soooooooo guess what! i am traveling to the wonderful area of virginia beach this weekend! my campus tour is scheduled for this Friday!
My mom, aunt and I are driving down Friday morning. My momma is driving three hours to meet me after work then we're driving two hours to Northern VA to stay at my aunt's house then Friday morning we're first stopping at Dunkin Donuts for a french vanilla coolatta (my new favorite thing EVER haha) and then we are headed to Reeeeeegent!
i'm meeting up with my super wonderful halarious friend Stephen on Saturday afternoon for lunch then I'm going to THE BEACH all day!!! it's going to be soooo wonderful :) My 2nd cousin is a professor at Regent and my mom and aunt haven't seen him since they played together when they were kids so we're meeting up with his family that evening for ice cream.
Sunday morning I'm headed to Yorktown with Steve to check out his church. It looks AMAZING and the people seem very warm and inviting. I come from a small church of about 50 so joining a huge church like Waters Edge will be different, but surely nourishing for me, if that's where the Lord wants me. We'll see.
Sunday night we'll be at New Life Providence church for my aunt's best friend's dance ministry production. Apparently it's a huuuge ministry and Joan, my aunt's best friend who is behind the entire ministry, travels all over the world with her team to perform. It should be awesome. I'm hoping to see my old pastors and their daughter from my church here, who moved down to Va Beach about two years ago and are members of New Life.
Thennnnn we get to pack back up and leave early Monday morning to come back to Haaarrriiisburrrrg. Blah! I can't wait to be in VA for good!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! One more month, I can hardly believe it... ahhhh God is sooo good!
Tuesday, June 26, 2007
Monday, June 25, 2007
Hero
Back in the sweet ol' town of Reynoldsville, during the crisp summers of the mid 1990's you were sure to hear kids playing on the allys, eggs hitting houses, parents yelling "DINNNNER!" at the top of their lungs, Kellie and Shannon fighting, but most importantly, little girls singing their hearts out in their bedroom to Mariah Carey and Whitney Houston. Most of the time the voices weren't ear catching, but parents listened as they went along with their business, simply to add a chuckle to their day. So, who was included in the "little girls"? You guessed it! Meeeeee!
My voice wasn't good persay, but I used whatever energy within me to produce a loud "noise" - one that was unexpectedly sure to be heard a mile way. Every opportunity that was available those summers were made expanding the seriously non-talented vocal chords inside my throat. Because my parents decided to take the innocently sweet way of avoiding the "you suck" conversation, it took me a while to figure out why Tucker, the town cop, was at our house nearly every three to four months telling us to "keep the noise down". [Riiiiiiiiiight. It all makes sense, now... ah, the delight of what you learn when you become an AH-DULT]
By the time I was a mid-teen my voice had deepened a little, my bed was worn from all the jumping and the walls were cracking (from the lovely voice, of course... In all seriousness, though, my proof is in the pudding! Brit knows allll about these 'ol Mariah Carey singing days so I highly recommend you ask her how productive we were with our time aside from the barbie-doll playing, "cow-a-bunga" swingset game, and my FAV gave EVER, chasing her older brother and his friends around)! She can testify to the dancing on the bed and the out-of-this-world singing to Mariah Carey's new #1 hit "Always Be My Baby". We may notta been the next Mariah's, but our range was... awesome.
You can probably tell that one of my favorite artists was Mariah Carey. Over and over again I sang my favorite song, Hero, only because the words had easily clung in my brain and I simply liked the melody. The song always remained special to me, without any understanding or reason, and it was a long fourteen years later that my eyes were awakened with the significance of its lyrics. It happened on my way home from church while my roomate popped in Mariah's cd and "Hero" came on. I went from laughing to becoming silent. My eyes welled up with tears and my heart filled with thanksgiving and joy. I couldn't understand why it had taken me so long to REALLY listen to the words and grasp the power behind its message. It dawned on me that day Who my Hero had been all along. He hadn't just rescued me when I was 20, but He'd been my Hero since I was a little girl singing to Him without even knowing it. Everything became evidently clear and although this seems to be such a simple principle it becomes the deepest revelation when you take a moment to re-examine your life.
As I heard the song my mind couldn't help but rewind to my childhood days. I think I was about 14 when I accepted Jesus into my life on my dad's couch, around 5:45am one morning before school. It wasn't unusual for me to awaken early to watch Joyce Meyer on TV before heading to the bus stop because she was my new favorite "old lady"! I prayed the prayer with her that morning and over the next few years my Dad and I went to church on and off. We attended services at a non-denominational church for a while after the divorce and that was as far as it went. I knew OF Jesus, but I didn't KNOW Him. I never learned of a real, living relationship with Him until I reached my breaking point after turning 20 and tried "the church thing", for a third time in my life. Only at the place of complete surrender on my part - weeping and saturated in hopless tears; deperately crying out for truth, signficance and emotional healing, of the least of all my needs, was I able to understand the real meaning of the word Hero.
(Before you read this I encourage you to purchase Mariah's song, Hero, on iTunes and really listen to its lyrics)Here are the lyrics of the song, jumbled with a few of my words, much like a diary entry. It reflects what I recognized this past Sunday afternoon.
"My strength comes from my Hero. He lives inside of me. But it took me 20 years to truly look inside my heart, setting aside all fear of facing the junk that was inside. The Answer was within my soul the entire time, waiting to melt away my sorrow. My Hero was coming along side of me, armed with Strength, wanting me to cast my fear on Him knowing that I can only survive with Him. When hope was gone, I could look insde and be strong because that's where He was. There I could see the Truth: my Hero was within me the entire time. The long road came when I faced the world all alone. Without Him. Later I found Real Love, when I searched within myself. He was waiting there all along. The emptiness disappeared. When my Hero came along this time, He came armed with all the Strength I needed to carry on - after I cast my cares aside, I KNEW I could survive. When I felt like hope was gone, I looked inside to see the TRUTH - to see my Hero. The One Who was waiting on ME! *Dreams are hard to follow, but don't let anyone tear them away* Every one knocks my dreams, but I WON'T LET THEM TEAR MY DREAMS AWAY! They were given unto me only by You, my Hero! and I WILL accomplish them through You! the One Who has stuck by my side when every one else abandoned me! You say, Hold on, there will be tomorrow. In time, (Your time) I'll find The Way. It took me way too long to find Your Way the first time, but 'll keep holding on to see I'll be on The Way tomorrow! When I feel like hope is gone, I'll look inside me and be strong and I'll finally see the Truth again, that my Hero lies in me."
My voice wasn't good persay, but I used whatever energy within me to produce a loud "noise" - one that was unexpectedly sure to be heard a mile way. Every opportunity that was available those summers were made expanding the seriously non-talented vocal chords inside my throat. Because my parents decided to take the innocently sweet way of avoiding the "you suck" conversation, it took me a while to figure out why Tucker, the town cop, was at our house nearly every three to four months telling us to "keep the noise down". [Riiiiiiiiiight. It all makes sense, now... ah, the delight of what you learn when you become an AH-DULT]
By the time I was a mid-teen my voice had deepened a little, my bed was worn from all the jumping and the walls were cracking (from the lovely voice, of course... In all seriousness, though, my proof is in the pudding! Brit knows allll about these 'ol Mariah Carey singing days so I highly recommend you ask her how productive we were with our time aside from the barbie-doll playing, "cow-a-bunga" swingset game, and my FAV gave EVER, chasing her older brother and his friends around)! She can testify to the dancing on the bed and the out-of-this-world singing to Mariah Carey's new #1 hit "Always Be My Baby". We may notta been the next Mariah's, but our range was... awesome.
