"That is what the Scriptures mean when they say, “No eye has seen, no ear has heard, and no mind has imagined what God has prepared for those who love him.” But it was to us that God revealed these things by his Spirit. For his Spirit searches out everything and shows us God’s deep secrets." 1 Corinthians 2:9-10 (New Living Translation)In 1981, another American missionary family, … [Read more...] about Purpose Driven Joy
Archives for July 2008
The Beauty of Brokenness
My sacrifice [the sacrifice acceptable] to God is a broken spirit; a broken and a contrite heart [broken down with sorrow for sin and humbly and thoroughly penitent], such, O God, You will not despise. Psalm 51:17 (Amplified Bible)It was December 1987 and I was one of thousands of people on the University of Illinois campus at Urbana/Champaign. We were all together for Urbana '87, one … [Read more...] about The Beauty of Brokenness
I Will Bless Your Name Forevermore
"Shout with joy to God, all the earth! Sing the glory of his name; make his praise glorious! Say to God, "How awesome are your deeds! So great is your power that your enemies cringe before you." Psalm 66:1-3 (NIV)I absolutely love music. Music was the tapestry that was woven into the background of my years in my parents' home. Everyone in my family is completely taken … [Read more...] about I Will Bless Your Name Forevermore
Thoughts on Burned Grass
"But now, this is what the LORD says— he who created you, O Jacob, he who formed you, O Israel: "Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have summoned you by name; you are mine. When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you. When you walk through the fire, you will … [Read more...] about Thoughts on Burned Grass
Friday Night Fun, Congo Style
"Be very careful, then, how you live—not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil." Ephesians 5:15-16 (New International Version)Our first four years in Congo were spent with no television. VCRs were not to be had by the general public in 1978 or 1979, even in the United States. I spent hours and hours reading and keeping a diary during those … [Read more...] about Friday Night Fun, Congo Style
A Lesser Gift?
"Share with God's people who are in need. Practice hospitality." Romans 12:13 (New International Version)The taxi drivers unloaded all of our trunks and suitcases and roared off down the street leaving the choking smell of diesel fuel behind them. It was December 8, 1978, and our family of five had just been dropped off at a guest house that no guest in his or her right mind would have wanted to … [Read more...] about A Lesser Gift?