Scripture: Ps 113; Samuel 2:1-10; Romans 12:9-16; Luke 1:39-57
Scripture Standout: Romans 12: "Honor one another above yourselves. 11 Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord. 12 Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer. 13 Share with the Lord’s people who are in need. Practice hospitality."
Luke 1: "51 He has performed mighty deeds with his arm;
he has scattered those who are proud in their inmost thoughts.
52 He has brought down rulers from their thrones
but has lifted up the humble.
53 He has filled the hungry with good things
but has sent the rich away empty."
Morning thoughts: Did I ever circle back and say how all that worrying I'd been doing was solved so beautifully? I'm still in awe.
These verses are so appropriate today as the 16 Afghan children make the long trip from Kabul to Jacksonville. They have a 10-hour layover in Dubai. And like last year, they'll arrive a little dirty, exhausted, hungry and scared — but excited for their future. It's awesome to know he will "fill the hungry with good things." What a blessing for these kids and their families.
His Deed/The Day: The kids leave for camp Saturday and there are a lot of little loose ends to tie up in that regard — pre-sent letters, clothes marking, ping-pong paddles, etc., etc., etc. The afternoon was spent packing each footlocker just right. And in the meantime, we came across a nice collection of boys' shorts that no longer fit my fast-growing American son — perfect for two slighter, less sprawling Afghan friends. Lastly, neighbors have been bringing over food items for Chuck. His case worker came and picked up a load for delivery this afternoon.
Tuesday, May 31, 2011
Monday, May 30, 2011
Day 82
Scripture: Ps 80, 77, 79; Deuteronomy 8:1-10; James 1:1-15; Luke 9:18-27
Scripture standout: Deuteronomy 8: "2 Remember how the LORD your God led you all the way in the wilderness these forty years, to humble and test you in order to know what was in your heart, whether or not you would keep his commands. 3 He humbled you, causing you to hunger and then feeding you with manna, which neither you nor your ancestors had known, to teach you that man does not live on bread alone but on every word that comes from the mouth of the LORD. 4 Your clothes did not wear out and your feet did not swell during these forty years. 5 Know then in your heart that as a man disciplines his son, so the LORD your God disciplines you."
James 1: "2 Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters,[a] whenever you face trials of many kinds, 3 because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. 4Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything."
Luke 9: "23 Then he said to them all: “Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross daily and follow me. 24 For whoever wants to save their life will lose it, but whoever loses their life for me will save it."
Morning thoughts: Too busy worrying, I guess, to have thoughts.
His Deed/My Day: After all this talk about being humble, I'm going to change things up to the way they should have been from Day 1. As this experiment gets into its 80th-something day, I want to make it clear how aware I am that this is not about me — but about being more open to God's direction. And I'd hate if there was a perception or assumption that it's me who's doing the do-gooding. So I'm going to change the verbiage a little bit to reflect that very important, key point. It's His deeds, not mine.
OK, so yes — His deed today was more wounded foot cleaning.
Scripture standout: Deuteronomy 8: "2 Remember how the LORD your God led you all the way in the wilderness these forty years, to humble and test you in order to know what was in your heart, whether or not you would keep his commands. 3 He humbled you, causing you to hunger and then feeding you with manna, which neither you nor your ancestors had known, to teach you that man does not live on bread alone but on every word that comes from the mouth of the LORD. 4 Your clothes did not wear out and your feet did not swell during these forty years. 5 Know then in your heart that as a man disciplines his son, so the LORD your God disciplines you."
James 1: "2 Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters,[a] whenever you face trials of many kinds, 3 because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. 4Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything."
Luke 9: "23 Then he said to them all: “Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross daily and follow me. 24 For whoever wants to save their life will lose it, but whoever loses their life for me will save it."
Morning thoughts: Too busy worrying, I guess, to have thoughts.
His Deed/My Day: After all this talk about being humble, I'm going to change things up to the way they should have been from Day 1. As this experiment gets into its 80th-something day, I want to make it clear how aware I am that this is not about me — but about being more open to God's direction. And I'd hate if there was a perception or assumption that it's me who's doing the do-gooding. So I'm going to change the verbiage a little bit to reflect that very important, key point. It's His deeds, not mine.
OK, so yes — His deed today was more wounded foot cleaning.