You can probably tell that one of my favorite artists was Mariah Carey. Over and over again I sang my favorite song, Hero, only because the words had easily clung in my brain and I simply liked the melody. The song always remained special to me, without any understanding or reason, and it was a long fourteen years later that my eyes were awakened with the significance of its lyrics. It happened on my way home from church while my roomate popped in Mariah's cd and "Hero" came on. I went from laughing to becoming silent. My eyes welled up with tears and my heart filled with thanksgiving and joy. I couldn't understand why it had taken me so long to REALLY listen to the words and grasp the power behind its message. It dawned on me that day Who my Hero had been all along. He hadn't just rescued me when I was 20, but He'd been my Hero since I was a little girl singing to Him without even knowing it. Everything became evidently clear and although this seems to be such a simple principle it becomes the deepest revelation when you take a moment to re-examine your life.
As I heard the song my mind couldn't help but rewind to my childhood days. I think I was about 14 when I accepted Jesus into my life on my dad's couch, around 5:45am one morning before school. It wasn't unusual for me to awaken early to watch Joyce Meyer on TV before heading to the bus stop because she was my new favorite "old lady"! I prayed the prayer with her that morning and over the next few years my Dad and I went to church on and off. We attended services at a non-denominational church for a while after the divorce and that was as far as it went. I knew OF Jesus, but I didn't KNOW Him. I never learned of a real, living relationship with Him until I reached my breaking point after turning 20 and tried "the church thing", for a third time in my life. Only at the place of complete surrender on my part - weeping and saturated in hopless tears; deperately crying out for truth, signficance and emotional healing, of the least of all my needs, was I able to understand the real meaning of the word Hero.
(Before you read this I encourage you to purchase Mariah's song, Hero, on iTunes and really listen to its lyrics)Here are the lyrics of the song, jumbled with a few of my words, much like a diary entry. It reflects what I recognized this past Sunday afternoon.
"My strength comes from my Hero. He lives inside of me. But it took me 20 years to truly look inside my heart, setting aside all fear of facing the junk that was inside. The Answer was within my soul the entire time, waiting to melt away my sorrow. My Hero was coming along side of me, armed with Strength, wanting me to cast my fear on Him knowing that I can only survive with Him. When hope was gone, I could look insde and be strong because that's where He was. There I could see the Truth: my Hero was within me the entire time. The long road came when I faced the world all alone. Without Him. Later I found Real Love, when I searched within myself. He was waiting there all along. The emptiness disappeared. When my Hero came along this time, He came armed with all the Strength I needed to carry on - after I cast my cares aside, I KNEW I could survive. When I felt like hope was gone, I looked inside to see the TRUTH - to see my Hero. The One Who was waiting on ME! *Dreams are hard to follow, but don't let anyone tear them away* Every one knocks my dreams, but I WON'T LET THEM TEAR MY DREAMS AWAY! They were given unto me only by You, my Hero! and I WILL accomplish them through You! the One Who has stuck by my side when every one else abandoned me! You say, Hold on, there will be tomorrow. In time, (Your time) I'll find The Way. It took me way too long to find Your Way the first time, but 'll keep holding on to see I'll be on The Way tomorrow! When I feel like hope is gone, I'll look inside me and be strong and I'll finally see the Truth again, that my Hero lies in me."
Thursday, June 21, 2007
"The Attitude Adjustment"
Soooo... I accepted an offer for a 4 bedroom suite at Regent! I've paid the security deposit and everything is official! I have a place to live on campus! This is really happening! Aaahhh! Hallelujah!
Buuuut. Here's the thing. My initial desire was to have my own apartment. I believed and believed and believed the Lord would have it for me - to the point where I couldn't believe any more. My idea of how this would all look was as crystal clear as the chandelier hanging in the White House - looking at it made everything else seem so unattractive and unappealing.
What's interesting and perhaps the most thought provoking piece of this entire puzzle, though, is what I'm learning in regards to surrender. Ah, that word we all dread sometimes... and the following attitude, "You mean... I have to do what God Almighty says? Like allow Him to lead me into my destiny because He thinks He knows me better than... ME?"
See, it wasn't that my believing for the 1BR was out of line. What I failed to do was surrender my desires to His will. I didn't lay my request before Him and allow the second piece of Proverbs 3:5 sink in (lean not on your own understanding). Then I wondered why He didn't do what I wanted Him to. Ha. The nerve. Now, I know we're just living His storybook, but do you ever wonder how God responds to our complacent attitudes while He knows He'll change them when we're open to receiving? I chuckle sometimes when I picture Him looking on the situation going "Are you kidding me? You've got it backwards. YOU, Kellie, are not the driver. YOU do not yet know what all of My Best is for you, YOU cannot know My best without surrendering to MY will."
Aaaaaaah. Right..
Let me give you an idea of the depth of my loathing attitude towards the whole roomate thing. Here's what, at one time, played out in my mind:
"Living with more noise, distraction and utter annoyance of potentially young, girly, unspiritual girls"
was simply not an option. (Harsh, I know!)
I kept moving forward with my plans though, yet again, and was so sure that I would get this apartment that I never once considered the idea of living in the suite. It just wasn't an option. I thought it would be easier for me to focus along with all of the other reasons I came up with. My mind was already made up and I wanted nothing to do with roomates!
However..."The Other Plans" were already in place and I was about to hear the most devestating news this week: 1BR apartments are only for... graduate students. WHAA-HHHAAAAAT?! I received the offer on Monday for a suite apartment with four bedrooms/two bathrooms and was told if I declined it I probably wouldn't be offered another, which would mean I'd have no where to live. You can guess what that means! Roooooooomates!
At first, in all honesty, I was extremely disappointed. My instinctive response was 'What the heck, Lord?" Instead of praising Him for this provision, I complained. I couldn't wait for work to be over so I could get in my car and tell God, out loud, what I really thought about all this! But, non-the-less while still at work I continued to grumble and argue with Him about it in my mind for a few hours untillllll that glorious ride home.What happened?
Oooooh, God spoke to me. Big surprise.
He reminded me that Kellie doesn't always get what Kellie wants. That He's the one who calls the big shots. He gave me that oh so familiar, "Who's The Boss?" talk as I sunk into the seat of my car in all of my shame. After realizing how selfish I was reacting to this great opportunity to interact with other women my age, I repented to Daddy and told Him regardless of whether or not I'm completely okay with this right now, He knows best and I will choose to receive all He has for me and obey Him. It's the classic example of how Kellie always seems to think she knows best, but really never does. (He is so amazing because He continues to be patient with me as I learn how to break off that part of my flesh!) Since this was His decision I asked Him to give me the desire to have roomates again.
Later that evening I experienced a transformational attitude change that completely through me for a loop! I thought about what it would be like to live alone in a new state during this transition, and then what it would be like to have roomates who would be experiencing the same transition. Immediately I saw the benefits of living with a few other girls - new friendships, fun, encouragement, support - all of the above. My entire being became sparked with the excitement of experiencing the dream I had so long ago tucked away - the one that I'd always had to live out the richness of friendship in a college atmosphere - in a "dorm" with other girls. All of a sudden God reminded me that He was making my dream a reality. How much more for Him to go above and beyond all that I could even think of at the time and create eternal friendships!
I'm so glad that I can now say that I'm thankful to have the opportunities to minister and be ministered to, and ultimately build lasting friendships. How AWESOME is He?! After sitting on my bed in awe of His mighty hand at work OOAAA-GEN... all I could think to say was Wow... thanks, Lord.
Thanks for all of your prayer support, encouragement and guidance. Thankfully, I've been able to hear clearly what the Lord's will is and what Kellie's is not! I'm beyond blessed to have you all a part of my new journey! :)
Buuuut. Here's the thing. My initial desire was to have my own apartment. I believed and believed and believed the Lord would have it for me - to the point where I couldn't believe any more. My idea of how this would all look was as crystal clear as the chandelier hanging in the White House - looking at it made everything else seem so unattractive and unappealing.
