Hungry?

Last week, my sister and I went to Linesville, PA to feed the fish. There are so many fish at the spillway that you can see ducks walking on the fish! As I stood at the railing tossing my stale wheat thins to the hungry fish, my mind started to wander. And, instead of fish hungering for stale bread or crackers, in my minds eye I saw the people of the world that were hungering for God's love, for His grace and mercy and for His peace. There were quite o few people feeding the hungry fish that day. I wonder how many people are actually feeding those who hunger after God.

Will You Lay Down Your Rights?

As I was driving home this morning, I was listening to a Christian radio station. I usually don't listen to Christian stations unless music is playing, but the program that was being aired really caught my attention. The part that caused me to ponder and to examine my life was talking about as Christians, if we are living as a disciple of Christ, we have to give up certain rights. I knew that, but, the program got really specific. Here are a list of rights that Elizabeth Elliot came up with if that we are to surrender to Christ as we live for Him and become more like Him:

• The right to take revenge (Rom. 12:19-20)
• The right to have a comfortable, secure home (Luke 9:57-58)
• The right to spend our money however we please (Matt. 6:19-21)
• The right to hate an enemy (Matt. 5:43-48)
• The right The right to live life by our own rules (John 14:23-24)
• The right to hold a grudge (Colossians 3:13)
• The right to fit into society Rom. 12:2, Gal. 1:10)
• The right to do whatever feels good Gal.5:16-17,1 Peter 4:2)
• The right to complain Phil. 2:14
• The right to put self first Phil. 2:3-4
• The right to express one's sexuality in ways that are contrary to the WAYS of God (1 Cor. 6:18-20)
• The right to rebel against authority (1 Peter 2:13-15)
• The right to sue another believer 1 Cor. 6:1-8)
• The right to end a disappointing marriage (Matt. 5:31-32)

Re you willing to give up your rights?

Bonwire

There is this amazing town in Ghana named Bonwire (pronounced "bone weary") that is known for its Kente cloth. Visitors from all over come to watch as the artisans hand weave the cloth into narrows strips of colorful and most times, very intricate patterns. Each pattern symbolizes something, it has its own story to tell.

I had the opportunity to visit Bonwire in 2008. The main Kente cloth shop was closed. But, the owner was found and graciously opened his shop, invited us in, showed us how the weavings were done, showed us his wares and answered all our questions. We each ended up buying some cloth from him...I bought some in Steeler colors to give to friends. It was such a relaxing day.

Today is not so relaxing. I feel "bone weary." I feel tired straight down to the center of my bones. I struggle to stay awake and focused. I wonder if I should give up and take a nap. Yet, I continue...because isn't that what I'm "supposed" to do? I was taught to gather up all my strength and keep on keeping on until every last item on my list was finished. Then, do a few more things for good measure. That's the way to do it!

Many countries have an afternoon rest or "siesta" time. I wonder if they just might have the right idea. Stop for awhile. Rest. Get renewed. Then, continue the work of the day. I like the idea of renewal, of refreshing the spirit. Oftentimes, a nap isn't needed, only the refreshing of the Spirit. I know today I need that type of refreshment for my weary bones. How about you?

Missing Ghana

It is official...I have been away from Ghana for more than a year. I miss it so much. I especially miss my kids...

The music...

Teaching...

Getting my hair done...




And, fresh chicken dinners!

Well, maybe I don't miss the fresh chicken dinners that much! But, I do miss the kids.

"When, Lord, when?" I pray I will be there soon.