Armor of God - Part 3

So... let's continue with our look at the armor of God found in Ephesians 6. To review, we've been given the belt of truth and the breastplate of righteousness. Today let's look at verse 15:

and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace.

How do we fit our feet? We have different shoes for different occasions. Sandals for those warm summer days, boots for those cold winter days, shoes we wear for formal occasions, and good ol' tennies for footsie support during exercise activities. Here, the message of the gospel is picturesquely connected with the protective and supportive footgear of the Roman soldier.

I love the part about the gospel of peace. To walk with peace, to walk in peace, and to walk for peace is such an amazing concept. Peace can be so hard to come by at times. We desperately search for it, we strive to attain it, and we muster up our own strength willing to have it. But as I'm beginning to learn, peace is something that is given. Jesus said, "Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your heart be troubled and do not be afraid." (John 14:27) Funny how I find myself so troubled at times. Is it those times that I've taken my focus off of Him and placed it on me - my circumstances, my feelings, my issues? I also find it interesting that we are armed for battle with what? Peace. As if peace is the first "step" we take with our feet, our main goal, our main intent, the heart of the matter in battle - peace.

"Though the mountains be shaken and the hills be removed, yet my unfailing love for you will will not be shaken nor my covenant of peace be removed," says the Lord, who has compassion on you. Isaiah 54:10

In light of "feet" and all, my mind can't help but run to running. I do find myself at peace when I run. What is something the Lord has given you a "love" of that brings you peace? For me, my body may be screaming at me, but my heart is in complete peace because when I run, I'm very aware of his presence. I do want to give a quick shout out to my Jesus, who last Monday, helped me celebrate two years of running with Him. Lord willing, I'd love to continue this journey for as long as He deems perfect. Though lately, my feet are dragging behind me, my heart is willing to continue and endure (craziness!) Lord help me when I just want to quit.

Well, that's all for tonight. The kids and I hit some rides at the zoo tonight, one two many spins on the tea cups for me! All worth it just to see those smiling faces. Tune in later for the next look at our armor - the shield of faith! Until then, enjoy this last day of July! Nothing like today to make some family memories!

Do you need a trim?

Got to waterin the plants and shrubs yesterday, and I had a thought - WOW, that shrub looks great, better than it has ever! Strange thought I know, but it got me thinkin some more. You see, my husband and I have different points of view when it comes to landscaping. I tend to like the fuller, more mature, well...more is better type of look. He likes the... less-is-more type, or the let's-just-rip-it-all-out type of look! There's a story about an apple tree in our backyard, but that's anther story for another day (stop smiling Mark!)

About 2 or maybe 3 years ago, Aaron was kind enough to "trim up" some bushes on the side of our house. Now keep in mind, his type of trimming and mine are somewhat different. Again, the less-is-more concept left me with a bit of shock-in-awe, but I have to admit that this was the best thing for these little bushes. After some time, care, water, and sun, turns out this hair cut was the best thing for them! They are full, lush and quite mature looking! Dare I venture even better looking that my first assessment three years ago! Aaron...you were right my dear!

This one little observation got me thinking some more. What do I have that needs some trimmin in my life? Am I so resistant to change, that I hold on to some branches a lot longer than I need to? To I have some dead spots that are simply there because "they've always been there"? Do I need to prune them, or perhaps even cut them off? It might be hard, but didn't it actually make this shrub a much more healthier, full, and vibrant one? It took time, but in the long run, with a little trust, and a little patience, it actually grew more and more brilliant. Maybe there is something to the less-is-more concept, contrary to popular belief.

I hear you Lord, I hear ya.

"I am the true vine, and my Father is the gardener. He cuts off every branch in me that bears no fruit, while every branch that does bear fruit he prunes so that it will be even more fruitful... No branch can bear fruit by itself; it must remain in the vine. Neither can you bear fruit unless you remain in me. If anyone does not remain in me, he is like a branch that is thrown away and withers, such branches are picked up, thrown into the fire and burned." John 15: 1-4, 6

The Armor of God - Breastplate of Righteousness

Ever get tripped up by a word? Ever have such a hard time comprehending the meaning of it that you just simply skip by it, pronounce it, move ahead. This happens to me when I stumble upon, or heard the word righteousness. I've heard it, read it many times, but ask me to explain the concept....ummmm. So let's dive into the source, shall we? Let's continue our quest in looking at this concept of the armor of God as found in Ephesians 6. Check out verse 17:

Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place

To begin, I wanted to take a look at the definition of righteousness. On our trip this past weekend, we had a chance to stop in the local Lifeway store. After only a few steps, I was drawn to a round stand, captivated, for on this stand was commentary after commentary, thick dictonary after thick dictionary, and I was drooling. Now, if THAT isn't a work of God, I don't know what is! Can I actually be nearing a place where my heart goes pitter-patter in anticipation of word meanings, contexts, and commentaries? Sweet! Well, my physical hands loved to get a "hold" of those books, but my practical mind told me to use the resources at my disposal, SO. I'm checking out some websites - tons of good ones. My favorite so far is biblegateway.com. Here's what it says about righteousness/justification:

Justification, a forensic term, opposed to condemnation. As regards its nature, it is the judicial act of God, by which he pardons all the sins of those who believe in Christ, and accounts, accepts, and treats them as righteous in the eye of the law, i.e., as conformed to all its demands. In addition to the pardon (q.v.) of sin, justification declares that all the claims of the law are satisfied in respect of the justified. It is the act of a judge and not of a sovereign. The law is not relaxed or set aside, but is declared to be fulfilled in the strictest sense; and so the person justified is declared to be entitled to all the advantages and rewards arising from perfect obedience to the law (Rom. 5:1-10).

This is such an amazing and wonderful truth! The word is a judicial word and has to do with our standing before God the Father. IT is more than forgiven, more than acquitted. It means the Father sees us as if we had NEVER SINNED. We are declared righteous; free from guilt and punishment. How is that possible? It is made possible by Jesus Christ! (Romans 3:23-24, 28).
It is so important to let this truth sink deep into our hearts. Justification is not accomplished through my good works nor diminished by my sin. It is completely in the hands of God himself! (Romans 5:1,18; 8:1, II Corinthians 5:21; Galatians 2:16; Titus 3:5-7). I should walk in obedience because I am justified, not to try to become justified by my obedience.

So here again, the warriors' character is their defense. In Isaiah 59:17, God himself is symbolically described as putting on a breastplate of righteousness to bring about justice.

He put on righteousness as his breastplate.

Here the Lord's armor is compared to the believer's armor in the battle against Satan. Let's look at some more verses:

Psalm 5:8 - Lead me, O LORD, in your righteousness because of my enemies - make straight your way before me.

Psalm 7:8 - let the LORD judge the peoples. Judge me, O LORD, according to my righteousness, according to my integrity, O Most High.

Psalm 7:17 - I will give thanks to the LORD because of his righteousness and will sing praise to the name of the LORD Most High.

Psalm 23:3 - He guides me in paths of righteousness for his name's sake.

Psalm 31:1 - In you, O LORD, I have taken refuge; let me never be put to shame; deliver me in your righteousness.

Psalm 40:10 - I do not hide your righteousness in my heart; I speak of your faithfulness and salvation

Whew, David was on a roll! So many amazing verses that deepen our understanding (challenge yourself!) What I can humbly summarize is that God wants us to walk with Him. He alone is our weapon and he equips us with mighty tools. He not only wants this walk for our welfare but for the benefit of others as well. Pretty neat stuff. Tune in tomorrow as we look at our feet fitted with readiness (pretty cool considering our "walk"). Until then, battle on!

I love my boys, I miss my girls!

What does strange noises, bursts of giggles, and a repeating montaous of movie and commerical lines (in the correct intonations) equal? You guessed it, BOYS! This weekend, I found myself involved in the, "if you can't beat em, join em" phrase, or perhaps, "when in Rome..." All teasing aside, I found complete and utter joy and peace in watching my boys (double AA, aka AAron and Austin) take in some planes (F-16s), cars (Nascar that is), and kissing (bricks that is, it's a Brickyard thang) - loving every minute of it. We are first timers when it comes to the racing scene, but boy do we have such a great appreciation of the sheer intensity and excitment of it all. We were treated like royality- free breakfast, lunch, a tram ride, and top row seats that gave us access to God's natural air-conditioning treatment (of which created comical banter for the couples sitting in front of us, giving us an "in" to ask all the newbie questions we needed). A select few even gained access to a pit tour or garage tour - how? We had the right access, the select ticket. Got me thinkin....

The world tells us only a few select gain access to the "best" seats in the house, added perks, bonuses, and priviledges. God tells us ALL have access to Him through his son. We are all equally sinful and if we confess and ask, the "door" to this access with be open to us forever. I digress...another post for another day :)

Well, thanks to Stanley (Aaron's employer that is), we had the added luxury of meeting #19, Elliot Sadler. We met him at 11:00 (just 3 hours before the start of the race), wearing blue jeans and a comfy white shirt, and listened to him talk as if we were "cousins" hanging outside in hometown hills of Virginia together - he was that humble, down to earth, and simply funny. Austin happened to have a North Carolina Tarheels hat with him (go figure) and lo and behold, guess who is a fan of the Heels as well? Big ol' signature right on the brim - precious memories!

While we were sharing some dinner this evening at Damon's, celebrating Aaron's birthday (have to finish boy-time off with a bang - big screen TVs!), we got to talkin about our "favorites". After Austin and I were sharing about our favorite slides we raced down at Zoobsie Bay today, Aaron brought up another favorite from yesterday's race. Just before the race, a voice came across the loud speaker. It wasn't the announcer's voice, wasn't the singer voice, it was a different voice. A voice that spoke straight to my heart - the voice of a prayer. I couldn't tell you the name of the man, nor have I seen his face, but I can tell you I'll never forget this heart. He spoke from a heart of one who walks close to his father, and the biggest smile I had was knowing that thousands of others "heard" it too. I prayed that seeds were planted that afternoon, just minutes before the race. Seeds that when watered, will grow to thirst for the living water, the only one that can truly quench our thirst. The only that came to seek and save the lost.

Thanks Mom and Dad for spoiling the girls! Cannot wait to have them home tomorrow!

The Armor of God

The Lord and I took a jog together the other morning. It never ceases to amaze me that we have some interesting conversations nearing the end of our time together. It reminds me that if I would have "cut out" earlier, I would have missed this talk (great motivator anyway). We got to chatting about what how to go into battles armed. Battles for me, the strong ones anyways, take place in my mind, many never even openly spoken about (my introspective side). Now, the one downside about this is that self-talk is limited, only one-sided. And, in this, you can become your own worst enemy. What I felt drawn to in looking more at these battles, is how I can stand equipped. I don't think the Lord leaves you unarmed for battle, so what is it that comes along with this Jesus territory stuff?

Armor. Yep, good ol' knights of the round table stuff. Well, let's take a look at the passage that gives the context for this so-called armor. It's found in the book of Ephesians, chapter 6. Starting in verse 11, it starts with the why:

Put on the full armor of God so that you can take your stand against the devil's schemes. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.

Wow, pretty deep stuff. 1 Peter 5:8 describes the devil as one who prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. His goal is to destroy. Many times, I believe, this is done through our minds thoughts, which then follows through into actions. So what are we to do? Ephesians 6 goes on to say in verse 14:

Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place.

To get a little better understanding of the "belt of truth", I decided to flip to the back of my bible ( the Concordance) and look up verses pertaining to truth and here's a little of what I found:

Psalm 33:4 - For the word of the Lord is right and true.
John 14:6 - Jesus answered, I am the way, the truth, and the life.
Revelation 22:6 - ...these words are trustworthy and true

So...the word (Bible) is true, Jesus (the way) is truth, and I can trust this truth. I think I can handle this. Something to stand upon in this world that is pretty unstable and fickle.

So what's the deal with this breastplate of righteousness? Let's save that for the next post... much more armor to explore AND I just found a neat parallel to the same armor the Lord dons found in Isaiah 59. Until then, fight with character!

Where do you run?

Darn those hurt feelings! Have you had ones of those moments recently, maybe you read an email, received a voice message or text, maybe a conversation, or maybe just a look that sent a flaming, slicing arrow right through your skin, dead center into your heart? It happens. I just wish I could duck or dash to the side to avoid them, but often times, there isn't even time for that.

I've found myself in this position just recently, so it got me thinkin... how do I react? What is it I do with this hurt and subsequent wound? How do I handle an offense, often times those unmerited? Well, I've noticed a pattern lately, and it goes something like this...

Shock - What???
Defensive - I was just... I didn't mean... I was only...
Judgments - Did you have to say it like that... Can't you see... You know me...
Anger - That really hurt! How dare...
Bitterness - What did I do to deserve this?
Blaming - You... He... She...

Where does this leave me? Is the offender dwelling, or simply clueless that I'm sitting here stewing? What will I do? Where will I turn?

Now mind you, this is a process for me, but what I decided to do today, and yes it was a choice, was to run. I decided to put into action what I'm learning to be true. Run where you may ask? To my husband, to my mom, to my friend, to a trusted accountability partner? Perhaps, but I first decided to run to Him. I decided to sit down, stop my run-away-train mind, and focus on His word. I read, and as I read, I felt myself nodding my head. I was nodding because I was reading and be reminded of truth. My theory - focus + truth = lies dispelled. I prayed for a perspective that was His, I shifted my focus off of me. My intent was to "stop going there" with thoughts that were negative and destructive (though strangely justifiable) and to actually attempt to put into action what Philippians 4:8 talks about:

Whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable - if anything is excellent or praiseworthy - think about such things.

So what happened? I received what I asked for. I saw a new perspective, I believed this perspective was good and right, I was able to work through my emotions without guilt or resentment, and I felt free of the mental anguish. Where remnants of the hurt still there? You bet, but, I was now able to "talk" about the process with the stinging emotions involved. Know what else? I quickly saw some restoration happen, all with a heart that was already free, AND without the sting of words said in anger.

So, do I have this "thing" figure out? Absolutely not, if fact, another arrow shot my way just this evening. Do I have insecurities about even typing this post? Absolutely! The phrases "running to the Lord" and "running to his Word" always seemed so super-Christian to me. Phrases only a few select could actually attain (and to be honest, they were the weirdos!) I don't know much, but this much I can say, the more I am aware of His Presence, the safer I feel. This is not some sort of escape from reality; it is tuning into ultimate reality. He is far more real that the world I can see, hear, or touch. Where will you run today?

Faith is the confirmation of things we do not see and the conviction of their reality, perceiving as real fact what is not revealed to the senses. