What's buzzin... Sunday School Treat

Black, white, and yellow... and bees

The theme of this year's treat for the Sunday School treat

Games were a hit. 

Food was abundant. 

Lesson was good. 

Prizes brought the concluding smiles! :)

The following are some of the pictures from the event: 

*NOTE: If you would like picture(s) in the original size or want a picture from a particular part of the day I did not post all of the pictures, so I will try my best to get you whatever pictures you would like to have. Also- if there is something you would like removed- just let me know*

The centerpieces turned prizes for the ladies attending :)

Yes- even black, white, & yellow M&Ms to enjoy!

The welcoming sign!

 The day happened to be on Sarah's birthday- her sisters did a very cute cake that fit right in!! 

Happy Bee-day!

While the older kids started off the day with some soccer outside...

The little ones were chaperoned by Suzy to inside ball activities!

 

 The aunt showing the nephew how it is done

Soccer... Omaha style led by Danny showing them how it should be done!

The busy bees getting the food ready: hamburgers, brats, & hotdogs- oh my!

And the hanging colored decorations! :)

 The games Part II: 

Thanks to David for his great work on the games!

 Relays #1- 2 legged races

 Partners in crime: skirts in their pockets to dominate the race :)

Relay #2: 2 legged race while kicking a soccer ball

 Danny giving his teammates some encouragement before the race starts-- cheaters cough cough

Winners of the relay races 1 & 2 :)

 The winning team's bag... and they were proud of it

 Relay #3: Jump rope relay across the parking lot

 Game 4: Scavenger hunt

Suzy's team's way of carrying all the items (skirt)

 Maria & Michael's team transportation for their items (sled & wheelchair)

Lesson given by Conductor (Grandpa) Jesse & Engineer Tim! :)

Thanks for the message... both children and adults were captivated and listening... train, whistle and all!

 The prizes awaited tempting the children throughout the day! :)

The regular Sunday School students receiving their hard-earned prizes.

The yellow bags were also awarded to any child in attendance! :)

The yellow soap... well there were some ladies who were awarded with them and the plants for their attendance!

A final picture capturing much of the crowd.

It was a great day- thanks to everyone for pitching in to help make the day a success! 

Thank you to David and (Mom) Beth for you diligence and faithfulness to the students in teaching them the truths of the Bible. Your hard work will be rewarded one day soon. 

Off to catch some ZZZs after a buzzzzy day, 

-Amanda :)

When you have a few moments, please take the time to watch this short, yet convicting video from Bravehearted thots. 

What am I doing for Him today?

Am I willing to give up the comforts of life to serve [my] King? (E. Ludy)

Only fear the Lord, and serve Him in truth with all your heart: 

for consider how great things he hath done for you. {1 Samuel 12:24}

May you enjoy the lyrics and I have been this evening-

The Power of the Cross

Keith and Kristyn Getty

 

This, the pow'r of the cross:

Christ became sin for us;

Took the blame, bore the wrath-

We stand forgiven at the cross.

---

This, the pow'r of the cross:

Son of God- slain for us;

What a love! What a cost!

We stand forgiven at the cross. 

But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were sinners, Christ died for us. Much more then, being now justified by his blood, we shall be saved from wrath through him. For if, when we were enemies, we were reconciled to God by the death of his Son, much more, being reconciled, we shall be saved by his life. And not only so, but we also joy in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom we have now received the atonement. {Romans 5: 8-11}

I am taking a break from blogging for a short while to catch up on some things that need tending too.


I'll leave you with this verse that I was enjoying this morning:

For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.

{2 Timothy 1:7}

I hope that this verse will be as helpful to you today, as it has been to me. 

Amazing love

And can it be that I should gain
An interest in the Saviour's blood?
Dies He for me who caused His pain?
For me who Him to death pursued?
Amazing love! How can it be
That Thou, my God, shouldst die for me?

'Tis mystery all: th'Immortal dies:
Who can explore His strange design?
In vain the firstborn seraph tries
To sound the depths of love divine.
'Tis mercy all! Let earth adore,
Let angel minds inquire no more.

He left His Father's throne above
So free, so infinite His grace--
Emptied Himself of all but love,
And bled for Adam's helpless race:
'Tis mercy all, immense and free,
For O my God, it found out me!

Long my imprisoned spirit lay,
Fast bound in sin and nature's night;
Thine eye diffused a quickening ray--
I woke, the dungeon flamed with light;
My chains fell off, my heart was free,
I rose, went forth, and followed Thee.

No condemnation now I dread;
Jesus, and all in Him, is mine;
Alive in Him, my living Head,
And clothed in righteousness divine,
Bold I approach th'eternal throne,
And claim the crown, through Christ my own.