What's interesting and perhaps the most thought provoking piece of this entire puzzle, though, is what I'm learning in regards to surrender. Ah, that word we all dread sometimes... and the following attitude, "You mean... I have to do what God Almighty says? Like allow Him to lead me into my destiny because He thinks He knows me better than... ME?"
See, it wasn't that my believing for the 1BR was out of line. What I failed to do was surrender my desires to His will. I didn't lay my request before Him and allow the second piece of Proverbs 3:5 sink in (lean not on your own understanding). Then I wondered why He didn't do what I wanted Him to. Ha. The nerve. Now, I know we're just living His storybook, but do you ever wonder how God responds to our complacent attitudes while He knows He'll change them when we're open to receiving? I chuckle sometimes when I picture Him looking on the situation going "Are you kidding me? You've got it backwards. YOU, Kellie, are not the driver. YOU do not yet know what all of My Best is for you, YOU cannot know My best without surrendering to MY will."
Aaaaaaah. Right..
Let me give you an idea of the depth of my loathing attitude towards the whole roomate thing. Here's what, at one time, played out in my mind:
"Living with more noise, distraction and utter annoyance of potentially young, girly, unspiritual girls"
was simply not an option. (Harsh, I know!)
I kept moving forward with my plans though, yet again, and was so sure that I would get this apartment that I never once considered the idea of living in the suite. It just wasn't an option. I thought it would be easier for me to focus along with all of the other reasons I came up with. My mind was already made up and I wanted nothing to do with roomates!
However..."The Other Plans" were already in place and I was about to hear the most devestating news this week: 1BR apartments are only for... graduate students. WHAA-HHHAAAAAT?! I received the offer on Monday for a suite apartment with four bedrooms/two bathrooms and was told if I declined it I probably wouldn't be offered another, which would mean I'd have no where to live. You can guess what that means! Roooooooomates!
At first, in all honesty, I was extremely disappointed. My instinctive response was 'What the heck, Lord?" Instead of praising Him for this provision, I complained. I couldn't wait for work to be over so I could get in my car and tell God, out loud, what I really thought about all this! But, non-the-less while still at work I continued to grumble and argue with Him about it in my mind for a few hours untillllll that glorious ride home.What happened?
Oooooh, God spoke to me. Big surprise.
He reminded me that Kellie doesn't always get what Kellie wants. That He's the one who calls the big shots. He gave me that oh so familiar, "Who's The Boss?" talk as I sunk into the seat of my car in all of my shame. After realizing how selfish I was reacting to this great opportunity to interact with other women my age, I repented to Daddy and told Him regardless of whether or not I'm completely okay with this right now, He knows best and I will choose to receive all He has for me and obey Him. It's the classic example of how Kellie always seems to think she knows best, but really never does. (He is so amazing because He continues to be patient with me as I learn how to break off that part of my flesh!) Since this was His decision I asked Him to give me the desire to have roomates again.
Later that evening I experienced a transformational attitude change that completely through me for a loop! I thought about what it would be like to live alone in a new state during this transition, and then what it would be like to have roomates who would be experiencing the same transition. Immediately I saw the benefits of living with a few other girls - new friendships, fun, encouragement, support - all of the above. My entire being became sparked with the excitement of experiencing the dream I had so long ago tucked away - the one that I'd always had to live out the richness of friendship in a college atmosphere - in a "dorm" with other girls. All of a sudden God reminded me that He was making my dream a reality. How much more for Him to go above and beyond all that I could even think of at the time and create eternal friendships!
I'm so glad that I can now say that I'm thankful to have the opportunities to minister and be ministered to, and ultimately build lasting friendships. How AWESOME is He?! After sitting on my bed in awe of His mighty hand at work OOAAA-GEN... all I could think to say was Wow... thanks, Lord.
Thanks for all of your prayer support, encouragement and guidance. Thankfully, I've been able to hear clearly what the Lord's will is and what Kellie's is not! I'm beyond blessed to have you all a part of my new journey! :)
Monday, June 18, 2007
The Fruit Lady
So... I'm assuming you're all wondering what the deal is with my picture. For your amusement I've entitled it "The Fruit Lady"...
Straight up, I'm a total nut. Laughter is my passion and I'm constantly engaged in it. I love to do stupid things for the sake of laughing hysterically. And I enjoy sarcasm - to the extreme. I live in it's world and I love to have fun with it.
In all simplicity, though, I love to laugh, period.
By the way - try balancing 10lbs of fruit on your head.. it's NOT as easy as it looks ;)
Straight up, I'm a total nut. Laughter is my passion and I'm constantly engaged in it. I love to do stupid things for the sake of laughing hysterically. And I enjoy sarcasm - to the extreme. I live in it's world and I love to have fun with it.
In all simplicity, though, I love to laugh, period.
By the way - try balancing 10lbs of fruit on your head.. it's NOT as easy as it looks ;)
Hanging on the Wall
Remember what it felt like to create a picture in school for your Mom? While you were creating your masterpiece in all your pride you thought, “Wow! I hope Mommy loves this!” After you completed your project and perfected it just the way you liked, you couldn’t wait to show it off and present Mommy with the gift you had made. Bolting off the school bus and into the door of the house as if it were the last door you’d ever open, you ran inside and yelled, “Lookie! Lookie, Mommy, Lookie! Lookie at what I’ve made for you!”
You just couldn’t wait for her to see it. After all, this gift took all your time and carried your best effort.This was far more than a drawing- rather, invested time, careful thought, particular attention, and a genuine desire to put a smile on Mommy’s face – all to create a classic, one-of-a-kind piece of art fashioned specifically from your heart. You couldn’t help but eagerly await her response, watching carefully as she examined what you made for her probably pondering questions like, Will she really like it? Will she treasure it? Will she display it for all to see? But more importantly, Will this be good enough to make the refrigerator?
When we were younger I fondly recall my older sister- exuberant, boisterous, and overall charismatic in nature, cheerfully running after Grandma saying “Gramma, look! Lookie, Gramma! Lookie!” Her idea of getting Gram’s attention always made me smile. But the question that always ran through my mind was what was so important that she wanted Gramma to see right away? Only a young, little goober, I couldn’t fathom any logical reason for Gramma to stop making my favorite homemade pizza and come see Shannon’s surprise. I mean, who did my sister think she was that she could interrupt Gramma at this oh-so-important time?
Unbeknownst to me, it was a marvelous sight to say the least- a variety of different shapes, colors and sizes. It was her favorite toy and biggest joy - a unique stack of leggos displaying the peak of her creativity. She wanted Gram to see just how she lined them up, stacked them and formed them into a building. She wanted Gram to share in the joy of what she made. And why wouldn’t she? It wasn’t about the leggos. It was about someone taking delight in her creativity and sharing what she made with someone else. As Gram excitedly looked on I noticed her smiling, like she was delighted to pull Shannon’s imagination from the leggos. There was no doubt about it, Gram was enjoying her granddaughter with the highest level of joy and remained, for quite a while, astonished at her granddaughter’s creative little mind.
This type of delightfulness is oh so characteristic of Jesus. In the same way Gram looked on and was joyful over my sister’s display of leggos, Jesus delights in his creativity of you! His intent is not simply to enjoy us Himself, but for others to be blessed by the creativity He's given us. Our creativity is covered with purpose. When we discover, acknowledge and utilize the gifts that have been given to us we bring glory to the Father. The most poignant factor of all, though, and the sole purpose of having gifts is the fact that they are given to us for the benefit of others. This is why it’s so exciting to grow in gifts – God moves powerfully through the mouths, hands and bodies of His children and since each of us is given at least one gift, according to the Word of God, it’s our duty to seek Him and discover what that gift is. Once it’s discovered, we can ask Him to help us grow so that we can use the gift for His purpose. It begins, however, with an understanding of His love for us.
