My I-survived-finals reward to myself was to get a Pintrest. I managed to justify this by explaining to my better conscience that I don’t have any way to be inspired in the area of home decorating, being artsy, fashion, etc. Such dearths must certainly be remedied.
So I proceeded to remedy... For one hour in the first setting.
Poorly done, Katie. Poorly done.
In the midst of repinning, it is impossible to overlook the fact that almost every girl on Pintrest has an entire Board and hours of thought devoted to none other than one twenty-four hour span... Her wedding day.
I wonder how many dollars are spent on American weddings each year...
What an incredible and blessed day, but what an inadequate representation of a marriage- an event that continues on until death do us part. Our minds jump to the wedding day but forget the marriage it begins.
May my focus be not on a dress I’ll wear once nor on a cake my guests will consume in thirty minutes nor on the venue nor on colors... May my focus be on the demeanor I’ll wear every day of marriage, the food I’ll prepare to serve my man, and the home I will make for his comfort and pleasure.
Marriage bells are ringing. :)
Wednesday, December 21, 2011
Sunday, December 18, 2011
Aslan's Country
C.S. Lewis was brilliant. People could write theses on this idea, but I'm working on brevity from now on.
My little brother and I watched "The Voyage of the Dawn Treader" last night. At the end of the movie, Caspian, Edmund, Lucy, and Reepicheep paddle onto the shore of Aslan's Country. It's a beautiful representation of heaven and the way that "noble hearts" should desire the Promise Land. Every tear will be wiped away, we'll be forever freed from the presence of sin. Clothed in immortality, we will walk with God Himself.
"'He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches. To the one who conquers I will grant to eat of the tree of life, which is in the paradise of God." (Revelation 2:7) "Paradise of God" literally meaning the abode of God, to be in His presence, and to be where the Lord is.
What if I lived life longing to set my eyes on Aslan's Country? What if my sole desire was to see the Country from which the Baby in the manger came and to which He returned as victorious Savior?
What if my only goal was to ennoble my heart, following the Lord into adventures in this world, that I might soon see His Country?
"...forgetting what lies behind and straining forward to what lies ahead, I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.... Our citizenship is in heaven, and from it we await a Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ, who will transform our lowly body to be like His glorious body, by the power that enables Him even to subject all things to Himself." (Philippians 3:13-14, 20-21)
Press on, my soul. Press on that more might desire to see Aslan's Country. Press on.
My little brother and I watched "The Voyage of the Dawn Treader" last night. At the end of the movie, Caspian, Edmund, Lucy, and Reepicheep paddle onto the shore of Aslan's Country. It's a beautiful representation of heaven and the way that "noble hearts" should desire the Promise Land. Every tear will be wiped away, we'll be forever freed from the presence of sin. Clothed in immortality, we will walk with God Himself.
"'He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches. To the one who conquers I will grant to eat of the tree of life, which is in the paradise of God." (Revelation 2:7) "Paradise of God" literally meaning the abode of God, to be in His presence, and to be where the Lord is.
What if I lived life longing to set my eyes on Aslan's Country? What if my sole desire was to see the Country from which the Baby in the manger came and to which He returned as victorious Savior?
What if my only goal was to ennoble my heart, following the Lord into adventures in this world, that I might soon see His Country?
"...forgetting what lies behind and straining forward to what lies ahead, I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.... Our citizenship is in heaven, and from it we await a Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ, who will transform our lowly body to be like His glorious body, by the power that enables Him even to subject all things to Himself." (Philippians 3:13-14, 20-21)
Press on, my soul. Press on that more might desire to see Aslan's Country. Press on.
Friday, December 16, 2011
Love Immeasurable
In the flurry of throwing half of my closet and stacks of books into my suitcase, I failed to pack my Bible. Heathen.
Being one of the extravagant Americans who owns multiple Bibles, I am enjoying using my bran-new unmarked Bible that was given to me as a graduation gift. Though my usual Bible is like a friend with its familiar notations, I'm loving reading from the clean pages. The Word is more fresh than ever- what a simple joy and a tremendous blessing.
My thoughts from my kitchen table with my daddy's black coffee... Mmm, serenity:
First, the Word:
"...I bow my knees before the Father... that according to the riches of His glory He may grant you to be strengthened with power through His Spirit in your inner being, so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith - that you, being rooted and grounded in love, may have strength to comprehend with all the saints what is the breadth and length and height and depth, and to know the love of Christ that surpasses knowledge, that you may be filled with the fullness of God."
Ephesians 3:14-19
Second, the Creed:
I mentioned that my more-or-less governing principle this semester was growing in the knowledge and grace of Christ. It would appear that the precursor to this mission is to be rooted and grounded in His love... So that we may have strength to comprehend this immeasurable love... That we are filled with the fullness of God.
We're made in the image of God, so this would be our end purpose, and the glory goes to Him and Him alone. His strength even gets us to this point.
My Christmas break goal?
Marvel at Christ's love.
Love so amazing, so divine, demands my soul, my life, my all.
SDG
Being one of the extravagant Americans who owns multiple Bibles, I am enjoying using my bran-new unmarked Bible that was given to me as a graduation gift. Though my usual Bible is like a friend with its familiar notations, I'm loving reading from the clean pages. The Word is more fresh than ever- what a simple joy and a tremendous blessing.
My thoughts from my kitchen table with my daddy's black coffee... Mmm, serenity:
First, the Word:
"...I bow my knees before the Father... that according to the riches of His glory He may grant you to be strengthened with power through His Spirit in your inner being, so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith - that you, being rooted and grounded in love, may have strength to comprehend with all the saints what is the breadth and length and height and depth, and to know the love of Christ that surpasses knowledge, that you may be filled with the fullness of God."
Ephesians 3:14-19
Second, the Creed:
I mentioned that my more-or-less governing principle this semester was growing in the knowledge and grace of Christ. It would appear that the precursor to this mission is to be rooted and grounded in His love... So that we may have strength to comprehend this immeasurable love... That we are filled with the fullness of God.
We're made in the image of God, so this would be our end purpose, and the glory goes to Him and Him alone. His strength even gets us to this point.
My Christmas break goal?
