I spend too much time on facebook and need to tone it down, but as of late God seems to be redeeming my conversations on fb and people have blessed me with their words as they challenge me with my faith, patience and other areas. For this I am grateful.
So as I end this post today I have to admit that I am a bit annoyed that I can't seem to tie it up in a neat little bow as I would like to, but here is where my heart is. I want to live in the place God wants me to... today and tomorrow and the future will be awesome when they arrive. I am praying for crazy blessings that I could never accomplish living on my own means. I want to increase the amount of people (believers and non believers) that I am in community with to bless, challenge and help come to know God better daily. I want to be an awesome man of God, dad, husband, step dad, brother, servant, and many other things as God leads me. May my legacy be that I was obedient even if I looked crazy. ;)
I want to leave this song. It's by John Waller. I've been searching through more of his music as I am getting excited about the concert that Jo is putting on in Woodstock and I found this gem. It speaks to where my heart is. Yes I have my personal dreams and desires that I would someday like to see, but ulitmately I want to do something so big in this life that if God doesn't show up I'm in trouble.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6HiS-Aj2-7U
Blessings all,
Tuesday, 24 July 2012
A bicycle built for two or tow???
Good morning all...
Two days in a row posting a blog??? Unheard of... I know right??? ;)
As I was driving to work today I was crossing the bridge and saw an image that resonated with me immediately. It was simply a father and son riding their bike across the bridge. What's the big deal right? Here is a little more specific description of how this was playing out. The father was riding his bike across the bridge and there was a bar extended from the back of his bike and it connected to a make shift bike type of thing that his son was sitting on. It had handle bars. It had a seat. It had pedals. It def appeared like it was a bike by how it looked, but the son was not controlling where and how fast they were going. It was actually cute because the son was pedalling as if what he was doing was making a difference, but in reality it did not.
As I observed this (while keeping my eyes on road of course) the thought dawned on me, "Isn't this like our walk with God?" We pedal and pedal and pedal and yet without our Father's guidance, it is hard to say what kind of trouble we'd get ourselves in. We plan, we strive, we push... we get tired.
God says, "Hop on, let me pedal and get you where you need to go." "I love you and I am sufficient for you." Yes He blesses along the way with amazing experiences, people, and gifts that we are so unworthy of, but ultimately He is our source of strength and our well of living water that causes us to thirst no more.
As I drove by the image of this boy realizing he wasn't doing much came to mind. I could just picture him saying, "Wait a second. I can do more. I can do better. Let me up there dad." I picture the son trying to climb across the bar off of his bike to His dad's bike that is clearly way too big for the son and not to mention IS STILL MOVING. What kind of disaster could this of ended up turning into? How much pain would this have caused? Don't we do that though?
"Hey God. I know you're God and stuff, but if you could just do this a little different that would be swell."
I can almost picture God saying, "That's cute son. Why don't you stay on your bike and let me lead you? For I know what's best for you. I know where you need to go and my ways are best for you."
So for today. Are we letting our Father lead us or are we trying to do more than our "bike" will allow us to do. Admittedly the future is hard to not plan for. We do it everyday with our everyday actions (dating, saving money for various things, etc), but have we decided to let God lead. I had this conversation last night and my comment was that I am in a place where I am doing what God wants... today.. The person I spoke with called me out on this then put it in perspective a bit. This quote stuck with me.
Anything else is just spinning my tires... (groan.. ) ;)
Blessings,
Two days in a row posting a blog??? Unheard of... I know right??? ;)
As I was driving to work today I was crossing the bridge and saw an image that resonated with me immediately. It was simply a father and son riding their bike across the bridge. What's the big deal right? Here is a little more specific description of how this was playing out. The father was riding his bike across the bridge and there was a bar extended from the back of his bike and it connected to a make shift bike type of thing that his son was sitting on. It had handle bars. It had a seat. It had pedals. It def appeared like it was a bike by how it looked, but the son was not controlling where and how fast they were going. It was actually cute because the son was pedalling as if what he was doing was making a difference, but in reality it did not.
As I observed this (while keeping my eyes on road of course) the thought dawned on me, "Isn't this like our walk with God?" We pedal and pedal and pedal and yet without our Father's guidance, it is hard to say what kind of trouble we'd get ourselves in. We plan, we strive, we push... we get tired.
God says, "Hop on, let me pedal and get you where you need to go." "I love you and I am sufficient for you." Yes He blesses along the way with amazing experiences, people, and gifts that we are so unworthy of, but ultimately He is our source of strength and our well of living water that causes us to thirst no more.