One spring afternoon as my dreaming carried me away, I pictured an image that parallels purposely with the message of Christ’s delight in us. On a plain, beige wall above a couch hung a beautifully crafted, hand-made tapestry of fine, quality art. Its beauty stirred up adoration and it hung there with elegance, causing every object in the room to beam with sheer radiance. The painting was dynamically composed of bright and subtle colors, covered in different textures and saturated with vision. It was woven together with such beauty that every eye was glued and in awe from just one glance.
The significance of this piece of art is that it’s you and I! It’s the very piece of art, created at the peak of our Master’s excitement and creativity that God wants to display to the world and say, “Lookie! Lookie at what I’ve made!”
We’re designed to bring Him glory and he does this through creativity! As Christ’s ambassadors and Regents representing a King, and just like the painting in my dream, our love for Him should speak in and of itself, primarily before a word ever comes out of our mouths. It’s what some people like to call preaching the gospel without words. It’s also an opportune time to think about and apply the common phrase “actions speak louder than words.” Or, in this case, “creativity speaks louder than words.” This picture of creativity was His design and it’s the glory of transformation! Halleluiah!
The heart of the matter is that God has raised us up for the purpose of demonstrating His power through us. We have a higher calling! Almighty God purchased us at the highest price, drenched us with His grace and transformed us inside out in order to plant charisma in our spirit that engages the spirit of those around us. We are destined for greatness and to bring out the greatness in other people. Creativity is a significant piece to God’s plan of salvation manifested in Matthew 28. It’s the essence of His character. He’s a creative God, who’s got way more experience than we will ever have – He’s been at this for countless years! So let’s get out of the driver seat, move to the passenger seat and begin obeying the yield sign! If you first desire Him, step out and follow Him He’ll be sure to show you where His peak of creativity was when creating you! Those gifts will begin to become evident and dreams of what to do with them will begin to surface in your heart. God wants to show you off! He’s created you at the height of His creative symphony and plans to show His power and receive glory through a display of YOU.
You just couldn’t wait for her to see it. After all, this gift took all your time and carried your best effort.This was far more than a drawing- rather, invested time, careful thought, particular attention, and a genuine desire to put a smile on Mommy’s face – all to create a classic, one-of-a-kind piece of art fashioned specifically from your heart. You couldn’t help but eagerly await her response, watching carefully as she examined what you made for her probably pondering questions like, Will she really like it? Will she treasure it? Will she display it for all to see? But more importantly, Will this be good enough to make the refrigerator?
When we were younger I fondly recall my older sister- exuberant, boisterous, and overall charismatic in nature, cheerfully running after Grandma saying “Gramma, look! Lookie, Gramma! Lookie!” Her idea of getting Gram’s attention always made me smile. But the question that always ran through my mind was what was so important that she wanted Gramma to see right away? Only a young, little goober, I couldn’t fathom any logical reason for Gramma to stop making my favorite homemade pizza and come see Shannon’s surprise. I mean, who did my sister think she was that she could interrupt Gramma at this oh-so-important time?
Unbeknownst to me, it was a marvelous sight to say the least- a variety of different shapes, colors and sizes. It was her favorite toy and biggest joy - a unique stack of leggos displaying the peak of her creativity. She wanted Gram to see just how she lined them up, stacked them and formed them into a building. She wanted Gram to share in the joy of what she made. And why wouldn’t she? It wasn’t about the leggos. It was about someone taking delight in her creativity and sharing what she made with someone else. As Gram excitedly looked on I noticed her smiling, like she was delighted to pull Shannon’s imagination from the leggos. There was no doubt about it, Gram was enjoying her granddaughter with the highest level of joy and remained, for quite a while, astonished at her granddaughter’s creative little mind.
This type of delightfulness is oh so characteristic of Jesus. In the same way Gram looked on and was joyful over my sister’s display of leggos, Jesus delights in his creativity of you! His intent is not simply to enjoy us Himself, but for others to be blessed by the creativity He's given us. Our creativity is covered with purpose. When we discover, acknowledge and utilize the gifts that have been given to us we bring glory to the Father. The most poignant factor of all, though, and the sole purpose of having gifts is the fact that they are given to us for the benefit of others. This is why it’s so exciting to grow in gifts – God moves powerfully through the mouths, hands and bodies of His children and since each of us is given at least one gift, according to the Word of God, it’s our duty to seek Him and discover what that gift is. Once it’s discovered, we can ask Him to help us grow so that we can use the gift for His purpose. It begins, however, with an understanding of His love for us.
One spring afternoon as my dreaming carried me away, I pictured an image that parallels purposely with the message of Christ’s delight in us. On a plain, beige wall above a couch hung a beautifully crafted, hand-made tapestry of fine, quality art. Its beauty stirred up adoration and it hung there with elegance, causing every object in the room to beam with sheer radiance. The painting was dynamically composed of bright and subtle colors, covered in different textures and saturated with vision. It was woven together with such beauty that every eye was glued and in awe from just one glance.
The significance of this piece of art is that it’s you and I! It’s the very piece of art, created at the peak of our Master’s excitement and creativity that God wants to display to the world and say, “Lookie! Lookie at what I’ve made!”
We’re designed to bring Him glory and he does this through creativity! As Christ’s ambassadors and Regents representing a King, and just like the painting in my dream, our love for Him should speak in and of itself, primarily before a word ever comes out of our mouths. It’s what some people like to call preaching the gospel without words. It’s also an opportune time to think about and apply the common phrase “actions speak louder than words.” Or, in this case, “creativity speaks louder than words.” This picture of creativity was His design and it’s the glory of transformation! Halleluiah!
The heart of the matter is that God has raised us up for the purpose of demonstrating His power through us. We have a higher calling! Almighty God purchased us at the highest price, drenched us with His grace and transformed us inside out in order to plant charisma in our spirit that engages the spirit of those around us. We are destined for greatness and to bring out the greatness in other people. Creativity is a significant piece to God’s plan of salvation manifested in Matthew 28. It’s the essence of His character. He’s a creative God, who’s got way more experience than we will ever have – He’s been at this for countless years! So let’s get out of the driver seat, move to the passenger seat and begin obeying the yield sign! If you first desire Him, step out and follow Him He’ll be sure to show you where His peak of creativity was when creating you! Those gifts will begin to become evident and dreams of what to do with them will begin to surface in your heart. God wants to show you off! He’s created you at the height of His creative symphony and plans to show His power and receive glory through a display of YOU.
Will you be a part of my victory? Part 2
I'm learning so much about real faith as I trust God in this latest transition to Virginia Beach, Va. Below are a few scriptures empowering me to walk this transition out in faith. First is a scripture God led me to months ago, the next few were spoken to me through other people and the last is a verse I've loved for as long as I can remember. These are the very verses of scripture that God has embedded on my heart to walk me through this transition this fall.
"Faith is being sure of what you hope for and certain of what you do not see." -Hebrews 11:1
God said to Abraham "Leave everything you have behind. Go and I'll show you what I have for you." And get this next verse... "AND I WILL MAKE OF YOU A GREAT NATION and i will bless you and make your name famous and distinguished, and you will be a blessing..." -Genesis 12:1-2
"Behold! I am doing a new thing! Now it springs forth; do you not perceive and know it and will you not give heed to it? I will even make a way in the wilderness and rivers in the desert." - Isaiah 43:19
"To Him, Who is able to do above and beyond all that we ask or imagine, according to the power that is at work in us." -Ephesians 3:20
(These are all scriptures spoken to me, by God, through people. They are confirmations of my heart's passion to follow His leading to Regent University)In the first verse in the book of Genesis God told Abraham to GO, without giving him any idea of what was to come beyond that command. He also promised Abraham that He would bless him AFTER he went (AND i will make of you a great nation...). Just like Abraham, I don't know what the next step is. All I know is that He told me to GO, and that I belong at Regent. Like Abraham, I am taking the first step of faith. Immediately after I knew Regent was where He wanted me, I applied. Before I was accepted I gave my notice at work. Before I was admitted into student housing I gave my notice to my landlord.While everyone else tells me I don't know what I'm doing, I say "No, I don't. But God does."By the end of the first week of June my acceptance and admittance into student housing should be confirmed by the University.