Marvel at Christ's love.
Love so amazing, so divine, demands my soul, my life, my all.
SDG
Wednesday, December 14, 2011
Hindsight
Once upon a February, I had great intentions. I had great aspirations. I was greatly motivated. I was greatly nearsighted to think that life at Patrick Henry College allows for fulfillment of these great intentions, aspirations, and sustains motivation.
They say the road to Hell is paved with good intentions...
Too far, too far.
My brilliant idea of blogging regularly throughout college both as a chronicle for me and a way of updating my dear family members on my life was born in February of last year before I understood what it is to be a student at PHC.
Urban Dictionary has it mostly right:
Patrick Henry College (n.)
“...many students react to their newfound freedom by studying 60 hours a week...
Patrick Henry College is also one of the only schools in the nation with a full parking lot on Friday nights and an empty one Sunday mornings. Rather than dividing themselves into groups of jocks, nerds, and the like, students recognize that they are all nerds and create pecking orders based upon competing epistemologies, opinions on different church fathers, and swing dancing ability.”
Accurate statements, the moral being that 60 hours of study, 15 hours of classes, 10 of basketball and running, 4 of chapel, and uncharted in Moot Court leave little time for breathing and sleeping. The priority level on blogging is less than well uh, medium-low. Contrary to my brother’s firm opinion, I am not a crazy partying college kid. Study parties are as wild as it gets. Nerd.
Now, as I cruise at 30,000 feet with a magnificent sunrise behind me, I am free from any academic obligation and am ready to reflect.
Going to college 2,000 miles away from home is strange. In a strange dichotomy of self you lead two lives that will never intertwine. I am stoked to return home to my family but am already eager to get back to my pseudo-family at PHC who will probably never meet my blood family. Hmmm. My life in Virginia is not defined by being a member of the Tipton family but is marked by my actions as an individual.
With individuality and independence comes a certain measure of loneliness. I have never prayed as fervently, earnestly, or diligently as I did this first semester. God has proved Himself all-knowing and all-powerful from leading me to churches to guiding me through logical proofs to getting me out of bed. He has graciously proven to be Friend, Counsellor, Comforter, and Guide.
PHC is an able tool in the hands of the Lord to demonstrate how very inadequate you are. One of the faculty members described the school as 350 big fish in a very small pond. Living surrounded by people who have twice your IQ, are more experienced than you, and more go dominate debates in England keeps you sufficiently humble.
Taking Constitutional Law from a man who has argued before the Supreme Court and attempting appellate advocacy at a school that is all but beatable in Moot Court is terrifying. I marvel that I made it through Constitutional Law not only alive but with some measure of success. I can offer no explanation but that God provided competency. How awesome that His strength is made perfect even in academic weakness. Just as He provides us with the faith He requires for salvation, He provides all that is needed for the work He has currently set before us.
I had never considered before my Logic class that God is the Master Teacher in all subjects. Jesus was undoubtedly a super-carpenter, and I have no doubt that He would have excelled at any career He undertook on earth. He would have been the best logician, engineer, doctor, or attorney the earth had ever seen. The Lord is the source of all knowledge, and He is able and willing to enlighten us for His glory.
Even so, what a joy that our only purpose is to grow in the grace and knowledge of Jesus Christ that He might be glorified. This is life’s sole focus; this protects against measuring life by tests or paper deadlines.
In the words of my roommate, my dear darling Alissa, sometimes people are just put into each others lives as friends. They don’t have to become friends, God just makes them friends. How thankful I am that this was the case for me and Alissa. Liss has challenged me, laughed with me, made me eat Oreos, and introduced me to Mumford and Sons. She has inspired me, motivated me, and provided some sense of stability in this chaotic semester. We now have an incredible group of friends- friends who pray together and demonstrate what it looks like to be brothers and sisters in Christ.
I love my life in Virginia. Every morning I can’t help but smiling when I re-realize that I am at Patrick Henry College. What a luxury, what an opportunity to take four years out of life to study and to grow.
Despite the disconnect between my two worlds, I rejoice that my God is the same yesterday, today, and forever. I hope that my education and experience is shaping my true self- Katie Tipton as I really am- so that my pseudo-family at school knows the same woman who is a member of the Tipton family.
Semester One in the books.
Sola Dei gloria.
They say the road to Hell is paved with good intentions...
Too far, too far.
My brilliant idea of blogging regularly throughout college both as a chronicle for me and a way of updating my dear family members on my life was born in February of last year before I understood what it is to be a student at PHC.
Urban Dictionary has it mostly right:
Patrick Henry College (n.)
“...many students react to their newfound freedom by studying 60 hours a week...
Patrick Henry College is also one of the only schools in the nation with a full parking lot on Friday nights and an empty one Sunday mornings. Rather than dividing themselves into groups of jocks, nerds, and the like, students recognize that they are all nerds and create pecking orders based upon competing epistemologies, opinions on different church fathers, and swing dancing ability.”
Accurate statements, the moral being that 60 hours of study, 15 hours of classes, 10 of basketball and running, 4 of chapel, and uncharted in Moot Court leave little time for breathing and sleeping. The priority level on blogging is less than well uh, medium-low. Contrary to my brother’s firm opinion, I am not a crazy partying college kid. Study parties are as wild as it gets. Nerd.
Now, as I cruise at 30,000 feet with a magnificent sunrise behind me, I am free from any academic obligation and am ready to reflect.
Going to college 2,000 miles away from home is strange. In a strange dichotomy of self you lead two lives that will never intertwine. I am stoked to return home to my family but am already eager to get back to my pseudo-family at PHC who will probably never meet my blood family. Hmmm. My life in Virginia is not defined by being a member of the Tipton family but is marked by my actions as an individual.
With individuality and independence comes a certain measure of loneliness. I have never prayed as fervently, earnestly, or diligently as I did this first semester. God has proved Himself all-knowing and all-powerful from leading me to churches to guiding me through logical proofs to getting me out of bed. He has graciously proven to be Friend, Counsellor, Comforter, and Guide.
PHC is an able tool in the hands of the Lord to demonstrate how very inadequate you are. One of the faculty members described the school as 350 big fish in a very small pond. Living surrounded by people who have twice your IQ, are more experienced than you, and more go dominate debates in England keeps you sufficiently humble.