{words: charles wesley, 1738}

{music: thomas campbell,  1825}

no fear in love

There is no fear in love,
but perfect love casteth out fear:
because fear hath torment.
He that feareth is not made perfect in love.
-1 John 4:18-

The LORD did not set his love upon you... 

because ye were more in number than any people... 

But because the LORD loved you. 

{Deuteronomy 7:7-8}

God loved Israel simply because he loved them. Nothing past or present is good in me that would be deserving of God's mercy, but He love me in spite of everything I have ever done and all my sin. He loved me so much that he sent his only Son to die for me- what an amazing love!

Hereby perceive we the love of God, because He laid down His life for us.

I John 3:16

From Choice Gleanings 2012
"Love is powerful. It is attractive. Everyone longs for it. Yet for all the attention it is given, defining love is difficult. But when our definitions fail, God points is to the personification of love, Christ laid down His life for us. .. Take a moment and by faith perceive again that scene at Calvary. Refresh yourself with a view of love in its purest distillation." S. McEachern

To Calvary, Lord, in Spirit now our grateful souls repair;
To dwell upon Thy dying love, and taste its sweetness there. (E. Denny)

1 John 4

Beloved, if God so loved us, we ought also to love one another.

No man hath seen God at any time. 

If we love one another, God dwelleth in us, and his love is perfected in us.

{1 John 4:11-12}

What. love! 

Amados, si Dios nos amado así, debemos también nosotros amarnos unos a otros. 

Nadie ha visto jamás a Dios. 

Si nos amamos unos a otros, Dios permanece en nosotros,

 y su amor se ha perfeccionado en nosotros. 

{I Juan 4:11-12}

Love through me, Love of God

Love through me, Love of God;

There is no love in me. 

O Fire of love, light Thou the love

That burns perpetually. 

Flow through me, Peace of God;

Calm River, flow until

No wind can blow, no current stir

A ripple of self-will. 

Shine through me, Joy of God; 

Make me like Thy clear air

That Thou dost pour Thy colors through, 

As though it were not there. 

O blessed Love of God,

That all may taste and see

How good Thou art, once more I pray:

Love through me--even me.

{amy carmichael}

Behold, what manner of love the Father hath bestowed upon us, that we should be called the sons of God: therefore the world knoweth us not, because it knew him not.
{1 John 3:1}

Christ died for us

But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.

{Romans 5:8}

Do you know your sins forgiven and that you are on the way to heaven? God loved the world so much that He sent His ONLY Son into the world to died for us. There is no love and truth greater than this assurance. 

Greater love hath no man than this

{John 15: 9-14}

As the Father hath loved me, so have I loved you: continue ye in my love. If ye keep my commandments, ye shall abide in my love; even as I have kept my Father's commandments, and abide in his love. These things have I spoken unto you, that my joy might remain in you, and that your joy might be full. This is my commandment, That ye love one another, as I have loved you. Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends. Ye are my friends, if ye do whatsoever I command you.

He loves me anyway

I am the thorn in Your crown,
But you love me anyway
I am the sweat from Your brow,
But you love me anyway
I am the nail in Your wrist,
But you love me anyway
I am Judas' kiss,
But you love me anyway

See I am the man who yellow out from the crowd
For Your blood to be spilled on this earth shaking ground
Yes, then I turned away with this smile on my face,
With this sin in my heart tried to bury Your grace
Yes, then alone in the night,
I still call out to You,
So ashamed of my life,
But You love me anyway... O God, how You love me
Yes, You love me.

Sidewalk Prophets- You Love Me Anyway video link

What a great God we have- One who despite all that we have done still loves us. To Him I give thanks. 

For God is LOVE {1 John 4:8}

Valentines Day

HAPPY VALENTINE'S DAY! 

<3

*an e-card for you*

Dayspring card

I hope you have a wonderful Valentines Day and that you will remember the One who first loved you! :)

He who loved me

I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me.

{Galatians 2:20}

*I can't help it... the trees were nothing but beautiful with the covering of snow on the branches!*

Because thy lovingkindness is better than life, my lips shall praise Thee. 

{Psalm  63:3}


*a glimpse of the beauty of last week's snow*

God commended his love

But God commendeth his LOVE toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.

Romans 5:8

Do you know your sins forgiven and that you on the way to heaven? It is a blessed hope and knowing that Jesus died on the cross to take away our sins, without a cost from us! :)

God is love

"God is love. 

Therefore, love.

Without distinction, without calculation, without procrastination, 

love."

{henry drummond}

Champion of Love

Ladies and Gentleman, may I have your attention? I want to introduce to you

In this corner of the good and the right, stands a champion robed in white

His height exceeds the heavens, His weight outweighs the world

His reach reaches everywhere, His age is evermore

Chorus:

He is higher than the highest, greater than the great, 

No one will ever take His crown away,

He's more mighty than the mightiest, He reigns from above

He's the all-time undisputed, undefeated champion, of love. 

He left His hometown to enter this arena, to raise His hands in victory for me

An angry crowd crucified this king who wore their crown, as they gladly watched the champion going down,

Oh but I will never count Him out, for I'm a witness of 

The day He rose to reclaim the title "Champion of Love."

How deep the Father's love

How deep the Father's love for us,
How vast beyond all measure
That He should give His only Son
To make a wretch His treasure
How great the pain of searing loss,
The Father turns His face away
As wounds which mar the chosen One,
Bring many sons to glory.

Behold the Man upon the cross,
My sin upon His shoulders
Ashamed I hear my mocking voice,
Call out among the scoffers
It was my sin that held Him there
Until it was accomplished
His dying breath has brought me life
I know that it is finished.

I will not boast in anything
No gifts, no power, no wisdom
But I will boast in Jesus Christ
His death and resurrection
Why should I gain from His reward?
I cannot give an answer
But this I know with all m heart
His wounds have paid my ransom.

The love of God is more than tongue can ever try to explain. He loves us without a cost. He sent His ONLY Son to die on the cross for my sin- what a love. Do I love Him more each day?

El amor de Dios

Con que  pagaremos amor tan inmeso,
Que diste Tu vida por el pecador?
En cambio recibes la ofrenda humilde,
La ofrenda humilde, Señor Jesucristo, de mi corazon.

Y cuando la noche extiende su mano
Mis ojos en llanto en ti fijare
Alzando mis ojos vere las estrellas
Yo se que tras ellas, cual Padre amoroso, tu velas por mi.

No puedo pagarte con oro ni plata
El gran sacrificio que hiciste por me
No tengo que darte por tanto amarme
Recibe este canto, mezclado con llanto, y mi corazon.

Fernando Ortega (video)

Un recuerdo del amor de Dios.

Often I have heard people say, "How good God is! We prayed that it would not rain for our church picnic, and look at the lovely weather!" Yes, God is good when He sends good weather. But God was also good when He allowed my sister, Betsie, to starve to death before my eyes in a German concentration camp. I remember one occasion when I was very discouraged there. Everything around us was dark, and there was darkness in my heart. I remember telling Betsie that I thought God had forgotten us. "No, Corrie," said Betsie, "He has not forgotten us. Remember His Word: For as the heavens are high above the earth, so great is His steadfast love towards those who fear Him." Corrie concludes, "There is an ocean of God's love available- there is plenty for everyone. May God grant you never to doubt that victorious love- whatever the circumstances."

-Corrie Ten Boom-

If I were in their situation would I be able to say the same thing about God's grand love? Would I trust Him enough to remember that He has not forgotten about me when I enter trials and tribulations? May I be so in love with my Saviour that I may always remember his steadfast love for me. In whatever circumstance, God's love will always be there. 

God so loved the world

For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him,
should not perish, but have eternal life. 

John 3:16

His only Son he gave- to save an undeserving person as me. Because of this Son I KNOW for sure that I am on my way to heaven. What a glorious thought it is to know that I will be with Jesus in a soon coming day! :)

Love of Christ

31. What shall we then say to these things? If God be for us, who can be against us?

32. He that spared not his own Son, but delivered him up for us all, how shall he not with him also freely give us all things?

33. Who shall lay any thing to the charge of God's elect? It is God that justifieth.

34. Who is he that condemneth? It is Christ that died, yea rather, that is risen again, who is even at the right hand of God,  who also maketh intercession for us. 

35. Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword?

36. As it is written, For thy sake we are killed all the day long; we are accounted as sheep for the slaughter. 

37. Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him that loved us.

38. For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, not things to come, 

39. Nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord. 

Romans 8:31-39

It is amazing to think upon the unending, boundless love of God. There is NOTHING that can separate us from His love! To know that I am always loved by the King of Glory even when things are hard or when I make mistakes is a such a wonderful thought! :)

Ephesians 3

That God may dwell in your hearts by faith; that ye, being rooted and grounded in love, 

May be able to comprehend with all saints what is the breadth, and length, and depth, and height;

And to know the love of Christ, which passeth knowledge, that ye might be filled with all the fulness of God. 

Ephesians 3: 17-19

Enjoy your Friday! :)

Happy Birthday Alyssa :)

Happy 14th Birthday ALYSSA!

 May you enjoy another year of life and the many changes that will take place! 

You may be taller than me by a long shot... but you are still younger than me :)

Happy Birthday :)

The love of God is greater far!

1. The love of God is greater far
   Than tongue or pen can ever tell;
   It goes beyond the highest star,
   And reaches to the lowest hell;
   The guilty pair, bowed down with care,
   God gave His Son to win;
   His erring child He reconciled,
   And pardoned from his sin.
   • Refrain:
     Oh, love of God, how rich and pure!
     How measureless and strong!
     It shall forevermore endure—
     The saints’ and angels’ song.
2. When hoary time shall pass away,
   And earthly thrones and kingdoms fall,
   When men who here refuse to pray,
   On rocks and hills and mountains call,
   God’s love so sure, shall still endure,
   All measureless and strong;
   Redeeming grace to Adam’s race—
   The saints’ and angels’ song.
3. Could we with ink the ocean fill,
   And were the skies of parchment made,
   Were every stalk on earth a quill,
   And every man a scribe by trade;
   To write the love of God above
   Would drain the ocean dry;
   Nor could the scroll contain the whole,
   Though stretched from sky to sky.
4. I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me. - Galatians 2:20

No Greater Love

It is hard to believe that it is February when I can walk outside without a heavy jacket on. This winter has been very mild for which I am personally thankful... I mean- who gets two 65 degree days together at the end of January in Nebraska!?  I see there is snow in the forecast for this weekend, however, I shall not complain about the cold and snow after the week of BEAUTIFUL weather we've had- instead I will curl up with my electric blanket and sip a hot cup of chai tea! :)

February seems to be a month centered around Valentine's day and love. At the start of February I couldn't help but think of the Father's love for me because there is no greater love imaginable :) God is the God of love and as the quote from St. Augustine says

"God loves each of us as if there were only one of us."

-- what an amazing thing that He can love us so much that he sent his only begotten Son for us.

(John 3:16) 

Each day (since it is a short month + leap day this year) I hope to share a short something of the love of God. Today, I'd like to share with you a song I love listening to- Boundless Love... He has a love that is never ending which is something that is hard to fathom in 2012. Enjoy... :)

sung by The Cathedrals

or by Legacy Five

Verse 1

There is not a mother, sister, friend or brother

Loves the way that Jesus can.

He proved His love for me when He died on Calvary

He gave His life for fallen man.

Chorus

His love is a boundless love

and it reaches down and touches me

his love is an endless love

that will last thru all eternity

Verse 2

Jesus wants to love you, there is none above you

You are precious in his sight.

He will never fail you when the doubts assail you

He’ll be with you day and night.

Enjoy God's love in what is left of the 1st of February 2012!

Hope in the unseen

It has been a while since I have posted anything, but I came across this video tonight that I would like to share. I know it is sometimes difficult to watch a video relying on subtitles, but I feel that this video is worth watching the whole way through.

For me, personally, this video reminds me that there is something special inside of each person I meet. Whether it is the classmate that I like or find frustrating to work with, or the rambunctious unkempt child that enters the Sunday school classroom, the stranger on the street, or the homeless man from the shelter that comes to hear the gospel on a Sunday night. While this video is about a person that comes off the street and shines when his hidden talent comes out, it reminds me that there is something inside each one that I meet and there is hope that they can be reached with the gospel and be saved as well! May I reach out to those around, no matter the stench or fear and show God's light and hope of salvation to them.

Enjoy the video :)

Another step closer...

While there are still questions that remain unanswered, I am happy to say that I have completed my student teaching interview and the paperwork involved in that and am on my way to student teaching in the fall! This means I am one step closer to graduation (which will take place in either December 2012 or May 2013!) Now I leave it even more in the Lord's hands as to where I will be placed and the plans for the future! :)

I have been enjoying the lyrics to Legacy Five's song:

While I'm waiting, God is working,

He is working overtime,

When I'm hiding in the bushes,

He is on the firing line, 

When I think the battles over, 

When my back's against the wall,
While I'm waiting God is working,
He is working through it all.

While I am waiting for my placement and many other answers, God is moving His hand and working through it all! :) What a comfort!

I was also enjoying a verse during my reading in Genesis where God is speaking to Jacob in a dream: And, behold, I am with thee, and will keep thee in all places whither thou goest, and will bring thee again into this land; for I will not leave thee, until I have done which I have spoken to thee of (28:15).

What a sure promise we (I) have from the Lord- that where ever I go, where ever He places me-- He will always be with me and will never leave me!

I will try to post again soon... until then-- Spend some the Lord, enjoy His communion, and keep looking up! :)

Take My Life and Let It Be

Take my life, and let it be

Consecrated, Lord, to Thee;

Take my moments and my days, 

Let them flow in ceaseless praise.

Take my hands, and let them move

At the impulse of Thy love;

Take my feet and let them be

Swift and beautiful for Thee.