Listen! God doesn't get in the boat we limit Him from- He shows up when you get OUT of the boat! Taking the first step of faith enables God to show you the second step He has lined up for you. He said to Abraham "Go for yourself away from your country, from our relatives and your father's house, to the land that I will show you." He said GO! So, GO first!
Everyone's saying sarcastically, "Well, Kellie, what are you going to do with your degree? and Usually people have a place to live before they move." (You've seen the questions in Part1 of Will you be a part of my victory?)Here's the truth about that question, though. I don't know. What I do know is He laid Professional Communication on my heart, placed the desire in me to speak among several other things, so I chose that as my major. My response to the question about the job after I get my degree is "God will show me." And I sit confidently assure of that, based on what I know and understand of God's Word. How do I know that? Because I've taken the first step of faith already!
If Abraham bowed to fear the rest of the story in Genesis wouldn't have come to pass. He would never have experienced God as his Shield and his great compensation, and he would never have received his exceedingly great reward (Genesis 15:1). -Joyce Meyer
In all honesty, I didn't feel and still am not fearful about this transition. I know that I know that I know and always knew from day one that my God will carry me through and bring me to a place where I can walk on my own. If the same God who gave me everything I prayed for in my apartment and healed me of CANCER after I fervently prayed for and fully believed Him to, He can surely prove faithful again! And again! And again!If He brought me to it, He'll bring me through it!
You know, the word "fear" means to run from. Do you know the only way to overcome it is to step out against it? Whatever you run from will chase you until it's confronted and dealt with. I encourage you to take a step. God is the only living man who won't leave you stranded, IF you fully surrender and trust Him.
Ask Him for the courage to take a step of faith in your circumstance. Watch Him pull you through it! Joyce Meyer says it this way, "Understanding that His will for you is revealed a step at a time should build your confidence to do at least what you already know to do. After the first few steps, your faith will grow because you will realize there is always sure footing beneath each step God instructs you to take."Whether you know it or not, God is busy bringing good things to pass for you, right this minute! Just give him time- and you will see. -Joyce Meyer
Again I ask, Will YOU be a part of my victory?
(I pulled some of what I wrote from Joyce Meyer's message during "The Confident Woman" conference she spoke at recently. You can find more of her inspiring messages at www.joycemeyer.org)
"Faith is being sure of what you hope for and certain of what you do not see." -Hebrews 11:1
God said to Abraham "Leave everything you have behind. Go and I'll show you what I have for you." And get this next verse... "AND I WILL MAKE OF YOU A GREAT NATION and i will bless you and make your name famous and distinguished, and you will be a blessing..." -Genesis 12:1-2
"Behold! I am doing a new thing! Now it springs forth; do you not perceive and know it and will you not give heed to it? I will even make a way in the wilderness and rivers in the desert." - Isaiah 43:19
"To Him, Who is able to do above and beyond all that we ask or imagine, according to the power that is at work in us." -Ephesians 3:20
(These are all scriptures spoken to me, by God, through people. They are confirmations of my heart's passion to follow His leading to Regent University)In the first verse in the book of Genesis God told Abraham to GO, without giving him any idea of what was to come beyond that command. He also promised Abraham that He would bless him AFTER he went (AND i will make of you a great nation...). Just like Abraham, I don't know what the next step is. All I know is that He told me to GO, and that I belong at Regent. Like Abraham, I am taking the first step of faith. Immediately after I knew Regent was where He wanted me, I applied. Before I was accepted I gave my notice at work. Before I was admitted into student housing I gave my notice to my landlord.While everyone else tells me I don't know what I'm doing, I say "No, I don't. But God does."By the end of the first week of June my acceptance and admittance into student housing should be confirmed by the University.
Listen! God doesn't get in the boat we limit Him from- He shows up when you get OUT of the boat! Taking the first step of faith enables God to show you the second step He has lined up for you. He said to Abraham "Go for yourself away from your country, from our relatives and your father's house, to the land that I will show you." He said GO! So, GO first!
Everyone's saying sarcastically, "Well, Kellie, what are you going to do with your degree? and Usually people have a place to live before they move." (You've seen the questions in Part1 of Will you be a part of my victory?)Here's the truth about that question, though. I don't know. What I do know is He laid Professional Communication on my heart, placed the desire in me to speak among several other things, so I chose that as my major. My response to the question about the job after I get my degree is "God will show me." And I sit confidently assure of that, based on what I know and understand of God's Word. How do I know that? Because I've taken the first step of faith already!
If Abraham bowed to fear the rest of the story in Genesis wouldn't have come to pass. He would never have experienced God as his Shield and his great compensation, and he would never have received his exceedingly great reward (Genesis 15:1). -Joyce Meyer
In all honesty, I didn't feel and still am not fearful about this transition. I know that I know that I know and always knew from day one that my God will carry me through and bring me to a place where I can walk on my own. If the same God who gave me everything I prayed for in my apartment and healed me of CANCER after I fervently prayed for and fully believed Him to, He can surely prove faithful again! And again! And again!If He brought me to it, He'll bring me through it!
You know, the word "fear" means to run from. Do you know the only way to overcome it is to step out against it? Whatever you run from will chase you until it's confronted and dealt with. I encourage you to take a step. God is the only living man who won't leave you stranded, IF you fully surrender and trust Him.
Ask Him for the courage to take a step of faith in your circumstance. Watch Him pull you through it! Joyce Meyer says it this way, "Understanding that His will for you is revealed a step at a time should build your confidence to do at least what you already know to do. After the first few steps, your faith will grow because you will realize there is always sure footing beneath each step God instructs you to take."Whether you know it or not, God is busy bringing good things to pass for you, right this minute! Just give him time- and you will see. -Joyce Meyer
Again I ask, Will YOU be a part of my victory?
(I pulled some of what I wrote from Joyce Meyer's message during "The Confident Woman" conference she spoke at recently. You can find more of her inspiring messages at www.joycemeyer.org)
Will you be a part of my Victory? Part 1
These are a few wall posts I had on facebook while I was experiencing THE WORLD and it's influence while trusting the Lord about Regent! Sometimes my spirit get's so fired up for what the Lord is up to that I just start speaking to the world - you'll see a touch of that at the end!
Woo-hoo! This is good stuff! So I opened up to Psalm 21 this morning. Check out how King David speaks the ultimate truth here... man, this is so good. How true is this Psalm in my life right now! It's my biggest prayer and the Lord just told me that I am prophesing my future at Regent University!
"O Lord, the king rejoices in your strength. How great is his joy in the victories you give! You have granted him the desire of his heart and have not withheld the request of his lips. You welcomed him with rich blessings and placed a crown of pure gold on his head. He asked you for life, and you gave it to him- length of days, for ever and ever. Through the victories you gave, his glory is great; you have bestowed on him splendor and majesty. Surely you have granted him eternal blessings and made him glad with the joy of your presence (yes!). For the king trusts in the Lord; through the unfailing love of the Most High HE WILL NOT BE SHAKEN.
PRAISE THE LORD!!!!!!!!
I love how this Psalm speaks of the glory of God! In regards to giving a notice at work in FAITH that I will be accepted and enrolled in on-campus housing this August, it's a time where wordly, unfaithful people are telling me I'm crazy, too young and naive to make "big" decisions without consulting "adults", I'm in for some "big" disappointments- the Lord is using this psalm to encourage my heart! GUESS WHAT PEOPLE? I OBEY JESUS and follow HIS calling on my life, not yours! A
nd here's another interesting tidbit. I couldn't figure out why the Lord led me to read Ezra as well today. But, after a divine revelation here's what He showed me:Chapter 4 in the book of Ezra in the Old Testament describes three different strategies used to hinder God's people.