Sunday, May 29, 2011
Day 81
Scripture standout: 1 Peter 3: "13 Who is going to harm you if you are eager to do good? 14 But even if you should suffer for what is right, you are blessed. "
Acts 17: "28‘For in him we live and move and have our being.’[a] As some of your own poets have said, ‘We are his offspring.’[b]
John 14: "But you know him, for he lives with you and will be[a] in you. 18 I will not leave you as orphans; I will come to you."
Morning thoughts: I'm worried about a lot of things — some much bigger than others. They range from the health of a friend to who's going to be looking after the boys while I take Ben and Marley to camp this weekend. I must have been sleep-worrying, which is the WORST, because I woke up at 4 a.m. with a monster, vice-squeezing headache. And no, I did not enjoy too much chardonnay last night for the record. Why is it so obvious and easy to understand that since God is in charge, I have not a thing to worry about — but so difficult to let go?
The Deed/The Day: I promised myself to just "let go!" and chill out on my worries. But it was soon broken by a flurry of emails I sent in a worried panic. I madly typed plans A, B and C for an upcoming event. I grew pimples. I chewed my finger nails. Knowing how stupid this behavior was, I penned another email telling someone I was just going to "Let go and let God." And would you know within 5 minutes — no kidding — I received an email of "don't worry, it's all handled." LOVE it, when I get real obvious-like hints.
Today's deed was getting a few necessary items for Quodrat, the other 13-year-old Afghan coming to stay with us for the summer. Some sweet Florida duds!
The last deed was to familiarize myself with a situation I had not contemplated before. Hottie Brian Williams' cronies aired a story tonight about how WWII veterans are dying away — and many have wishes to visit their military service past. A group of them went to DC this weekend and received a heroes welcome at the DC airport and WWII memorial. So touching! Watch this for a little pre-Memorial Day enlightenment:
Their trip was sponsored by this group Forever Young Senior Wish. There are plenty of needs noted — it's good to know where they are, and one way to meet them. Wondering where to find this group? Why, it's www.foreveryoungseniorwish.org of course!
Saturday, May 28, 2011
Day 80
Scripture: Ps 75, 76, 23, 27; Romans 15:1-13; Luke 9:1-17
Scripture standout: Romans 15: "1 We who are strong ought to bear with the failings of the weak and not to please ourselves. 2 Each of us should please our neighbors for their good, to build them up."
Morning thoughts: Hmmmmmm. Still half-asleep...
The Deed/The Day: You know, I'm going to say pin care again...but with a different perspective. I tried Maundy Thursday's foot-washing service this Easter. It was exhilarating. What physical way of humbling before others! I began to think of other fun Lenten "experiments" after doing that. Maybe I could wash 40 people's feet in 40 days! That was one thought. But after further pondering, I figured that might be really hard — not to mention embarrassing and double not to mention people might find me freakish or fetish-ed — so I abandoned the mission. Now, I am one week in to washing Ashraf's swollen, pin-ridden left foot twice daily. That means I'm 14 feet in!
Scripture standout: Romans 15: "1 We who are strong ought to bear with the failings of the weak and not to please ourselves. 2 Each of us should please our neighbors for their good, to build them up."
Morning thoughts: Hmmmmmm. Still half-asleep...
The Deed/The Day: You know, I'm going to say pin care again...but with a different perspective. I tried Maundy Thursday's foot-washing service this Easter. It was exhilarating. What physical way of humbling before others! I began to think of other fun Lenten "experiments" after doing that. Maybe I could wash 40 people's feet in 40 days! That was one thought. But after further pondering, I figured that might be really hard — not to mention embarrassing and double not to mention people might find me freakish or fetish-ed — so I abandoned the mission. Now, I am one week in to washing Ashraf's swollen, pin-ridden left foot twice daily. That means I'm 14 feet in!
Friday, May 27, 2011
Day 79
Scripture standout: Romans 14: "13 Therefore let us stop passing judgment on one another. Instead, make up your mind not to put any stumbling block or obstacle in the way of a brother or sister."
Luke 8: "“Stop wailing,” Jesus said. “She is not dead but asleep.”
53 They laughed at him, knowing that she was dead. 54 But he took her by the hand and said, “My child, get up!” 55 Her spirit returned, and at once she stood up."
Morning thoughts: School's out. That means the schedule is out. From September to May, I become so robotic I'm never sure how I will react to being yanked off my routine! This morning, for instance, I slept until 8:30 and read the paper before my run and quiet time. I have mild fears this change in course will send me spinning! I'd like to say change is good, so this neurotic near-40-something is keeping her fingers crossed that the wheels don't fall off the bus!