Taking Constitutional Law from a man who has argued before the Supreme Court and attempting appellate advocacy at a school that is all but beatable in Moot Court is terrifying. I marvel that I made it through Constitutional Law not only alive but with some measure of success. I can offer no explanation but that God provided competency. How awesome that His strength is made perfect even in academic weakness. Just as He provides us with the faith He requires for salvation, He provides all that is needed for the work He has currently set before us.
I had never considered before my Logic class that God is the Master Teacher in all subjects. Jesus was undoubtedly a super-carpenter, and I have no doubt that He would have excelled at any career He undertook on earth. He would have been the best logician, engineer, doctor, or attorney the earth had ever seen. The Lord is the source of all knowledge, and He is able and willing to enlighten us for His glory.
Even so, what a joy that our only purpose is to grow in the grace and knowledge of Jesus Christ that He might be glorified. This is life’s sole focus; this protects against measuring life by tests or paper deadlines.
In the words of my roommate, my dear darling Alissa, sometimes people are just put into each others lives as friends. They don’t have to become friends, God just makes them friends. How thankful I am that this was the case for me and Alissa. Liss has challenged me, laughed with me, made me eat Oreos, and introduced me to Mumford and Sons. She has inspired me, motivated me, and provided some sense of stability in this chaotic semester. We now have an incredible group of friends- friends who pray together and demonstrate what it looks like to be brothers and sisters in Christ.
I love my life in Virginia. Every morning I can’t help but smiling when I re-realize that I am at Patrick Henry College. What a luxury, what an opportunity to take four years out of life to study and to grow.
Despite the disconnect between my two worlds, I rejoice that my God is the same yesterday, today, and forever. I hope that my education and experience is shaping my true self- Katie Tipton as I really am- so that my pseudo-family at school knows the same woman who is a member of the Tipton family.
Semester One in the books.
Sola Dei gloria.
Sunday, August 14, 2011
Necessary Niceties
Remember the horrible blogger comment?
The aforementioned “college” commences next Monday.
Ergo, the clichéd college-blogging must begin.
Note: I typically have a strong aversion to alliteration. It just seemed... Oh, well, there is no excuse. I am bored.
Today, I write from southern Virginia- we’re finally within three hours of where I’ll spend the majority of my time for the next four years! After three days and fifteen hundred miles on Interstate 40, three hundred and fifty-four more miles on Interstate 81 will place us right on the proverbial threshold of Patrick Henry College.
As we wind our way through the Appalachians amid some of the most incredible scenery I have been privileged to see and a delightful rain shower, I am so ineffably thankful that the Lord was gracious enough to put me here for the next few years. I have had a bit of a life-philosophy shift this summer- my prayers are always, well, about my life. They often include phrases like, “Lord, where would You have me go,” “Where do You want me to go to law school,” et cetera, et cetera. However, what I ought to pray is, “God, where would it glorify You most for me to work?” and, “Lord, if it would glorify You most for me to go to law school, I will gladly follow You there. If You would be more glorified if I moved to the Amazon, so be it.” Remember Psalm 23:3? He leads us in the paths of righteousness for His Name’s sake. We just get led. Our name doesn’t get mentioned.
It’s difficult to articulate, because it’s been more of a mindset switch, but this and other things have monopolized my thoughts this summer. It has been a very melancholy, pensive summer overall!
When I first visited PHC in February, I felt strongly that my dad’s words from the fall of 2009 were prophetic- the people being trained to take back America and make a difference were coming out of PHC. However, when I was on campus in February, I knew that I could not afford tuition. We had faith that God would provide the means to travel where He had led, and His goodness has been proved repeatedly this summer. He provided through anonymous donations; He led me to start a business that has been an unbelievable financial blessing; He blessed us with scholarships I never thought I could receive. His grace has been astounding, and I feel so unworthy of His generous blessing in such a tangible way. Praise be to our Lord!
I started praying for my future roommate last fall, and it is exciting to consider that God put us together for some reason that will glorify Him. I think we will get along marvelously, because:
A) She’s a football fan.
B) She despises the Cowboys.
C) She drinks coffee.
D) She’s adventurous.
E) She reminds me of my sister.
I am psyched.
With that, I will sign off with a Proverb that I’ve read countless times but never truly fathomed until Wednesday.
Proverbs 10:29
“The way of the Lord is a stronghold to the upright, but ruin to the workers of iniquity.”
The aforementioned “college” commences next Monday.
Ergo, the clichéd college-blogging must begin.
Note: I typically have a strong aversion to alliteration. It just seemed... Oh, well, there is no excuse. I am bored.
Today, I write from southern Virginia- we’re finally within three hours of where I’ll spend the majority of my time for the next four years! After three days and fifteen hundred miles on Interstate 40, three hundred and fifty-four more miles on Interstate 81 will place us right on the proverbial threshold of Patrick Henry College.
As we wind our way through the Appalachians amid some of the most incredible scenery I have been privileged to see and a delightful rain shower, I am so ineffably thankful that the Lord was gracious enough to put me here for the next few years. I have had a bit of a life-philosophy shift this summer- my prayers are always, well, about my life. They often include phrases like, “Lord, where would You have me go,” “Where do You want me to go to law school,” et cetera, et cetera. However, what I ought to pray is, “God, where would it glorify You most for me to work?” and, “Lord, if it would glorify You most for me to go to law school, I will gladly follow You there. If You would be more glorified if I moved to the Amazon, so be it.” Remember Psalm 23:3? He leads us in the paths of righteousness for His Name’s sake. We just get led. Our name doesn’t get mentioned.
It’s difficult to articulate, because it’s been more of a mindset switch, but this and other things have monopolized my thoughts this summer. It has been a very melancholy, pensive summer overall!
When I first visited PHC in February, I felt strongly that my dad’s words from the fall of 2009 were prophetic- the people being trained to take back America and make a difference were coming out of PHC. However, when I was on campus in February, I knew that I could not afford tuition. We had faith that God would provide the means to travel where He had led, and His goodness has been proved repeatedly this summer. He provided through anonymous donations; He led me to start a business that has been an unbelievable financial blessing; He blessed us with scholarships I never thought I could receive. His grace has been astounding, and I feel so unworthy of His generous blessing in such a tangible way. Praise be to our Lord!