1) Those in opposition of those who wanted to rebuild the Temple offered help that would lead to compromises or even a complete takeover of the project by unbelievers
2) Unbelievers discourage, frighten and frustrate God's people
3) They use official power to force them to stop doing God's work
Isn't interesting that while everyone surrounding me who chooses to tell me "you need my imput, my "wisdom" to make your decisions", chooses to discourage, attempt to frighten and frustrate God's plans for my life and use their positions in the business world to threaten my future DOESN'T SHAKE MY FAITH! As it didn't shake the faith of those who wanted to rebuild the Temple over 2000+ years ago... and guess what? THEY DID IT. Nehemiah went on to rebuild the temple a few years later. With God's prompting and direction, IT CAME TO PASS. And my attending Regent and getting my degree will, too!
Just as the apostle Paul encouraged young Timothy, "Don't let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in speech,in life, in love, in faith and in purity." 1 Timothy 4:12
It's a wonder I can't include ya'll in my victories - you refuse to be a part of them! Stop doubting, and BELIEVE! Just BELIEVE! Watch how He unfolds His promise of being faithful to the faithful (Psalm 18:25)!
Woo-hoo! This is good stuff! So I opened up to Psalm 21 this morning. Check out how King David speaks the ultimate truth here... man, this is so good. How true is this Psalm in my life right now! It's my biggest prayer and the Lord just told me that I am prophesing my future at Regent University!
"O Lord, the king rejoices in your strength. How great is his joy in the victories you give! You have granted him the desire of his heart and have not withheld the request of his lips. You welcomed him with rich blessings and placed a crown of pure gold on his head. He asked you for life, and you gave it to him- length of days, for ever and ever. Through the victories you gave, his glory is great; you have bestowed on him splendor and majesty. Surely you have granted him eternal blessings and made him glad with the joy of your presence (yes!). For the king trusts in the Lord; through the unfailing love of the Most High HE WILL NOT BE SHAKEN.
PRAISE THE LORD!!!!!!!!
I love how this Psalm speaks of the glory of God! In regards to giving a notice at work in FAITH that I will be accepted and enrolled in on-campus housing this August, it's a time where wordly, unfaithful people are telling me I'm crazy, too young and naive to make "big" decisions without consulting "adults", I'm in for some "big" disappointments- the Lord is using this psalm to encourage my heart! GUESS WHAT PEOPLE? I OBEY JESUS and follow HIS calling on my life, not yours! A
nd here's another interesting tidbit. I couldn't figure out why the Lord led me to read Ezra as well today. But, after a divine revelation here's what He showed me:Chapter 4 in the book of Ezra in the Old Testament describes three different strategies used to hinder God's people.
1) Those in opposition of those who wanted to rebuild the Temple offered help that would lead to compromises or even a complete takeover of the project by unbelievers
2) Unbelievers discourage, frighten and frustrate God's people
3) They use official power to force them to stop doing God's work
Isn't interesting that while everyone surrounding me who chooses to tell me "you need my imput, my "wisdom" to make your decisions", chooses to discourage, attempt to frighten and frustrate God's plans for my life and use their positions in the business world to threaten my future DOESN'T SHAKE MY FAITH! As it didn't shake the faith of those who wanted to rebuild the Temple over 2000+ years ago... and guess what? THEY DID IT. Nehemiah went on to rebuild the temple a few years later. With God's prompting and direction, IT CAME TO PASS. And my attending Regent and getting my degree will, too!
Just as the apostle Paul encouraged young Timothy, "Don't let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in speech,in life, in love, in faith and in purity." 1 Timothy 4:12
It's a wonder I can't include ya'll in my victories - you refuse to be a part of them! Stop doubting, and BELIEVE! Just BELIEVE! Watch how He unfolds His promise of being faithful to the faithful (Psalm 18:25)!
Today
For most of you, today was like any other beautiful day - filled with an array of beaming sunlight, transparent air and peacefully, bright blue skies. Easily, it became another day to take a walk, swing with your child in the park, or play a game of mini golf. But for me, not only was the day filled with beauty by the glorious sunshine and clear, blue sky, but also with a sparked spirit, sense of refreshment, and reassurance of personal beauty. Today was a breath of fresh air, a breeze of new experiences, and a wind of graceful, purpose-filled interactions. Somehow, Today touched my soul in a way I completely expected, yet managed to dilute.
The day started bright and early, with my arising at 5am. Shortly after 7am I arrived on base, at the Special Olympics field, where hundreds of Athletes were expected to have a day filled with Track and Field events, Swimming and Bowling. As the morning progressed, I anxiously awaited to be partnered with my Athlete pondering questions like, who will it be? Will I have a man or a woman? Will he or she be short or tall? One thing was for certain, though, this wasn't about me. This day was a learning opportunity. It was about closing the eyes on myself and opening them to my new friend.As I waited, I looked around to see dozens of buddies inching closer to the Athlete Registration areas, eagerly awaiting the arrival of their Athletes. A compacted group of buddies chose "Track and Field" athletes, including myself, which were becoming more limited as the final buddies arrived. The fight was on - who would get the next 'Track and Field' Athlete? Not one who typically acts aggressively to be first in line, I abruptly decided this was a legitimate excuse to push ahead! I wasn't about to wait any longer! I wanted to meet the person God wanted me to! After hearing the call for another Track and Field buddy, I quickly ran to the front to meet my long awaited Athlete. Her name? Barbara Jo Thomas.
She was an extraordinary woman from our first encounter, if I'd ever seen one. All geared up for her big day: bags in hand, attitude in check, and smile on. You could have picked her out a mile away. That warm, tender smile and sweet greeting of a kiss, with a minute flavor of sass was enough to melt you on the spot. Saying hello to nearly every one we passed and dancing her way back to the photo center for our first personal picture together, Barbara Jo was beginning to leave her footprint in my heart.
After every buddy was paired with an Athlete, we all wentoutside to begin our "warm-up", including arm and leg exercises, with a twist of light dancing. The next event was the opening ceremony, starting with a parade of buddies and Athletes. Excitement ripped through the surrounding crowd as all who participated were smiling, waving and yelling, "Yaaaayyy!" After the parade was over and opening ceremonies came to an end, each buddy and Athlete were designated to theirareas of interest: Track and Field (On Base), Swimming (at Messiah college), or Bowling (at Trindle Bowl).Barbara Jo and I were Track and Field partners, so we made our way to the field almost immediately, which included the Softball Throw and a 50 and 100-meter dash and/or walk. During our walk and talk, I noticed Barbara liked to dance. Our walk quickly became our dance, as we soon ended up making our way to the dance floor (the parking lot), where a DJ was playing Oldies music including the Locomotion, the Greasesoundtrack, famous hits from Aretha Franklin and even a few country hits. Barbara's and my dancing soon turned into a sea of dancing stars, with new Athletes and their buddies joining in on the fun. We even did well-known dances like The Electric Slide, The Macarena, and the Cha-Cha.
Soon enough, although never soon enough for Barbara, lunch time arrived! An alluring display of hot dogs, hamburgers, pork, chicken, fruit, chips and much more were available for the taking. Barbara couldn't wait for her favorite part of the day because it was then that she could indulge in all of her favorite foods. Her favorite weakness? Bread! What a coincidence- mine, too!
A few more minor events occurred after lunch and before we all knew it, the day was coming to an end. Closing ceremonies started around 2:45pm and everyone watched as our new friend, Ken, walked down the isle to light the final torch of the day. Tears were beginning to shed and once smiling faces were now frowning. The fun had ended. New friendships would have to only be remembered. Another year until they'd get to see a familiar face, meet a new friend, and perhaps try something new. The heartache of waiting seemed too overwhelming to bear. Their big day was over.
