hope ALIVE 'n' LOVE complete!

Imagine...!!!!!!!!!!!

2010-07-19T14:29:00.000-07:00

Our Freedom...

2010-05-31T18:38:00.000-07:00

isn't free!!!

Our freedom in the USA came at a costly price--that of the courageous fighting, and many deaths, of military men and women. We thank you!!!

In the same way, our spiritual freedom came at a very costly price--that of the selfless death of a Savior, our Lord Jesus Christ! To those who will believe and receive Him, He offers them new life! We thank You, Jesus!!!

"Faith without deeds...

2010-05-27T13:17:00.000-07:00

...is dead."

I am being challenged by this Truth of late.

We love, because God first loved us.

And if I say I love my neighbor, and they are in need, and I do not try and help meet their need (or don't even feel burdened to do so), what good is my faith? It is of no good--it is dead.

But Jesus Christ is not dead, He's alive!

And He comes with healing in His wings! (Malachi 4:2)

And He tells us that in doing to one of the least, and most vulnerable 'n' needy of humanity, that we do it unto Him!

I am blessed. God has gifted to me friends in my life who are reaching out to the hungry to feed them, the cast out to bring them in, the naked to cover them, and the oppressed to loose their bonds of oppression. And as they are displaying faith with deeds, so I am seeking to show my Savior obedience as well!

Green, and life-giving guarantees!

2010-05-20T11:38:00.000-07:00

-Trusting in the Lord will keep you "green", and be life-giving!:

"Blessed is the person
who trusts in the Lord,
and whose hope is the Lord.
For they shall be like a TREE planted by the water,
which spreads out its roots by the river,
and will not fear when heat comes;
but its leaf will be green,
and will not be anxious in the year of drought,
nor will cease from yielding fruit" (Jeremiah 17:8).

-Loving God's Word, and thinking about it throughout the day will keep you "green", and be life-giving!:

"Blessed is the person...whose delight is in the law of the Lord,
and in His law he meditates day and night.
He shall be like a tree
planted by the rivers of water
that brings forth its fruit in its season,
whose leaf also shall not wither;
and whatever he does shall prosper" (Psalms 1).

-Helping those in need will also keep you "green", and be life-giving!:

"If you extend your soul to the hungry
and satisfy the afflicted soul...
the Lord will guide you continually,
and satisfy your soul in drought, and strengthen your bones;
you shall be like a watered garden
and like a spring of water whose waters do not fail" (Isaiah 58:10-11).

Question:

2010-05-13T11:10:00.000-07:00

Your giftings...

"are you tempted to spend your gifts only on yourself?
Or
for the glory of God do you want to link
your best abilities
to your neighbor's needs?" (p. 221 of Joe Gibbs' Game Plan for Life.)

That's a good question. Assumed is that we are aware of our neighbor's needs. (With our neighbor being anybody located close by, or far away.) We know our neighbor's needs...right??! If not, what can we do about that?

movements_music video!

2010-05-10T14:49:00.000-07:00

This Irish group of friends and musicians is known as The Rend Collective Experiment. Check out one of their songs below!!!

5-6

2010-05-05T12:32:00.000-07:00

"President Abraham Lincoln proclaimed that that our nation should set apart

a day

for national prayer

to confess our sins and transgressions in sorrow,

'yet with assured hope that genuine repentance will lead to mercy and pardon...announced in the Holy Scriptures

and proven by all history,

that those nations only

are blessed

whose God is THE LORD'" (from Franklin Graham's prayer for 2010 National Day of Prayer).

On May 6th, but not reserved only for that day, may men and women of faith join hearts and hands in confessing their corporal sins, as well as in interceding on behalf of one another.

da' Truth!

2010-04-28T09:13:00.000-07:00

Change happens...

"When the truth of who you are
comes face to face
with the truth of who He is,
it is then
and only then that
the Truth will set you free."

-Don Davis, husband, father, preacher, professional athlete (New England Patriots)

The incredible, growing Seed!

2010-04-22T10:22:00.000-07:00

"The kingdom of God is

as if a man should scatter seed on the ground,

and should sleep by night

and rise by day,

and the seed should sprout and grow,

he himself does not know how..."

This word picture and parable from Jesus in Mark chapter four is wonderful!

It shows the power of God!

The seed is His Word; the man is us, His followers.

The seed sprouting and growing shows the effect of the Word--

that it works within people's hearts

from something small to something big!

God promises His Word will not return to Him void!!!

Are we doing our part? Are we opening our hearts and mouths and sharing His Word with the lost?!! We can begin with, "For God so loved [you and me, both sinners], that He gave [us] His only begotten Son" (John 3:16)!

I come to LIFE...

2010-04-20T23:47:00.000-07:00

when I get to

connect with people

face-to-face!

Technology advances are great, but

we should never try 'n' use them

to replace one of the things we were made for:

Being with others in physical presence--with family, peers, even strangers!

We have this HOPE:

2010-04-19T23:20:00.000-07:00

that those--Christ followers--who die

will rise

to NEW LIFE!

We miss you already, Peggy!

Let NOT

2010-04-15T11:26:00.000-07:00

your hearts BE TROUBLED,

Neither let them be afraid!

Why?

Because JESUS CHRIST has OVERCOME the WORLD!!!

death, the chains of sin, sickness, the Enemy, yes--and even fear--God through Jesus Christ has done away with! Thank You, Jesus!!!

They thought they had succeeded!

2010-04-08T14:48:00.000-07:00

Thanks to the working of their human hands, His body was abused, and then impaled to a crucifixion, evenutally snuffing out His life. And those same hands also caused a guard to be placed outside of His tomb on watch, and a stone to be sealed over the face of it where His dead body lay. Afterwards, no doubt, those Jewish religious leaders stood rubbing their hands together in what they thought was their victory over this alleged Son of God, Jesus Christ.

They had succeeded!!! .....or....so....they.....thought. But they had discounted one very important factor: The power of God!

It was God's power that rose Jesus up from death to life! And it was God's power that sent an angel to roll back the cemented stone, and who literally almost scared the guards to death! God showed that human hands and plans got NOTHING on His power and on His plans for His kids!!!

Anchored

2010-04-04T00:29:00.000-07:00

An elderly family member (pictured on right) has been given little time remaining of life. Twelve months ago my cousin, who's more like a grandma, went into an assisted living home. Three months ago, she decided to have a knee replacement surgery from constant pain she was experiencing in her knee. The surgery seemed like it helped her pain go away, but it also seemed to trigger other health complications for her, one of them being muscle degeneration (from a previous condition).

The result has been her being shuffled between nursing home and hopsital these past few months. It has saddened me and my family deeply to see her suffer, and for her to experience what she has been experiencing. But despite the pain--hers and ours--our hope for a better and whole Peggy has remained anchored and steadfast. We all know it will come to pass!

How?!! Because from one man came death, and from another Man came life. Adam, humanity's first son, brought sin into the world, but Christ, God's Son, brought forgiveness and new life to all who who will believe. Peggy believes, and has received this gift from God. My family has as well, as so many people have and are doing!! Extremely difficult and painful times will come, but the question is: Will we be anchored with hope in Christ when they come, or will we be tossed about like waves of the ocean from unbelief??!

Giving Lover

2010-04-03T00:24:00.000-07:00

Jesus was giving of Himself in every way! His fellowship, His time, His healing power. ...Even His very life! To His disciples (and those that would follow in faith), He said, "This bread represents My body--take and eat!." Of the wine, He said, "This wine represents my blood. Take, and drink!." (Matthew 26)

His body was crucified; His blood was spilled out--this Lover did not withhold giving ALL of Himself in order to blot out the sins of mankind.

And His life He took up again to offer NEW LIFE to all who would believe and receive Him.What's holding you and I back from receiving of the Giving Lover at this time of year?!! Let's eat, drink, and LIVE!

Correlation between forgiveness and happiness?!!

2010-03-30T11:05:00.000-07:00

You betchya!

Professionals have confirmed what so many people experience on a daily basis--peace of mind and inner happiness in forgiving the offenses of others against themselves. This brief source tells how our grudges and resentments can cause us more harm and hurt than anyone else!

Jesus had very important reasons for commanding His children to forgive one another. But based on the above, one can understand why this command of His was emphasized by Him so much! (Approx. 6x's in the book of Matthew alone!) He goes so far as to say that if we do not forgive one another their offenses against us, that He won't forgive us our offenses towards Him. Yikes!

He knew, and knows, that forgiving one another is a life-giving step!

The pain you have experienced is real, and no one is discounting that. But to hold onto it is not good for you. Too much time and relationship building, and healthy 'n' whole living gets lost!