Take my voice, and let me sing

Always, only, for my King;

Take my lips, and let them be

Filled with messages from Thee.

Take my silver and my gold;

Not a mite would I withhold;

Take my intellect, and use

Every power as Thou shalt choose.

Take my will, and make it Thine;

It shall be no longer mine. 

Take my heart; it is Thine own;

It shall be Thy royal throne.

Take my love; my Lord, I pour

At Thy feet its treasure-store.

Take myself, and I will be 

Ever, only, all for Thee.

This hymn was written by Francis Ridley Havergal. She was born in England as the youngest child of a minister. By the age of 3, she could read; at the age of 4 she was reading and memorizing the Bible; at the age of 7 she began writing poetry. When she was 11, her mother died after suffering a long and hard illness.

She was a very educated girl. Her scholastic achievements included several modern languages in addition to Latin, Greek, and Hebrew. She was also trained in linguistics and music. She was a pianist and singer. She was also a devoted Bible student memorizing the New Testament including the Psalms, Isaiah, and the Minor Prophets.

Even though she was highly cultured and educated, she maintained a simple faith and confidence in her Lord. It is said that she never wrote a line without first praying over it.

After 1873, she literally carried out her now famous couplet "Take my voice, and let me sing, Always, only for my King." and she sang nothing but sacred music of the love of God and His way of salvation. It became her life's mission to sing and work for Jesus.

Her hymn of consecration, "Take my Life and Let It Be" was written by Miss Havergal in 1874. She given the following account of the song:
"Perhaps you will be interested to know the origin of the Consecration hymn 'Take my life.' I went for a little visit of five days [to Areley House]. There were ten persons in the house, some unconverted and long prayed for, some converted, but not rejoicing Christians. He game me the prayer 'Lord, give me all in this house!' And He just did! Before I left the house every one had got a blessing. The last night of my visit after I had retired, the governess asked me to go to the two daughters. They were crying, & then and there both of them trusted and rejoiced; it was nearly midnight. I was too happy to sleep, and passes most of the night in praise and renewal of my own consecration; and these little couplets formed themselves, and chimed in my heart one after another till they finished with 'ever only, ALL FOR THEE!'"

Her prayer, "Take my silver and my gold; not a mite would I withhold," in the same hymn was not lightly stated. In August 1878, Miss Havergal wrote to a friend,
"The Lord has shown me another little step, and, of course, I have taken it with extreme delight. 'Take my silver and my gold' now means shipping off all of my ornaments to the church Missionary House, including a jewel cabinet that is really fit for a countess, where all will be accepted and disposed of for me... Nearly fifty articles are being packed up. I don't think I ever packed a box with such pleasure."

Miss Havergal also wrote many small devotional tracts and narratives in prose and numerous little books of poems and hymn texts, all marked by the same earnest and practical piety. Her themes in her writing were of faith, consecration, and service.

Frances Ridley Havergal died at Caswall Bay, Swansea, Wales on June 3, 1879, at the age of 42.

Have I consecrated my life to the Lord? Do I give up of my most valuable treasures to serve the One who died for me? What of my time? my talents? my treasures? What of myself do I give to Him? Have I given Him my all to be used for His service and glory?

Today- January 9, 2012

Today is Monday, January 9, 2012.
Today is a brand new day.
Today is another day given to me by God.
Today marks the beginning of another semester.
Today marks a fresh start.
Today marks my final semester of classes.

Today.

Today I am starting my final 4 classes at UNOmaha before I student teach in the fall. As I step through campus today and I see those that I interact and study with and those that use the same hallways as I-- Do they know what I believe? Have I shared the gospel and the glorious news of salvation with them? Can they see the light of Christ shining through me? Am I sure that I am living as an honest Christian before others?

I am challenging myself... so I challenge you to share the gospel to at least one other person this semester- through speech, through tract, through conduct, whatever it may be. And once it has been done once... try it again :) 


Semester motto: "...whatsoever ye do, do all to the glory of God." (1 Corinthians 10:31)

Today is a new day.
Today is a new beginning.
Enjoy your time with the Lord and share your joys with others.

I will sing the wondrous story

Many I know are suffering from what Tim Woodford diagnosed to us as P.S.S.L.D.S (Post SeedSowers Let Down Syndrome). After a week of intense walking, fellowship, friends, conversations, devotions, testimonies, activities, and singing, it is hard to get back into the grind of daily life. Personally, I had a great week at the Phoenix, AZ seed sowers this year, and it truly is hard to come back. However, I pray that I can take what I learned during the week and better my life from the lessons. I also pray that I will not stop the spread of the gospel at the end of the week, but continue to serve God here in Omaha now that I am home. What am I doing for HIM?