I started praying for my future roommate last fall, and it is exciting to consider that God put us together for some reason that will glorify Him. I think we will get along marvelously, because:
A) She’s a football fan.
B) She despises the Cowboys.
C) She drinks coffee.
D) She’s adventurous.
E) She reminds me of my sister.
I am psyched.
With that, I will sign off with a Proverb that I’ve read countless times but never truly fathomed until Wednesday.
Proverbs 10:29
“The way of the Lord is a stronghold to the upright, but ruin to the workers of iniquity.”
Tuesday, May 3, 2011
Battle Tactics
I am a horrible blogger. There will never be any point in following my blog, because I will fail to post anything about major life events.
Sigh.
This will be corrected in college.
A couple of Saturdays ago I was blessed to graduate in the Class of 2011. My education up until this point has been a testimony to God's provision and grace. It's a good story. :)
The ironic thing about this particular graduation ceremony is that my senior year is far from over. I thought that senioritis was a myth or at least a conquerable condition, but apparently I am a much less persevering person than I thought. My prayers each morning have been for the strength and focus to accomplish even one menial task. Wow. ;)
The world is well aware that Kate and William's lime light was stolen this week by the assassination of Usama bin Laden. I am so proud of our troops and... our president. I said it, and I truly am. President Obama is our Commander-in-Chief, and he made a risky move to order the ground mission that did justice to a man who killed thousands of Americans. Excellent work.
Though I almost hurt for bin Laden, as he had to go face the God Who avenges, I am so thankful for his death. 1. Induced by the peace-sayers or not, there has been a mini-return to patriotism in the past couple of days. 2. Perhaps... just maybe (though now unlikely with the roguish behavior of Pakistan), our troops can come home. This particular detail holds much significance for me personally.
I was reading in I Chronicles 14 the other morning where God uses David to twice defeat the raiding Philistine army. The first time, David is told to go up at them, and God gives them into David's hand. The second time, God gives David a completely different strategy, but the Philistines were still struck down.
I pray that when I have similar experiences I will never look at it the second time as, "I've been here before, and I know what to do." Rather, may I stay humble, knowing that if I do not fight according to the Lord's plans defeat is certain. May I lean on the Lord to carry me through using whatever method pleases Him.
Sigh.
This will be corrected in college.
A couple of Saturdays ago I was blessed to graduate in the Class of 2011. My education up until this point has been a testimony to God's provision and grace. It's a good story. :)
The ironic thing about this particular graduation ceremony is that my senior year is far from over. I thought that senioritis was a myth or at least a conquerable condition, but apparently I am a much less persevering person than I thought. My prayers each morning have been for the strength and focus to accomplish even one menial task. Wow. ;)
The world is well aware that Kate and William's lime light was stolen this week by the assassination of Usama bin Laden. I am so proud of our troops and... our president. I said it, and I truly am. President Obama is our Commander-in-Chief, and he made a risky move to order the ground mission that did justice to a man who killed thousands of Americans. Excellent work.
Though I almost hurt for bin Laden, as he had to go face the God Who avenges, I am so thankful for his death. 1. Induced by the peace-sayers or not, there has been a mini-return to patriotism in the past couple of days. 2. Perhaps... just maybe (though now unlikely with the roguish behavior of Pakistan), our troops can come home. This particular detail holds much significance for me personally.
I was reading in I Chronicles 14 the other morning where God uses David to twice defeat the raiding Philistine army. The first time, David is told to go up at them, and God gives them into David's hand. The second time, God gives David a completely different strategy, but the Philistines were still struck down.
I pray that when I have similar experiences I will never look at it the second time as, "I've been here before, and I know what to do." Rather, may I stay humble, knowing that if I do not fight according to the Lord's plans defeat is certain. May I lean on the Lord to carry me through using whatever method pleases Him.
Tuesday, April 19, 2011
A Call to Patriotism
Robert Frost was probably the closest thing to a poet laureate that America has been blessed to have. He wrote and read this poem, "The Gift Outright," for the inauguration of John F. Kennedy in 1961. In light of the historical contest, I think it is safe to say that this was a cry to return to the patriotism exemplified by our forefathers. In light of much of the apathy toward our freedom seen in America today, I think it remains very relevant.
The Gift Outright
The land was ours before we were the land's.
She was our land more than a hundred years
Before we were her people. She was ours
In Massachusetts, in Virginia,
But we were England's, still colonials,
Possessing what we still were unpossessed by,
Possessed by what we now no more possessed.
Something we were withholding made us weak
Until we found out that it was ourselves
We were withholding from our land of living,
And forthwith found salvation in surrender.
Such as we were we gave ourselves outright
(The deed of gift was many deeds of war)
To the land vaguely realizing westward,
But still unstoried, artless, unenhanced,
Such as she was, such as she would become.
The Gift Outright
The land was ours before we were the land's.
She was our land more than a hundred years
Before we were her people. She was ours
In Massachusetts, in Virginia,
But we were England's, still colonials,
Possessing what we still were unpossessed by,
Possessed by what we now no more possessed.
Something we were withholding made us weak
Until we found out that it was ourselves
We were withholding from our land of living,
And forthwith found salvation in surrender.
Such as we were we gave ourselves outright
(The deed of gift was many deeds of war)
To the land vaguely realizing westward,
But still unstoried, artless, unenhanced,
Such as she was, such as she would become.
Wednesday, April 13, 2011
War of the Worlds
Music is all about the current mood for me. I'll range from the Zac Brown Band to Chris Tomlin. Occasionally I'll mix in some Handel and then go and bump Lecrae. During the basketball season I usually rock Dropkick Murphys or Demon Hunter.
Despite my musical fickleness, I never thought that I would actually spend a Tuesday evening at a metalcore concert. A full-out metalcore concert. Six bands. Madness.