Let's begin by recognizing the pain we've experienced due to someone else. Then let's decide to forgive them. Happiness and peace, along with life, will soon become close companions!

the question

2010-03-06T00:14:00.000-08:00

To live free, or controlled??? ...that is the question! It sounds like an absurd one, but many, many adults would rather live having others think and decide for themselves about how their lives should be lived, rather than they take the reigns and decide for themselves!

A movie recently brought this idea--and the scariness of the latter reality--home for me. And the dialogue between two of the main characters, a man and a woman in love in Havana, Cuba, in the 1950's (just as the revolution led by Fidel Castro is beginning) is heart-wrenching!

Let's listen in!

Federico: Come with me [to America].
Aurora: You don't understand.

Fico: I understand that I am lost without you.
Aurora: This [Casto's "cause"] is something bigger than ourselves.

Fico: There's nothing bigger than us.

Fico: Listen to me. Don't you see what's happening? You're being taken advantage of [by Castro and his group, whom she was beginning to spend more and more time with]. Is that what you want? You wanna be told what to do and what to think your whole life? Because there's no end to this. This is madness! You deserve more--we deserve more. ...Please, come with me [to freedom].

**To find out what she decides to do, rent The Lost City from your local video store!!! lol! :)**

They weren't sorry...

2010-02-15T06:27:00.000-08:00

that they chose life and to trust God!

Nice!

Valentine's Day Treat!

2010-01-27T01:01:00.000-08:00

Nothing says "I love ya'" this Feb. 14th to your Valentine like this! (see below)

The front of my handmade greeting card begins with--"You're the cream in my coffee...";

and the inside of it, below, concludes--"and the spice to my life! Happy Valentine's Day!"

Get YOURS right now by emailing me: sarahmuilenburg@yahoo.com

Broken Car is to Mechanic as Sick Person is to...

2010-01-22T12:31:00.001-08:00

Jesus' own words about man's condition
and why He came into our world:

"Those who are well have no need of a physician,
but those who are SICK.
I HAVE not COME to CALL the righteous,
but SINNERS, to REPENTANCE." (Luke 5:31-32)

Haiti-Crisis

2010-01-14T23:06:00.000-08:00

Approximately 10 days into the new decade (2010), a devastating earthquake hit in the capital city of Haiti killing many instantly, and burying way too many alive. The images captured were of pain, desperation and death.

Forgotten Haitians? Not quite!

Quickly, more than a few dozen countries and organizations responded to the crisis in Haiti by immediately providing various forms of aid and manpower, along with private donations by individuals. Prayers by the millions from people all over the world are being lifted up on behalf of the Haitians. And, God's Word is finding an opening into the country and into its people's hearts and minds!

People hurting and in need will not be fogotten by their fellow human beings--how much more with God!!!

Sobering Haiti Statistitics:
-Haiti had an 80% unemployment rate before the crisis.
-Catholocism and voudu are the country's principal religions.

January: beginnings; purpose!

2010-01-07T13:00:00.000-08:00

January brings with it not only a time for new beginnings,
but also of renewed purpose!

...so let's get to 'em, friends, in Jesus' name!

Heyyyyyy.......

2010-01-02T23:55:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year!!!!!!!!! 'n' Happy New Decade!!!!!!!!

Rejoice!

2009-12-25T13:22:00.000-08:00

Our Savior was born 2,000 years back, and as He turned the world inside out, and upside down those many years back, so he wants to do in our lives today!!! He wants to help us see and live and hope anew!!! ...o night divine!

small person, BIG GOD!

2009-12-17T22:48:00.001-08:00

mY fRIEND sHARED wITH mE rECENTLY aBOUT tHE fIRE sHE's bEEN gOING tHROUGH lATELY: Tough stuff!!!

But hearing my 5 foot, 2 inch friend say that God has been good, and that she has been obediently forgiving others as He has forgiven her, as well as that she trusts that He's gonna put her enemies under her feet one day made me realize that her God is Big...while my God I've limited in size and ability...bcz my faith in Him (in these areas) is rather small.

...bUT iT dOESN't hAVE tO bE tHIS wAY! God's strength and power and covering are for all who are in need of these, and more.

If we know His Word, and take Him at IT--though we be small/frail/limited, we will allow Him to be what He is--BIG and pOWERFUL!

Still??

2009-12-07T15:19:00.000-08:00

Can Christmas still change the world?

In other words, does the birth of one baby 2,000 years ago mean anything for us today??!? (Based off of Revolutionary Christmas sermon series.)

Our answer to those questions
will determine:

1) The kind of Christmas we have

and

2) The hope we have (in this life and for the hereafter), or not...

Character. Who cares?

2009-12-03T17:29:00.000-08:00

In light of recent news about a professional golfer's extramarital affairs, the topic of character comes up. And the question that surfaces is: Does one's private and inner life matter?

If so, why? If not, why not?

put off No Mas!

2009-12-02T07:36:00.000-08:00

There's one last month in the year 2009 to do what your heart's been telling you to do, but what (maybe) your mind's been talking you out of doing. Let's not put these off any longer, and instead, go for it!

...such as I did recently by making one of my made-by-hand greeting cards available for purchase on-line. Proceeds will go towards reaching young people and parents with Truth, Hope 'n' Love.

Check it out, and buy one if you like it!!! http://www.etsy.com/shop/SmilinbczofHope

Gracias

2009-11-25T22:59:00.000-08:00

"It’s simply wrong not to appreciate all the things we’re truly fortunate to have. ...Gratitude is an extraordinarily potent tonic that produces good feelings and genuine contentment." -Michael Josephson, Josephson Institute, Character Counts

Let's give thanks with one holiday upon us, and another one around the corner!...

Symbolic

2009-11-09T23:12:00.000-08:00

Twenty years ago today something BIG happened in a certain part of the world: A wall was torn down.

What's so big about a wall being brought down, you might ask. My answer to you is this: It's BIG bcz it represented the value of human freedom--it showed humans valuing their freedom!

The fall of the Berlin Wall (in Germany on 11.9.89) became a symbol of human-control-No!, of Am-not-gonna-be-held-against-my-will!, and of freedom!!!!!

The East Germans rejoiced that day. And across Europe, human-control was crumbling in a domino-effect.

the UNexpected

2009-11-05T20:33:00.000-08:00

Life can take unexpected twists and turns, sometimes leaving the wind knocked out of us, or worse! Recently reported was the death of a teenage girl--the victim of a rival gangs' revenge, and the deaths of U.S. military men and women at Fort Hood military base (TX) due to an Islamist's rampage shooting. Hope, then, can slowly begin to dissapate (or disappear). When this happens, we enter a not-safe-zone.

When hopelessness begins to reign, living can become rather unimportant. Suicide statistics are an effective, but sobering example of this fact.

On the other hand, when hope is alive--even in the darkest of circumstances or situations--life becomes something to fight for tenaciously! (Think of concentration camp survivors; persecuted underground Christians; cancer victims.)

We will all experience things unexpected (and even unwanted), but if we hold onto hope--found in Jesus Christ, we will come through victorious!

(Commentary adapted from the 11/01/09 message by Pastor Mike Goldsworthy of Parkcrest Christian Church.)

Somethin' to THINK about

2009-10-26T17:00:00.000-07:00

Ouch! Does anything ring true in the following observation made by a young lady volunteer at iSanctuary (an organization which encourages "purchasing with a purpose," by purchasing jewelery made by girls rescued from sexual trafficking). She comments that (the majority of the) members of our society are in a state of descencitization. Do you agree? Please share examples that you've witnessed that back up either 'Yes' or 'No'.

What is happening to our society? (By: Anonymous; 10/23/09)

Donating my time as a volunteer for iSanctuary has been an eye-opening experience. Never before have I been so aware, or more affected, by the plight of human trafficking and sexual exploitation of youg girls. Exploitation is all around us, from magazine ads depicting pre-teen girls as sex objects, to television shows and music videos showing violence and disrespect for women. The last thing I expected when going on a camping trip with my family last week at Vail Lake Resort was to come face to face with the horrible way in which exploitation of this kind has permeated our lives. On Saturday night, the resort hosted its annual Halloween Costume Contest. To my horror, the winners of the contest were two young girls, probably no older than 15, scantily dressed up like prostitutes, who were chained to a little boy about 8 years old, who was dressed up as a pimp! The cheers from the audience were more than I could stomach. What is happening to our society? I understand that we are in a free country and we are allowed to express ourselves, but our children flaunting prostitution? Really? Is our sociedty so desensitized that we are allowing our own children to play dress-up as prostitutes and pimps? Here we are trying to fight human-trafficking and prostitution among innocent young victims around the world, and right in our own backyard we are allowing our children to glamorize this very thing during Halloween. My heart shudders at the thought. I hope each of you will take it upon yourselves to help instill good values in our young people, do what you can volunteering for iSanctuary, and help make a difference.

Anonymous

LOL!!!

