Friday, July 16, 2010

did I mention to Him be ALL the glory?

2 Timothy 4:2,5

Today my reading took me through the end of 2 Timothy. As I was reading chapter 4, I came across these verses:

"Preach the Word; be prepared in season and out of season; correct, rebuke and encourage-with great patience and careful instruction. But you, keep your headi n all situations, endure hardship, do the work fo an evangelist, discharge all the duties of your ministry." (vs 2,5)

This is especially interesting and challenging to me because today, our middle son asked Jesus to come into his life; to be his Lord and Savior. We rejoice! What a blessing, a miracle and a gift. What we pray for everyday. Do I think he totally understands. No. Will we ever TOTALLY comprehend the miracle of God's grace? No...I don't think we will until we see him face to face. And yet, what a blessing to be able to explain again the gift of grace God gave us in his Son's death and ressurrection, and this time to have Corban recieve this gift as his own!

As I read these verses in 2 Timothy, I was reminded that this is why God called us to shepherd and parent our children, to preach to them The Word, and to be prepared at all times. Even when we're doing the breakfast dishes. And to teach them his Word, his grace and mercy, as we are disciplining, rebuking and encouraging our kids.

I can stuggle with the seemed monotony of staying at home with my kids, and the decision to homeschool. And God reminded me today through Corban, and Paul's letter to Timothy that I too, am an evangelist. My purpose as a Mom is to show Christ to my kids. This too is why we decided to homeschool. So that my kids can have the opportunity to hear God's Word at all times. Not just before and after school, but all day.

Perhaps this is what is most challenging. That I have such a huge responsibility. That I am called to be patient and to "keep my head in all situations." Again, another reason to be thankful for God's mercy and grace. And praise Him that He promises to help me through it. In His strength alone....

Thursday, July 15, 2010

my 3 crazies....


Actually, that's four if you count the dog. Which we do. He's crazier than the rest.

Its hot here. hot Hot HOT.


So we get the baby pool out.


This makes some VERY happy. Happy enough to smile for pictures. Even on command!!

However, the best are still taken while jumping in and out of the pool.

The pool that is punctured with several holes (from that crazy dog) mind you.

But no matter! A great deal of the water is leaving due to splashing and pouring and stepping on the edge anyways. And besides....mom can always refill it!


Woohoo!!

And the best part for some is simply....the snacks.

Banana snacks (notice the right cheek).

Did we mention its hot?



But we're so thankful its summer. Thankful to relax, so slow down, to enjoy our time together. I am especially convicted lately of trying to be CONSCIOUSLY thankful for ALL things. Even the painful things. This is much more difficult, but as I was reading in Colossians, God reminded me I am to be thankful ALWAYS. In all things. And why? Because this life means nothing except to glorify Him. Thank goodness, because this life, and its pain and heartache, wouldn't be worth it if He were not glorify. Lord! May I be thankful in all things. Especially the hard ones. And thankyou especially the you promise to work it for good, and that you will always glorify yourself. May we bring you the honor that you are due.
thank you for baby pools with holes
simple pleasures in life
dogs that chew bones instead of toys
water....clean water
children laughing
bodies that heal
sunshine and vitamin D!
sweet smiles
little hugs
squeals of laughter
sibling love following major quarreling
forgiveness
unconditional love









































Tuesday, July 6, 2010

Thankful for our freedom!

Just thought we'd say.....

and that we are SO thankful for our freedom!!
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