Two Christian bands- In the Midst of Lions and For Today (who was headlining)- were playing in the show. Ben asked me to come with him, and I was happy to hang with my brother. However, the four other bands were about as satanic as anything I have ever run into. Our group was rather shocked not only at the appearance of addiction and the copious cussing but for their obvious hate for their Creator.
At about 8:30 last night I determined that metalcore concerts are the perfect illustration of the spiritual war going on around us. My heart broke for particularly Motionless in White who felt the need to bash the Lord and attempt to undermine everything In the Midst of Lions had said and For Today would proclaim. The guys in Motionless in White obviously have a powerful influence over their fans, and the way they are used to lead others astray was just heartrending. The music of these satanic bands is so violent and filled with wickedness that I was surprised kids weren't shirking people and giving rein to their angry inclinations. I stayed close to Ben the whole evening.
So often I forget that there is a spiritual dimension to life and that the enemy prowls about like a lion seeking whom he may destroy. However, may I never forget that I serve the victorious side. Christ defeated death and the grave by His resurrection. The best Satan can do now is throw up smoke (and last night illustrated this in the most literal sense of the word) screens.
God is a powerful God, and the last two bands (before For Today) ran into technical difficulties that limited their playing time. Heh, heh. For Today preached truth and love and the need for the gospel straight up, and it was beautiful. This is only the second night of this tour, so those guys have a door for ministry opened as wide as the Red Sea. Furthermore, the lead screamer from Motionless in White, the one warring against the God who died for him, was in the back corner of the stage while For Today was playing singing every single word. For Today has passages of their songs that are pure Scripture.
Pray for the guys especially from Motionless in White. They are lost souls and are being used to lead more astray. Pray for For Today and In the Midst of Lions. They truly are in the midst of lions, and they need the Lord's strength to endure, stand for Truth, and show love to those who may have never been shown real love.
Paul nailed this in II Corinthians 10:3-5:
"For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war according to the flesh, for the weapons of our warfare are not of the flesh, but divinely powerful for the destruction of fortresses. We are destroying speculations and ever lofty thing raised up against the knowledge of God, and we are taking every thought captive to the obedience of Christ."
I could not be happier that I went to this concert. I'm just about the nicest sister ever. ;)
Despite my musical fickleness, I never thought that I would actually spend a Tuesday evening at a metalcore concert. A full-out metalcore concert. Six bands. Madness.
Two Christian bands- In the Midst of Lions and For Today (who was headlining)- were playing in the show. Ben asked me to come with him, and I was happy to hang with my brother. However, the four other bands were about as satanic as anything I have ever run into. Our group was rather shocked not only at the appearance of addiction and the copious cussing but for their obvious hate for their Creator.
At about 8:30 last night I determined that metalcore concerts are the perfect illustration of the spiritual war going on around us. My heart broke for particularly Motionless in White who felt the need to bash the Lord and attempt to undermine everything In the Midst of Lions had said and For Today would proclaim. The guys in Motionless in White obviously have a powerful influence over their fans, and the way they are used to lead others astray was just heartrending. The music of these satanic bands is so violent and filled with wickedness that I was surprised kids weren't shirking people and giving rein to their angry inclinations. I stayed close to Ben the whole evening.
So often I forget that there is a spiritual dimension to life and that the enemy prowls about like a lion seeking whom he may destroy. However, may I never forget that I serve the victorious side. Christ defeated death and the grave by His resurrection. The best Satan can do now is throw up smoke (and last night illustrated this in the most literal sense of the word) screens.
God is a powerful God, and the last two bands (before For Today) ran into technical difficulties that limited their playing time. Heh, heh. For Today preached truth and love and the need for the gospel straight up, and it was beautiful. This is only the second night of this tour, so those guys have a door for ministry opened as wide as the Red Sea. Furthermore, the lead screamer from Motionless in White, the one warring against the God who died for him, was in the back corner of the stage while For Today was playing singing every single word. For Today has passages of their songs that are pure Scripture.
Pray for the guys especially from Motionless in White. They are lost souls and are being used to lead more astray. Pray for For Today and In the Midst of Lions. They truly are in the midst of lions, and they need the Lord's strength to endure, stand for Truth, and show love to those who may have never been shown real love.
Paul nailed this in II Corinthians 10:3-5:
"For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war according to the flesh, for the weapons of our warfare are not of the flesh, but divinely powerful for the destruction of fortresses. We are destroying speculations and ever lofty thing raised up against the knowledge of God, and we are taking every thought captive to the obedience of Christ."
I could not be happier that I went to this concert. I'm just about the nicest sister ever. ;)
Sunday, April 10, 2011
Folly and the Fed
Things that frustrate me:
1. Lack of political integrity.
The government should exercise self-restraint and pass fiscal budgets. Furthermore, a budget should not have to be wheeled in on a dolly. Statist-minded politicians forget that they are public servants and almost pushed our government to a shutdown this weekend that would have victimized the men and women now fighting for foreign commanders under the heading of NATO in Libya. Apparently keeping taxpayer funding to Planned Parenthood (among other matters) was worth jeopardizing the entire functionality of the federal government. As could be expected, the statists secured Planned Parenthood’s funds but made a last-minute reach across the aisle to compromise. Construction of their political pedestals thereby began with the completion date set for 11-06-12. Ludicrous.
2. Lack of standards.
Finances are heavy on my mind. The U.S. dollar means next to nothing. It is a number in a system at best; riches are a figment of the imagination at worst. Inflation is ballooning almost as quickly as the debt deepens. We are dependent upon China to buy our debt every Tuesday. When they make the decision to not do this some week based on the premise that our money has no value, America will wake up to a charming Black Wednesday. This is all the progeny of the failure of the government to mandate that money should carry an honest value and no more is spent than what is in hand. The citizens are not exonerated: a corrupt Republican government is produced by the voters.
“O, righteous God, who searches minds and hearts, bring to an end the violence of the wicked and make the righteous secure.” Psalm 7:9
1. Lack of political integrity.
The government should exercise self-restraint and pass fiscal budgets. Furthermore, a budget should not have to be wheeled in on a dolly. Statist-minded politicians forget that they are public servants and almost pushed our government to a shutdown this weekend that would have victimized the men and women now fighting for foreign commanders under the heading of NATO in Libya. Apparently keeping taxpayer funding to Planned Parenthood (among other matters) was worth jeopardizing the entire functionality of the federal government. As could be expected, the statists secured Planned Parenthood’s funds but made a last-minute reach across the aisle to compromise. Construction of their political pedestals thereby began with the completion date set for 11-06-12. Ludicrous.
