Do Over

Have you ever played a new game with children? Or a game in which they aren't doing so well? Sometimes they ask for a "do over." Older kids and even adults ask for a "do over" from time to time, too. A bad mark on an exam, a child who got hurt, an illness, divorce...there are a lot of circumstances in life that happen that we wish would have never happened. It would be so nice to have a "do over," wouldn't it?

The good news is that we can have that "do over" whenever we want it. When we ask Jesus to live in our hearts and ask Him to be our Savior and Lord, we have new life, a "do over!" We make a bad choice and need to ask forgiveness, "do over!" We need peace in our lives instead of chaos, "do over!" Our lives have taken a turn for the worse because of choices and God redeems those lives and uses them for His glory, "do over!"

The Bible says in Psalm 30, "You have turned my mourning into dancing for me..." "Do over!" In Lamentations 3 it says, "His mercies never end, they are new every morning." "Do over!" We can have a "do over" whenever we need it, not just at New Year's with a New Year's Resolution. All we have to do is go to our Heavenly Father and talk with Him. He will hear and answer and He will give you that needed "do over."

I'm Leaving on a Jet Plane...

Praise God! I leave for Ghana on Wednesday February 2, 2011. I believe that God has His hand in this since I have my apartment until January 31, so I will only be "homeless" for 2 days. Plus, I can cancel my renter's and car insurance knowing that I will definitely be gone! What a great reason to celebrate. Thanks, God!

One Step at a Time

This past week I received word that I have a house in Lawra, Ghana! The money for the rent has been wired and all should be well. (The house in the picture is not my house.) I have not seen it, but I do know that it has two bedrooms and a living room. I also know that it is unfurnished. So, what I'll do is travel to the Upper West Region. I'll see my house. I'll sleep on the floor. I'll cook on a wood fire. I'll find out where to buy a bed and a stove and a refrigerator and a water filter. That will be February.

In March, I'll work on finding a desk, a kitchen table & chairs and a lamp or two. Maybe even a bedside table. I'll have to do furnish the house one step at a time, very possibly one item at a time.

I know with patience, perseverance & the Grace of God, this empty house will become my home. It will be a place where I can be myself, a sanctuary from all that is going on around me. It will also be a place to study language, to entertain guests, to study God's Word with others and to fellowship with one another. I pray God's blessing on my house and on all who enter it.

My Christmas Prayer for the Children of Lawra Orphanage

I have only one hope for these children,
That Jesus knows their grief,
That He carries their sorrows,
That they will call on Him and they will answer,
And that His presence will be a healing balm in their lives.
There is too much to fix in the lives of these children.

But Jesus does more than fix.
He redeems, delivers, heals and restores.
He reconciles. He brings peace.
He can be God to them right where they are.
That really is their only and best hope.

~ Cathy Temmerman
IBS Staff Member

(I would like to add that He can be Father to them, too.)

The Paradox Continues

This week I went shopping. I didn't visit too many stores - Wal Mart, Bed, Bath and Beyond, Staples and K Mart. All but once, I went in, looked around and bought only what I intended to buy when I walked into the store. The one time I didn't, I only spent an extra $2. Shopping is not one of my favorite past times.

But, it is Christmas season. There are so many pretty things to look at: Christmas mugs and plates, Christmas napkins, Christmas towels, stuffed Christmas toys (soft & cuddly), warm jackets, mittens...all kinds of fun stuff. It's so tempting. I have to remind myself that I don't "need" any of it. I'm moving in two months. But, it;s so nice..."No, let it go, don't even go there." And, I keep walking. It's fun to look - sometimes.

Yes, the paradox continues. I'm torn between two worlds. One foot is here in Pennsylvania and the other foot is ready to be placed in Ghana. It's happy & sad at the same time. And it's all good. I'm getting through it because of the grace and mercy of Jesus Christ and the prayers of friends. And, I will continue to get through it because of them.