2009-10-19T15:42:00.000-07:00

Laughter is good for the body, soul, and mind, as my blogger-friend Bridget recently wrote. And I agree! ...especially after what happened at my house today!!! Read on:

"Telephone!" my almost 70 year young Dad yelled from our den over the sound of the Angels and Yankees playing on the TV.

I paused from my sweeping in the kitchen to listen for the ringing sound of our phone.
Nothing.

I went to his door and answered back, "That's not our telephone!"

I went back to my sweeping, paused again, went back to his door and added, "But maybe you heard a neighbor's phone ringing" to give him the benefit of the doubt.

After he finished chuckling to himself, he quipped, "Here I was thinking my hearing was bad, but it's actually good!"

(Note: My Dad's hearing actually is bad from years of working in an overly loud factory. But his family loves him, and we enjoy hearing some of the things his ears think they heard now and again!)

Noticeable

2009-10-14T11:56:00.000-07:00

I was reminded recently of the difference that Jesus Christ in my life makes. A noticeable difference!

Whereas before, talking about others and tearing them down in their absence was a form of recreation, I now understand the effect that gossip and misspoken words can have on people. I'm choosing instead to think about what's true and noteworthy about them. Do I do so perfectly in every situation? Nope. But Christ's presence in my heart causes me to increasingly show respect to people in the words I choose to use about them in their presence, but much more in their absence! (See Philippians 1:6.)

Christ makes the difference! If you don't have Him, you should get Him. And if you already have Him, take some time to think about the difference He's making in your life and share it with somebody!

Focus

2009-10-05T11:58:00.001-07:00

Getting past the funny look on her face...I'd like to ask you (and myself) what's going to be our focus this week: Is it going to be on self, and our shortcomings? ...Or on a God who is amazing?!! Please check out this music video below (possibly resulting in an altered focus), and listen to this group sing about the amazingness of God!!!! Thanks!

Vote 'n' Say Something Positive!

2009-10-02T14:29:00.000-07:00

With David Letterman recently "confessing" before a live audience and to the whole world the sexual relationships he had with some of his female staff...(also making light of it, and bouncing any responsibility off of himself in the process)... the need for a counter-positive message about sexual self control is never greater!!!

Following up with my friend Karen's t-shirt design contest to Say Something Positive, you can now vote for your favorite t-shirt design by going here! You have until 10/3 at 2pm to do so. ...and may the best message win!!! (The one to the right is one of the entries!)

Different.

2009-09-30T22:47:00.000-07:00

Unique. Set apart. That is what one piece of paper with writing makes this country, the United States of America. On that piece of paper--our Constition--it is stated that,

"We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal,
that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights..."

Many governments, however, do not see its people possessing such rights. In fact, as we speak, Iranian journalists and protesters from this summer's "election" in Iran are being brought to court. Will they receive a fair trial? Sadly, not likely.

Please see this clip to understand better current events, as well as some of the differences that exist between our country and others. How do these differences cause you to react?

They're talking

2009-09-28T13:11:00.000-07:00

...are we listening?!! It's good to know what the world leaders are saying (or not saying) today.

The UN (United Nations) met recently for a meeting where some of the world's leaders stood up and spoke. The next day, Israel's Prime Minister stood up and spoke. And what he said, you don't want to miss.

Read his speech here:

http://www.freerepublic.com/focus/f-news/2347823/posts

And/or watch 'n' listen to his speech here:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=44HkjBDQz_k&annotation_id=annotation_750773&feature=iv

...did he say something that got you thinking differently?!!

Underestimate Not!

2009-09-25T13:50:00.000-07:00

Orphaned as a 4th grader, one wouldn't have known what would become the fate of this young man years later. But because he had a mother who took her job seriously, and did not underestimate her son's age or his ability to learn, she was able to instill strong values (among other important teachings) in him that would help carry him through the tumultuous storms of his young life, as well as be an overcomer!

Today, he's husband and father, as well as president and CEO of a national and international not-for-profit organization that fights to preserve and strengthen families the world over!

...Jim Daly is his name. He's a local, Southern CA boy. And he took over leading Focus on the Family when Dr. James Dobson stepped down. ...He's also spearheading the effort to get America's orphans adopted into good homes and families (a theme near to his heart.)

All this to say: Parents, don't undersestimate your ability to effectively teach your children important life values and skills, nor your child's ability to understand and learn these (though they be young).

Hide 'n' Seek

2009-09-23T11:27:00.000-07:00

The childhood game of hide 'n' seek is fun to play because the one who can find the best physical hiding place wins! But when we revert to these games as adults--hiding from one another emotionally--we quickly find out that "the best hiding place" actually causes us to be the loser and to experience great loss.

Paul understood this fact, and he therefore reprimanded the new community of believers he had established in what is modern-day Greece: "O Corinthians! We have spoken openly to you, our heart is wide open. You are not restricted by us, but...by your own affections" (II Cor. 6:11-12). Having been nothing but open, truthful, genuine, and affectionate towards the believers in Corinth, Paul and his comrades were confused over this community's coldness towards them!

Maybe the Corinthians were playing a form of "hide 'n' seek" by being self-protective. Maybe they were in a state of selfishness. Or maybe it was due to something entirely different. Whatever it was, thankfully, they came out of it and stepped up their game! (See II Corinthians 7:11-13 for how!) "Put on love," we are reminded "which binds all other virtues together in perfect unity" (Colossians 3:14).

Young men and women, let me be the first to tell you that genuineness with others is the only way to go! I've been getting hit left and right recently with the importance of not hiding (emotionally) from others. ...and it's a hard, but necessary lesson to learn. But like the Corinthian believers, I'm making ammends, and my progress is slow but steady towards my being more open, honest and affectionate with those around me (thanks, in addition, to genuine and loving people God places in my life!). Just as I'm also learning to embrace fully whom God made me to be. And may you, loved ones, pursue the same.

Say What?!!!

2009-09-18T12:36:00.000-07:00

From Creationist Bill Morgan's Sep. 2009 Newsletter (http://www.fishdontwalk.com/):

ASK AN EVOLUTIONIST TO EXPLAIN THIS! (Part 1)

The Bristle-Thighed Curlew is an amazing bird.

The parents lay their eggs in Alaska, and when the chicks are five weeks old they [the parents] fly away, migrating south. They fly 3600 miles, nonstop, over water to the South Pacific (near Australia). And they
migrate without their offspring!

Several weeks later when the chics are
strong enough to fly, they take flight, and join up with their parents! No map,
no GPS...a miracle!

Many web sites state their ability to find their
parents is "purely by accident." WHAT? Navigation over water does not
occur by accident. Certainly the parents did not explain the route to
their offspring before departing.

Let's give credit where it is due, to the Creator of all things, Almighty God.

5 minutes--couch change!

2009-09-17T23:18:00.000-07:00

I came across a strategy recently designed to help students eliminate (or lessen) procrastination in their lives. It's called "The Five-Minute Plan." Students are encouraged to sit down, and put out in front of them the assignment they keep putting off (like an English essay, or Geometry h.w., etc.), and give 5 minutes of their time to it. If things go well, they can do more!

And I can vouch that it works! It's a strategy that I'm using currently in my life to get down my goals. And it's something I'd like to encourage students to use to get down theirs!

The project (whatever it might be) may seem big, but 5 minutes of your time is doable--small, like couch change!

9/11 2009

2009-09-11T13:10:00.001-07:00

8 years later...

We have not forgotten.
Nor
will we forget.

Thank You, God,
for America.

24 hrs!

2009-09-10T10:35:00.000-07:00

This song has energy, and a great message! In a nutshell: You've got dreams...time won't stop for ya'...therefore, make the most of each 24-hr period now!!!

"What are you afraid of? Don't ya' know what you're made of?
One of God's greatest creations,
so take this invitation! Get up!"

"It's your dreams, your choice, your time, your life,
so don't you, don't you miss it!"

"Get up! ...Got a lot to do!
Twenty-four hours is almost gone!" (Mary Mary)

Priorities

2009-09-08T21:20:00.000-07:00

Love God. Love people.

Jesus summed up what was most important in life with the above two statements. (See Matt. 22:37-40.) He constantly talked to and about His Father; He'd heal people from the inside-out!

Loving God and loving people were His priorities. ...what do ours look like?!

The expressions of these will be unique yet similar from person to person. But for sure, we can't have one without the other! Our priorities will determine our lives...

In the flesh!

2009-09-03T13:49:00.000-07:00

Technology is a wonder! And on-line social networking (i.e. Facebook, Twitter, etc.) is a fabulous tool! HOWEVER, these can NEVER take the place of in person, face-to-face moments. (Nor were they ever intended to!) Being with people in the flesh has an unseen, altering effect on each person present--positive...satisfying! Along with neat-o memories being made in the process! ...maybe that's another reason our Savior donned man's flesh those 2,000 + years ago!!! On the flip side, isolation has an effect on people as well--a negative, destructive one!

Emailing and sending text messages are good, but let's not just leave it at that! Why not tag the message to your friend with, "Let's get a group together to hang out Sat.!" It'll be a positively positive, memory-making time, no doubt!!!

Yes to God's best 4 my life...later?!?

2009-08-31T11:43:00.000-07:00

Pastor Paul (in northern CA) has something to share with YOUNG PEOPLE that he says they'll NEVER hear from the likes of MTV or BET or any of the other things they might listen to or expose themselves to. He starts by saying, "Young people, I want to encourage you that the best life to live is the life in the will of God." He goes on to share "The enemy is going to tell you that all the fun is in sin. But he's a liar." Pastor Paul then makes the following dynamic point: "The fact of the matter is, it pays to live right. It costs you in some ways--make no mistake about it--living right costs you. But living right also pays far more than it costs."

The next thing he shares is the clincher: "The Bible is clear. 'Remember now your Creator in the days of your youth' (Ecclesiastes 12:1). Young people, let me challenge you: Remember your Creator right now. This is a good time for you to say 'Yes' to the Lord if God is knocking on the door of your heart and saying, 'I want you in my will; I want you to do those things I've called you to do.'"

Then Pastor Paul gets personal: "One of the things I'm so glad about is that early in my life I said, 'Yes' to the Lord. Some of your parents can say the same thing. Or grandparents. Or godly people in your life. Others will tell you, "Listen, I made a grave mistake by living in sin when God was convicting me, and dealing with me, and I was living in sin, trying to fight off conviction. I got myself into more trouble being outside the will of God than I've ever had difficulty being in the will of God!"

Listen to the rest of this podcast (aired 08/27/09 on Chrisitan Radio Station) here. Don't resist God's best for you a moment longer! Turn from your sin, and turn to God--He'll receive you!

Beat Box 4 God

2009-08-28T23:07:00.000-07:00

"Whatever you do, do it as unto the Lord" (Colossians 3:23). ...even if it's the TALENT of beat boxing!!! (Watch below!)

We can care too!

2009-08-25T23:03:00.000-07:00

Until recently, I didn't know. ...do u?! There are app. 127,000 children in the US waiting for permanent adoptive families. There are over double that number of Christ-centered churches here (300,000).

Whoa!!! What if two families from each church...just two...adopted one of these children each?! Then all these children would have a place to call home and a family to call theirs!!! What if....?!?!!!!!!

I found this info out on icareaboutorphans.org. We can care too!

"Get in and hold on!'

2009-08-24T10:29:00.000-07:00

The 2009-2010 schoolyear is beginning, and my prayer for students everywhere is Truth, Love, and Success!

It's gonna be a ride, with highs and lows and stomack-in-your-throat points, but a ride well worth it, so hoooooooooold on!!!

Luv,

~Sarah M.

U decide ur name

2009-08-21T11:24:00.000-07:00

Maybe we have the following mentality: It doesn't matter what I do or how I treat people--I can do as I want!

But it's a fact that our deeds and actions precede (go before) our name. If we are kind to people, people will associate kindness with us. On the flip side, if we are rude to people, people will identify us as someone mean, and try 'n' avoid us.

"Bo" (short for Boaz, a dude from back-in-the-day-Biblical-times) was known for being kind to the poor, and treating ALL--even his hired hands--with respect. Then there was Ruth, a young, widowed woman known for sticking with her mother-in-law, Naomi (of a different culture and land), though only poverty and hardship loomed in their future together. Both "Bo" and Ruth had their deeds precede them, which caused their names (and therefore them) to be highly favored with others, as well as with one another! (Read the book of Ruth in the Bible to find out what happens between them...)

If we think that we can do and treat people as we want, and that our names won't be decided bcz of these, we'd better think again! Through our actions, WE decide our name!

Zac's Dream

2009-08-19T09:32:00.000-07:00

At 16 years of age, Zac had a dream to become the youngest person to SAIL AROUND THE WORLD, in addition to having a world adventure. Well, praise God, he achieved both! (Zac set sail 06-2008; and he returned 07-2009, at seventeen!) But had Zac let his age...or his fears...or any other excuse talk him out of doing what his heart was set upon doing, he would have missed out on sooooooo much! (...including earning something invaluable like inner confidence!) But Zac chose, instead, to push ahead, and to make his dreams a reality! (As did some of my friends with their dream of motorcycle riding in all 50 continental states, interviewing pastors along the way!) Check out Zac's story below!

SOMEthing to say...

2009-08-18T16:35:00.000-07:00

When He spoke, people listened. It is recorded that common (uneducated) people heard Him gladly (Mark 12). And even the uppercrust and well-to-do's of society (such as the educated, religious leaders)--though hateful of Him bcz of His claims and miracle-workings--recognized the fact that when He spoke, He did so "as one having authority" (Matthew 7:29). His words always were Truth, hope-giving, uplifting...but also challenging, and luminous in the way they'd reveal the insides of man's heart.

Jesus is the one whose words are like no other's! And if we're willing today to listen to Him, He'll have a lot to say to us!!! Such as this promise: "If anyone thirsts, let him come to Me and drink. He who believes in Me [Jesus Christ--God's Son]...out of his heart will flow rivers of living water" (John 7:38).

...anyone ready to take Him at His word?!?!!! (I did and am forever changed!!!)

Strength

2009-08-14T14:40:00.000-07:00

If we let Him be our strength...God will be our Strong Tower!!!
(Listen below)

(Also check out Psalm 71:3-6!)

Sad Commentary

2009-08-10T09:30:00.000-07:00

Hearing the radio commentator's observations left me feeling hollow, and hoping
against all hope that he was mistaken. Do you agree with his conclusion??
Read the transcript of his 08/07/09 program here.

Inspired

2009-08-07T07:00:00.000-07:00

Today a movie comes out in theaters that I'd like to see. It's about a Julie who is inspired by a Julia (as in Julia Child--a very popular American French Chef). As I learn more about the latter, I'm inspired too!!! Especially by her fearlessness in the face of opposition and by her love of life! (She was also an American Spy during WWII!) Here are some golden nuggets of wisdom that she shared with her fellow human beings during her lifetime (b. 1912; d. 2004):

-No matter how famous you are, you're still just another human being.

-I was 32 when I started cooking; up until then, I just ate.

-No matter what happens in the kitchen, never apologize.

-If it's beautifully arranged on the plate, you know someone's fingers have been all over it.

-Find something you're passionate about and keep tremendously interested in it.

-The main thing is to have a gutsy approach and use your head.

-It's fun to get together and have something good to eat at least once a day. That's what human life is all about--enjoying things.

-Life itself is the proper binge.

No Other Name

2009-08-05T07:50:00.000-07:00

"Salvation is found in no one else,
for there is no other name under heaven given among men
by which we must be saved" (Acts 4:12). That name is Jesus!

"Be glorified Jesus,
Be glorified Yaweh,
We lift your salvation high...
and we will not stop praising your Name!
...
No other one has overcome the grave
only You have the power to save!" (No Other Name, Anvue).

To God-Genuine, or god-Wannabe ???

2009-08-03T20:15:00.000-07:00

To whom are we rendering our worship???

To the Living God (God-Genuine)
Who created out of nothing all that we see,
Who knows before a word is spoken by us,
and Who made a Way (salvation!) when no other god could/would!!!
(See Genesis 1-3; Matthew 6:32; Acts 4:12)

Or,

To something handmade (god-wannabe!)
that has eyes, but cannot see;
ears, but cannot hear;
a mouth, but cannot speak;
feet, but must be carried???
(See Jeremiah 10; Psalm 115; Ps. 135)

T-Shirt Design Contest--Go for it!!!

2009-07-29T07:01:00.000-07:00

My friends Karen and Jim Kropf of CA are passionate about spreading the message that people (including youth!) are WORTH WAITING FOR! They believe that sexual self-control in dating relationships is not only possible, but the best way!!! (...despite what TV shows and movies, and even governments have to say about the matter!)

And to get conversations going about this message, they are putting on a t-shirt design contest. Come up with a clever saying and a cool design for a t-shirt, and if your entry is chosen as a winner, you'll get a prize!! But more important than winning something, you can feel good about getting people thinking differently about how relationships should be done!

See the posting below for more info!!! [Submissions deadline is Sep. 25th.]

Positively In Control: Something Positive to Say?

2009-07-29T07:00:00.001-07:00

Positively In Control: Something Positive to Say?

Waiting.

2009-07-28T15:33:00.000-07:00

It's life! There's no getting around it. At every moment of every day, everyone's waiting for something.

Maybe a child's waiting for their parents to get them a pet;
a high school senior to find out if they got accepted into their first-choice college;
a young adult for a career path;
a single person for a marriage partner;
a sinner for the message of hope of forgiveness;
a couple for a baby of their own, and/or for a child they could offer a home to;
a hungry soul for satisfaction;
an unemployed individual for a job;
an employee for a job promotion;
a homeless person for where their next meal will come from;
for someone's vision to become a reality;
an empty-nest couple for things that will keep them bonded & bonding;
or an elderly adult to find ways to continue to live a full life, w/ continued usefulness and productivity.

Regardless of what we're waiting for, it's comforting to know that Someone knows, and that He cares. We're reminded in the book of Matthew that our heavenly Father knows ALL that we have need of (Matt. 6:32; 7:11). So, if we know that He knows and that He's able...we can have peace. And when God acts in His way and in His timing, the waiting will have seemed like no time at all!

If it ain't broke...

2009-07-23T11:31:00.000-07:00

Here's a great motto that I try and live by: If it isn't broken, don't fix it!!!

Some years back, I was gifted a 5-disc, two speaker CD/tape player and radio by my family for Christmas. It was a gift, and it was newer and BIGGER than the CD player I had had at the time, so you'd think I would've been estatic about it! But in fact, I wasn't. I was annoyed, and even upset about the gift. You see, the radio/cassette/CD player I was using worked fine! It was compact, easy to use, and easy to carry. I just kept numbly thinking to myself while putting the new thing together, Why try and improve something that works great?! The truth is, we shouldn't!!!

In the same way, HEALTHCARE REFORM shouldn't be being pushed currently when what we have is working just fine! ...it's especially frustrating when we have an economy that is down, and people who're losing thier jobs left and right, with energy and focus being spent on trying to fix something that's not broken!!!

Sign this on-line petition to let the current governmental administration know that you are happy with having a choice, and getting to choose whom you want for a doctor and what health insurance plan you prefer!

Larry Elder : Death of the World's Greatest Entertainer - Townhall.com

2009-07-22T12:53:00.001-07:00

Larry Elder : Death of the World's Greatest Entertainer - Townhall.com

Shared via AddThis

Something more...

2009-07-20T11:20:00.000-07:00

Void and longing are universal experiences to mankind. How we go about satisfying these is what sets us apart one from another. One man, nonetheless a king, shared his private thoughts about what his void and longing were for:

"O God...
earnestly I seek You;
my soul thirsts for You, my body longs for You, in a dry and weary land where there is no water. I have seen You in the sanctuary and beheld Your power
and Your glory.
Because Your love is better than life, my lips will glorify You.
I will praise you as long as I live, and in Your name I lift up my hands.
My soul will be satisfied
as with the richest of foods;
with singing lips my mouth will praise You.
On my bed I remember you; I think of you through the watches of the night.
Because You are my help, I sing in the shadow of Your wings.
My soul clings to You;
Your right hand upholds me."

By King David (Psalm 63:1-8)

Live, love...

2009-07-16T09:46:00.000-07:00

How we doin' in the following areas: Living, LOVING, Forgiving, and Never giving up??!!!?!

If not so good in one or all of these, there's no time like the present--not now, but right now--to make changes! Jesus says: "Life is in Me." "As I have loved and forgiven you, so you must love and forgive one another." "Press on!"

(Listen to song below! Someone's got mad skills and is super-gifted in video production, huh?!!--I love the lego's!)

Unmoved!

2009-07-13T09:12:00.000-07:00

Established, like towering mountains across the land.

Rooted, like massive trees peppered throughout the world.

Secure, like huge sailing vessels anchored in a harbor.

These qualities can be true about us, as well, as we put our unfailing hope in the Lord, and as we keep Him ever before us.

"I have set the Lord always before me; because He is at my right hand
I SHALL NOT BE MOVED!" (Psalm 16:8)

BIG THINGS!

2009-07-06T08:00:00.000-07:00

Whatever the need in people, families and society today--whether a counter to the recession-effects, one's health restored, a put-back-together or softening of one's heart, a relationship revitalized, work-producing income, family peace & harmony, truth-speaking, grace extending, or an honor-based culture--God is BIG ENOUGH! That is, though...if we let Him be.
Did ya' know:
God's been doin' BIG THINGS since the world began! (Listen below!)

Love ur freedom this 4th?! (4th of 4)

2009-07-04T07:04:00.000-07:00

Lastly, for this 4th of July: Why not SPEND A FEW MOMENTS REFLECTING!

While bar-b-q'in w/ family 'n' friends,
listenin' to our beautiful patriotic songs,
or oohing and awing throughout a fireworks extravaganza,
thinking about how sweet freedom is this day,
and yet the great price paid for it
--as well as the number of people from all over the world who desire what our constitution offers--
will be sure and make this day
special and bring significance.

Happy 4th of July--this 233rd joyous celebration--to one and all!!!
~Sarah M.

Love ur freedom this 4th?! (3rd of 4)

2009-07-03T07:04:00.000-07:00

Leading up to the 4th of July: Why not READ SOMETHING GOOD!

There are some excellent books that educate about and celebrate living in a free society:

-When Athens Met Jerusalem by John Mark Reynolds
-Liberty and Tyranny by Mark Levin

-The 10 Big Lies About America by Michael Medved

-Or the Gospel of John in the New Testament, which talks about who brought eternal freedom from the forces of darkness!!!

Love ur freedom this 4th?! (2nd of 4)

2009-07-02T07:04:00.000-07:00

Leading up to the 4th of July: Why not WATCH SOMETHING GOOD!

Such as,

-The Patriot (Rated R for strong war violence)
-Saving Private Ryan (same rating as above)
-Braveheart (Rated R for brutal medieval warfare)

Or any other movie that narrates America's history,
and/or celebrates freedom!!!

Love ur freedom this 4th?! (1st of 4)

2009-07-01T07:04:00.000-07:00

Leading up to the 4th of July: Why not GIVE THANKS!

-For our country's founders, God-fearing men,
who wisely drew from the past in order to frame the present, and shape the future.
-To a soldier, current or past, through person or by mail,
for putting the well-being of others before him or herself.
-To a Supreme Court Justice, who correctly interpret
and faithfully uphold the US Constitution case after case.
-And above all, to our Savior, Jesus Christ, for giving us freedom
from the things that eat at our consciences, and that torment our souls
(if we choose to receive it)!

Legacy

2009-06-25T22:30:00.000-07:00

The idea of 'legacy' comes to mind
with the unexpected passing of the King of Pop (Michael Jackson)
and of a Charlie's Angel (Farrah Fawcet),
and a confessed affair from yet another politician (South Carolina Republican Governor, Mark Sanford).

Every choice 'n' decision,
each encounter with others,
and the very lives we are pursuing
dictate the legacy we will leave behind when we are long gone.

What will that be? ...memorable or forgetable?? impacting for good or evil?? others-centered or numero uno-seeking??!? With the gift of each new day, we get to decide that!

Thanks, Dad!

2009-06-21T09:00:00.001-07:00

I am one lucky girl!

Dad, I hear you tell me I love you often-something I love! But more importantly, you've shown your love for me through a much louder medium--through your actions! You give your undivided attention when we converse. You've gone to work faithfully in order to keep a roof over the heads of everyone in this family, food in our mouths, clothes on our backs, 'n' for us kiddo's, learning in our heads throughout the years. You've shown up again and again to important events in my life (a lot of times armed with a video camera!). And you even hopped on a plane with mom to visit me when I was living and working abroad...even though flying is your least favorite mode of transportation!!! Pops, thank you.

You've been indispensable in my life (despite some voices claiming dads as unimportant), and I'm so very thankful for you. Happy Father's Day!!! And may current and future fathers understand their indispensability in their own childrent's lives as well!!! XOXOXOXO, ~Sarah

Up, up, and away!

2009-06-19T10:34:00.000-07:00

It was awesome watching the heroes in Pixar's animated movie, Up, defy all odds and beat out the voices saying, "No, you can't" in order to achieve their goals and dreams!

The widowed, elderly man and the exuberant Boy Scout possessed something that set them apart in difficult times, and that made them rise above their less-than-ideal circumstances...something very appealing--they possessed a spirit of adventure!

And it is that same drive (which thrives in a free society with a *free enterprise system) which Americans, and which mankind as a whole, possess. And with it, we will overcome in order to show that we will not be beaten by our circumstances, no matter how dark they appear. Creativity, inventive skill and imagination, **togetherness, and Divine help will make the impossible realizable! ...like traveling somewhere in your house attached to balloons!!!

*The freedom of private businesses to operate competitively for profit with minimal government regulation.
**The idea of family and of working together towards a common goal or outcome.

School's out for Summer!!!

2009-06-16T08:15:00.000-07:00

This couple of months' break from required studies for students will (hopefully) be a time of changeup for them. Enjoying a slower pace, hanging with fam and friends, and taking in some summer sun to name a few!

But how cool would it be if, in addition to the above, some time was given by these young people (and their families) to discovering their uniqueness, and the places 'n' people that would benefit from their natural abilities and interests?!?!! Um, it'd be way cool! And in giving of themselves to the needs around them, I think this summer will quickly become one not soon to be forgotten!

"No, we neither make nor save ourselves. God does both the making and saving. He creates each of us by Christ Jesus to join him in the work he does, the good work he has gotten ready for us to do..." (Ephesians 2:10, The Message).

Divine Warrior 'n' King

2009-06-08T14:27:00.000-07:00

**Under Construction** Check back soon!

Culture of Death or Life?!?!

2009-06-04T08:30:00.000-07:00

By now you've probably heard the media's reporting of the murder of an abortionist doctor while he was attending the Sunday service at his church. The motive for Dr. George Tiller's murder? Most likely in connection with his notorious occupation: He's a late-term abortion provider--one of only a few who will kill babies after their 20th week of life in their mother's womb--babies who at that point already have their major organs and physical features developed.

Taking a life for a life, or "justice" into one's own hands, as Dr. Tiller's killer did, however, will never solve anything. But this posting's focus will not be on the aforementioned incident, nor be a discussion about a woman's rights.

Instead, it is going to peek at the heart of a woman after she allows the "legal" murder of her baby inside her womb. And it's not a pleasant picture. What is seen is pain--intense and agonizing. And there exists *testimony after testimony of women who battle demons of depression, self-loathing, and silent-suffering a long time after this choice. Their voice and hurting, however, will no longer remain silent. In fact, as we speak, a group is gathering personal testimonies of women throughout this nation who have regreted ever going through with this procedure of death. The group is doing this in order to educate those in the highest court of the United States, the U.S. Supreme Court, that legalized abortion only hurts and does not help, and in order to reverse the 1973 Supreme Court rulings that made abortion on demand legal in America.

And my question for these present generations, and for the ones to come, is: Are we going to be a culture that fosters death, or one that nourishes life?!?? We each, individually and collectively, must decide, and be ready to live with the consequences.

*You can partner with Operation Outcry, the above mentioned group and a project of The Justice Foundation, in many different ways in order to put an end to legalized abortion. If you have experienced the psychological, emotional and physical pain of aborting a child, you can confidentially share your story here, and help bring an end to the murder of millions of babies every year here in the United States of America.

May 30th to June 7th

2009-05-30T19:19:00.000-07:00

Today marks the first day of a week-and-a-half long exhibit that will be taking place at Whittier Area Community Church in Whittier, CA. World Vision wants to invite you to take a few moments to understand what it would be like to be a child in Africa infected with HIV. Through knowledge and empathy, maybe we'll be inspired towards some sort of action! The tour is free (can't beat the price!), and I hope you can make it!

"My hero!!!"

2009-05-25T20:15:00.000-07:00

Sarah with a WWII Veteran on Memorial Day, 5-25-09.

"Thank you for putting your life on the line for my freedoms!"

Life...no thanks?!?!

2009-05-22T08:22:00.000-07:00

If we could,

would we return our life

to the One who made it

before living it all the way out

like a gift take-back to the store??!?
Sadly, evening news and life

tell us that Yes

people opt to "check out early" of this life

(thru means of suicide, etc.).

At times in my past, I have despised my life, and toyed with the idea of "checking out early." But that was before... In part, before being pummeled by this person's story. ...someone who almost didn't get the opportunity to live the life her Creator made for her. The life that too many get taken from them prematurely by bully-know-it-all legislators, as well as by rights-deranged 'n' selfish, don't-wanna-accept-responsibility men and women.

But life is brief. And life is a gift from our Creator.

So we can either live loving life, or live wanting to return to Sender--the choice is ours!

Planned Parenthood Exposed

2009-05-20T08:29:00.001-07:00

I'd like to introduce you to a modern-day woman superhero....
but before I do, I wanna share with you one reason of SO MANY
why Planned Parenthood is wrong and has got to go.
The Orange County Register recently printed a story
that backed up my point ever so lovely! Here's an excerpt of it:

Okay, recap: An adult from a Planned Parenthood clinic in America--an advisor, a nurse, whomever!--just advised a not-still-girl-but-not-yet-woman to lie about the age of the man whom she was intimate with and whom she was impregnated by. For all this lady knew (or didn't know), the man could be abusing this girl, or a number of other unsafe scenarios, and therefore needed to report this case to the state in order to protect this girl and others vulnerable like her! (And also because TN state law requires such cases to be reported.) But the person working at this clinic opted instead for helpfulness??!?

But this is not the only Planned Parenthood clinic in the country that is breaking state laws and that is hurting teenage girls more than they are helping them. There are 19 others (of many, many more) to count...so far. How do we know?! [Enter aforementioned female superhero.] Thanks to a modern-day woman superhero who is willing to fight for the well-being of young girls and expose evil. She will disguise herself and play the part of a young pregnant girl, and see what "advice" Planned Parenthood clinics across the nation have to give her (she played the part in the story above). Her secret weapon?! A hidden video camera, from which she'll put footage onto her website, Liveaction.org. Her name is Lila Rose. She's a 20-year-young UCLA student. And she is fearless in her fight to expose evil, I mean, Planned Parenthood.

Assassin of Boom Chicka Wah Wah

2009-05-18T08:23:00.000-07:00

This weekend, a special guest was invited to come and share about another major character assassin in life to BEWARE of--the assassin of boom chicka wah wah, a.k.a. sexual sin. This one, in addition to self-deception, pride, anger, and seemingly small integrity compromises, can be deadly. Sex and our sexuality, the speaker reminded us, existed before sin, and were therefore good. But Satan, sinister and salacious as he is, took what God deemed good, and went and made cheap imitations and distortions of. The result? Shame, confusion, immorality, disobedience, emptiness, and ravenousness rampant throughout humanity.

One of the counterattacks to sexual sin offered by Mike Foster, though, was brilliant: Purposeful community. In other words, getting together with people on a regular basis who are safe, and with whom you can be transparent with--people who will love you, and accept you, and point you gently but firmly towards Truth. Mike has heard so many people's heartbreaking stories of the devastating effects of sexual sin, such as pornography, and in response created XXXChurch.com, "the #1 Christian Porn Site." On Wikipedia, it's described as "a Christian, anti-pornography website that aims to help those who struggle with pornography," consumers, as well as those inside the pornograpic industry. Mike understands that people sometimes get drawn in by cheap imitations, whereas in reality what they're hungry for are genuine and satisfying relationships with their Creator and with one another. Do you agree that in a lot of instances people desire true community over giving into the assassin of Boom Chicka Wah Wah?!

Weekend Dilemma

2009-05-15T16:15:00.000-07:00

It's the weekend, and that means R & R (Rest and Relaxation) inside for some,
while others may be headin' outdoors for some F-U-N!

Regardless of what is decided to do to make the most of the of the weekend,
here's something to think about:

"He who has the Son has life;
He who does not have the Son of God does not have life" (I John 5:12).

We might not realize it, but there's a difference between physical life,
and really living!

Wanna live it up this weekend?! ...Why not give Him a try?!

Reality TV toxicity

2009-05-13T08:28:00.000-07:00

Life is a blessing--a gift! ...But I doubt our Creator ever intended for us to live out life in front of a camera, for all the world to gawk at, be entertained by, and scrutinize with critical eyes. Reality TV, I feel, has done more harm than good. Especially when it invades a family's home and zeroes in on every aspect of a couple's relationship with one another, and with their kids (if they have kids, and if they're part of the "show"), etc. What was once sacred is now nothing special; what was once intimate is now entertainment; and what was once something to be shared by a few is now a free-for-all for millions. And the loss of privacy in those relationships, along with the other pressures that come along with the "Hollywood" lifestyle, loosens the bonds that bind those two separate entitities tightly together, making it difficult for husband-and-wife to weather future, and unavoidable storms... It was sad to see Nick and Jessica come undone at the end of their reality series "Newlyweds," just as it saddens me to hear of John and Kate (of "John & Kate Plus 8") going through some storms, with talk of them separating...

And in a whole other blog posting of mine will be why the here's-what-I'm-doing-every-second-of-the-day posts on Twitter, and Facebook, and/or My Space are taking away from living life, rather than adding to it! But for now, why dontchya go and make some memorable memories with your family and friends....and leave Hollywood out of it!!!

Pride chop-sueyed!

2009-05-11T08:23:00.000-07:00

An inspiring message on Sunday--thanks, Mike! Placed before us were a few challenges for combatting pride, and for leaving our mark in this world. Here are the following suggestions:

1. Learn to see yourself for who you are. By denying your strengths, or being self-depricating, you're not showing humility. (Instead, you're calling bad what God called "good.") If God gave you a gift, accept it! ...and develop it and share it. In the same way, though, you need to be aware of your weaknesses, and wake up if you're experiencing the American Idol Syndrome--i.e., thinking you're strong in an area in which in actuality you're not. (The American Idol judges know it, the viewers know it--but certain contestants can't believe that they're not the next best thing to happen to music!) Romans 12:3--the Phillips Translation--puts it like this: “Don’t cherish exaggerated ideas of yourself or your importance, but try to have a sane estimate of your capabilities by the light of the faith that God has given to you." A sane mind in regards to knowing who God made us to be is a must! The authors of an excellent series dealing with character defaults say this, "Humility is knowing who we are and where we fit, and striving to make a difference there." The world is the limit.

2. Care about other's successes. [This one really impacted me.] Being otherscentric, i.e. living outside of ourselves, is a surefire way to fight against pride. Do you know what other's dreams and passions are?! Do you know of their successes?! Do you care??! If not, then you're probably heading down the dangerous and slippery road of pride. Sometimes we don't care bcz of jealousy or bitterness or comparitonitis, but instead let's heed these words: "...Better is the man who realizes the words he speaks can be used to build and encourage his friends causing them to grow mentally and spiritually in confidence and self-worth" (from Faith Works' Deadly Viper Character Assassins based on Ephesians 5:2). As fellow members of humanity, and for many of grace and mercy, we should be quick to rejoice with our brother or sister when they do well. For, as a good friend of mine said, when one of us succeeds, it's like we all do!!!

Being sober-minded about ourselves, and building one another up should be lifestyles of ours in order to help chop-suey pride, and leave our mark on present and future generations. ...how we doin' in these two areas as peers to peers, parents to children, older siblings to younger siblings, mentors to mentorees, older generation to younger generation?!?!

I love you, Mom!

2009-05-08T08:10:00.000-07:00

Thanks for being
a GREAT Mom
to me and D!
And for being
a surrogate
Mom,
Grandma
to those
who need one.

I don't mind sharing you.

xoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxo

~Sarah :)

We've got to pray!

2009-05-07T10:33:00.000-07:00

Today, the first Thursday in May, marks the 58th National Day of Prayer.

Shirley Dobson, Chairman of the National Day of Prayer Task Force, gave this reason for the need for God-fearing people to come together in prayer today:

"This is an extremely critical time in America's history. From economic pressures, to the ongoing threat of terrorism, to the unraveling of our culture's moral fabric, many people are dealing with a deep sense of uncertainty and apprehension."

But we are not without hope! Psalm 33:22 is the theme verse for this year's NDP which says, "May Your unfailing love rest upon us, O Lord, even as we put our hope in You."

Thousands upon thousands today will be uniting in attending observances or getting connected with one another through technology in order to repent of individual and communal sins, and to also intercede for America and its leadership in the seven centers of power: Government, Military, Media, Business, Education, Church and Family.

Hope you can be among us!

Surprise, surprise!

2009-05-05T08:15:00.000-07:00

Conservative Christians don't make it into the news UNLESS they're being ripped into by the media!

And that's exactly what's happening to 21-year-young Carrie Prejean right now. Why?! Because she spoke her convictions, and in the process ruffled a few hyper-sensitive feathers.

Recently unearthed were a past photo of her modeling lingerie, and news about her having undergone plastic surgery. Attached were contenderer's "sincere" questioning about Miss California's Christian faith. Nobody likes a two-faced person (i.e. hyprocrite), but she's being dumped on and defamed for honestly sharing her views about marriage--that it "should be between a man and a woman."

She's boldly standing her ground, though, and calling the attacks by the media and by her haters what they are: offensive and intolerant. (But, oh! that more of us would bravely speak up as Carrie is doing, rather than cower back...)

However, convictions could become costly! As we speak, a hate crimes bill might soon be on its way to the desk of the president to be enacted as a law, "giving 'sexual orientation' and 'gender identity' the same federal protection as race and religion." At which point it could become a crime for a person (Christian, conservative, or other) to share their convictions (if it incites a crime)!

Healthy pride

2009-05-04T08:51:00.000-07:00

"Each one should test his own actions [and work]. Then he can take pride in himself without comparing himself to somebody else..." (Galatians 6:4 NIV).

In the course of living,
it can be all too easy
to look aside at one's neighbor,
classmate,
or even family member
and believe--
even though most of the time erroneously--
that their work,
projects,
and/or accomplishments
are more important than our own.

We are mistaken, though.

-Our wiring and DNA are different one from another--from personality and temperaments, to interests and looks, to types of intelligence!
-We each possess different kinds of giftings, such as musical, relational, administrative, creative...
-And our experiences bare unique markings upon us, just as our passions point us in different directions!

Sadly, I've wasted too much time and energy esteeming other's abilities and accolades over my own. ...and I'm sure I'm not alone in this. But we were each made purposefully and creatively by our Creator with specific work He has in mind for us to do!

Wouldn't it be great to come to the end of our life and be able to say confidently and with peace, as Jesus did, "I have brought You [Creator God] glory on earth by completing the work you gave me to do" (John 17:4)?!?!

Note: Parents of babies, young children and/or teens: Your work is to protect and provide for your children from birth to adulthood; to teach them to be independent thinkers, contributers to society, and defenders of humanity; as well as to teach them about their Creator. No job compares to parenthood, nor is anything as important, or (I imagine) as satisfying!

Beautiful People

2009-05-01T09:04:00.000-07:00

People Magazine is coming out this weekend with their choice of this year's 100 Most Beautiful People.

...I'm on the edge of my seat to find out if Rudy Carrasco will be one of them! Not unpleasant to the eyes, Hispanic, and in his forties, he's somewhat famous in his own right! In 2001, he was chosen as one of nine Hispanic religious leaders to advise the then President of the United States, President George W. Bush, about matters of awarding social service grants to faith-based organizations. This Stanford graduate's main glory to fame, however, is the fact that he has chosen, along with his African American wife, Kafi, to grow their roots in a gang-ridden, urban neighborhood in Northwest Pasadena in order to raise up youth leaders from there through afterschool, summer and teen programs, as well as through a private Christian elementary school. Harambee Ministries, led by Rudy, Kafi, and so many staff and volunteers are making a huuuuuuuuge difference in the lives of the next generation! I sure hope he's one of the one hundred!

Whom do you hope will be featured, and why?!

Piercing Silence

2009-04-29T10:37:00.000-07:00

There is a saying that has circulated around for some time that goes something like this:

"The only thing necessary for the triumph of evil, is for good men to do nothing."

Advocacy groups for same-sex marriage, as well as other homosexual rights organizations, are busy at work! Take Lambda Legal, for example. With national headquarters in NYC, and regional offices in Chicago (IL), Los Angeles (CA), Dallas (TX), and Atlanta (GA)--
nothing is beyond the reach or grasp of their nimble tentacles, nor the discharge of their deadly poison.

They are over-estatic to council and assist (financially and legally) same-sex couples seeking "fairness" and
"equality" in an unfair American society. They are in part to thank for Io w a up and jumping off the legalizing-same-sex-marriage cliff after Massachusettes and Conneticut. (Vermont deciding to follow suit and free-fall is thanks to others.)

Lambda Legal is goal-oriented--"we change laws, policies and ideas"; they're excellent at what they do--they have volunteer Cooperating Attorneys from all over the nation; and they're determined. They and the other homosexual agendists, i mean, activists will stop at nothing until the fabric of society (consisting of the traditional idea of parents--a father and mother) is loosened, unravelled and exposed to the debilitating elements.

If you, friend, of sound values and with a voice remain silent, evil will prevail.

Demo-CRY-cy

2009-04-27T07:45:00.000-07:00

New York City has an energy and excitement in the air unmatched, in my opinion, by Los Angeles. Not only has NYC been one of the major entry-points for immigrants throughout the U.S.'s history, but it is also home to a variety of nations and languages. Walking along its streets in the south part of Manhattan last summer, my cousin and I heard many unrecognizable languages being spoken by people. And one couldn't help but wonder, Where did these people come from? Whom and what did they leave behind? Why did they come? What are their dreams and desires for the future?!?

It is the immigrant, with a special love for this country he or she knows not, and who is willing to leave behind familiarity and even loved ones in order to build a new life here, that energizes me! It is recorded that those who arrived from Europe and other countries into the New York Harbor in the 19th and 20th centuries would burst into tears upon seeing Lady Liberty (the Statue of Liberty), with her torch held high, lighting the way for freedom and liberty!

Democracy is what we (mankind) desire, and it is freedom for which we were made! ...As our founding fathers declared in one of our first birth-of-a-nation documents: "We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness" (Declaration of Independence).

"'Keep, ancient lands, your storied pomp!' cries she [Lady Liberty],
With silent lips. 'Give me your tired, your poor,

Your huddled masses yearning to breathe free,
The wretched refuse of your teeming shore;
Send these, the homeless, tempest-tost to me,
I lift my lamp beside the golden door!'" (Part of sonnet about SOL by Emma Lazarus in 1883, son of immigrants.)

Fickled 'n' Flighty Feelings!

2009-04-24T11:24:00.000-07:00

I had to write this article after reading Christian movie producer Phil Cooke's 04-22 article about the media getting it wrong--again, and then circulating this misinformation until people think it's fact! Also, a friend's question about how to answer people who say they can't feel God's love compelled me to write this. The parenthesis in the verse are my comments.

Check it: "But God demonstrates (present tense) His love for us in that while we were yet sinners,
Christ died (past tense) for us." -Romans 5:8

Are you unable to feel God's love?! Then join the group! Granted, God made us bursting with feelings and emotions, like a potent package of Starburst, but I believe He did this more so as a gift to enhance the wonders of this life even more so! But they (our emotions and feelings) are fickled, flighty, and sometimes even frustrating sentiments! And I doubt our Creator ever expected us to use them as a means by which to measure truth, or from which to build something we want to last.

Instead, He calls us to know the truth, and that truth (or fact) will bring with it freedom!!! (John 8:32) Fact #1: God is unchanging. Fact #2: God is love. Fact #3: God puts His love for us into action by having had His Son take our penalty upon Himself and die.

And if we stand upon these truths and wrap them around us like Olympians do their flag of citizenship upon winning a medal, then feeling God's love will give way, instead, to knowing He loves us and has our best in mind 24/7!

...are ya' feelin' me?!?!

"Free Speech"--just don't disagree with me!

2009-04-23T10:26:00.000-07:00

During the Q & A time of the Miss USA Pageant on Sunday, April 19, Miss California was asked the following question by contest judge and celebrity gossip blogger, Perez Hilton:

"Vermont recently became the fourth state to legalize same-sex marriage.
Do you think every state should follow-suit? Why or why not?"

Carrie Prejean had only precious-few seconds to form a well thought out and thorough res-
ponse to this hot-topic issue.....but you can take your time. I'd like to know what you think, first of all, of the question--is it clear-cut, or leading and a trick?! And what do you think of states legalizing same-sex marriage?! Good idea? Bad idea? And why? If you can, also touch on the effects (+, -) on society as a whole. ...some would try and convince citizens that the individual's "rights" trump the well-being and flourishing of the family unit. Are you in agreement with this idea?

And don't worry, I doubt Perez Hilton will read what you write and go on national television and onto his website to ridicule and use profanity when talking about you if you disagree with his stance, as he did with Carrie. He's got a busy schedule.

French Progressiveness or Not?!

2009-04-22T07:18:00.000-07:00

These are three of eight female European stars who agreed to pose makeupless for the cover of French magazine Elle (April issue). They also agreed not to have their pictures undergo any Photoshop or touch up.

Whaddya think?! Is their look appealing or unattractive? Was this move brave or brainless for the actresses and magazine? Is this French magazine progressive or regressive (i.e. going backwards)?

...and how do you think girls and young women here (in the States) would respond looking at magazine covers of stars "as they are," rather than what professionals and technology can alter them to look like?!??! ...what if top magazines in the US did cover-shoots like this semi-regularly?!?

*On the Elle covers are Monica Bellucci, Eva Herzigova, and Sophie Marceau.

Tangle-fun!

2009-03-27T22:49:00.000-07:00

Tangle.com is the new happenin' place on-line!
It has set the record as the fastest growing website in the U.S. during its first month of operation.
It creates social-networking tools for people to be able to connect and share their faith and lives through videos, photos, blogs, music and more!
(It was formerly Godtube...get the name change story here.)
It's a place for the whole family!
It was started by CEO, Jason Illian, in Feb. of this year (2009).
(In addition, he was a contestant on The Bachelorette in 2005; he's the author of "MySpace, MyKids" , and a book about love 'n' dating; and he's a national speaker.)

Wanna have some fun?! Check out tangle.com!

Why Does She Stay?

2009-03-23T21:47:00.000-07:00

The Rihanna-Chris Brown affair escalated when, after Chris Brown left Rihanna's face swollen with cuts and bruises following a disagreement, she went back with him. Dumbfounded, Americans were asking themselves and one another, "Why did she go back with him?--Why does she stay?"

A Christian blogger recently revealed in her blog that the above question should NOT be the only one we're asking. In addition, we need to be questioning the man's actions, and therefore asking, "Why does he hit?"

Some root causes could be that he grew up seeing his Dad hit his Mom; or maybe because he views Rihanna as an object instead of a human being; or possibly because he's jealous of her. Whatever it is, though, there's no excuse!!! "Love doesn't fly off the handle... Love isn't always 'me first'... Love cares more for others than for self" (I Corinthians 13, The Message).

Men who use violence to "talk" are immature and not suitable to be in a committed romantic relationship. And same for women. At least not until they recognize their problem and seek help. Which is hopefully something Rihanna will think about and do while Chris Brown is in court facing charges for making criminal threats (made against her) and for felony assault (also done against her).

Love is Here and Now!!!

2009-02-11T14:54:00.000-08:00

Song: "Love is Here"
Group: Tenth Avenue North

"Come to the treasure, you who search
and you'll search no more.

Come to the lover you who want
and you'll want no more.

Come to the waters, you who thirst
and you'll thirst no more.

. . .

And all you who labor in vain, and to the broken and shamed:
Love is here.
Love is now.
Love is pouring from his hands, from his brows.

Love is near,
it satisfies.
Streams of mercy flowing from his side.
Cuz love is here."

"But God demonstrates (present tense) His love for us in that while we were yet sinners,
Christ died (past tense) for us." -Romans 5:8

...Can you hear our Creator LOUDLY PROCLAIMING His love over humanity so that all creation and principalities can hear?! ...It's in the sighing manger; the gasping cross; and the exhaling tomb. Jesus was divinely conceived...grew up to be a man with a message...gave up his life for a purpose...and was resurrected back to life by the power of God and for a future task. If it's difficult to "hear" God's message of love for us in the Person of Jesus Christ, then it might be high-time the noises (lies, doubt, insecurities) are turned off.

The fact is, He's head-over-heels, crazy in love with us!!!

...are you this way over Him??!? Love is here!

(*Lyrics above not in same order as song's original.)

The Superbowl Commercial You Didn't Get to See BUT NEED TO

2009-02-01T15:37:00.000-08:00

The following commercial came super close to being aired during the Cardinals-versus-Steelers Super Bowl Game (in FL) today:

Interesting, huh?! It's a forty-one-second *ad about a baby who will be born into a broken home, with his birth father abandoning him early on, and his single mother struggling to raise him (with the help of his grandparents as well.) And yet, despite these hardships, this baby boy will go on to eventually become the President of the United States of America--the first minority to do so!

If Barak Obama overcame his less-than-ideal circumstances to realize his life's potential, what's our excuse for not doing the same?!

*Ad sponsored by CatholicVote.Org

Greatness - A Tribute

2009-01-19T15:34:00.001-08:00

On this day--01-19-09, MLK Jr. Day--it is fitting to celebrate not just one man, but two! (Though one day before the inauguration of America's first minority president, the other honoree isn't Barack Obama.) Instead of choosing the safe road of popularity by remaining blind and deaf to the injustices and evils they saw around them, these two men at different times, under different circumstances, and in different positions of leadership undertook the rocky, risky road of pursuing what was right for the good of many! ...Making them noteworthy and deserving of honor.

Martin Luther King Jr., was great, not because he did the popular thing, but because he did the right thing. It was right to challenge this nation's treatment towards humans of black and varying shades of brown skin color, and to help one see that when we perceive one another, we should do so not with the eyes, but with the heart, thereby being able to discern one's character. Because MLK Jr. stood in the breach for racial equality, fought for the good of many, even at the cost of his own life, he's therefore,

a great person--
a hero.

The other, for whom it is fitting to honor this day, is President George W. Bush. Today marks the end of his two-term presidency, in which, since that nightmarish day in September of 2001, he spent his remaining time in office with refocused efforts, defending and protecting the American people from their malicious enemy--international terrorists. He stood unafraid in the face of fear, threats, and evil, even though it meant putting his life at even more risk, experiencing increased unpopularity with the media, and finding disfavor with many Americans. Unmoved and unshaken, President Bush has helped ensure that we have remained unattacked on our own soil since 9-11-01, and for these reasons, he is, consequently,

a great person--
a hero.

Who is one of your heroes, and why?! ...Are you a hero to somebody?!?