So when I was reading the paper this morning during a new time slot, I came across a great example of deeding. The story is about how a town is rallying around four orphaned girls. Their parents are gone in a murder-suicide, and all the girls are separated in different foster homes. The oldest, who is 18, wishes to take care of her sisters but needed to get her parent's home up to protective services standards. The community stepped in to make improvements to the house and help her cover mortgage payments, while the 18-year-old continues her job at a nursing home. How does the saying go, "many hands make for lighter loads?" Or maybe it's like the reading from Romans, do not put any obstacles in front of your neighbor?
The Deed/The Day: Today, Marley and I went to see Kung Fu Panda 2 with Abed and Ashraf. I was going to write off "pin care" as today's deed for the third day in a row, but was delighted when the ticket lady asked if I wanted to give $1 to the charity they were promoting. I shouted out an eager yes! She smiled with surprise and tacked on the extra buck. Easy. Then we saw Jack Black's masterpiece, skadooooooosh!!!!
Our plan for this evening was to pack a picnic dinner and head out to the beach for an outdoor symphony brass concert at Sawgrass. This required a little legwork, and with David (the picnic packer extraordinaire) out of town this fell into my realm. I had arranged a wheelchair for Ashraf and planned to pick up pizzas — and when I set out to load it all up in the car, the heavens unleashed and it began to pour. I think it really got going when I got out of the car and attempted to load the wheelchair into "the way back." I was soaked. And it got worse when I made stop #2 at Dominoes. Soaked. Drenched. I asked God why the heck I was pushing this, the concert would be canceled for sure!!!!
And it was. We ended up having an indoor picnic. The kids had friends over and they played all sorts of silly acting games with Abed — who interpreted for sweet Ashraf. Hearing their laughter and silliness was intoxicating. The boos of rainy weather were a distant memory. Contentment. Happiness. Love it.
One more thing. I don't like clowns. And I'm sure I would send my kids to Wavy Gravy's summer camp. Let's face it, the person who likes to judge others in me gets skeptical about clowns and kids and summer camp. Especially when the camp director looks like this...
HOWEVER, check out this clip from Hottie Brian Williams. I think Wavy Gravy hits an important part of samaratin-zing. It feels really good, it's a high — like a Grateful Dead, Woodstock kind of high. And it's just amazing to me that this guy, this clown, has paid for the cataract surgeries of more than 3 million people in the world. If a clown can do it...what am I waiting for? And why am I judging this toothless, semi-freakish clown? Who am I?
Thank you, Hottie Brian Williams, for once again shining the light on people who are doing the things we should all be doing — especially me.
Thursday, May 26, 2011
Day 78
Scripture: Ps 70, 71, 74; Romans 14:1-12; Luke 8:26-39.
Scripture standout: Romans 14: "10 You, then, why do you judge your brother or sister[a]? Or why do you treat them with contempt? For we will all stand before God’s judgment seat. 11 It is written:
“‘As surely as I live,’ says the Lord,
‘every knee will bow before me;
every tongue will acknowledge God.’”[b]
Morning thoughts: 'Nuff said.
The Deed/The Day: I got deeded today! Sweet friend brought the most lovely dinner over tonight to help with Ashraf's recovery. Ashraf probably thinks he's hit pay dirt now, that he is going to be eating like a king! Little does he know how utilitarian and rote my cooking is, and how it will never be quite as accomplished as the one that came in today. My repertoire consists of Mac & Cheese and microwave rice.
My deed today? More pin care, baby. And disposing of a barf bag that wasn't mine. Boy oh boy!
I was also challenged to just be present and joyful in the moment — not worried about what I needed to do. What I needed to do was edit the paper, people were waiting on me. (Hate that, by the way. It makes me nervous when I feel like other people are twiddling their thumbs waiting on me to finish up) Instead, I got swept away in the flow of a slow-moving river that included a long-winded but sweet Honors Chapel at school, the flurry and excitement of Last-Day-of-School pick-up, a long visit from a precious Afghan friend who I haven't seen in a while and some respite attention for our little patient. I was tempted to not enjoy a moment of it and dwell on the drum of "OMG you have like a MILLION things to accomplish today and this ain't on the list!" And you know what? It all got done.
Scripture standout: Romans 14: "10 You, then, why do you judge your brother or sister[a]? Or why do you treat them with contempt? For we will all stand before God’s judgment seat. 11 It is written:
“‘As surely as I live,’ says the Lord,
‘every knee will bow before me;
every tongue will acknowledge God.’”[b]
Morning thoughts: 'Nuff said.