Today

This morning most of my belongings are going up to my church. I will have a moving sale there on Saturday. And, although this excites me and makes me happy, there is some sadness, too. This apartment has been home to me for 15 years. Along with help from the Lord, it has been transformed from the place where I live to home. There are a lot of memories here, connected with the "stuff" that I am saying "good bye" to. So, it is a bittersweet day. And, I know that's OK because God is in control and He is leading me. Before I realize the time that has gone by, I'll be saying my good byes to friends and family, not to "stuff." And through our tears that will most likely mark our separation, we will be rejoicing because God has done a good and marvelous work in my life.

The Weight of the World

I have been thinking about the phrase, "The weight of the world is on my shoulders." I've felt like that a lot in my life, in the past, and to a degree, even now. Ever since I was divorced, I have bought into the idea of "pulling myself up by my bootstraps." After awhile, I realized that the body of Christ is ready and willing to help with those things that I can;t do or am clueless about; things like fixing my computer or a ride to and from the airport or doing a web page for me or even fixing stuff in my apartment that needs fixed or even making me chicken soup when I'm sick.

There have been times since I have been with The Mission Society that it seemed that I had to do everything myself. Since I am single, there is no spouse to help with packing, unpacking, getting stuff ready for visas, raising support, speaking, writing letters, making phone calls, fixing meals, cleaning the apartment, helping with income, taking care of day to day life stuff so I can have some relaxed time for myself, grocery shopping, language learning, and the list goes on. Some days can seem so endless and so hard. And, yet, because I am alone, if I need to stop what I'm doing to do something else that "just came up" I can do it. There's pros and cons to it.

Right now, at 7AM on Wednesday, November 17th, I feel as if I have that weight on my shoulders. I am getting ready to move to Ghana. My moving sale is December 4th. I have to decide what to keep and store for ten years, what to sell, what to give away, what to pack keeping in mind that I am only taking three cases with me. I do have people helping here and there at random times. And, some stuff others just can't do. I have to practice going out of my comfort zone and call people, asking them to come and help for a couple of hours. I can't do it alone. I need the body of Christ including my "Home Team" to help me with various projects.

Part of the problem is that many people are not available when I am. The other problem is that I feel as if I am imposing on people if I call and ask for help. (My problem, not theirs!) When I can't sleep, I'll get up and do odds and ends that need to be done, like empty a book shelf or a dresser drawer. Then, I'll get ready for the day, have my quiet time with the Lord and continue with what needs to be done. By the time people are home from work, I'm ready for bed!

The solution? Give it to God. Let Him carry the weight. Make phone calls. Ask people to help at specific times. And, keep on keepin' on, relying on the strength that comes from Him. God's hand print has been on all of this so far. I know He will continue to lead, guide, strengthen and give wisdom. And when all is said and done, I will praise Him!

The Difference a Year Can Make!

A year ago I was hoping to be in Ghana by the end of June 2010 at the very latest. Obviously, that didn't happen. God had other plans. And, as usual, He knew what was best for me. This past year has been a a year of preparation for my move. But, it has also been much, much more.

In July 2009, I took the Holmes and Rahe stress test. I quit counting my score after I passed the 700 mark. Anything over 300 indicates that there is a possibility of having a stress related illness. I was a prime candidate. And, I could see how the stresses in my life were affecting me. I was behaving - acting and reacting - in ways that were foreign to my natural, God given personality and characteristics. I didn't like who I was at times. And, I knew I needed to do something about it.

So, I spoke to my pastors. I asked for help, for ideas on how to deal with the things in my life that gave me a 700+ score. I spent more time with God. I breathed deeply. I exercised. I learned how to relax. I tried to make better food choices. I took time for myself without feeling guilty! I spent time with family and friends. I began to see the importance of a Sabbath rest. I continue to learn to give things to Christ and leave them at the foot of the cross instead of worrying about them. All of these things, plus more, over the course of this past year, has made me a different person.

The person I am today is one who knows that the weight of her world is not on her shoulders, but on God's. And, if He is truly leading me someplace, He will absolutely provide for me. That doesn't mean it will be easy. But, I know I can depend on His words in Isaiah: "I have called you by your name; you are Mine. 2 When you pass through the waters, I will be with you, and through the rivers, they will not overwhelm you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned or scorched, nor will the flame kindle upon you. 3 For I am the Lord your God, the Holy One of Israel, your Savior; "Isaiah 43:1-3 (AMP)

I have no idea where this great adventure that I am on will end. I know I am excited, energized and ready to embrace what God has for me. And, as I prepare to move, I will be taking with me the lessons of this past year. A new, improved, more mature daughter of the Most High will be boarding that plane in February. May He receive all the glory!

"Homeward" Bound

It's "official." When I first arrived in Ghana in October 2007, I felt as if I were "home." I had such a peace in my heart even though I did not know what lay ahead. And, now, for what seems like forever, my prayer has been that I would return to Ghana, not just for two months, but for an extended period of time. The time has now come! Praise God!

I will begin my journey to the Upper West Region of Ghana sometime between mid February and mid March, with the preference being mid February. So, I am finally on my way "home." I can't wait to see the faces of the children whom I love. I can't wait to return to my Ghanaian "home town," Ankaase. I can't wait to see my friends, Mary Kay & Charlie and Anne & Cam and Ritchie & Maggie and their families. But, most of all, I can't wait to be Jesus to the children at the Lawra Orphanage and to the Dagaaba people in the Upper West Region.

I know there is a lot to do between now and then...documents needed for my visa, housing concerns, raising some more support, a moving sale, Thanksgiving, Christmas, moving out of my apartment, and even dealing with being homeless for a time. But, I can't remember when I have had such peace, such joy. I imagine there will be bumps in the road, too. But, as it says in Isaiah 58:11 "The Lord will guide you always; he will satisfy your needs in a sun-scorched land and will strengthen your frame." Obviously, God is in control. He has scripted this and, it WILL come to fruition.

Wish List vs. Faith List

I have friend, a colleague, a "coach" who works at The Mission Society office. His name is Ron Beatty and he has been such a blessing and an encouragement to me. He keeps me focused on truth by a simple well placed word spoken here and there.

Several months ago we were talking on the phone about my upcoming move to Ghana. I was talking about a few things that I would like to have to take to Ghana with me. Since he is a "computer geek" and is the tech person for the office, we talked about my computer. He asked if I was planning on buying a new one before I left. I told him no, I didn't have the funds for a new one. Then, I said, "I'll put it on my wish list." He responded, "No, put it on your FAITH list. Believe God will provide for you." Every time the phrase "wish list" comes to mind, I think of that conversation. I do have to admit that in my mind, I dropped the idea of a new computer.

Well, (rhymes with Dell), on Sunday, my adapter chord died. It was the second one in less than three years. I've also replaced the mother board, hard drive & speakers on my present computer in less than three years. As I was talking on the phone with a friend (because I couldn't email - I couldn't recharge my battery) she said, "If someone were to donate money for a new computer, would you use it for that or for something else?" "I'd use it for a computer, if the funds were specified." "We'll donate to The Mission Society, to your account for a new computer for you, so you'll have a good one when you move." WOW! Praise God!

I had forgotten about the conversation with Ron from several months ago. God didn't forget. He knows what I need. And, He showed me what FAITH, not wishing can do. Do I still have a "Wish List?" No way! But, I do have a "Faith List" of stuff that I want to pack. When the time is right, God will provide!

I am so Blessed!

Monday, as I was driving home from the Home Group I belong to, my mind began to wander as it often does on an open road. Since my computer was not working, I had checked my email at my friends house before I departed. My messages included one from a church in central Pennsylvania which wants to support my ministry at $100 a month and this was the message to confirm that commitment. I was also asked to speak to the congregation in January.

As I drove, I thought about the lack of "stuff" I'll have. I was thinking about cooking over a fire some of the time, and not having water some of the time, and having very little in belongings with me. And, I was so excited. I was excited because my dream is slowly becoming reality. "I am the luckiest person in the world" was the thought that crossed my mind. Then, I corrected myself, "No, I am the most BLESSED person in the world." The Bible doesn't mention luck, not even the "Luck of the Irish!" All good things come from God.

And, I see living among the Dagaaba people group a good thing coming from God. How else can I see this situation? The Dagaaba people group are an under evangelised people group. Most still believe in traditional or animistic religions. They don't know the love and hope of Jesus Christ. And, many times, when one accepts Christ into their life, the new beliefs are mixed with the old ones.

In Genesis it is written that we are blessed so that we can be a blessing to others. The blessing spoken about is not an American way of life, or a certain monetary income, but the blessing of salvation. And, to share that blessing with others who don't have the opportunities to hear about it as we do in the USA...well, it doesn't get any better than that!

Subtle Changes

All week I've been wondering, "How much is enough?" On one of the election promos, all you hear is "Greed is good...greed is good." I don't remember who was slamming whom or for what office that is being pursued at this time. Anyway, the question remains, "How much is enough?"

Today I stopped in a Joann Fabrics and Crafts Store. It is a wonderful place to buy stamping supplies, baskets, paper and seasonal stuff. I was kinda looking for something for my sister for Christmas. But, today, all I saw was "stuff." I don't think I was actually seeing anything. I wasn't tempted to buy anything. Sure, there were a lot of nice things, stamping supplies and some really cute stuff, but, "How much is enough?"

I'm in the process of simplifying my life with the expectation of moving to Ghana in the next few months. So, my dilemma is, "What do I keep? What do I sell? What do I give away?" and"Is the 'almighty dollar' always best as the bottom line?" I think not. Sure, I would like to sell what I can. It would be good seed money for my moving expenses. But, I have to admit, it would be even better to give some of my stuff to a homeless shelter, women's shelter, etc. After all, my "stuff" really isn't my "stuff" and it's on loan from God.

So, "How much is enough?" Just the bare basics. This is what I've been thinking about lately. It's a part of the metamorphosis that is happening in my life right now. Praise God!

Pair O' Ducks

As I was driving home from Erie this morning, I was deep in thought. I was thinking about the "Pair O' Ducks" of my life right now. I am so excited and looking forward to moving to Ghana. I am moving forward in that direction. I'm support raising, which is a given. But, I am also packing boxes of "stuff" I want to sell or give away. Little by little, shelves, drawers, closets, cupboards are being cleared out. Some of my furniture is awaiting for me to say, "Come and pick up your 'new' bed or chair or whatever." I'm beginning to simplify my life in this way, looking forward to the day when I will board the plane and fly to the children in Ghana that I long to see again.

Yet, I love this season, the fall colors are beautiful. Once again, I am sleeping under my big, fuzzy blanket from Kazakhstan. Hooded sweatshirts and flannel pajama pants are my work at home "uniform." The scent of fall candles is comforting. Hot tea in the afternoon is rejuvenating. I want to put out my fall decorations and am tempted to buy one or two more. The Thanksgiving and Christmas stuff is beautiful. And, again, my heart is longing...a "pair o' ducks."

My paradox (pair o' ducks) is the contradictory statements or the inconsistency in what I am experiencing. It's not wrong, it's just the way it is. I'm happy to be on this journey, yet it is bittersweet because I am saying "farewell" to things that have been a part of my life for so long. I am embracing both...the happy, pleasant duck, or feelings, and the yucky duck, or feelings. They both need to be felt. Both need to be a part of my life at this time. Some days are easier than others. Some days are harder. It is the peace of Christ that keeps me going at times like these.

I know, at least in part, the adventure He has for me. And I intend to travel on that adventure praising Him and giving Him the glory, even in the midst of the "pair o' ducks" of my life.