In addition to Barbara, there were two other very special people I was connected with today. These truly were two divine connections.
First, is a dear, 4-yr old boy named Trevor. While I was sitting in the grass talking with Barbara, I was nearly knocked over by this energetic, bright and cheerful boy, whom I've never met before. He ran into me and then decided to sit on my lap. As I hugged him and asked him his name I almost had to gasp for breath, because as I looked at him I realized he was captured by my facial features - to him, a new face equals a new phenomenon. His beautiful, sparkling eyes instantly spoke to my heart, and while I stared at him for what was left of that moment, he gently leaned over and whispered in my ear "I love you." Soon after, he said that I was his new best friend and he wanted to play with me. Not long after that, he told me he wanted me to wear his metal, because I've done a good job and I am a "winner."
Most people would just say, "Oh, how cute." But for me, it was way beyond that. At the time, I knew something had just happened, beyond anything of my own understanding, but I didn't have all the pieces together. Later, as I thought about it, something drastically occurred to me.Isn't this the very character of our own Heavenly Father? He purposefully and often times, unexpectedly, runs into our lives, pursues us, expresses his love for us, and invites us to spend time with Him. Along side of that, He encourages us with words of life and richly rewards us. Hmm. What a creative way for God to tell me He loved me today. What a way for Him to personally invite me, His Beloved Daughter Kellie, to spend the afternoon with Him and to tell me He's pleased with me. But, here's what strikes my mind the most. God spoke to me when I least expected it, in a way I could have totally missed, had I not reflected on these divine connections Today. And even more amazing: Who was His divine instrument in bringing this word for me? A child. Somehow, just somehow, this divine connection with Trevor reminded me of my personal beauty to my Daddy. I must be, have to be, a real treasure in His eyes for Him to speak to me this way. Wow.
The other person I met Today is Jordan and he is a 29-year old male Athlete who loves to dance. This young man's spirit contagiously infected mine and while he was dancing during lunch I found myself enjoying him with an utmost respect that I couldn't quite figure out. He was the only one dancing and there wasn't a thing anyone could do to stop him. Without a single care in the world his joy-filled spirit carried him, song after song. He jumped, did cart-wheels, danced and sang all by himself, in front of hundreds of people. I thought to myself, when did we ever become mindful of opinion, and why? When did our concern for acceptance from other people become prioritized over our freedom? Why do we intently focus on the eyes of acceptance? More so, why do we allow those other eyes to direct our steps? It's a tragic loss to society when judgment from other people stops our spirit from its fashioned purpose. Our own, personal joy and individuality become compromised and the joy and individuality of others around us is robbed. I couldn't help but think, what are we truly afraid of?
Dancing with my new friends earlier in the day allowed me to peek inside their souls and see through the window of pure happiness. Happiness that is clearly palpable. Several valuable lessons were learned Today, but one most striking and poignantly evident is the notion of expression and the magnetic link it has to others. I learned that individuality is, by far, the greatest gift of a trait I could ever receive. Through it, everything else comes to pass in its own unique way. I was also renewed with the understanding of freedom. Experiencing the meaning of true liberty through expression teaches me how vitally important it is to remain who I am - first for God, and then for others.Perhaps the most peaceful and comforting gift I received from the entire event was resting assured that the Spirit of God Almighty Himself was present. I watched His radiance gleam off the faces of my new friends and His Spirit freely flowing through their bodies. As I watched them dance I began to silently thank Him for the wonderful opportunity to be a part of His Kingdom, and a tear gently rolled down my face - I thought, how is it that the God of all the Earth could teach me so many valuable, life-changing lessons at age 22? I couldn't help but feel sorry for those who couldn't become part of Today. Although Barbara didn't seem to understand this was it, we'd never see each other again, and I was just another person who walked into her life and quickly walked out, no doubts remain in my mind that Today was a day filled with blessing for her. Her Daddy opened all the doors and purposefully, planned a divine connection. Maybe she won't remember Today tomorrow, next week, or next year, but Today was a day of opportunity. An abundant day of grace, joy, and peace. In essence, a day of true love showered on us all. It was a day I'll never forget. This,indeed, was a day that the Lord has made! Let us rejoice and be glad in it!
The day started bright and early, with my arising at 5am. Shortly after 7am I arrived on base, at the Special Olympics field, where hundreds of Athletes were expected to have a day filled with Track and Field events, Swimming and Bowling. As the morning progressed, I anxiously awaited to be partnered with my Athlete pondering questions like, who will it be? Will I have a man or a woman? Will he or she be short or tall? One thing was for certain, though, this wasn't about me. This day was a learning opportunity. It was about closing the eyes on myself and opening them to my new friend.As I waited, I looked around to see dozens of buddies inching closer to the Athlete Registration areas, eagerly awaiting the arrival of their Athletes. A compacted group of buddies chose "Track and Field" athletes, including myself, which were becoming more limited as the final buddies arrived. The fight was on - who would get the next 'Track and Field' Athlete? Not one who typically acts aggressively to be first in line, I abruptly decided this was a legitimate excuse to push ahead! I wasn't about to wait any longer! I wanted to meet the person God wanted me to! After hearing the call for another Track and Field buddy, I quickly ran to the front to meet my long awaited Athlete. Her name? Barbara Jo Thomas.
She was an extraordinary woman from our first encounter, if I'd ever seen one. All geared up for her big day: bags in hand, attitude in check, and smile on. You could have picked her out a mile away. That warm, tender smile and sweet greeting of a kiss, with a minute flavor of sass was enough to melt you on the spot. Saying hello to nearly every one we passed and dancing her way back to the photo center for our first personal picture together, Barbara Jo was beginning to leave her footprint in my heart.
After every buddy was paired with an Athlete, we all wentoutside to begin our "warm-up", including arm and leg exercises, with a twist of light dancing. The next event was the opening ceremony, starting with a parade of buddies and Athletes. Excitement ripped through the surrounding crowd as all who participated were smiling, waving and yelling, "Yaaaayyy!" After the parade was over and opening ceremonies came to an end, each buddy and Athlete were designated to theirareas of interest: Track and Field (On Base), Swimming (at Messiah college), or Bowling (at Trindle Bowl).Barbara Jo and I were Track and Field partners, so we made our way to the field almost immediately, which included the Softball Throw and a 50 and 100-meter dash and/or walk. During our walk and talk, I noticed Barbara liked to dance. Our walk quickly became our dance, as we soon ended up making our way to the dance floor (the parking lot), where a DJ was playing Oldies music including the Locomotion, the Greasesoundtrack, famous hits from Aretha Franklin and even a few country hits. Barbara's and my dancing soon turned into a sea of dancing stars, with new Athletes and their buddies joining in on the fun. We even did well-known dances like The Electric Slide, The Macarena, and the Cha-Cha.
Soon enough, although never soon enough for Barbara, lunch time arrived! An alluring display of hot dogs, hamburgers, pork, chicken, fruit, chips and much more were available for the taking. Barbara couldn't wait for her favorite part of the day because it was then that she could indulge in all of her favorite foods. Her favorite weakness? Bread! What a coincidence- mine, too!
A few more minor events occurred after lunch and before we all knew it, the day was coming to an end. Closing ceremonies started around 2:45pm and everyone watched as our new friend, Ken, walked down the isle to light the final torch of the day. Tears were beginning to shed and once smiling faces were now frowning. The fun had ended. New friendships would have to only be remembered. Another year until they'd get to see a familiar face, meet a new friend, and perhaps try something new. The heartache of waiting seemed too overwhelming to bear. Their big day was over.
In addition to Barbara, there were two other very special people I was connected with today. These truly were two divine connections.