2. Lack of standards.
Finances are heavy on my mind. The U.S. dollar means next to nothing. It is a number in a system at best; riches are a figment of the imagination at worst. Inflation is ballooning almost as quickly as the debt deepens. We are dependent upon China to buy our debt every Tuesday. When they make the decision to not do this some week based on the premise that our money has no value, America will wake up to a charming Black Wednesday. This is all the progeny of the failure of the government to mandate that money should carry an honest value and no more is spent than what is in hand. The citizens are not exonerated: a corrupt Republican government is produced by the voters.
“O, righteous God, who searches minds and hearts, bring to an end the violence of the wicked and make the righteous secure.” Psalm 7:9
Saturday, April 9, 2011
Thank You
I bought a CD in October from this band called 33 Miles- a truly talented group who are part of my effort to end my devotion to country music. It's edifying music, and a particular song just asks the question (and I paraphrase), what if I thanked the Lord for everything?
Two of my oldest-best friends and six of my newer-best friends in the entire world threw two birthday celebrations at me in the past 48 hours (one being an utter surprise), and it was two of the most memorable days of this year!
Tonight, I simply want to list things I am thankful for:
-Friends who insist on taking the bill.
-Bran-new power shoes.
-French toast and coffee.
-Inside jokes.
-A "limit" on four applesauces.
-Green chile.
-Encouraging, Biblical conversation.
-Friends who can mimic each other's habits.
-The future ahead.
-New power shoes.
-Being forced to wear a jacket when I am stubborn.
-Getting more coffee with Vi.
-Hilarious faces.
-Watching the Lord move those where they'll be empowered to do radical things for Him.
-Enchiladas with french bread.
-The superfluous but exciting railrunner.
-Guys and girls who will stick closer than a brother.
I Thessalonians 5:6-18
"Be joyful always; pray continually; in everything give thanks for this is the will of God for you in Christ Jesus."
Amen. :)
Two of my oldest-best friends and six of my newer-best friends in the entire world threw two birthday celebrations at me in the past 48 hours (one being an utter surprise), and it was two of the most memorable days of this year!
Tonight, I simply want to list things I am thankful for:
-Friends who insist on taking the bill.
-Bran-new power shoes.
-French toast and coffee.
-Inside jokes.
-A "limit" on four applesauces.
-Green chile.
-Encouraging, Biblical conversation.
-Friends who can mimic each other's habits.
-The future ahead.
-New power shoes.
-Being forced to wear a jacket when I am stubborn.
-Getting more coffee with Vi.
-Hilarious faces.
-Watching the Lord move those where they'll be empowered to do radical things for Him.
-Enchiladas with french bread.
-The superfluous but exciting railrunner.
-Guys and girls who will stick closer than a brother.
I Thessalonians 5:6-18
"Be joyful always; pray continually; in everything give thanks for this is the will of God for you in Christ Jesus."
Amen. :)
Friday, April 8, 2011
Big-Hearted
One of my favorite things on earth is to see people who totally deserve to be praised look incredibly uncomfortable when that accolade comes. I am cruel.
My dear friend Sara was crowned m88 Prom Queen by what was apparently a landslide vote. Hooray! She nervously and sheepishly went up to get her tiara, and I could not have been happier.
Life has been rather wild the past couple of weeks from attempting to pull things back together after traveling the midwest for various competitive endeavors. I'll return to the complaint list to deal with one of the things that was directly produced by third-quarter doldrums.
10. I have to send out graduation announcements. That means schools need to have their plans together.
A long time ago my mentor listened to me rant and rave about my frustration at people (specifically my mom and sister) not operating the way I wanted them to. It took a long time for her to make me understand that I can't expect anything of people. I can't expect them to act in a certain way, and I can't even expect from them what seem like "common sense" and "necessary" things.
A complaint like this one exposes a gross amount of self-absorption. I am not good at showing grace to people. The large-of-heartness that grace in comes naturally to no human, but I certainly did not receive even a hint of it.
My prayer right now is to become completely amazed by and enamored with the grace that my Lord shows to be on a daily basis. I want my life to be an outpouring of Him, because that's really all that I am purposed to do.
Ephesians 1:7-8
"In Him we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of sins, in accordance with the riches of God's grace that He lavished on us with all wisdom and understanding."
My dear friend Sara was crowned m88 Prom Queen by what was apparently a landslide vote. Hooray! She nervously and sheepishly went up to get her tiara, and I could not have been happier.
Life has been rather wild the past couple of weeks from attempting to pull things back together after traveling the midwest for various competitive endeavors. I'll return to the complaint list to deal with one of the things that was directly produced by third-quarter doldrums.
10. I have to send out graduation announcements. That means schools need to have their plans together.
A long time ago my mentor listened to me rant and rave about my frustration at people (specifically my mom and sister) not operating the way I wanted them to. It took a long time for her to make me understand that I can't expect anything of people. I can't expect them to act in a certain way, and I can't even expect from them what seem like "common sense" and "necessary" things.
A complaint like this one exposes a gross amount of self-absorption. I am not good at showing grace to people. The large-of-heartness that grace in comes naturally to no human, but I certainly did not receive even a hint of it.
My prayer right now is to become completely amazed by and enamored with the grace that my Lord shows to be on a daily basis. I want my life to be an outpouring of Him, because that's really all that I am purposed to do.
Ephesians 1:7-8
"In Him we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of sins, in accordance with the riches of God's grace that He lavished on us with all wisdom and understanding."
Monday, March 21, 2011
This and That
My dear friend Sara is eligible for m88 Prom Queen honors... Text “prom Sara Wortman” to 55678. Please and thank you.