The middle of last week brought a song that was enjoyed by all. It is a song that many sing, but we learned a little different tune inspired by those in the Ireland/N.I./England area. The tune is catching and many were found singing it out on the streets, in the vans, when you woke up, and just about everywhere during the week. But truly the story we have to share is wondrous :)

A little background of the song:

I will sing the Wondrous Story

lyrics: Francis Harold Rowley (1854-1952)

original music: Peter Philip Bilhorn (1865-1936)

Francis Rowley was born on July 25, 1854 and after being educated at the University of Rochester and Rochester Theological Seminary, Rowley became the Baptist minister of the First Baptist Chirch of North Adams, MA. During his time of ministry, the church was having a revival which was causing the whole community to experience a period of unusual interest in religious matters. Rowley was assisted by a young musician, Peter Bilhorn, who served as the song director for the church. 

One Sunday, following the service, Bilhorn asked Rowley to write a hymn that Bilhorn could put to music. The following night, Rowley had the following stanzas come to him to which Bilhorn later composed a tune (Wondrous Story). Some years later, Francis Rowley was walking through the streets of London at about 11 o'clock at night when he heard a Salvation Army group holding a service. As he drew near he realized that the words they were singing where the ones he had written so many years prior. Peter Bilhorn had written the song and it became an instant success. The song was first written as "Can't you sing the wondrous story" However, the song was first published by Ira Sankey in 1887 as "I will sing the Wondrous Story" after it was given as a gift to him from Rowley and Bilhorn. Bilhorn wrote over 2,000 gospel songs during his time. 

1. I will sing the wondrous story
Of the Christ Who died for me;
How He left His home in glory
For the cross of Calvary
 
     Yes, I'll sing the wondrous story
     Of the Christ Who died for me,
     Sing it with the saints in glory,
     Gathered by the crystal sea.

2. I was lost, but Jesus found me.
Found the sheep that went astray,
Threw His loving arms around me.
Drew me back into His way.

3. I was bruised, but Jesus healed me.
Faint was I from many a fall,
Sight was gone, and fears possessed me,
But He freed me from them all.

4. Days of darkness still come o'er me,
Sorrow's path I often tread,
But His presence still is with me,
By His guiding hand I'm led.

5. He will keep me till the river
Rolls its water at my feet;
Then He'll bear me safely over,
When the loved ones I shall meet.

*I will sing the Wondrous Story -The Celebration Choir (Monuments of Faith CD)

I will sing of the mercies of the Lord forever. Psalm 89:1

Merry Christmas

Merry Christmas from Albuquerque/Phoenix!

While I don't have a behind the song/writer this weekend I thought I'd share this video... Enjoy- I think it is worth watching the whole way through!

Holiday Break!

The semester is finished and I survived :) I was so VERY thankful and ready for a break!!

Today I spent all day (minus a few hours at work) in the kitchen baking and listening to Christmas music- it was lovely. I love to bake for others and enjoy spending hours in a kitchen experimenting when there is time... which is rare. While I work with food WAY too much for my jobs, free time baking is much more fun and much less common :) I am happy to report that after making 8 different items they all turned out well (and no- there are no thin, crunchy cookies my friends :))!

Here is a taste of the some of the results:

This is one of the platters that is going to be delivered :)

(Lft to Rt- White Chocolate Blueberry Cheesecake Cookies, White Chocolate Raspberry Cheesecake Cookies, Holly treats, Mocha Crinkles, Chow Mein Clusters, and a few pretzels sprinkled around)

*not pictured: gluten free chow mein clusters, flourless peanut butter/chocolate/butterscotch cookies, and pretzels with caramel/chocolate!

Now for the rest of break: relaxing with a book, the final shopping, shipping, wrapping, Christmas time with my parents and sisters, and a trip to Phoenix... and time to relax again after I get home in preparation for my final semester of classes :D

Have a WONDERFUL holiday season. Tis the season to celebrate the Saviour :)

Faint Not, Christian, though the Road

I have been enjoying the books Hymns and their Writers  and More Hymns and their Writers (Jack Strahan) over significant period of time. I hope to be able to share the story of a hymn and its writer each week.

Written by James Harinton Evans (1785-1849), "Faint not, Christian, thought the road" was the last of many hymns written, however, it is the most known. Having loved music, Evans used his strong singing voice and many hours at the piano and violoncello each day, he found it relaxing to sing hymns at the close of the day."Faint not, Christian, thought the road" appeared in the 1833 hymnal. It was first entitled "Patient Endurance" based on Hebrews 12:3 "For consider Him that endured..., lest ye be wearied and faint in your minds." It was interesting to read that the metre and melody of this hymn are written to reflect a footfall of a traveller on the heavenly roadway.