The Deed/The Day: I got deeded today! Sweet friend brought the most lovely dinner over tonight to help with Ashraf's recovery. Ashraf probably thinks he's hit pay dirt now, that he is going to be eating like a king! Little does he know how utilitarian and rote my cooking is, and how it will never be quite as accomplished as the one that came in today. My repertoire consists of Mac & Cheese and microwave rice.
My deed today? More pin care, baby. And disposing of a barf bag that wasn't mine. Boy oh boy!
I was also challenged to just be present and joyful in the moment — not worried about what I needed to do. What I needed to do was edit the paper, people were waiting on me. (Hate that, by the way. It makes me nervous when I feel like other people are twiddling their thumbs waiting on me to finish up) Instead, I got swept away in the flow of a slow-moving river that included a long-winded but sweet Honors Chapel at school, the flurry and excitement of Last-Day-of-School pick-up, a long visit from a precious Afghan friend who I haven't seen in a while and some respite attention for our little patient. I was tempted to not enjoy a moment of it and dwell on the drum of "OMG you have like a MILLION things to accomplish today and this ain't on the list!" And you know what? It all got done.
Wednesday, May 25, 2011
Day 77
Scripture: Ps 72; Ps 119:73-96; Romans 13:1-14; Luke 8:16-25
Scripture standout: Ps 119: "3 Your hands made me and formed me;
give me understanding to learn your commands."
Scripture standout: Ps 119: "3 Your hands made me and formed me;
give me understanding to learn your commands."
Romans 13: "“Love your neighbor as yourself.”[b] 10 Love does no harm to a neighbor. Therefore love is the fulfillment of the law."
Luke 18: "22 One day Jesus said to his disciples, “Let us go over to the other side of the lake.”So they got into a boat and set out. 23 As they sailed, he fell asleep. A squall came down on the lake, so that the boat was being swamped, and they were in great danger. 24 The disciples went and woke him, saying, “Master, Master, we’re going to drown!”
He got up and rebuked the wind and the raging waters; the storm subsided, and all was calm. 25 “Where is your faith?” he asked his disciples."
Morning thoughts: The program that is bringing all the kids over for medical treatment and respite, Solace for the Children, is a wonderful organization in too many ways to count. In addition to helping plant seeds of peace in a country that is skeptical of American ways, the program helps our children experience other cultures and people and is a six-week long lesson in "loving your neighbor as yourself." It is a lesson in having faith — and not freaking out when the storm rolls in. I was just laughing at the story from Luke because that is totally me. There have been many times during the planning of the Solace childrens' trip that I have wanted to say "we're going to drown!" Last year, we didn't have even half of the money raised within weeks of the children's arrival — and there were visas, tickets and everything else to buy! "Love Her," the woman who stilled the screaming baby in the hospital last week, was unfazed. She had faith it would all work out. And it did. This time, there was some trouble with the kids' visas. Again, my first reaction would have been to throw my hands up. And this morning, I hear that it's all going to work out just fine. Where is my faith?
The Deed/The Day: Funny, I can easily say "trip to doctor's office to learn how to screw Ashraf's pins" as the deed. But it didn't feel deedful. He is so grateful, helping Ashraf feels so neutral. Ashraf is happy to be in the states and for his surgery. I am happy we have an extra room where he can stay and recuperate. Too easy. Not to mention, the doctor said one more week until pin-screwing. Whewwww!
He got up and rebuked the wind and the raging waters; the storm subsided, and all was calm. 25 “Where is your faith?” he asked his disciples."
Morning thoughts: The program that is bringing all the kids over for medical treatment and respite, Solace for the Children, is a wonderful organization in too many ways to count. In addition to helping plant seeds of peace in a country that is skeptical of American ways, the program helps our children experience other cultures and people and is a six-week long lesson in "loving your neighbor as yourself." It is a lesson in having faith — and not freaking out when the storm rolls in. I was just laughing at the story from Luke because that is totally me. There have been many times during the planning of the Solace childrens' trip that I have wanted to say "we're going to drown!" Last year, we didn't have even half of the money raised within weeks of the children's arrival — and there were visas, tickets and everything else to buy! "Love Her," the woman who stilled the screaming baby in the hospital last week, was unfazed. She had faith it would all work out. And it did. This time, there was some trouble with the kids' visas. Again, my first reaction would have been to throw my hands up. And this morning, I hear that it's all going to work out just fine. Where is my faith?
