Into the Field

Merry Christmas 2011!

2011-12-25T08:00:00.002-05:00

Partnering to Increase Kingdom Impact

2011-12-16T15:08:00.000-05:00

There are a lot of great people - and ministries - doing a lot of great work. But to me, it is so exciting when they're able to link arms to serve together - in planned and unplanned ways. When that happens, I believe that our impact not only increases, but God smiles because He sees His people working and serving together.

The terms "partner", "partnering", and "partnership" are thrown around in many different contexts and usually are thought of as being something formal and requiring of agreements, documents, and/or contracts. But it doesn't have to be that way at all. Really these are all different ways of saying that people are coming together. And while many times formality is required, more times than not, it isn't.

I'd like to share one such example, and one which brings a smile to my heart and which so perfectly illustrates some of what motivates me and Into the Field.

My family is involved with a great ministry on Ohio State's campus - International Friendships - which serves the thousands of international students which come to study each year. Our student this fall, wasn't actually supposed to be ours, but rather that of our friends who had a conflict and asked if we could help. We have "adopted" Fei into our family. She joins us each Sunday, asks lots of great questions, comes along with us to local ministry and service opportunities, and is experiencing many new things and family traditions (in the photo she is making mashed potatoes at Thanksgiving).

Understandably many of our conversations have revolved around the work that I do in China. We have spent many hours looking at pictures from my trips and talking about the impact that can be made when people reach out to serve others. I recently took her to the airport so that she could fly home to Beijing for part of her winter break. With her went a big box of sweaters and blankets which had been knitted and made by people with a heart for orphans. As God would have it, in all of China, she lives only 20 minutes from my dear friend, David, who works and serves with me and others through chinaconnect.

On Tuesday, David and his daughter (who will be coming to study next year in the US), picked Fei up and together the three of them delivered the box of treasures to two special needs foster home/orphanages with which I serve and partner - Agape and Shepherd's Field Children's Village. As you can see from the smiles on their faces, it was a meaningful time. David's daughter has already emailed me several times with updates on their activities and thanked me for bringing Fei into their lives.

In addition to the sweaters and blankets, Fei was able to take some small gifts of US treats which David is helping to deliver to other friends who are living and serving in China.

David's daughter volunteers with an organization (which happens to be just a couple of minutes from Fei's home...are you surprised? I'm not.). This organization serves children of migrant workers. On Wednesday, the two new friends went to volunteer some time there. I look forward to hearing back their report.

None of the above was scripted or planned out in advance by us. But look at what has happened when those who seek to serve come together! Seeds of love and service that get planted and nurtured grow and more lives than we will ever have the opportunity to know are impacted.

Oh...Fei has also announced to her family that when she returns to Beijing in June, she won't be with them the first week...she'll be with me...serving others...God is good...

In the Moment with Grady

2011-11-11T13:15:00.002-05:00

One of the things that I love about Chinese Christians is their beautiful faith. I love to worship with them. Unlike many of us in the United States, when they sing, their focus is on who they are singing TO, not who they are singing WITH.

As you listen to Grady's rendition of "Our God is an Awesome God", pay attention to the passion in his voice. He is in the moment and so is his Father.

Click here to read more about Grady and the stories of some of his friends.

I just learned the very exciting news that the $45,000 that was needed for his spine surgery (all options were searched...in the US it would have been in excess of $1,000,000) has been raised! God is Good! Please pray for the surgeon and those who will use their expertise to care for him, that a bed will open in the hospital for him, that the surgery goes smoothly, that he stays clear of infection, and his 5-7 weeks in the hospital are uneventful. I can't wait to see the way that God is going to use this great kid!

I am thankful for the blessing of Grady in the lives of all who have the privilege of meeting him!

If you would like to learn more about Grady or travel with Into the Field to China (June 14-26, 2012!) where we will be serving him and others, send us an email! We would love to have you join us!

The Price of a Princess

2011-09-28T15:42:00.001-04:00

Last night I, along with about 250 of my closest girlfriends at Upper Arlington Lutheran Church, had the opportunity to be blessed by the message and ministry of Jennifer Beckham.

Like most little girls, Jennifer had the dream of being a Princess. Unlike most little girls, her dream came true. She lived the fairytale life of a Disney Princess. While beautiful in many ways, also held unanticipated realities. What is the price to maintain the illusion of perfection? Do you dare share any of your scars? Will you ever be enough? In a stadium, in Tokyo, she discovered the truth.

Jennifer's message is a powerful reminder that so much of life is a matter of perspective. Our world is full of people, places, and things who want to tell us that we're not good enough, that we're not pretty enough, that we're just not enough.

Throughout our time together, she reiterated that we have to be careful because often the lies which we are told are laced with just enough truth that they are difficult to see for what they are. We were created in the image of God and are HIS princesses. Any "flaws" that we have are intended and put as a part of who we are for a purpose.

Who is speaking to you and changing your perspective away from that of God? Who or what is the voice that is telling you that you are anything less than a precious child of God? Who told you that you're not all that God intended for you to be?

Because you are. You are His Princess. You are His Child. You are Enough. You are all that God intended you to be. No matter who is speaking lies into your life, remember that you are His. And that is enough.

Bibles for China

2011-08-25T17:58:00.000-04:00

I don't know about you, but I regularly take for granted the blessings all around me -- whether that when I turn on the facet water comes out (not only that it flows, but that it is safe for me to drink), when I'm hungry I can either go the pantry, refrigerator, or store to find something to eat, or I'm tired and I go to sleep on my soft bed filled with pillows.

If you were to look around your bookshelves, how many Bibles would you see? Probably more than entire villages in areas of the world where the Word is restricted and not easily available.

Last October, when in China, I was in a meeting with a pastor, a government official, and others. The topic of a new rural church which the current church is building came up. When we asked the government official (who usually we do not have much interaction with and who has the ability to send us out of the country if we say something incorrect about our intentions regarding faith activities) if we could help purchase Bibles for those who would be attending the new church, many of whom are poor and could not afford to buy one on their own, he said, "Sure. No problem."

Recently a friend of mine, who is living and serving full time in China passed through town while home for a summer break. Into the Field was able to give her money which she has now taken back with her and will go to the church where she will work with the pastor to make the purchase and get the Bibles into the hands of those who need them. What an amazing opportunity to be able to help provide the Word to those who crave and deeply desire it!

Passion into Purpose

2011-07-31T17:00:00.002-04:00

I had the opportunity to write a brief article for Connections magazine (printed by Sola Publishing) which scratches the surface in telling my story and thoughts about "Passion into Purpose: God's Gifts Becoming His Impact."

If you'd like to read it, click here.

Do you have thoughts or your own story to share? I'd love to hear it!

Caution Re-Entry!

2011-06-30T16:03:00.000-04:00

Before moving to serve full time in Haiti, Pastor Dave Mann used to meet with mission teams as they were preparing to depart and shared with them a message he titled, "Caution Re-Entry!". He warned these good hearted servants that while out in the field they would have life altering experiences and when they returned, at the first opportunity, they would want to explode on and share every minute detail with anyone who would inquire about their trip.

"Be prepared, " he would caution, "to give 30 second, 1 minute, 5 minute, or longer responses depending on the engagement of the listener to what you are sharing."

Well...I've just returned from another incredible trip to China and I wonder how I can do anything less than share about each of the precious children that I met at Shepherd's Field Village. How can I not want everyone to know about:

The always smiling Elizabeth who I don't think realizes that some people would try to put limits on what she can do. She has no use of her legs, but that doesn't stop her from jumping up and climbing the jungle gym only to summons me for a photo; or from racing across the sandbox on her hands so that she can get dizzy with the other kids on the spinner.

Or what about Josiah who is ALL BOY and reminds me of my nephews. He loves to run and wrestle and play in the dirt, but he also loves to cuddle, hold hands, and has a smile that could melt even the most frozen of hearts. Whenever I would enter the dining room at lunch time he would come, take my hand, and escort me to a seat at his table. He is a tender-hearted warrior who is on the look-out for the good of others.

And sweet Cody who is smiley and sweet and loves to put on a show. I have a great video of Cody singing "the wheels on the bus" to me. He is holding a wheelbarrow in his hands while singing it. When he comes to his favorite verse, he drops the wheelbarrow so that he can use his hands to mimic the "beep beep beep" that the horn on the bus makes. Open your arms and he will run full speed to jump into them.

Don't let the sunglasses and silk dress fool you, Joy is more than a pretty face - she has a plan and she will make it happen. Her friends eating too slow, no problem, she'll pick up their bowl and feed them. Someone on the playground not being nice, she'll karate-chop them. A little one with a tear in their eye, she'll give them a big hug.

And to be able to play "secret agent" for the families of Perry and Haley who are anxiously waiting for them to come to their forever families...not so stealthily taking pictures and videos and sharing them with those who long to have them home. While I have been told that I was a gift to them, it is really I who received the blessing. To be able to hug, play with, pray for, and "talk" (I put in quotes because neither of us truly spoke the other's language) with these special kids and to know how much they are already loved and missed, was precious to me.

I can't wait to hear about more of these little ones who are going home with their families. Until they do, I rest in the knowledge that those who serve and lead Shepherd's Field Village are doing so with a love for them that is exceeded only by that of their Heavenly Father. It was with tears in my eyes that I left, and eagerness in my heart that I will return.

This Morning at Church in China...

2011-06-19T02:40:00.000-04:00

"O Lord, my God, may your gospel be spread freely across China...We pray for those in the midst of crisis and disaster, may they turn to you for peace, grace, comfort, and strength."

This is how the pastor at Beijing Chongwenment Christian Church began her prayer this morning. The topic of her sermon, "Being a Good Server of Jesus Christ." One of the key scriptures, Matthew 28: 16-20:

"Now the eleven disciples went to Galilee, to the mountain to which Jesus had directed them. And when they saw him they worshiped him, but some doubted. And Jesus came and said to them, "All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age."

Quick look around, I'm in China, right?

The sermon which she preached this morning was fantastic. She was on a roll and definitely putting forth a call-to-action to her congregation. Following are some excerpts (I had my notebook out and was writting quickly as the translator spoke through my headset) that I want to share:

"Surely we know that Jesus is the head of the Church. The greater the position, the great the leader, the great the servant one should be.

This makes some uncomfortable because many want to be a leader, be the head, because they want more to serve them. this is contrary to God's will. If you have a realtionship

We do this not because the Lord needs us, He is all powerful and can do it without us, but as His children and a part of his family, we must participate in family affairs and care for one another.

We are not to be capable at all things. If this was the case, we would not need the family, we could be independent. We all have role to play. You should participate; youshould be engaged; you should be welcoming to others and make them feel welcome in the family.

Wherever you are, you are part of this family. We should take the active role of going out and serving others.

In Matthew it says that when you have shared food or clothing or shelter with another, you have done it for Him. It is easy to forget somethimes that serving others is serving God. In 1 john, the scripture says that if you cannot love your brothers and sisters who you can see, how can you love God who yuou cannot see? Therefore there is a direct relationship between loving God and loving others; serving God and serving others.

Love people based on your love of God. If God is in your heart, there is room for others. We are all created in the image of God. Therefore, we are called to love all - not just those we deem credible.

Jesus is the example for us to follow. We may not be able to do all of the same things as Jesus - we may not be able to open the eyes of a blind man - but he should be our motivation, our example to follow.

The purpose of Jesus' life can be summarized in 2 words: 1) serve; and 2) salvation.

Serve with humility - he entered with humility (born in a stable); served in humility (washed feet and loved the unlovable); and died in humility on the cross.

Right now he is seated at the right hand of God pleading on our behalf until his return.

Some think that they must do something big to be for God, but anything done with the love and intention of God - even if we thing it is insignificant - is good, beautiful, and significant in the eyes of the Lord.

We should serve with our hears and our souls. We should follow the Holy Spirit. he will show how and where He directs.

God is God. Man is man. We need to remember that. He is not our servant. We are to serve Him."

We attended the 2nd of 4 services being held today. Here is a photo of some of those lining up to enter the 3rd service through the back door as we came out the front.

May her prayer and call-to-action come to be!

On Their Time

2011-06-15T07:30:00.000-04:00

Nobody likes to be rejected. We all want to be accepted each and every time that we reach out in an effort to connect with another person. Unfortunately that desire for connection is not always reciprocated. We then have two choices: 1) give up; or 2) continue to make ourselves available so that when the individual is ready, we are there and waiting.

Meet my friend Noel. Noel has CP and gets around either in her wheel chair or by dragging her body awkwardly behind her when on the floor in her home. When we first met she wouldn't look at me or have anything to do with me. Slowly she played legos with me. Then, another day, we sat next to each other outside under a tree. Today we started playing a tickle game. She just laughed and laughed and laughed. All I have to do now is wiggle my fingers and she starts to giggle and scrunches up in a ball. Earlier, I was probably 30 feet away and I looked over to see her looking at me. I waved and she waved back with a big smile. I have broken through and now have a special friend. On her time.

Are there other people with whom you have tried unsuccessfully to connect? If your heart is right, you are patient and persistent, you may eventually have the result you desire. Jesus has that desire to connect with you. He is willing to be persistent in His pursuit of you. Are you willing to allow Him to break through and be your friend? He is willing. On your time.

What's your story?

2011-06-13T01:53:00.001-04:00

Everyone has a story...it tells where they've come from and helps to give insight into why they are the way they are.

For those of us who grew up in happy, healthy families, our stories are known and shared by those who love us. There is continuity to our story. There are people who help us remember them when we forget.

For those who have been abandoned by their families, their stories must be uncovered bit by bit. Some pieces may never known.

Brent was stolen as a baby. And then he was abandoned. Nobody knows who or where his family is. However, because he does have a family, somewhere, who might someday come looking for him, he is not able to be adopted and will likely live out his life at Shepherd's Field Village (SFV). He has joy, he has spunk, and a twinkle in his eye. More than 24 hours after creating his "Prince's Crown", he is still wearing it everywhere he goes.

Grady is 16, has scoliosis, and is physically bound by his wheelchair. He has been at SFV for 4 years. There is a family who wanted to adopt him and began the process. Unfortunately, because of a paperwork hangup (not at SFV), he turned 14 before it was finalized. According to China law, once a child is 14, he is no longer eligible to be adopted. Period. His would-be adoptive family (as well as Grady) was heart broken, and continues to assert that they have 5 kids - but 1 lives in China. Grady has amazing English skills, a great sense of humor, a love of magic, refers to himself as Grady Houdini and has the dream of being an interpreter. He has a generous heart and he is often seen sharing his candy and other special treasures with friends new and old. His story has taken some twists and turns, has had some dark chapters, but we know that it will have a remarkable ending and can't wait to see what it will be.

The story that is often forgotten in the midst of human struggle, but is the most important one, is that there was this man named Jesus who was God's son, and who came to earth just for us. His was a story that had twists and turns, happy and sad days. But one that ended in victory. Because of him and his life that he gave up on the cross, if we love and accept him, we have the ability to be a part of HIS forever family. One where love knows no bounds, where everyone has brothers and sisters, and a Father who loves unconditionally.

The the initial chapters of your story have already been written, but its ending is yet to be created. Regardless of what has already happened, how will you bring it to closure? What will your story be?

Princes & Princesses of The King

2011-06-12T00:45:00.001-04:00

If I was in church at home this Sunday, I would be hearing Pastor Eric preach about Acts 2 and the work of the Holy Spirit on Pentecost. Knowing that that was the text that he was going to be preaching on while I was gone, I spent some time reading it yesterday morning so that while I'm not there, I would still stay connected.

Today is my first full day at Shepherd's Field Children's Village in China. It is an amazing place led by some amazing people, who have a heart for the Lord and for serving orphaned children who have a wide (and in come cases serious) array of physical and developmental challenges.

If you've ever spent time doing cross-cultural missions and ministry, you know that sometimes communication can be challenging...you use words, you use smiles, you use gestures, and sometimes, as a last resort (which really should be the first resort) you put it in God's hands to help the message get across.

This morning had the potential for chaos - and briefly it was. I went to one of the children's houses (here at "the village", the children live in 5 different houses) armed with foam crowns and stick-on jewels (some of which, as would be expected, ended up not on the crowns but stuck to their faces). My message to the kids was that because they are God's children, and He is the King of Kings, that they are Princes and Princesses. Once everyone got the color they wanted and the jewels which had been flung into the air by one of my very excited little friends had come to rest, I felt it was like in Acts 2:7-8, "Utterly amazed, they asked: 'Are not all these men who are speaking Galileans? Then how is it that each of us hears them in his own native language?'" My Chinese language skills are nominal at best. Some of the kids have a few English words in their vocabulary. Yet somehow we were able to connect, communicate, and share some special time together.

I guess that when your heart and intentions are right, and you've placed your work in God's hands, the message that you're desiring to share can be heard regardless of the language that you speak.

Here are a few of the Princes and Princesses:

Through Their Eyes

2011-05-17T14:02:00.000-04:00

One of the things that I love about international and cross-cultural ministry is the opportunity to see life and faith through the eyes of those with which I'm spending time.

Sometimes it is a look of confusion when a common-to-us term is used and I have to try and translate or explain it; sometimes it is a twinkle in an eye when there is understanding; or a grin of success when a joke or a tease is done in a second language.

I frequently have Chinese students join me at church. Some have faith, others don't. I'm always curious as to what they think, what they understood, what they "take away" from their time there.

For Easter my parents and I had four students join us at church and then go back to Mom & Dad's for brunch. As is typical, Dad made jokes that earned him some courtesy laughs - "the girls" didn't really "get" some of what he was trying to say, but being respectful they smiled anyways. When asked what they thought about the service, one answered, "I really liked it. I liked how the pastor shared the whole story. I had never heard it before." (If you want to hear the sermon by Pastor Eric Waters, you can click here.)

As we spoke more about it, they shared that they are starting to hear more and more from their friends (who are still in China and attending university there) about their faith and becoming Christians. They have been emailing and chatting and having their beliefs opened to new things.

Not everyone has the opportunity to travel to another country to experience another culture firsthand, but everyone does have the opportunity to find someone from another country living here, and experience it firsthand with them. You might be surprised what you see when you look through their eyes!

Life as a Recovering A-Type Personality

2011-03-29T10:40:00.002-04:00

"The greater truth is that when God disrupts our plans, He maybe trying to accomplish His plans that are far better. They are far more fulfilling plans in which He calls us to become participants and not mere observers."

I jotted this down a couple of months ago (and forgot, unfortunately, to also write down where I heard/read it...so my apologies to the original source!) because it really resonated with me.

Anyone who has spent more than a couple of minutes with me knows that I usually have already formed a plan in my mind as to how I'd like to do something/see something done, where I'd like to go, etc. I love to collaborate with others, but I usually have a sense for what I'd like to see happen.

God likes to remind me, however, that I'm not the one in control. That it is His plan, not mine, which will come to pass. This can be frustrating. I, like most Americans, want it my way, and I want it when I want it. I'm doing better than in the past. I'm more flexible than I once was. I am better able to adjust to spontaneous change of plans (like having a truck driver delivering pallet of toys to my office tell me that not only will the pallet not fit through our door, but he can't get his super-sized truck in our parking lot, is parked with blinkers on busy Bethel Rd, and results in us re-routing the delivery to my garage where we by hand unloaded and stacked the pallet in my a-typically empty space).

He and I are in the middle of a tug-of-war right now regarding my June trip to China. I have a plan. He does, too, and they're not completely in-sync. I'm sure that at the end of June, when I look back at how this trip and team came together and served, that I will see a plan and result far superior to what I could have orchestrated on my own. In the meantime, I'll do what I usually do and dig my heels in, pretend I'm in charge, and then let go and let it happen as He intended the entire time.

Mission and Ministry vs. Legacy and Ego

2011-02-21T15:30:00.000-05:00

One of the things which drives me crazy is people who say that they're doing something in the name of their faith, but really, they're doing it so that people will remember them and their name.

Don't get me wrong. I don't think that there is anything wrong with wanting to leave a legacy, to making an impact. To me, the wrong comes with the motivation. I hope that when I get to heaven that I will hear God say, "well done my good and faithful servant."

I was once involved with an organization that had an amazing story. It's rich history, heritage, impact, and initial motivation was fantastic. But then things started to change. Discussions around the table went from being about "how are the lives of the people that we're serving better because we're here", to "how can we capture the history of how we've served so that people will know that we were here". The focus - in my opinion - shifted from an impact on many individual lives, to a monument of specific lives. From mission and ministry to legacy and ego.

If you believe, as I do, that we're called to serve and strive to make an eternal impact on the lives of others, then you know it isn't at all about you or me. That to really serve, to really humble yourself, you can't do it by yourself. But when you keep your eyes on the mission and ministry, and the One who you are serving, anything is possible. It isn't about applying human metrics (which in many cases are important to track), but rather remembering God's metrics which are beyond our measurement. It isn't about who gets the credit, creating something new, or doing it "our way". It should be about why and for whom we're doing it.

I recently started receiving daily email messages from John Maxwell called his "A Minute with Maxwell" (you can sign up to receive these FREE!). In these video messages, he spends one minute giving his thoughts on a particular word, ranging from wisdom to hope to success and everything in between. Today's message was on legacy. You can listen to it here. He says a couple of things that I want you to consider:

We can decide today what we want people to say about us tomorrow.
Start today to create your legacy.
Visualize your legacy tomorrow, value it today.

What kind of legacy do you want to leave? Do you want it to be one built of brick and mortar? One with a plaque on the wall? Or do you want it to be one of lives touched and blessed and written on the hearts of those who tell of it?

Go! Bless! Be Blessed!

2011-02-10T10:47:00.000-05:00

Walking down the street I realized that suddenly all around me had gotten eerily quiet – a strange sensation when on a major street with hundreds of people within eyesight... But that’s sometimes what happens when you travel to another country, where you look – and sound - nothing like those whom you have come to serve. That first trip to rural China was filled with many unexpected experiences, curious looks, special smiles from new little friends, and a pull on my heart which hasn’t stopped and will take me back for my 5th trip this June.

Each time I go and return again, I am reminded how incredibly blessed we are; we have freedoms to live where we want to live; pursue the jobs we want to pursue; have brothers, sisters, and families of all sizes and shapes; go to the schools we want to attend; worship where, how, when, and with whom we desire. While each of us has changes we’d like to see in our lives, our jobs, our government – few (if any) places and people on earth are as blessed as we are.

June 9-21, I will lead a team for chinaconnect to a special place – a Christian orphanage which cares for the most special of orphans: those who, because of their special needs have been abandoned by their families and are not able to be cared for by other “regular” orphanages. We will hold, love on, care for, and serve these children and those who care for them.

Jesus said, “Let the children come to me.” It is a long way to go, but will you join me as we go to them and share some of His and our blessings? For more information, or to say, “Count me in!” contact me.

Loving and Serving the Least

2011-01-24T17:54:00.000-05:00

January is a time when many people pause, take stock of their lives, and make adjustments to get them heading down the right (or a different) track. February is close on January’s heels. For my family, February mean’s birthdays. My sister’s and I flip years on the 1st, 4th, and 5th (yes, I’ll be joining those in the “Fabulous 40” club this year). Growing up, the first week of February was always a time of family, fun, and celebration. Many look forward to the 14th – to Valentine’s Day and the celebration of love (personally, I’ve always wondered why people have to wait until a designated day to let those they love know it). In China, February brings their New Year - a time when people leave the far corners of the country to return to their families.

In June (9-21), I will be leading a team for chinaconnect to a special place. Shepherd’s Field Village (SFV) in China welcomes those orphans whose special needs (physical and developmental) can’t be handled by other orphanages. They provide the love and care to help these kids live and grow to the best of their abilities; SFV surrounds them with the brothers and sisters that they never had and provides them with a family they never knew. They celebrate when any of their children leave from SFV to find “forever families” in the US and around the world.

I have found that often those whom the world deems to be worth the least have the most to give (and to teach). I was reminded by several young orphans in Ukraine that in the midst of darkness joy can be found in simple things – like an orange balloon.

My church is spending the first 10 weeks of 2011 studying Matthew and the Great Commission. This past Sunday, Pastor Eric (click here to listen) spent time talking about Matthew 25, “Then the righteous will answer Him, ‘Lord, when did we see You hungry and feed You, or thirsty and give you something to drink? When did we see You a stranger and take You in or without clothes and clothe You? When did we see You sick, or in prison, and visit You?’ And the King will answer them, ‘I assure you: Whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of Mine, you did for Me.’” (v 37-40). He continues in vs. 45 “Then He will answer them, ‘I assure you: Whatever you did not do for one of the least of these, you did not do for Me either.’”

We know that Christ had a special place in His heart for children. Will you join me as I go to help care for some of the least? For more info (or to say YES!), please email me.

Carpe Diem! Seize the Day!

2010-12-30T16:24:00.000-05:00

Last week I received the copy of Ray Pritchard's book, "Fire and Rain - The Wild-Hearted Faith of Elijah" that I won from his Keep Believing Ministries' Facebook page. I confess, I'm only just beginning to read it. However one the things that Pastor Ray says in the introduction has been resonating with me. He asks, "How much are you willing to risk to become all that God wants you to be?"

It isn't too dissimilar to something that someone else said to me about a month ago, "How much are you willing to give up to get what you really want?"

2011 is just hours away. Millions of people around the world are taking stock of their lives, evaluating their successes and failures, and making plans for the upcoming year.

God asks us to take a risk, to give up everything - to give up our lives - for Him. When we do this, He says that He will care for us and bless us in more ways than we can even imagine. In taking that "risk", we open ourselves up to being everything that God wants us to be. Shouldn't that be what we really want?

So what do you say, How much are you willing to give up to get what you really want? How much are you willing to risk to become all that God wants you to be? It's just your life and His will for it.

Faith & Freedom

2010-11-19T14:09:00.002-05:00

It has now been a couple of weeks since I returned from China. I'm now mostly asleep and awake at the appropriate times. As is usual, it takes me time when I return from China (or other places abroad) to reflect on and process what I experienced.

Still a work in process, with Thanksgiving just around the corner, I wanted to reflect on my thankfulness for faith and freedom - not something that everyone on our planet is blessed with.

This trip we visited a new part of China - a province and city to which I had never been. It is a city of about 4.4 million people.

Following church one Sunday morning, we met with the Senior Pastor, as well as the head of the Red Cross and the head of the Religious Affairs Bureau (RAB) for the area. (For those not familiar with China, the RAB helps to set, monitor, and enforce religious policy in China. They help to decide who is/isn't in violation of policy and what the ramifications for their actions should be.)

It was an amazing meeting!

The pastor shared about all of the incredible things that the church is doing - building houses, donations to earthquakes, health clinics, helping those in the community find jobs, rebuilding schools in the rural areas so that kids can get back to school, etc. They have received awards for their work. "We're just doing it for God," is what he told us. They have plans for building a rural church, want to setup a net training center to train co-workers, setup a community center for the elderly. The government, we were told, has given them land and a lot of support.

Knowing that rural areas are frequently very poor and the people who live there lack resources, we asked the gentleman from the RAB if we could assist by providing Bibles to the poor Christians who will be attending the new church. "Sure, no problem," he responded. We were surprised and delighted as this has not always been the case (is continues not to be in some areas).

The gentleman from the RAB told us that his role is to maintain the rights of all religious people and, if conflicts arise between religions, to serve as mediators.

In their city of 4.4 million, we were told that there are 500 registered places of worship - this could be a church, a temple, or your mothers living room. Of those, 200 are Christian, 200 are Buddhist, 100 Daoist, 9 Catholic, and 1 Muslim. There are 150,000 people in the city who believe in any religion. By RAB records, 60,000 of those are Christians.

In China, the children's belief is in accordance with their parents, as the focus for children is education. According to law, under 18 a child cannot attend church without his/her parents.

Many of the first to come to the United States did so for religious freedom; for the ability to worship where they want, how they want, and who they want. I am thankful that at this time in our history, we still have that freedom of faith.

and the constant is...change...

2010-10-09T14:35:00.000-04:00

I leave for China on Monday.

One of the things that I learned early on in doing missions, ministry, and cross-cultural work (and I guess any work for that matter), is that one thing you can absolutely count on is change. So we plan the best that we can, be as prepared as we can, and then know that something about our plans - sometimes something small, sometimes something big - is going to change.

Part of the plan for my time in China was to visit the rural orphanage shown in my previous post. This trip would serve a significant role in my planning for the team I'll take there in June. The orphanage has a great story and great need for its children. Today, when the final confirmation call was made to them, we were told that apparently the local government has built a brand new orphanage, that this one will be moving, and that there won't be a need for us to come this time or in the future. Hmmm...ok...

This isn't something that I really understand. It wasn't in the plan - for next week or next June. We'd planned; we'd communicated; we'd visited in August; we'd planned some more; and then the inevitable change...

So, we'll get on our various planes on Monday and fly to Beijing. We know that there are others there who have significant need - some we've had previous discussions with but who didn't seem to fit "the (our) plan" as well as the orphanage in Fuyang did. There will undoubtedly be many emails flying back and forth between now and then as we reset our plan...remembering that it isn't "our plan" but "His plan"...

Good thing I'm getting to be so laid back and flexible...

Heading to "the Other China"

2010-08-19T15:55:00.001-04:00

In October I will be headed back to China - this time with chinaconnect. We will be headed into what we refer to as "the Other China" - the China which is beyond the bright lights of Beijing and the hoopla of Hong Kong. One of the places we'll visit is an orphanage where I will be taking a team next June. Below is a rough video that I've put together from pictures and video clips that have been shared with me by friends who were recently there. If after watching it there is something tugging at your heart, maybe you should consider joining me in June...if you can't, maybe you'd like to join us through the sharing of your financial gifts. As you'll see, there is a lot to be done to help these kids - and that requires not only many prayers, but some dollars, too!

Giving Generously or Living Generously

2010-07-13T12:51:00.000-04:00

There are many newsletters which arrive regularly in my inbox. Frequently - admit it, you do this, too - I just hit delete. When I do find myself opening and scanning down through a particular message, there will usually be something that jumps out at me. Such was the case today as I was reading the current edition from Excellence in Giving.

The headline read, "Giving Generously or Living Generously - Generosity is not a one time action it is a constant way of life". Interested in the topic and curious about what they were going to say, I clicked on the link. The author, Jay Link, shared some thoughts and experiences which resonate with me. Mr. Link says, "The lesson is this: I can be generous in how I give without being generous in how I live. Conversely, I have also learned that a person who lives generously always gives generously." Hmmm....

Following snapshot shares a couple of his points (click here for the entire article):

Characteristics of those whose lives model "Living Generously":

"Characteristic #1: Generous Living is Open-Hearted

Those who live generously are open-hearted and alert to find people who are struggling, hurting or in pain. They empathize with those whose world is difficult and they enjoy trying to make it better.

Characteristic #2: Generous Living is Open-Minded

The minds of those who live generously are always thinking about creative ways to bless and encourage others in both great and small ways. They are consciously engaged in their world and the lives of those around them, poised to show generosity to anyone whenever the opportunity presents itself.

Characteristic #3: Generous Living is Open-Handed

The resources of those who live generously, all of them – (time, talent, treasure [and torso]), are ready to be gladly given whenever a need or an opportunity is discovered. When it is within their power to respond, they relish the privilege to make a difference and bless the life of another – friend or stranger. They live out the extreme attitude, “What is mine is yours and you can have it.”"

I don't know about you, but while I work hard to give and live generously, I think I've got some work to do. Let's all make it a goal to do so - just think how much better our world would be! Thank you, Mr. Link, for your transparency and prompting to thought and action.

What do you see?

2010-06-08T13:40:00.052-04:00

What do you see? Right now. What do you see? Stop looking at the computer screen and glance around you. What do you see?

I see...

a photo of an old weathered Honduran man strapping some blankets to his equally old burro, preparing to go gather wood in the hills;
a poster asking, "Does the Bible Provide an Adequate Answer for the Problem of Suffering?";
a bunch of piles nearly out-of-control;
Bibles in various languages, devotionals, books on fundraising, writing proposals, "Facing Your Giants", "Guide for Charity Board Members";
blown up and framed photographs of energetic kids in China, blank-eyed babies in Ukraine, kids playing on a playground in Quinhagak, Alaska, my nephews, a friend & me in Beijing;
a newspaper headline, "Status quo..." peering out from under a book;
a partially written thank you note;
a trash can greatly in need of emptying;
materials promoting the great works of Back in His Arms Again, chinaconnect; Doma International, Eyes Wide Open International, Orphan World Relief, the CLiF Network;
a dying plant;
the bill from the unexpected and unbudgeted engine work on my car;
a strategic plan for a new ministry;
bags of Honduran coffee;
a yard stick.

Every now and then I get into what my mom refers to as a "funk". When in one of my funks, I get out-of-sorts with pretty much everyone and everything, and I lack all passion and motivation. These seem to occur at times which I have taken my eyes off those things which are important - those things which represent my faith, passion, and purpose - and have shifted to the "stuff" which surrounds me.

I don't think that I'm all that unusual. How often do our eyes get distracted from what is really important and on to the "stuff" which only seems important? How often to we allow ourselves to get frustrated by those things which are really not a big deal, but seem to have the ability to skew our attitudes and outlooks? Probably more often than we'd like to admit.

The next time you feel yourself sliding into a funk, I'd like to encourage you to take another look around. While there may be lots of stuff in the way, work hard to look through it and really see and focus on those things which are really important, which give you your faith, passion and purpose.

The Impact of a Single Life

2010-04-28T14:02:00.004-04:00

Have you ever wondered if you're making a difference? When you look around the corner, around the world, at all the people in pain, all the kids without parents, all the people who are struggling with their lot in life? Have you ever asked "what impact can I make?" I have.

Last week a dear friend of mine lost her father too quickly to the villian known as cancer. As I had the honor of serving her family and being by their side during this difficult time, I was continually humbled at the outpouring of love from not just friends, but from the Carmel, IN community to the entire family.

Mr. Akin was the principal of an elementary school for more than 20 years. For almost as long he helped coach the girl's high school soccer team (who in 12 of those years won the state championships). He was a mentor; he was a friend; he was an influencer and impacter on thousands of lives, and so much more.

Last week those students and parents from the last 20+ years, and people who had crossed his path just through living life, poured out their appreciation and respect for this single life. For more than six (6) hours a steady line of people flowed through the funeral home saying their thank you's and farewells. (I don't think the funeral home knew what hit them!) For the trip to the cemetery, additional police escorts were called in to accommodate all of the cars.

I can't even begin to share how many stories I heard of the difference that this single life had made in the lives of so many. From hopping on a plane to visit injured players to "just" being a shoulder to cry on - this was an impact player in the game of life.

The name "Into the Field" came to be because we believe that we're all called to go out into the field and serve, and that the field for each of us is going to be different. For Mr. Akin, the first priority field was his family. Right behind that were his school and the soccer field (many, many, many soccer fields).

Whether you're serving around the corner or around the world, please don't forget the impact that YOU, a single life, can make. Thank you, Mr. Akin, for reinforcing that to me! You will be missed.

People of Action

2010-03-02T16:05:00.004-05:00

At times it can be very overwhelming to me to see all of the need and hurting in the world. It makes me wonder if there is anything that I as an individual can do to make a difference, what impact can I have? As I was thinking about this and feeling, well, insignificant, the story of the little boy and the starfish came to mind. Those who know me well will tell you I'm not a great storyteller, but here's my take on it.

A little boy and an old man were walking down a beach. Occasionally the boy would bend down, pick up a starfish, and toss it back in the water. After watching him for a period of time, the old man said to the boy, "Why are you doing that? There are so many! You can't make a difference!". With that, the little boy bent down, picked up another one, tossed it back in the water, and replied, "I made a difference to that one."

Maybe it isn't about making an impact on huge numbers of people - maybe it is. But what kind of impact can you make on the life of one person? And what kind of impact can that person make on another?

I'm reading a book called The Travellers Gift by Andy Andrews. It is not only easy to read (it's a story), but it is filled with many great lessons and reminders. One of the comments in the book says, "Jehovah can move a mountain, we just need to be able and ready to move ourselves."

Will you choose to be a person of action? What kind of impact will you have on the life of another? You can do it. And so can I.

Come Together Now

2010-02-19T17:27:00.005-05:00

In January the Nashville music community gathered at Ocean Way Studios and recorded this special song in support of Haiti! Check this out...sooooo powerful! You'll hear from Michael W Smith, Steven Curtis Chapman, Toby Mac, Natalie Grant, Amy Grant, Vince Gill, Wynona, Mark Hall, Nicole C Mullen, Matt Maher, and MANY more!

100% of the proceeds of this song are being donated directly to Haiti relief efforts through The American Red Cross and Samaritan's Purse.

Thank you to David Emmerson at 104.9 The River for sharing it with me via Facebook!

Come Together Now (Music City Unites For Haiti) from Music City Unites For Haiti on Vimeo.

Hope Hope Hope for Haiti!

2010-02-11T17:42:00.005-05:00

I love it when a plan comes together! Part of the vision of Into the Field is to be a facilitator between ministries, and that is exactly what is happening!

I've shared before about both Wild Olive Tees and Eyes Wide Open International, and how much of a fan I am of both.

Now they're teaming up to make an impact on the lives of those surviving the devistating earthquake in Haiti!

Wild Olive Tees has designed a FANTASTIC new shirt! 100% of the proceeds from this "HOPE" shirt will go to Haiti via Eyes Wide Open International!

You also have the ability to purchase a shirt and have it donated to be taken down and delivered to a much deserving Haitian!

The shirt features Matthew 12:21: "...and His name will be the HOPE of all the world."

Check it out!

God in Motion!

2010-02-02T19:10:00.000-05:00

There's a song that some of my friends will remember which goes, "It's a world that's changing faster everyday..." Do you ever feel like that? That the world is going by faster and faster?

What about the speed that God moves? Sometimes I feel like I'm waiting and waiting and waiting for Him to do something - ANYTHING - and then all of a sudden BAM He kicks things into such a high gear that I'm afraid that there's no way that I can keep up.

That's how I'm feeling right now.

The last 36 hours He's been working overtime - and its incredible! As just a sample...

Into the Field now has a fund - The Into the Field Servant Fund - with the Columbus Stewardship Foundation which allows us to receive cash as well as non-cash (i.e. stock, etc.) gifts.
A significant gift that we were expecting for one of our Ministry Charity Projects ("MCP", a ministry we're working with that utilizes the 501c3 status of Into the Field for it's fundraising, support, etc.) not only came, but was DOUBLE the amount that we were expecting.
Wild Olive Tees - which is an incredible t-shirt ministry started by an amazing friend of mine and two of her friends - has decided to design and sell a shirt whose proceeds will all go towards children in Haiti, and they've decided to donate the funds (and t-shirt donations) through another one of Into the Field's Ministry Charity Projects (Eyes Wide Open). Not only will this generate important funds for the children of Haiti, but it will also increase the exposure of Into the Field and Eyes Wide Open International to a much larger and broader audience (which means we're now scrambling to get the EWOI website done by TOMORROW.
I entered the last year of my 30's and am excited about it.
Was able to connect Wild Olive Tees, Orphan World Relief (another MCP), and a local Christian media outlet...there may be some great and HUGE opportunities in front of us!
Suddenly we're getting a lot of interest from people in participating in Team Up 4 Orphans - a charity running team (participating in the May 1 Cap City 1/2 Marathon in Columbus) raising money to benefit Doma International and orphans worldwide.
Was offered an opportunity to promote chinaconnect (another MCP which is sharing the love of Christ to the people of China through service and relationship) to a group of servant-minded people.

And that's not even all of it! WOW! He's been busy and I'm exhausted and energized all at the same time!

Keep bringing it on, God! I've got my XS Energy Drink and my Rhodiola and am ready to run!

Take a Stand

2010-01-04T15:23:00.000-05:00

After college I traveled for a year with Up with People. During that amazing time we did a significant amount of work in schools - across 6 different countries.