As I drove by the image of this boy realizing he wasn't doing much came to mind. I could just picture him saying, "Wait a second. I can do more. I can do better. Let me up there dad." I picture the son trying to climb across the bar off of his bike to His dad's bike that is clearly way too big for the son and not to mention IS STILL MOVING. What kind of disaster could this of ended up turning into? How much pain would this have caused? Don't we do that though?
"Hey God. I know you're God and stuff, but if you could just do this a little different that would be swell."
I can almost picture God saying, "That's cute son. Why don't you stay on your bike and let me lead you? For I know what's best for you. I know where you need to go and my ways are best for you."
So for today. Are we letting our Father lead us or are we trying to do more than our "bike" will allow us to do. Admittedly the future is hard to not plan for. We do it everyday with our everyday actions (dating, saving money for various things, etc), but have we decided to let God lead. I had this conversation last night and my comment was that I am in a place where I am doing what God wants... today.. The person I spoke with called me out on this then put it in perspective a bit. This quote stuck with me.
You believe in the future. You've just given up control.
You're willing to go anywhere.. but you do have an idea of what you think your future will look like.
So do I/we willingly stay on our bikes and allow our Father to lead us or do we try and do better? It's my prayer that I will be found faithful to go where God wants me to go, to be where He wants me to be and that I would stay in my proper position and keep God in His so that I can follow His lead daily. Anything else is just spinning my tires... (groan.. ) ;)
Blessings,
Monday, 23 July 2012
"The Almost..."
In today's post from the mind of Scottie (terrifying thought I know) I want to quickly touch on something that I wrestle with often. This often seems to be the case with what I write, but hey it's how I roll I guess. I hope that people are ok with me being human and being honest with that. If not, another website is just a mouse click away. :P
I titled this post "The Almost". As I read that it kind of sounds like the name for a band, but that isn't quite what I am going for. Though if I ever was in a band again I may use that. Squirell!!! What I mean by saying "the almost" is that in my life there are many areas where I have some potentially exciting things around the bend so I and others have called them "almost" moments. Again if you've known me for more than 5 minutes you recognize that I may be a touch high strung at times (though I am learning how to relax and love it!!!) and tend to wrestle with my focus. All this to say God's blessings to come are awesome, but we/I must not allow ourselves to be so consumed by the blessings of tomorrow that we forget about how God has blessed us yesterday and is probably in process of blessing us right now. In my lack of focus sometimes I allow myself to get discouraged while I wait for tomorrow's blessings in spite of the fact that I may be possibly sitting in the midst of God's favor today. This is fact for me. God has great things in store that I need to be thanking Him in advance for, but I must also be grateful for what He offers right now and obediently be walking in that blessing.
It is easy to slip into an ungrateful attitude of impatience while waiting for God's blessings to come all the while what God is doing in the now is enough to knock our socks off. This is such a subtle thing that the enemy can use to redirect our minds from being grateful to God in the now. Ultimately this has the ability to shift our focus to an ungrateful, entitled attitude which could even result in our "almosts" that are to come disappearing. It's a common sentiment, but it's true when people say to us that we need to be grateful for what we have and not mourn what we do not. We do in fact live in a blessed society that is pretty spoiled and it is easy to get entitled, but my prayer is this.
~Lord makes me grateful for how You've blessed and protected me in the past. Lord make me grateful for Your blessings and opportunities today and Lord make me grateful for the "almost" moments of blessing that are to come.~
Don't let the "almost" moments overtake and distract us from God's blessings today. Each day is a blessing and each day is filled with opportunities to bless the one who gave us this day as well as others around us who are in dire need of being blessed.
Two links to share. The first one is a song that speaks to where my/our hearts need to be as we walk day by day. "While I'm waiting." Amen!!! In fact, if you want to see this artist in concert he will be in Woodstock, New Brunswick on Friday, September 21st, 2012. Call (506) 325-0109 to inquire about tickets.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H-M7oGrOa2I
The second one is a link about a video I watched last night and it spoke to me big time. I don't know how many days I have left, but that's not what it's about. It's about what I do with what I have left.
This is a 5 part video that can also be located at the phone number I gave you. Check it out and be challenged. Ed's Story.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9tHKbIO6XHg
Don't miss out. Good things are happening and good things are to come. Thank God! ;)
Blessings y'all!!!