The Deed/The Day: Funny, I can easily say "trip to doctor's office to learn how to screw Ashraf's pins" as the deed. But it didn't feel deedful. He is so grateful, helping Ashraf feels so neutral. Ashraf is happy to be in the states and for his surgery. I am happy we have an extra room where he can stay and recuperate. Too easy. Not to mention, the doctor said one more week until pin-screwing. Whewwww!
Tuesday, May 24, 2011
Day 76
Scripture standout: Psalm 62: "7 My salvation and my honor depend on God[c];
he is my mighty rock, my refuge. 8 Trust in him at all times, you people;
pour out your hearts to him,
for God is our refuge.
9 Surely the lowborn are but a breath,
the highborn are but a lie.
If weighed on a balance, they are nothing;
together they are only a breath.
Romans 12: "Do not think of yourself more highly than you ought, but rather think of yourself with sober judgment, in accordance with the faith God has distributed to each of you. 4 For just as each of us has one body with many members, and these members do not all have the same function, 5 so in Christ we, though many, form one body, and each member belongs to all the others. 6 We have different gifts, according to the grace given to each of us. If your gift is prophesying, then prophesy in accordance with your[a] faith; 7 if it is serving, then serve; if it is teaching, then teach; 8 if it is to encourage, then give encouragement; if it is giving, then give generously; if it is to lead,[b] do it diligently; if it is to show mercy, do it cheerfully."
Morning thoughts: As so often happens, examples of deeding and living out some passage jumps out of the morning newspaper. Today was a story in the sports section. I don't usually read the sports section, but a story caught my eye. It's about the owner of our local running store. He's launching a campaign to save the cross-country running programs in the local public schools. Void of funding with budgets slashed to bits, sports programs in our schools are at death's door. Doug Alred, this tall lanky guy trying to run a small business and nearly every running event that occurs in Jacksonville, is fighting for young runners. He wants to raise nearly $70,000 to keep the programs intact. His actions remind me of hte passage above — about how we all have strengths and gifts, and as a community we share them in different ways. Me? I like to run, but I don't have the passion or interest to launch a fundraising campaign like Doug does. For some reason, I guess my passions are more related to ailing Afghans and gathering people. Not sure why either.
I have a little saying from the funeral of one of my friends right above my desk: "Hide not your talents, they for use were made. What's a sundial in the sahde?"
The Deed/The Day: Pin. Care.
Monday, May 23, 2011
Day 75
Scripture: Ps 56, 57, 64, 65; Colossians 3:18—4:18; Luke 7:36-50
Scripture standout: Colossians 4: "5 Be wise in the way you act toward outsiders; make the most of every opportunity. 6 Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone."
Morning thoughts: I think one of the hardest things about deliberate deeding is keeping myself in tune, present and in the zone. It is very easy to enter a setting or situation with my focus keenly locked on my own issues, problems and thoughts. How often do I zip into the grocery store or the carpool line or a meeting thinking about 10 other things — and not on what's right in front of me? This happens daily 100s of times! I have to snap myself out of it constantly! And the only way to do this is to tempt myself with the carrot that if I can just look around and absorb others and what's happening around me, that I might have an extraordinary opportunity — "to make the most of every opportunity" — to be a blessing to someone. But I will tell you that does not come easy, after even 75 days of being conscious of it.
The Deed/The Day: Ashraf came home today! Long day, ups and downs on pain, but he's in bed snoring now. Now that we're on the "other side of the mountain," I am reminded how challenging a challenge is — but how much better you feel to have done it. That's where I am now. (knock on wood, because this is only the beginning!) Another bag came in for Chuck today — he has such nice neighbors!
Scripture standout: Colossians 4: "5 Be wise in the way you act toward outsiders; make the most of every opportunity. 6 Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone."
Morning thoughts: I think one of the hardest things about deliberate deeding is keeping myself in tune, present and in the zone. It is very easy to enter a setting or situation with my focus keenly locked on my own issues, problems and thoughts. How often do I zip into the grocery store or the carpool line or a meeting thinking about 10 other things — and not on what's right in front of me? This happens daily 100s of times! I have to snap myself out of it constantly! And the only way to do this is to tempt myself with the carrot that if I can just look around and absorb others and what's happening around me, that I might have an extraordinary opportunity — "to make the most of every opportunity" — to be a blessing to someone. But I will tell you that does not come easy, after even 75 days of being conscious of it.
The Deed/The Day: Ashraf came home today! Long day, ups and downs on pain, but he's in bed snoring now. Now that we're on the "other side of the mountain," I am reminded how challenging a challenge is — but how much better you feel to have done it. That's where I am now. (knock on wood, because this is only the beginning!) Another bag came in for Chuck today — he has such nice neighbors!
Sunday, May 22, 2011
Day 74
Scripture: Ps 31:1-16; Acts 7:55-60; 1 Peter 2:2-10; John 14:1-14
Scripture standout: John: 14: "14 You may ask me for anything in my name, and I will do it."
Morning thoughts: Lord, please give me a day when I can wear my pajamas all day, watch a Housewives of whatever city marathon and eat things that are bad for me. I am feeling the heat of summer "I'm boreds" and "what's nexts." Three more days of school can make a mother wish she had a kitchen staff and a personal assistant. Now, off to the hospital to relieve some people who have been sitting with Ashraf nearly around the clock. Then on to a piano recital, and trumpet concert...then a cast off on Monday. Does NeNe Leakes worry about life's details and events?
The Deed/The Day: Isn't it funny how a day changes. I woke up this morning wanting to be more like NeNe Leakes and less like myself and in my life. This morning's perspective was all about how my day was all about everyone else, and not at all about me. It was all about Ashrafulla's hospital stay, Marley's Dorito needs, Ben's piano recital, Ben's trumpet recital, Ben's desire to go to the Village Inn. I grumped through a good bit of the day. And now that it's in the rear view mirror, I look at it through a new lens. What a privilege of a day it was! How wonderful that Marley could eat Doritos and not through a feeding tube. What blessings that Ashrafulla is doing so much better in the hospital. How proud I am of Ben's musical accomplishments. Village Inn? Well, I don't have much to say about that. But it's amazing how tainting sour morning thoughts can be.
Scripture standout: John: 14: "14 You may ask me for anything in my name, and I will do it."
Morning thoughts: Lord, please give me a day when I can wear my pajamas all day, watch a Housewives of whatever city marathon and eat things that are bad for me. I am feeling the heat of summer "I'm boreds" and "what's nexts." Three more days of school can make a mother wish she had a kitchen staff and a personal assistant. Now, off to the hospital to relieve some people who have been sitting with Ashraf nearly around the clock. Then on to a piano recital, and trumpet concert...then a cast off on Monday. Does NeNe Leakes worry about life's details and events?
The Deed/The Day: Isn't it funny how a day changes. I woke up this morning wanting to be more like NeNe Leakes and less like myself and in my life. This morning's perspective was all about how my day was all about everyone else, and not at all about me. It was all about Ashrafulla's hospital stay, Marley's Dorito needs, Ben's piano recital, Ben's trumpet recital, Ben's desire to go to the Village Inn. I grumped through a good bit of the day. And now that it's in the rear view mirror, I look at it through a new lens. What a privilege of a day it was! How wonderful that Marley could eat Doritos and not through a feeding tube. What blessings that Ashrafulla is doing so much better in the hospital. How proud I am of Ben's musical accomplishments. Village Inn? Well, I don't have much to say about that. But it's amazing how tainting sour morning thoughts can be.
Saturday, May 21, 2011
Day 73
Scripture: Ps 55, 138, 139:1-23; Colossians 3:12-17; Luke 7:18-28(29-30)31-35
Scripture standout: Luke 7: "28 I tell you, among those born of women there is no one greater than John; yet the one who is least in the kingdom of God is greater than he."
Psalm 138: "6 Though the LORD is exalted, he looks kindly on the lowly;
though lofty, he sees them from afar."
Scripture standout: Luke 7: "28 I tell you, among those born of women there is no one greater than John; yet the one who is least in the kingdom of God is greater than he."
Psalm 138: "6 Though the LORD is exalted, he looks kindly on the lowly;
though lofty, he sees them from afar."
Psalm 139: "7 Where can I go from your Spirit?
Where can I flee from your presence? 8 If I go up to the heavens, you are there;
if I make my bed in the depths, you are there. 9 If I rise on the wings of the dawn,
if I settle on the far side of the sea, 10 even there your hand will guide me,
your right hand will hold me fast."
Morning thoughts: Ashraf's surgery was successful and he is an inspiration to me and others! This polite, quiet, reserved, upright and respectful young man faced this journey with poise and patience and love. Even though he's sitting in his hospital room thousands of miles away from his family and friends — with a big cage around his left foot — he still smiles, says thank you and holds it together. I can't even imagine.