One of the activities that we did was called "Take a Stand". Everyone began by lining up down the center of the room and we'd start of by saying "Do you prefer Coke or Pepsi?" Each preference would then step off the line and to their respective "side". Individuals where then given the opportunity to share why they took the stand they did. From the "Coke or Pepsi" question, depending on where we were and what topics were appropriate, the discussions went much deeper.

As a part of the "rules", there was no negative talk of "the other side", only a sharing, starting with "I like" or "I believe", of their position. The purpose was to 1) help reinforce that sometimes in life you can't live in the middle, and must take a stand for what you believe; 2) there is a right and wrong way to communicate your position; 3) in life there will always be people who believe differently from you, but it is possible, when all involved share the commitment, to build a relationship and communicate with each other; and, 4) you must be willing to "own" and provide a reason for why you believe what you do.

As we start a new year, I've been doing a lot of watching of the world around me, wondering why there are so many people who simply refuse to show respect for others (I'm kind of thinking that we need to do one big round of "Take a Stand"), and reflecting on what I believe. During this season of new goals and resolutions, I encourage you to take the time to reflect and remind yourself what you believe, know why you believe it, and be willing to "Take a Stand" - the right way.

"...always being prepared to make a defense to any who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you; yet do it with gentleness and respect." - 1 Peter 3:15b

Into the Field - a 30 second glimpse

2009-12-08T16:08:00.002-05:00

2009-11-25T16:38:00.002-05:00

"I will give thanks to you, O LORD, among the peoples; I will sing praises to you among the nations." Psalm 108:3

Putting Purpose to Your Passion

2009-11-23T08:27:00.001-05:00

What is your passion?

Is it children? Cooking? Knitting? China? Gardening? Christ?

How does your passion show up in your life? Is it something that you do or experience by yourself? Or do you use your passion to bring joy to the lives of others?

I recently spent a long weekend in the state of Washington with a group of people passionate about both Christ and China. Together we stepped through a time of focused strategic planning and the result is chinaconnect - a ministry with the mission to share Christ's love with the Chinese people through service and relationship. They willl create and provide opportunities for people of all ages, on both sides of the Pacific, to to serve and share their faith. To learn more or see how you can get involved, check 'em out here.

I've been meeting with a couple who have a passion for addressing the immediate needs of widows and orphans. A trip this summer to Romania resulted in the meeting of a missionary who introduced Nicolle to widows living in mud homes which will likely collapse under the winter's first snow. She has a renewed sense of urgency for putting her call to serve others into action. Stay tuned...some great stuff is about to happen! Keep your Eyes Wide Open....

For Christmas this year, my sisters and I have decided not to give "physical" gifts to each other, but rather find some way to serve, to bring joy, or meet the need of someone else. I'm still fine-tuning what I'm going to do, but I know it'll involve kids who are not experiencing many of the blessings that life has to offer (I have 3 nephews, one sister is a teacher) and likely Christmas cookies (my sisters and nephews all like making, decorating, and eating them).

I encourage you to take a couple of minutes to check out this video on The Advent Conspiracy. Maybe it will give you some ideas about how we can bring focus back to the real meaning of and for Christmas.

So, what is your passion? How can you put some purpose to it to impact the lives of others? Think about it. Then do something about it! You'll be glad you did!

Two weeks and thousands of miles away...but still on the top of my heart...

2009-10-27T14:30:00.004-04:00

In some ways, it seems like far more than two weeks have passed since my heart-touching trip to Ukraine; in other ways, it was just yesterday. But regardless of the days or miles that separate us, the people - big and small - I met and the memories I experienced are still very much on the top of my heart.

Every time I pick up my cell phone I see Sveta and her big cross-eyed smile grinning back at me. Multiple times each day I think and share about the blessings and contrasts that I witnessed:

The cold eyes and demeanour of the orphanage director who only wanted to talk about financial support for remodeling and murals;
The kind, warm, deep eyes of the director who spoke of his dislike of designated giving and his desire to focus on meeting the needs for the children's food, care, and programs instead of some of the much evident repairs;
The children who looked and smelled of wet diapers quietly rocking themselves for comfort since they knew that their cries would bring no response;
The children who laughed and played, who listened to Christian CD's in the hallway and had posters of their favorite sports teams hanging over their beds;
The 21st century version Ukrainian orphanage version of the quilting bee...10 toddlers sitting in a circle working on potty training;
The therapy space that was pridefully showed to us, but which was obviously unused since it had mirrors and other equipment laying in its midst;
The beautiful murals painted by orphanage teachers, on their own time, at their own expense, so that the children could have brighter surroundings;
The joyful giggles of toddlers racing after plastic mushrooms - seeing who could gather the most - while their teacher played a jubilent tune on the piano;
Malinka problinka (my poor spelling)...small problem...camp without electricty...bus without a wheel...;
Experiencing the joy and delight with a new, special friend at her first stay in a hotel;
The sophistication and brilliance of a gold-domed, painting and image filled church;
The simplistic beauty of three wooden crosses on a sandy hill at a camp in the woods;
The hearts of new friends working to translate the hearts and passions of others we met, helping to forge relationships filled with hope and faith as we crossed the country;
The excuisite ornamentation and professionalism of the ballet featuring dancers from around Europe and Asia;
The self-composed songs sung around a candle lit table in the middle of the woods, while cooking and eating dinner, playing cards, collapsing chairs, and working to stay warm (and yes, Olexiy, I have a video);
The reminder that God is good...all the time...even when it looks like He is hiding...and that happiness, joy, and blessings that can be found in the simplicity of a balloon or a sticker can remove the darkness of the world, barriers, and any situation surrounding us, if we will only remember to pause and look;
The joy of Jesus in a hug, a smile, the squeeze of a finger, the changing color of a leaf, the peace of a sleeping baby, the passion of those striving to serve Him regardless of their language, education, financial status, or outlook on life;
And oh so many more....

Pray big...believe big...big things happen...

Children of Ukraine

2009-10-12T14:55:00.002-04:00

Miracles and Darkness

2009-10-06T14:53:00.001-04:00

Our God is one who does miracles and it is exciting to have a front row seat to watch them in progress. And He has the power to overcome and bring light to the darkness.

At the beginning of August two containers filled with more than $20,000 of baby supplies left the United States for Ukraine with the hope and prayer that they would arrive in time for our team to distribute them at the orphanages which we would be visiting. The week before we left, we received a message saying that the supplies would arrive on time, but that customs would be holding on to it and not releasing for distribution until AFTER we had returned to the USA. Several of us began praying and claiming that God would intervene and the supplies would be released. Well...on the road out of Ivanik, 20 miles from Cherynobyl, while leaving an orphanage, after meetings with several people, lots of prayer, and an "expediting fee", we got word that the shipment is being released!! We're still working on figuring out how we're going to get it from Kiev to Donetsk, since we've now left Kiev and are 7 of 14 hours en route to Donetsk. But we know that because He released it, He'll also help us get it into our hands.

We left the celebration of the "miracle of the container release" to enter the darkness...through the power of the Internet, Facebok, and networking relationships, we were introduced to an American missionary (Andrew Kelly) who is in the process of building a camp in Ivanik. We pulled up to the drive of the camp - Pine Branch (www.jeremiahshope.org) - to discover that the bus could not drive down it due to its sandy nature (as in, welcome to the Ukrainian beach in the middle of the woods)...so out of the bus we tumbled, bags in tow, and through the woods, past the pumpkin patch we went. In the process learning that the camp had lost its electricity, which also meant that it did not have any heat. After a quick team meeting, it was decided that we would stay - even though temperature projections were for the low 40's. What a wonderful adventure it was. Candles were lit and blankets piled on. Nothing could diminish the joy felt, experienced, and memories being made.

Today was a much harder day at the orphanages. It was one where the director placed a higher priority on renovations than on care, and where we were not permitted to touch, photograph, or even play with the children - some of which were severely handicapped. But we know that God is there, even in the middle of their darkness.

Tomorrow it is another 7ish hour drive and more adventures to be had.

Sveta...the light...

2009-10-04T13:07:00.002-04:00

We made it safely to Kiev, and have been on a whirlwind, non-stop adventure.

Yesterday, Saturday, was our first day visiting the orphanages. The first was what I believe will be the "gold standard" of those we visit. It has a number of sponsors currently, including the Ukrainian national soccer team. There were bright colors, a happy play ground, and a display proudly sharing the pictures of their children which had been adopted into their forever families.

I was a part of a group of 5 that went into the first room with the 2 year olds. And there I met Sveta...a precious, precocious little girl with crazy curls pulled back into pony tails, big glasses, crossed eyes, colorful tights, and a smile and giggle that would not stop. She loves to laugh, hug, and was fascinated playing with the balloons we brought. One could not help but feel brighter being with her, even though she lives in an atmosphere where she there are not many high expectations for her future...and her name, appropriately, means "light."

Today I met Olga. Olga + Balloons = Joy. Olga is 2 and lives in an orphanage outside of Kiev in an area filled with pine trees. We entered into Olga's room which was filled with toys, bright colors, and nanny's which have an obvious love for her and the other children under their care. Olga and her friends were seated at their table and when tossed balloons erupted into contagious laughter which could only be described as pure joy. While Olga and her roommates all have Down's Syndrome, it is not what you first notice when you enter the room. It is the joy that radiates from the inside out, completely unaware of the limitations that her life might hold. Certainly a lesson that we can all learn from.

Tomorrow we depart for Ivanick (not sure if I spelled that right, but that's how I hear the name to be). We'll be in a small village, visiting a maternity hospital, and staying at a Christian camp that a missionary I was introduced to via Facebook is building.

Pray big...believe big...big things happen!

A new adventure...heading out Into the Field...

2009-09-30T15:39:00.001-04:00

At 4am tomorrow (Thursday, October 1), I head off for a new adventure! I will be traveling with doma international to Ukraine! This is a new country, a new ministry, and wonderful new friends for me!

I am excited about the opportunity to love-on and serve the orphans and others that we'll meet. I am curious about the experiences we'll have, the cross-cultural learning and ministry that will take place, the laughter which will undoubtedly be abundant (especially when I attempt my limited Russian vocab), and the opportunities for personal stretching of faith and comfort.

I can't wait to see how and where God show's up!

I'm not sure what my internet access will be like, but I'll post updates as I'm able! You can also stay in touch with us via Julie Clark's blog (she's the founder of doma).

Pray big...believe big...big things happen!

Prayer, Praises, and Miracles

2009-09-17T15:25:00.002-04:00

I don't know about you, but I don't spend enough time praying, praising, and expecting miracles.

Throughout the Bible we are repeatidly told of the importance and power of prayer. Romans 12:12 says, "Rejoice in home, be patient in tribulation, be in constant prayer."

The Old and New Testaments speak verse after verse of God's people praising Him for the good and the bad times in their lives. James 5:13 says, "Is anyone among you suffering? Let him pray. Is anyone cheerful? Let him sing praise."

We know that He can do and has done miraculous things across not only our lives, but all of history. Why then should we not have an attitude of expectation that He will continue?

Today I pray for specifically for friends who are experiencing significant health challenges; that the Ultimate Physician might do His work in them.

I give praise for all of the incredible blessings - big and small - that I have been given.

And I ask for, and expect, miracles to take place which will lead to the release from Ukrainian customs the containers we have shipped in order that we can distribute their contents to the orphanages while we're there October 1-11.

Thank you, Lord, that you can do all this and so much more than we could ever think to ask.

Don't Wait - Thrive!

2009-09-10T14:27:00.011-04:00

How much of our lives are spent waiting? Of this, how much is our own self-imposed waiting? Sure, we are supposed to wait for traffic lights to turn green to go, wait until we turn 16 to drive, wait until after dinner to eat dessert...

But how how often do we wait because emotionally (or culturally) we think it is something we are supposed to do? We think we have to wait until we have more money...until we have a better job...until we're marrried...

Matthew 28:19-20 says, "Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age."

Where did we get this notion that we're supposed to wait?

"GO". Not "slow down" or "check back later".

If you are single, or know someone who is, I would like to extend the invitation to attend Thrive '09 - the Ohio Christian Single's Conference on October 16-17, 2009. Keynote speaker Chris Coppernoll will lead us through the conference theme of Faith, Hope, and Love. As one who typically runs in the opposite direction of anything labeled "singles", I can tell you that I was very pleasantly surprised when I attended last year.

Interspersed through the conference will be interviews with those who have made the decision not to wait. But to go and to do. For those who are interested, there will also be several ministries participating and ready and anxious for you, to get plugged in. Interesetd in running? Maybe you'd like to get plugged in with Team Up 4 Orphans. Do you like coffee, are looking for a fundraiser, or want to serve Honduras? Then Heart to Honduras may have what you're looking for...

Who knows who you might meet or what you might hear that causes something to click or stir within you?

Won't you join us? Stop waiting. Go. Thrive!

Trust

2009-09-02T10:26:00.000-04:00

"And now just as you trusted Christ to save you, trust him, too, for each day's problems; live in vital union with him."

Colossians 2:6

Blind Faith?

2009-08-21T22:32:00.004-04:00

In what do you put your faith? For as long as I can remember I have had a great sense of direction. When my great aunt was alive, she would tell stories about how, when I was just 3, I let her know when we were lost and driving in circles in New York City.

Well...confession time...today I was headed from my house in Columbus to see my sister and her family outside of Philadelphia. Dad told me to drive his car since it gets better mileage than mine and has the GPS. He swears by his GPS. So instead of doing my usual "Map quest" printouts, by blind faith, I decided to let Mildred (that's what we named to "lady" in the GPS) to lead me safely there.

To quote Julia Roberts in "Pretty Woman", "Big mistake! HUGE!"

I turned on the car and turned off my brain. Mildred said "turn", I turned. Mildred said "exit", I exited. The next thing I knew, I was approaching Marietta - which is NOT along the route that I am supposed to be following. I called Dad. I won't tell you exactly what he said to me, but needless to say, I confirmed the route I was supposed to be taking.

I turned around (Mildred's detour cost me an extra hour and a half on my journey). She kept telling me to get off and go the other direction. But this time I had the details, was in contact with someone who had driven the route many times before, who I could call upon when confused, and knew the way I was supposed to be going.

The next 6 1/2 hours, Mildred kept trying to tell me to get off the road and go another direction. A couple of times I checked in with Dad to confirm that yes, I was still really going the way I was supposed to. And finally, FINALLY, I arrived.

How many times in life do we blindly go along, basing our thoughts, opinions, and critical decisions on what someone else says, on an article we read, a news report we see, an innuendo someone makes? I don't know about you, but I'm finding it more and more difficult to discern what our culture believes to be truth, and I'm not sure that I want to buy into its definition.

What do you put your faith in? Where do you consult to make sure you're staying on the right "route"? Might I recommend the Bible? It doesn't change, if you consult it - and let it - it'll direct your steps. It'll even let you know when you need to make a u-turn. If you have an opportunity to participate in it, I would encourage you to check out The Truth Project. It'll help to open your eyes and clarify your route.

(By the way, my nephew thinks that the reason the GPS kept leading me astray was because she didn't like her name...he has renamed her "Annie"...we'll see if the name change makes a difference.)

What is YOUR passion?

2009-08-17T18:33:00.009-04:00

What is your passion? What keeps the wheels in your head going round and round...even when your body is saying "it is time to sleep"? I have been having a lot of those kinds of nights lately, and I think it is a direct result of all of the passionate people that I have been meeting and spending time with.

Take my friend, Karen Burkhart, for example. Karen has one of those absolutely spectacular voices that I think can only be described as a gift of God. One of her passions is to use her voice in celebration of her faith and to bring people into a time of praise and worship. Karen launched her debut CD this past spring - you can listen to some of it on her website! (Karen is from across our northern border and will find out on August 27 if she has won one of Canada's awards for Christian artists! GO KAREN!!)

Karen and I went to dinner the other night and through the course of our courses, spent time talking about a vision she has for developing a special time of singing and worship. A time where people can come together and sing and celebrate and praise and worship. A time where we're not bound by a certain number of allotted minutes for announcements, for offering, for the sermon...in order to get out of service in time for the next one to begin. A couple of years ago my church had a time like this as we were celebrating our Jubilee and bringing forward some pretty significant gifts. I remember leaving that time thinking - "WOW! I have no doubt that God was there and directing the choir of angels!" It was one of those goose-bumpy times when you knew something special was going on. (I'm by no means saying that I haven't felt God at church since then, that was just an example of one of those really amazing times.)

Ever since our dinner, I've found myself thinking about how often we allow our passion, our mission, our ministry, our faith, our ________ (you fill in the box) to become limited because we have only allotted a certain amount of time. What would happen if we just said, "OK, God. It's all yours. I've got other stuff going on, but I'm going to let you take the lead and I'm REALLY going to follow you. I'm going to resist the temptation to apply my definitions, my calendar, the limits of my mind."

What could...would...really happen if we were to get out of our own way and let His will be done? I know that I'm in my own way ALL THE TIME! Whether it be with my weight, my quiet times, my fund raising, my relationships...you name it...the #1 roadblock tends to be me.

Part of the reason for the name Into the Field is because I believe that we're all called to go out into the field to serve. The field is going to be different for each of us. For Karen it may be music. For Doug it might be with orphans. For my Dad it might be in prison ministry. The key thing is for us to go out.

I'd like to put forth this challenge...think about...pray about...what really is your passion? What is your "field"? Try to determine what are some of the ways that you are the "road block" and keeping great things from happening. Once you've figure some of them out, move 'em. Challenge yourself to get out of the way. Let go and let God. And see what will happen. I think we might all be surprised.

Oh..stay tuned...don't be surprised if Karen's vision and passion for a special time of praise and worship comes to be...I'll let you know...!

It's a Small World After All...

2009-08-07T12:29:00.010-04:00

My nephews (and their parents) just returned from a fantastic trip to Magic Kingdom where they (ages 4, 6, 36, and 36) experienced all of the wonder and excitement that Mickey and his friends have to offer kids of all ages.

The 4 year old told me that one of his favorite rides was the beloved "It's a Small World." (Ok...are you singing the song in your head?). I've been thinking a lot lately about how small our world really is.

Two months ago I wouldn't have said that I knew anyone working with orphans. Now, I know four. It started with Doug who founded Orphan World Relief. Then I met Julie who founded doma. Turns out that Doug and Julie (and her husband, Dan) know a lot of the same people but had never been able to connect face-to-face with each other.

I was talking with my dad about my upcoming trip to the Ukraine (with doma) and he said that I should meet his friend, Alex, who grew up as an Orphan in Russia. Turns out that "Dad's Alex" is "Doug's Alex". (Doug and Orphan World Relief work with and support Alex's organization - The Harbor - in Russia.)

When Doug and I were meeting, he suggested that I get in touch with Vicki who has an orphan ministry for children with HIV/AIDS (Montana de Luz) in Honduras. I'm meeting with Vicki in 2 weeks. I want to see about introducing Vicki to Heart to Honduras (who is celebrating their 20th anniversary and with whom I participated in a short-term trip in January).

And I want to introduce Vicki and Heart to Honduras to Mike (who lives in South Carolina and who I met through another loop'd-loop connection) who has a ministry called Reading is Power which works to get books to rural Spanish speaking communities. (If you're going on a mission trip somewhere where they speak Spanish, Mike has developed these great "libraries in a box" which meet airline requirements for a 2nd piece of luggage...might be a great gift for you to take with you to those you're going to serve!!!)

Phew...no wonder I'm feeling tired (in a very good way)...hearing the song repeat over and over in my head accompanied by images of the little children dressed in their native clothing...for such a big planet, it sure is a small world! Especially when you're working to serve others and live your life faithfully! How small is your world?

Celebrating? ABSOLUTELY

2009-07-31T07:55:00.009-04:00

Today I am celebrating. One year ago today I left my full time job to more intentionally serve others on a daily basis. Into the Field was formally established on May 1, 2008, but on August 1, 2008, it became my "job". (I put "job" in quotes, because I believe that anytime you're doing something you love and are called to, it doesn't seem as much like a job, but rather a joy.)

I've been asked if I knew then what I know now about what was going to happen in our economy (think back to the balances in your portfolio in July and then October/November), would I still have quit my job. My response, "ABSOLUTELY".

Are my financial accounts a bit slimmer? ABSOLUTELY.

Has fundraising for Into the Field and some of the other ministries I'm working with been more challenging than I anticipated (primarily given the significant changes in the economy)? ABSOLUTELY.

Have I met some incredible people? ABSOLUTELY.

Have I stood in humbled awe of the amazing ways that people are serving others around the corner and around the world? ABSOLUTELY.

Would people say that I'm a happier person today than I was a year ago? ABSOLUTELY.

Am I excited to see what God has in store and where and how He'll lead me next? ABSOLUTELY.

God is good.

What Makes YOUR Heart Smile?

2009-07-30T12:05:00.008-04:00

A couple of years ago I had the opportunity to meet Amie at a women's retreat at church. My heart felt an immediate connection with her. I've had the opportunity to visit and serve in China and currently am a part of the board for China Service Ventures. Amie has a heart for China's children. So big is her heart for them that her family is in the process of welcoming their fourth child into his "forever family" (this will bring their family count to 8 great kids!!!). As I read her blog - "Heart Smiles", it makes my heart smile knowing the impact she is making not only on the lives of the children that are being welcomed into their family, but the lives of their other kids, and the lives of those they meet as they live their lives. (That's a lot of lives!)

What a wonderful example of a family serving around the corner and around the world! They are bringing the world right here...around the corner!

Living, sharing, and serving your faith doesn't have to require big gestures. Not many of us are in the position of Amie and her family to welcome new kids into our families the way that they have. (Although I sure would love to!) But I can carry a couple of extra bottles of water or food bars in my car to share with someone standing with a sign on a street corner...I can share words of gratitude and appreciation with someone in the service industry who usually goes unacknowledged (think about the person who cleans the restroom at a hotel or the airport, or who clears off the tables at the restaurant...)

When we pause in our lives to serve another, it not only makes their heart smile, but I've found that my heart smiles...and I'm sure that God is smiling, too!

What makes your heart smile? How will you bring that smile to the heart someone else today?

The Deeds and Miracles of Jesus are NOT actions of the Past.

2009-07-24T12:00:00.002-04:00

Last summer my parents went with my sister's pastor on a trip to the Holy Lands.

Outside of one of the sites they visited, near the Sea of Galilee, there was the above plaque that reads:

"At Thy word I will let down the net." Luke 5:5

"The deeds and miracles of Jesus are not actions of the past. Jesus is waiting for those who are still prepared to take risks at His word because they trust His power utterly."

So, are you? Do you? If so, how?

Fly for Good!

2009-07-23T15:37:00.003-04:00

Do you travel internationally as a part of your mission/ministry? I just recently learned about http://www.flyforgood.com/. They are able to offer "humanitarian" rates for non-profit organizations (their volunteers, staff, and families) on international flights. To qualify, the non-profit must go to the site, set-up an account, and go through their verification process.

What mission team wouldn't want to save on their airfare?

Thanks to Fly for Good and other businesses and organizations who are out there helping to serve the servants!

Me, a "blogger"?

2009-07-21T13:30:00.001-04:00

I don't know about you, but lately I've been discovering more and more just how SMALL our world is and being reminded just how BIG our God is!

Since taking the leap mid-2008 to more intentionally follow what I believe is God's passion in my life, I have been reminded time and time again how we are but a piece of HIS mighty plan. And how incredibly blessed are we to play a role in it?!?

I have had the opportunity to serve in short-term capacities in multiple locations around the corner and around the world. I have seen the many incredible people working through many phenomenal organizations doing things for others which are sometimes beyond definition. With every conversation, with every interaction, not only do I have my faith affirmed, but I learn something new - about my faith, about my God, and how I can better serve Him.

I hope that this blog will become another resource, a place where I can share, where you can share, and where we, together, can enhance how we serve.

"So let's not allow ourselves to get fatigued doing good. at the right time we will harvest a good drop if we don't give up, or quit. Right now, therefore, every time we get a chance, let us work for the benefit of all..." (Galations 6:9-10, The Message)

Pray big...believe big...big things happen!

Jen