First, is a dear, 4-yr old boy named Trevor. While I was sitting in the grass talking with Barbara, I was nearly knocked over by this energetic, bright and cheerful boy, whom I've never met before. He ran into me and then decided to sit on my lap. As I hugged him and asked him his name I almost had to gasp for breath, because as I looked at him I realized he was captured by my facial features - to him, a new face equals a new phenomenon. His beautiful, sparkling eyes instantly spoke to my heart, and while I stared at him for what was left of that moment, he gently leaned over and whispered in my ear "I love you." Soon after, he said that I was his new best friend and he wanted to play with me. Not long after that, he told me he wanted me to wear his metal, because I've done a good job and I am a "winner."
Most people would just say, "Oh, how cute." But for me, it was way beyond that. At the time, I knew something had just happened, beyond anything of my own understanding, but I didn't have all the pieces together. Later, as I thought about it, something drastically occurred to me.Isn't this the very character of our own Heavenly Father? He purposefully and often times, unexpectedly, runs into our lives, pursues us, expresses his love for us, and invites us to spend time with Him. Along side of that, He encourages us with words of life and richly rewards us. Hmm. What a creative way for God to tell me He loved me today. What a way for Him to personally invite me, His Beloved Daughter Kellie, to spend the afternoon with Him and to tell me He's pleased with me. But, here's what strikes my mind the most. God spoke to me when I least expected it, in a way I could have totally missed, had I not reflected on these divine connections Today. And even more amazing: Who was His divine instrument in bringing this word for me? A child. Somehow, just somehow, this divine connection with Trevor reminded me of my personal beauty to my Daddy. I must be, have to be, a real treasure in His eyes for Him to speak to me this way. Wow.
The other person I met Today is Jordan and he is a 29-year old male Athlete who loves to dance. This young man's spirit contagiously infected mine and while he was dancing during lunch I found myself enjoying him with an utmost respect that I couldn't quite figure out. He was the only one dancing and there wasn't a thing anyone could do to stop him. Without a single care in the world his joy-filled spirit carried him, song after song. He jumped, did cart-wheels, danced and sang all by himself, in front of hundreds of people. I thought to myself, when did we ever become mindful of opinion, and why? When did our concern for acceptance from other people become prioritized over our freedom? Why do we intently focus on the eyes of acceptance? More so, why do we allow those other eyes to direct our steps? It's a tragic loss to society when judgment from other people stops our spirit from its fashioned purpose. Our own, personal joy and individuality become compromised and the joy and individuality of others around us is robbed. I couldn't help but think, what are we truly afraid of?
Dancing with my new friends earlier in the day allowed me to peek inside their souls and see through the window of pure happiness. Happiness that is clearly palpable. Several valuable lessons were learned Today, but one most striking and poignantly evident is the notion of expression and the magnetic link it has to others. I learned that individuality is, by far, the greatest gift of a trait I could ever receive. Through it, everything else comes to pass in its own unique way. I was also renewed with the understanding of freedom. Experiencing the meaning of true liberty through expression teaches me how vitally important it is to remain who I am - first for God, and then for others.Perhaps the most peaceful and comforting gift I received from the entire event was resting assured that the Spirit of God Almighty Himself was present. I watched His radiance gleam off the faces of my new friends and His Spirit freely flowing through their bodies. As I watched them dance I began to silently thank Him for the wonderful opportunity to be a part of His Kingdom, and a tear gently rolled down my face - I thought, how is it that the God of all the Earth could teach me so many valuable, life-changing lessons at age 22? I couldn't help but feel sorry for those who couldn't become part of Today. Although Barbara didn't seem to understand this was it, we'd never see each other again, and I was just another person who walked into her life and quickly walked out, no doubts remain in my mind that Today was a day filled with blessing for her. Her Daddy opened all the doors and purposefully, planned a divine connection. Maybe she won't remember Today tomorrow, next week, or next year, but Today was a day of opportunity. An abundant day of grace, joy, and peace. In essence, a day of true love showered on us all. It was a day I'll never forget. This,indeed, was a day that the Lord has made! Let us rejoice and be glad in it!
In Awe
So, I sit here this morning in awe... I can't believe the Lord of all the earth is mindful of me... the very God who knew me before he created me in my mother's womb, who set me apart and appointed me to be a messenger to the nations... He cares to know my name... cares to heal my brokeness... cares to bring me into victory... to fulfill my every heart's desire... His love for me is beyond any depth I can fathom... the God of all the earth loves to hang out with me every morning, afternoon and night... woah! He loves to speak to me, whispering sweetness in my ear... the very God who loves to save me when I'm in great need - which is every moment of every day... My God is my everything.
Apart from Him, I can do nothing. I am nothing. He is my significance! My security! How majestic is he... how glorious... beautiful... extragavant... marvelous...How often I sometimes forget my Father, the Almighty is SO big... he's The Conqueror, and he made me one, too... wow... the God who transformed my heart and mind, who removed my bitterness, taught me how to forgive, how to truly love... and the God who healed me of cancer... he stooped down to embrace me in his arms... he rescued me from fear, worry, confusion, lonliness... when no body else was around to rescue me... he rescued me. When no one else was and is faithful to me, He ALWAYS is. Never breaking a promise, but fulfilling them with due time...It's only because of Him that I stand secure in who I am today... a completely transformed person than I was two years ago... and He gets ALL the glory!
I've never known a love like this before... He's captivating!
I wanna go run around like a madwoman in my backyard! I wanna SCREAM! I wanna SHOUT! I wanna PROCLAIM THIS LOVE!!! Because it's not just for me, but for every person on the face of this planet! I want to run around in circles! I want to laugh, cry, rejoice, sing, do cartwheels, dance, jump, run, and all of the above! My God is a MARVELOUS GOD! =-)
So, I ask: Who's coming with me?! This is the time of rejoicing! Time of celebrating! Time to live the redeemed life Jesus died so we could have! Again, WHAT ARE WE WAITING FOR?!
"How can I repay the Lord for all his goodness to me? I will lift up the cup of salvation and call on the name of the Lord. I will fulfill my vows to the Lord in the presence of all his people. "(Trust Him and Obey Him with integrity!)
You know something? It's during devotional times like these where I realize how small i really am, yet He still loves me beyond my wildest understanding. I realize just how GREAT our God is... woah... ;o)
Apart from Him, I can do nothing. I am nothing. He is my significance! My security! How majestic is he... how glorious... beautiful... extragavant... marvelous...How often I sometimes forget my Father, the Almighty is SO big... he's The Conqueror, and he made me one, too... wow... the God who transformed my heart and mind, who removed my bitterness, taught me how to forgive, how to truly love... and the God who healed me of cancer... he stooped down to embrace me in his arms... he rescued me from fear, worry, confusion, lonliness... when no body else was around to rescue me... he rescued me. When no one else was and is faithful to me, He ALWAYS is. Never breaking a promise, but fulfilling them with due time...It's only because of Him that I stand secure in who I am today... a completely transformed person than I was two years ago... and He gets ALL the glory!
I've never known a love like this before... He's captivating!
I wanna go run around like a madwoman in my backyard! I wanna SCREAM! I wanna SHOUT! I wanna PROCLAIM THIS LOVE!!! Because it's not just for me, but for every person on the face of this planet! I want to run around in circles! I want to laugh, cry, rejoice, sing, do cartwheels, dance, jump, run, and all of the above! My God is a MARVELOUS GOD! =-)
So, I ask: Who's coming with me?! This is the time of rejoicing! Time of celebrating! Time to live the redeemed life Jesus died so we could have! Again, WHAT ARE WE WAITING FOR?!
"How can I repay the Lord for all his goodness to me? I will lift up the cup of salvation and call on the name of the Lord. I will fulfill my vows to the Lord in the presence of all his people. "(Trust Him and Obey Him with integrity!)
You know something? It's during devotional times like these where I realize how small i really am, yet He still loves me beyond my wildest understanding. I realize just how GREAT our God is... woah... ;o)
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