Faint not, Christian, though the road
Leading to thy blest abode
Darksome be and dangerous too, 
Christ, thy Guide, will bring thee through. 


Faint not, Christian, though the rage
Satan doth thy soul engage;
Take thee faith's anointed shield, 
Bear it to the battle-field. 


Faint not, Christian, through the world
Hath its hostile flag unfurled, 
Hold the Cross of Jesus fast, 
Thou shalt overcome at last.


Faint not, Christian,though within
There's a heart so prone to sin;
Christ, the Lord, is over all- 
He'll not suffer thee to fall.


Faint not, Christian,though thy God
Smite thee with the chastening rod, 
Smite He must, with Father's care, 
That He may His love declare.


Faint not, Christian! Christ is near;
Soon in glory He'll appear;
Then shall cease thy toil and strife,
Death be swallowed up of life.


Don't give up. Faint not. The journey is hard. The journey is tiring. The travel isn't easy, but HE is enough for the journey, and the traveller may go safely to the end if they keep their focus on HIM.

It's the most wonderful time of the year....

Okay for some... it may not be the MOST wonderful time of the year, but the spirit that is in the year is certainly a Christmas one!

Watch the attached video for your holiday listening pleasure:
Festival of Carols (Legacy Five) :)

Snowy December

As we have gotten two days of snow, I am reminded of a couple of things- (1) that I didn't miss the snow, being cold, scraping the windows, and driving through the snow. However, I was reminded of the beauty of the snow. God creations are so amazing. With the tree branches covered in white- the sight is beautiful. Driving home the other night from work, looking at the snow all around and still falling I found myself singing:

Then sings my soul,

My Saviour God, to Thee,

How great Thou art!

How great Thou art!

Then sings my soul,

My Saviour God, to Thee,

How great Thou art!

How great Thou art!

Enjoy the day (whether snowy or sunny)! 

Thankful from the 14th to the 30th :)

Yes- I know it is already December but due to the craziness of this time of the year- and mostly because of the end of the semester on the horizon, I am playing catchup on this post!

Day 14: I am thankful for another year that God has given me. With the 14th being my birthday, I am thankful for the opportunities that I've been able to take advantage of this past year and for the lessons He has taught me. 

Day 15: I am thankful for music. To be able to lift a joyful noise unto the Lord through song is such a beautiful thing. 

Day 16: I am thankful for Savannah. While there are many challenges she has brought, her contagious smile, looks, and laughter has been something that I appreciate and love. 

Day 17: I am thankful for Maria. Yes, though she might not believe it! She tests my patience and doesn't let me get away with ANYTHING. However, it has been nice to be able to have 2 jobs together, and bounce off each other when needed. 

Day 18: I am thankful for Alyssa. She might be taller than I am by a long ways, but she is still my "little" sister. 

Day 19: I am thankful for my parents- while many times growing up I wondered why they did the things they did/said- today I am truly grateful for their love, discipline, protection, and their Godly example. They are servants in the place God has put them. I am thankful for them- I can't 

Day 20: I am thankful for coffee and tea- they are my helpmates in times of need and stress, my late night study partners. :)
Day 21: I am thankful to the Thiessen family for taking me in two summers in a row- to deal with my oddness, to feed and board me, to help me with my Spanish, to guide me, to let me be a part of their family during my stays. The list is endless, but I am thankful God has given me them :)
Day 22: I am thankful for some of the greatest friends- while the miles are spread between us all, the connection is still there. From Michigan to Iowa to Arizona to Mexico to El Salvador and beyond far and near, God has given me some good friends :) Two in particular have been there to talk, to share the things of God, to grow, to learn, and to become my closest friends (you know who you are!) :)
Day 23: I am thankful for the power of prayer. It is amazing what God can do!
Day 24: I am thankful for Thanksgiving day that comes once a year, where we can gather together as a family to enjoy time together.
Day 25: I am thankful for warm and comfy sweatpants/pjs (aka "spandex") on cold snowy days! (and rainy days too ;) )
Day 26: I am thankful for the love and patience of God. He is the God of many chances and his love for me is never failing.

thankful days 12-13

Day 12: I am thankful for a good Saturday- to spend time with family, do homework, and work :)

Day 13: I am thankful for a moment in my life when I came to know Jesus Christ as my personal Savior. It has made all the difference...

Days 9-11 giving thanks

Day 9: I am thankful for the ability to have 2 flexible jobs. It is lovely to be able to leave for extended periods of time or need random days off and still have both of the jobs. Both jobs give me hours that very very rarely ever coincide with meeting- it is great and something I am very thankful for! Sunridge Village Retirement has given me 5+ years of experience and Hap Abraham Catering has given me almost 3 years of some of the most interesting experiences and opportunities. I am thankful for my jobs.