I titled this post "The Almost". As I read that it kind of sounds like the name for a band, but that isn't quite what I am going for. Though if I ever was in a band again I may use that. Squirell!!! What I mean by saying "the almost" is that in my life there are many areas where I have some potentially exciting things around the bend so I and others have called them "almost" moments. Again if you've known me for more than 5 minutes you recognize that I may be a touch high strung at times (though I am learning how to relax and love it!!!) and tend to wrestle with my focus. All this to say God's blessings to come are awesome, but we/I must not allow ourselves to be so consumed by the blessings of tomorrow that we forget about how God has blessed us yesterday and is probably in process of blessing us right now. In my lack of focus sometimes I allow myself to get discouraged while I wait for tomorrow's blessings in spite of the fact that I may be possibly sitting in the midst of God's favor today. This is fact for me. God has great things in store that I need to be thanking Him in advance for, but I must also be grateful for what He offers right now and obediently be walking in that blessing.
It is easy to slip into an ungrateful attitude of impatience while waiting for God's blessings to come all the while what God is doing in the now is enough to knock our socks off. This is such a subtle thing that the enemy can use to redirect our minds from being grateful to God in the now. Ultimately this has the ability to shift our focus to an ungrateful, entitled attitude which could even result in our "almosts" that are to come disappearing. It's a common sentiment, but it's true when people say to us that we need to be grateful for what we have and not mourn what we do not. We do in fact live in a blessed society that is pretty spoiled and it is easy to get entitled, but my prayer is this.
~Lord makes me grateful for how You've blessed and protected me in the past. Lord make me grateful for Your blessings and opportunities today and Lord make me grateful for the "almost" moments of blessing that are to come.~
Don't let the "almost" moments overtake and distract us from God's blessings today. Each day is a blessing and each day is filled with opportunities to bless the one who gave us this day as well as others around us who are in dire need of being blessed.
Two links to share. The first one is a song that speaks to where my/our hearts need to be as we walk day by day. "While I'm waiting." Amen!!! In fact, if you want to see this artist in concert he will be in Woodstock, New Brunswick on Friday, September 21st, 2012. Call (506) 325-0109 to inquire about tickets.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H-M7oGrOa2I
The second one is a link about a video I watched last night and it spoke to me big time. I don't know how many days I have left, but that's not what it's about. It's about what I do with what I have left.
This is a 5 part video that can also be located at the phone number I gave you. Check it out and be challenged. Ed's Story.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9tHKbIO6XHg
Don't miss out. Good things are happening and good things are to come. Thank God! ;)
Blessings y'all!!!
Monday, 18 June 2012
Meh.
This post is going to be a combination of my personal journey as of late, my thoughts of late and a devotional that I read this morning. Amazing all are on the same line of thought. Pretty cool God. Like He's trying to tell me something eh?
For the two or three people who read this it goes without saying and none of you are surprised when I say that I may be a little high strung and wound a little tight. This I believe is something that can work for my benefit, but more often than not as I lose control of it, it becomes a major detriment to me, my relationships, my ministry and ultimately the plan that God has for me in many areas in my life. I've been asking God a lot lately why I am the way I am. Don't get me wrong, I am fearfully and wonderfully made and God's masterpeice and all that jazz, but I've been wrestling lately with this as I can see some of it's damaging effects if I lose control of it.
One evening over the weekend it was impressed on my heart "to be anxious for nothing" so I asked how do I do that. The response was simple and quick. Read the rest of the verse. So here is what I was given:
Phl 4:6 Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.
Phl 4:7 And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
Phl 4:8 Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable--if anything is excellent or praiseworthy--think about such things.
So I pray. I offer thanks even though my brain takes me to "other" places and attitudes. I realize that God's peace is beyond what I understand or comprehend so I don't have to get it. Then I focus on whatever is true, noble, right, pure, lovely, admirable, excellent and praiseworthy. This is what I intentionally think on. So I guess if I have "other" thoughts enter my brain I let them go or ignore them. With God's authority in me... I can do that.
Then there was this morning... One devotional took me to Psalm 119 and God's Word being my source. This is how I have the strength to ignore or reject those "other" thoughts... By having God's word firmly planted in my heart.. Awesome!
Then God went a step further and took me to another devotional and into the book of Colosians and the topic was "peace". I'm thinking I'm a little thick and need some major repetition to get things. LOL.
Colosians 3:15-17 says this:
15 Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful. 16 Let the message of Christ dwell among you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom through psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit, singing to God with gratitude in your hearts. 17 And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.