The Deed/The Day: Uggh. I bitter-deeded today. After coming home from the hospital — where basically everything from Ashraf was "it's ok" or "I'm fine" or he's over there trying to knock back a hot pocket pizza and green beans without making a face — I found my own children who had many needs. Their needs were different. They didn't like dinner. They were bored. They asked what I was making them for dessert and could I bring them their dinner in the den? I met their needs, but not with a happy inside.
Where can I flee from your presence? 8 If I go up to the heavens, you are there;
if I make my bed in the depths, you are there. 9 If I rise on the wings of the dawn,
if I settle on the far side of the sea, 10 even there your hand will guide me,
your right hand will hold me fast."
Morning thoughts: Ashraf's surgery was successful and he is an inspiration to me and others! This polite, quiet, reserved, upright and respectful young man faced this journey with poise and patience and love. Even though he's sitting in his hospital room thousands of miles away from his family and friends — with a big cage around his left foot — he still smiles, says thank you and holds it together. I can't even imagine.
The Deed/The Day: Uggh. I bitter-deeded today. After coming home from the hospital — where basically everything from Ashraf was "it's ok" or "I'm fine" or he's over there trying to knock back a hot pocket pizza and green beans without making a face — I found my own children who had many needs. Their needs were different. They didn't like dinner. They were bored. They asked what I was making them for dessert and could I bring them their dinner in the den? I met their needs, but not with a happy inside.
Friday, May 20, 2011
Day 72
Scripture: Ps 40, 54, 51; Colossians 3:1-11; Luke 7:1-17
Scripture standout: Colossians 3: "9 Do not lie to each other, since you have taken off your old self with its practices 10 and have put on the new self, which is being renewed in knowledge in the image of its Creator. 11 Here there is no Gentile or Jew, circumcised or uncircumcised, barbarian, Scythian, slave or free, but Christ is all, and is in all."
Luke 7: "
9 When Jesus heard this, he was amazed at him, and turning to the crowd following him, he said, “I tell you, I have not found such great faith even in Israel.” 10 Then the men who had been sent returned to the house and found the servant well.
Morning thoughts: Last night's interfaith discussion centered greatly around the promise of humility. One message I took away from it is that whatever faith you practice, humility must play a role or the faith becomes more about the person than God. I really like that story about the Centurion. He had his own beliefs and lorded over many, but still felt unworthy to have Jesus even come into his home. The best part of the story is here's this guy — all high and mighty — acting as a servant to his servant.
Today, and for the next week or so at least, a group of Solace volunteers and host families and Afghan families will be servants to Ashrafulla. The surgery he is having this morning will change his life in so many measurable, positive ways. But it would not happen without the servant's hearts of many — including the doctors and hospitals who are humbly donating their time and expertise.
The best thing is, I get to spend a good portion of the weekend in the hospital. Hospitals are full of deeding opportunities, and I am excited to seek them out!
One quick word on having a servant's heart: it's not easy. Just this morning, I'm grumbling and feeling sorry for myself. I stayed up late to wrap things up at the forum, I have work to do, I'm trying to figure out getting kids from Point A to B this morning, figuring out birthday party deliveries, packing lunches, making breakfast, not to mention worried about surgery day for Ashraf — and I don't want to do any of it. I'd much rather sleep in — like the rest of those ninnies upstairs who are STILL sleeping. David has some "over exertion condition" of some kind, so he's sleeping it off. And here's poor me, schlepping the day's worries around before 6;30 a.m. Sometimes, like this morning, I'd simply rather not deal with any of it. Nice servant's heart, eh?
The Deed/The Day: There was plenty of deeding surrounding Ashraf's surgery, but the biggest deed was one I witnessed — took note of, and learned from. The waiting room at Wolfson was full and loud. We set up camp in the middle of it all — Ashraf's possee. We were right behind a woman and her cranky two-year-old and 9 month old. Hours clicked passed, and this poor little boy got crankier and crankier. As one might expect a two-year-old to do, he exploded several times into crying fits that made everyone's ears just shudder. Being that it was a children's hospital, he was in good company. But still, his prolonged and high pitched wales were beyond grating. Friend who I'll call "Love Her!", because I do, stood up from her seat. She's a good mama and a tough gal when she needs to be. I thought for sure the cranky two-year-old was about to get a piece of her mind — or maybe the mother. But "Love Her!" approached the mother gently and asked if she could talk to her son. I don't know what "Love Her!" said but she got him to stop screaming. Not once, but three times! And the last time, she scooped this baby up onto her chest and he immediately fell asleep there — for two hours more. Sometimes, when people are cranky and beside themselves with anxiety or fear — a warm smile, kind words, a genuine embrace and place to rest is all they need. I won't forget her actions ever.