In the midst of my Project, I have failed to exalt our great God for His provision and blessing. The Lord continues to affirm that I am supposed to be at Patrick Henry College next semester, and this week He has blessed my family and I with a renewable scholarship from PHC that I never dreamed I could earn. Under eight grand a year to go! :)
God is so good, and though the win-loss record may not display this, I counted our trip to the NCHBC an overwhelming success. The Lord blessed me personally with games I’ll be happy to remember my entire career on, and He truly knitted the team closer together than ever before. I count this to be a true victory. The 2-3 record at Class 2A for the first time in Angels history is not something to be ashamed of either. :)
Attacking the list of complaints from the bottom-up, number eleven was...
11. Curse spring. Lizards are back.
I’ve always struggled to see why the good Lord created lizards, but I suppose they do reduce the pesky bug population. Spring in general (with its winds, dust, and disgusting reptiles) is a big topic of complaint for me, but what a blessing to see the return of life after winter. It’s an annual reminder of the Lord’s mercies being made new every morning and the life He freely offers us though our human condition leaves us dead in our trespasses.
In the words of Hosea (chapter 6, verses 1 and 3):
“‘Come, let us return to the LORD. For He has torn us, but He will heal us; He has wounded us, but He will bandage us... So let us know, let us press on to know the LORD. His going forth is as certain as the dawn; and He will come to us like the rain, like the spring rain watering the earth.’”
And our great God does not lie. Amen and amen.
Can I truly be thankful for the lizards spring time brings?
I’ll hold to His promises and rejoice in the reminder of the life offered...
But I cannot... and I probably never will... put my fear of lizards to rest.
They’re far too scary.
I’ll praise the Lord for His mercy that lets them stay alive.
In the midst of my Project, I have failed to exalt our great God for His provision and blessing. The Lord continues to affirm that I am supposed to be at Patrick Henry College next semester, and this week He has blessed my family and I with a renewable scholarship from PHC that I never dreamed I could earn. Under eight grand a year to go! :)
God is so good, and though the win-loss record may not display this, I counted our trip to the NCHBC an overwhelming success. The Lord blessed me personally with games I’ll be happy to remember my entire career on, and He truly knitted the team closer together than ever before. I count this to be a true victory. The 2-3 record at Class 2A for the first time in Angels history is not something to be ashamed of either. :)
Attacking the list of complaints from the bottom-up, number eleven was...
11. Curse spring. Lizards are back.
I’ve always struggled to see why the good Lord created lizards, but I suppose they do reduce the pesky bug population. Spring in general (with its winds, dust, and disgusting reptiles) is a big topic of complaint for me, but what a blessing to see the return of life after winter. It’s an annual reminder of the Lord’s mercies being made new every morning and the life He freely offers us though our human condition leaves us dead in our trespasses.
In the words of Hosea (chapter 6, verses 1 and 3):
“‘Come, let us return to the LORD. For He has torn us, but He will heal us; He has wounded us, but He will bandage us... So let us know, let us press on to know the LORD. His going forth is as certain as the dawn; and He will come to us like the rain, like the spring rain watering the earth.’”
And our great God does not lie. Amen and amen.
Can I truly be thankful for the lizards spring time brings?
I’ll hold to His promises and rejoice in the reminder of the life offered...
But I cannot... and I probably never will... put my fear of lizards to rest.
They’re far too scary.
I’ll praise the Lord for His mercy that lets them stay alive.
Saturday, March 12, 2011
Tomorrow is as Today...
My journal is jammed through with promises of recording a certain event “tomorrow” which inevitably means that it will be done sometime within the next six months. This has been a pattern since fourth grade.
The Corrie-ten-Boom Project is following accordingly. Today is just as adequate as “tomorrow” was, and I may just add to this list for awhile. The National Christian Homeschool Basketball Tournament dawns next week, which means everyone will be in close quarters, and emotions will run high. Complaints are sure to come. ;)
My list of complaints currently includes (and these would all be phrases darting through my mind or being audibly voiced):
1. Why do some people have to be so friendly?
2. Why on earth is she not in here? I asked for assistance a good five minutes ago.
3. My mom cannot be calling me right now.
4. Life would be so much simpler if we had three cars again.
5. I have no idea what I will wear.
6. Why do people knock on my door at midnight?
7. People should not leave their things lying around.
8. I cannot stand allergies.
9. Why do people not comprehend that I am busy?
10. I have to send out graduation announcements. That means schools need to have their plans together.
11. Curse spring. Lizards are back.
Goodness knows what ludicrous things will be added.
The Corrie-ten-Boom Project is following accordingly. Today is just as adequate as “tomorrow” was, and I may just add to this list for awhile. The National Christian Homeschool Basketball Tournament dawns next week, which means everyone will be in close quarters, and emotions will run high. Complaints are sure to come. ;)
My list of complaints currently includes (and these would all be phrases darting through my mind or being audibly voiced):
1. Why do some people have to be so friendly?
2. Why on earth is she not in here? I asked for assistance a good five minutes ago.
3. My mom cannot be calling me right now.
4. Life would be so much simpler if we had three cars again.
5. I have no idea what I will wear.
6. Why do people knock on my door at midnight?
7. People should not leave their things lying around.
8. I cannot stand allergies.
9. Why do people not comprehend that I am busy?
10. I have to send out graduation announcements. That means schools need to have their plans together.
11. Curse spring. Lizards are back.
Goodness knows what ludicrous things will be added.
Tuesday, March 8, 2011
Experimentation
Tomorrow I will begin a Corrie-ten-Boom-style experiment.
I will write down everything I complain about (and the list will be lengthy).
I will spend the next few days (as many as are necessary, and this could take well over a month) discovering how I can be thankful for every one of these things.
God is good all the time.
I believe this. My comments about my day should show it.
Let the experiment begin.
I will write down everything I complain about (and the list will be lengthy).
I will spend the next few days (as many as are necessary, and this could take well over a month) discovering how I can be thankful for every one of these things.
God is good all the time.
I believe this. My comments about my day should show it.
Let the experiment begin.
Sunday, February 27, 2011
When the Queen will be crowned...
I was repulsed at the idea of an m88 prom queen. I hate dances, and I hate popularity contests. However, this contest is evidently different than a typical quarterback-cheerleader prom court.