2 quick observations from this passage. Number 1 is that it says "let the peace of Christ RULE in your hearts.. ." It doesn't say let the peace of Christ "exist" or "influence" in your heart. It says rule. Rule says that it's an all encompasing master and not just a part that is allowed to peek in and visit once in a while when it's convenient. The peace must be there to stay and have dominion of our hearts. This appears to be an act of submission on our part which could explain why so many of us are restless and not at peace. We don't like to submit to anything or allow anything to have rule in us that we don't create.
The other observation that caught me was the amount of times the word "thanks" or various forms of that word were in this passage. I count three times and that tells me that the peace of Christ (which we don't always understand or have to for that matter) comes out of an attitude of gratitude. If we are thankful for God's blessings, God's favour and what He's already done in our lives it's hard to complain about what we don't have. Isn't that where our lack of peace comes from at the core? We complain about what we don't have, what we would rather be doing, or what others get that we don't and all the while we get ourselves spun so tight that our words turn into a life of unrest, and definitely not a life of peace that Christ offers.
I'll admit that this is a struggle with me as the little things and insecurity loves to creep into my mind and get me spun, but I am grateful that Christ is patient and is offereing me His peace and I don't even have to understand it. To know that it is there and I can and will abide, live, rest and be ruled by His peace is a comforting thought. I very much want to be a "meh" kind of person who is able to let the small things slide and be ruled by the Prince of Peace and by God's strength and guidance of His Word... I will get there.
Grateful to God today.
Blessings and Love to you all...
For the two or three people who read this it goes without saying and none of you are surprised when I say that I may be a little high strung and wound a little tight. This I believe is something that can work for my benefit, but more often than not as I lose control of it, it becomes a major detriment to me, my relationships, my ministry and ultimately the plan that God has for me in many areas in my life. I've been asking God a lot lately why I am the way I am. Don't get me wrong, I am fearfully and wonderfully made and God's masterpeice and all that jazz, but I've been wrestling lately with this as I can see some of it's damaging effects if I lose control of it.
One evening over the weekend it was impressed on my heart "to be anxious for nothing" so I asked how do I do that. The response was simple and quick. Read the rest of the verse. So here is what I was given:
Phl 4:6 Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.
Phl 4:7 And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
Phl 4:8 Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable--if anything is excellent or praiseworthy--think about such things.
So I pray. I offer thanks even though my brain takes me to "other" places and attitudes. I realize that God's peace is beyond what I understand or comprehend so I don't have to get it. Then I focus on whatever is true, noble, right, pure, lovely, admirable, excellent and praiseworthy. This is what I intentionally think on. So I guess if I have "other" thoughts enter my brain I let them go or ignore them. With God's authority in me... I can do that.
Then there was this morning... One devotional took me to Psalm 119 and God's Word being my source. This is how I have the strength to ignore or reject those "other" thoughts... By having God's word firmly planted in my heart.. Awesome!
Then God went a step further and took me to another devotional and into the book of Colosians and the topic was "peace". I'm thinking I'm a little thick and need some major repetition to get things. LOL.
Colosians 3:15-17 says this:
15 Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful. 16 Let the message of Christ dwell among you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom through psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit, singing to God with gratitude in your hearts. 17 And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.
2 quick observations from this passage. Number 1 is that it says "let the peace of Christ RULE in your hearts.. ." It doesn't say let the peace of Christ "exist" or "influence" in your heart. It says rule. Rule says that it's an all encompasing master and not just a part that is allowed to peek in and visit once in a while when it's convenient. The peace must be there to stay and have dominion of our hearts. This appears to be an act of submission on our part which could explain why so many of us are restless and not at peace. We don't like to submit to anything or allow anything to have rule in us that we don't create.
The other observation that caught me was the amount of times the word "thanks" or various forms of that word were in this passage. I count three times and that tells me that the peace of Christ (which we don't always understand or have to for that matter) comes out of an attitude of gratitude. If we are thankful for God's blessings, God's favour and what He's already done in our lives it's hard to complain about what we don't have. Isn't that where our lack of peace comes from at the core? We complain about what we don't have, what we would rather be doing, or what others get that we don't and all the while we get ourselves spun so tight that our words turn into a life of unrest, and definitely not a life of peace that Christ offers.
I'll admit that this is a struggle with me as the little things and insecurity loves to creep into my mind and get me spun, but I am grateful that Christ is patient and is offereing me His peace and I don't even have to understand it. To know that it is there and I can and will abide, live, rest and be ruled by His peace is a comforting thought. I very much want to be a "meh" kind of person who is able to let the small things slide and be ruled by the Prince of Peace and by God's strength and guidance of His Word... I will get there.
Grateful to God today.
Blessings and Love to you all...
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