Scripture standout: Colossians 3: "9 Do not lie to each other, since you have taken off your old self with its practices 10 and have put on the new self, which is being renewed in knowledge in the image of its Creator. 11 Here there is no Gentile or Jew, circumcised or uncircumcised, barbarian, Scythian, slave or free, but Christ is all, and is in all."
Luke 7: "
Luke 7
The Faith of the Centurion
1 When Jesus had finished saying all this to the people who were listening, he entered Capernaum. 2 There a centurion’s servant, whom his master valued highly, was sick and about to die. 3 The centurion heard of Jesus and sent some elders of the Jews to him, asking him to come and heal his servant. 4 When they came to Jesus, they pleaded earnestly with him, “This man deserves to have you do this, 5 because he loves our nation and has built our synagogue.” 6 So Jesus went with them. He was not far from the house when the centurion sent friends to say to him: “Lord, don’t trouble yourself, for I do not deserve to have you come under my roof. 7 That is why I did not even consider myself worthy to come to you. But say the word, and my servant will be healed. 8 For I myself am a man under authority, with soldiers under me. I tell this one, ‘Go,’ and he goes; and that one, ‘Come,’ and he comes. I say to my servant, ‘Do this,’ and he does it.”9 When Jesus heard this, he was amazed at him, and turning to the crowd following him, he said, “I tell you, I have not found such great faith even in Israel.” 10 Then the men who had been sent returned to the house and found the servant well.
Morning thoughts: Last night's interfaith discussion centered greatly around the promise of humility. One message I took away from it is that whatever faith you practice, humility must play a role or the faith becomes more about the person than God. I really like that story about the Centurion. He had his own beliefs and lorded over many, but still felt unworthy to have Jesus even come into his home. The best part of the story is here's this guy — all high and mighty — acting as a servant to his servant.
Today, and for the next week or so at least, a group of Solace volunteers and host families and Afghan families will be servants to Ashrafulla. The surgery he is having this morning will change his life in so many measurable, positive ways. But it would not happen without the servant's hearts of many — including the doctors and hospitals who are humbly donating their time and expertise.
The best thing is, I get to spend a good portion of the weekend in the hospital. Hospitals are full of deeding opportunities, and I am excited to seek them out!
One quick word on having a servant's heart: it's not easy. Just this morning, I'm grumbling and feeling sorry for myself. I stayed up late to wrap things up at the forum, I have work to do, I'm trying to figure out getting kids from Point A to B this morning, figuring out birthday party deliveries, packing lunches, making breakfast, not to mention worried about surgery day for Ashraf — and I don't want to do any of it. I'd much rather sleep in — like the rest of those ninnies upstairs who are STILL sleeping. David has some "over exertion condition" of some kind, so he's sleeping it off. And here's poor me, schlepping the day's worries around before 6;30 a.m. Sometimes, like this morning, I'd simply rather not deal with any of it. Nice servant's heart, eh?
The Deed/The Day: There was plenty of deeding surrounding Ashraf's surgery, but the biggest deed was one I witnessed — took note of, and learned from. The waiting room at Wolfson was full and loud. We set up camp in the middle of it all — Ashraf's possee. We were right behind a woman and her cranky two-year-old and 9 month old. Hours clicked passed, and this poor little boy got crankier and crankier. As one might expect a two-year-old to do, he exploded several times into crying fits that made everyone's ears just shudder. Being that it was a children's hospital, he was in good company. But still, his prolonged and high pitched wales were beyond grating. Friend who I'll call "Love Her!", because I do, stood up from her seat. She's a good mama and a tough gal when she needs to be. I thought for sure the cranky two-year-old was about to get a piece of her mind — or maybe the mother. But "Love Her!" approached the mother gently and asked if she could talk to her son. I don't know what "Love Her!" said but she got him to stop screaming. Not once, but three times! And the last time, she scooped this baby up onto her chest and he immediately fell asleep there — for two hours more. Sometimes, when people are cranky and beside themselves with anxiety or fear — a warm smile, kind words, a genuine embrace and place to rest is all they need. I won't forget her actions ever.
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