My nomination is for one of the best friends I have ever and probably will ever have. In the event that:
A) Someone else other than myself is reading my blog by the time prom comes around,
B) This "someone" happens to be voting for the m88 prom king and queen, and
C) She is chosen as one of the top three nominees,
I hope that you will take to heart these words that are so inadequate to describe what how precious and deserving of your vote she is...
Certain believers are given the spiritual gift of serving (Romans 12). These are the individuals who willingly to do whatever is needed to help another and never seek recognition or accolade. Sara Wortman is one of these people.
I have been blessed to count Sara as one of my best friends for the past four years. The worst thing that can be said about Sara is that she cares too much. The best: that she is a perfect example of a friend.
Sara willingly gives up her own interests and desires to simply sit and comfort a friend mildly distressed. She will underplay her own accomplishments to overplay that small victories of another.
On one particular occasion, I was simply down. Confused about relationships, stressed with school and two jobs, and just removed from a fight with my mother. Though she was engaged that evening, she abandoned her plans, drove straight to my house, and spent the rest of the night drinking coffee and laughing about nonsense with me. I will never forget this seemingly simple act, because the heart of service behind it was so apparent.
Other people have been given the gift of service, but Sara Wortman is one of the best examples I’ve seen of someone surrendered to the Father and truly letting Him serve through her. She is truly deserving of the recognition that she has never sought.
My nomination is for one of the best friends I have ever and probably will ever have. In the event that:
A) Someone else other than myself is reading my blog by the time prom comes around,
B) This "someone" happens to be voting for the m88 prom king and queen, and
C) She is chosen as one of the top three nominees,
I hope that you will take to heart these words that are so inadequate to describe what how precious and deserving of your vote she is...
Certain believers are given the spiritual gift of serving (Romans 12). These are the individuals who willingly to do whatever is needed to help another and never seek recognition or accolade. Sara Wortman is one of these people.
I have been blessed to count Sara as one of my best friends for the past four years. The worst thing that can be said about Sara is that she cares too much. The best: that she is a perfect example of a friend.
Sara willingly gives up her own interests and desires to simply sit and comfort a friend mildly distressed. She will underplay her own accomplishments to overplay that small victories of another.
On one particular occasion, I was simply down. Confused about relationships, stressed with school and two jobs, and just removed from a fight with my mother. Though she was engaged that evening, she abandoned her plans, drove straight to my house, and spent the rest of the night drinking coffee and laughing about nonsense with me. I will never forget this seemingly simple act, because the heart of service behind it was so apparent.
Other people have been given the gift of service, but Sara Wortman is one of the best examples I’ve seen of someone surrendered to the Father and truly letting Him serve through her. She is truly deserving of the recognition that she has never sought.
Sunday, February 20, 2011
An Analytical Introduction
I am an analytical person. It is close to ridiculous. With that so eloquently stated, I can now explain the significance of this fact.
The first order of business for me in any circumstance is to attempt to completely and thoroughly understand my surroundings. Understanding eventually leads to me feeling like I am in control of what it going on.
Much of the past couple of years have been spent learning to surrender this need to control, because I am utterly incapable of running my life in a way that is glorifying to my King. I am stubborn, proud, impatient, dogmatic, argumentative, and self-reliant.
I am apparently a very audacious person, as well, to dare to write under the title of “Idylls of the King.” However, I’ll argue the legitimateness of this title:
“Idylls of the King” is actually a volume of poetry written by Alfred, Lord Tennyson to chronicle the stories of the legendary King Arthur. An “idyll” is defined by my Mac (Webster’s 1828 Dictionary currently alludes me...) as “an extremely happy, peaceful, or picturesque episode or scene, typically an idealized or unsustainable one.”
I’m appearing more impudent by the minute. However, I’ll strive to never write “Idylls of Me” because they’d quickly become “Travesties of a Life Ill-Lived.”
As a Christian, I believe that the God Who produces love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control abides in me as I ask Him to guide each step of my life. While life’s circumstances aren’t alway described as “happy,” I submit that there is no happier place than knowing you’re in the center of God’s will. Those times that I’m surrendered as useable in the hands of the Master Craftsman will be extremely joyful and peaceful not because of anything I have done but because of the good and gracious God I serve. And these will be idylls of the King of Kings.
Having analyzed my own blog title, I’ll invite you to join me in following the Lord in reckless abandon wherever He leads. He’s leading me 2200 miles away from home to a situation I certainly cannot “control,” but He “will keep in perfect peace him whose mind is steadfast, because he trusts in [Him].” (Isaiah 26:3)
The first order of business for me in any circumstance is to attempt to completely and thoroughly understand my surroundings. Understanding eventually leads to me feeling like I am in control of what it going on.
Much of the past couple of years have been spent learning to surrender this need to control, because I am utterly incapable of running my life in a way that is glorifying to my King. I am stubborn, proud, impatient, dogmatic, argumentative, and self-reliant.
I am apparently a very audacious person, as well, to dare to write under the title of “Idylls of the King.” However, I’ll argue the legitimateness of this title:
“Idylls of the King” is actually a volume of poetry written by Alfred, Lord Tennyson to chronicle the stories of the legendary King Arthur. An “idyll” is defined by my Mac (Webster’s 1828 Dictionary currently alludes me...) as “an extremely happy, peaceful, or picturesque episode or scene, typically an idealized or unsustainable one.”
I’m appearing more impudent by the minute. However, I’ll strive to never write “Idylls of Me” because they’d quickly become “Travesties of a Life Ill-Lived.”
As a Christian, I believe that the God Who produces love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control abides in me as I ask Him to guide each step of my life. While life’s circumstances aren’t alway described as “happy,” I submit that there is no happier place than knowing you’re in the center of God’s will. Those times that I’m surrendered as useable in the hands of the Master Craftsman will be extremely joyful and peaceful not because of anything I have done but because of the good and gracious God I serve. And these will be idylls of the King of Kings.
Having analyzed my own blog title, I’ll invite you to join me in following the Lord in reckless abandon wherever He leads. He’s leading me 2200 miles away from home to a situation I certainly cannot “control,” but He “will keep in perfect peace him whose mind is steadfast, because he trusts in [Him].” (Isaiah 26:3)
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