Day 10: I am thankful for the Rockstars- Burke High School's students with moderate to severe disabilities. Each one is so unique, so talented. They conquer their fears and find the courage to overcome disabilities, to perform in front of large crowds, to persevere to take steps. They stole my heart... again- as they each performed in the musical!

 Hannah (in the purple) singing :)

 Andy and Miranda- a song that brought tears and many cheers in the end!

 Oh Curtis... being blind doesn't hold him back :) I remember singing with you in front of the school at an assembly but a few years ago. :)

 Miss Becca and I- she graduated last year, but her hugs are the best :)

* I have a great video of them singing, but I will post it later! *

Day 11: Today I am thankful for freedom. The United States of America is called "the land of the free." Americans honor Veterans and soldiers today and remember the freedoms that they have fought for and the freedom we have here.

Day 8 Thankful

Day 8: I am thankful for my placement for my practicum hours. God has provided me with a great opportunity to get hands on experience in the classroom, while being able to practice my poor Spanish skills. Not having a Spanish class this semester had me worried, but I am having GREAT practice with the kids, while being able to do something I love- help children learn :)

Thankful.3

Day 7: I am thankful for the many opportunities I have had to travel. Traveling is something I love to do- whether on 4 wheels or in a plane. Without the support of my family I would never have seen the parts of the world that I have-Canada, Ukraine, Amsterdam, Guatemala, El Salvador, and many parts of the USA and Mexico! Traveling has taught me many lessons about myself and about the world and I can't wait to plan my next trip :)

It's Sunday- and I thankful day 6

Day 6- I'm thankful today that I can gather this another Lord's Day to remember the One who died for me. What a wonderful thing it is to be able to gather around the table each Sunday and be able to worship Him. The One who gave His all for me at the cross.

Thankful day 3-5

I know, I am already getting behind! However, I am still thankful despite of my postings!

November 3 (day 3): I am thankful for the opportunity to be able to attend university to obtain a degree. The chance to become educated at the University of Nebraska at Omaha has helped me to extend my education, be a testimony before others, and has given me many other opportunities that have benefited me as well! I have grow from the experiences and have strengthened my faith. University is not easy- from all aspects, but God has given me the opportunity to learn skills and get a higher education that will help me in my service for Him.

Day 4: Days like today, when I am in an elementary school with 18 kids sneezing, coughing, sniffing, and blowing  germs all around me, I am thankful for the health I have been given. Thankfully, so far, I have a strong immune system and thankfully it takes alot to make me sick (aside from the occasional food encounter!).

Day 5: I am thankful for today. A Saturday that has been productive and enjoyable. A Saturday when I am not spending hours on my feet catering, but a day with my family. Family pictures that were successful, a meal where we are all together, a little shopping, a little nap, an unexpected paycheck, muffins made and an afternoon at home each of us doing our own activities lots of homework done, and breakfast for supper all as a family again! Yeah, today was a good day and I am thankful. Oh- AND I get an extra hour of sleep :) :)

Thankful day 1 and 2

November is a month that reminds Americans about being thankful. With Thanksgiving-a day of thankfulness at the end of the month, I would like to just share what I am thankful for on each day of this month (days 1-30).

Day 1: I am thankful for a home that I can come to- that has air condition AND heat. A home that contains my room, a bed, food, and the necessities.

Day 2: I am thankful for the invention of the heated blanket/mattress cover! As it snows/rains outside my window, I am thankful that I have one that was given to me as a gift. I am not one for liking to be cold- so what a wonderful thing to be able to be warmed! :)

I hope I don't bore you with these posts- but you don't have to read them!! :)

Have a wonderful Wednesday!

A pumpkin patch kind of day!

Today was a cool, breezy fall day for a trip with Suzy to Vala's Pumpkin Patch. There were mazes, caramel apples, bouncy pillows, houses, animals, pumpkins (of course!) and much much more!

Here are some pictures from our adventure!

 The future teacher :)

 Suzy in the castle awaiting her prince charming!

 For the last several falls...and this fall (and for the falls to come)... I'm over 5 foot :D

 John Deere riders only

 Corn stalks in the corn maze

 Horse drawn school bus

 "Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path."  Psalm 119:105 

"The LORD is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear?
the LORD is the strength of my life; of whom shall I be afraid?"
Psalm 27:1

 Trouble... she knows where to find it :)

 Of course we couldn't resist the sign that said "For older kids and adults"! :) Bounce pillows

 Why good afternoon Mr. Llama

 Gotta get a picture with the pumpkins!

Oh, look! There we are :)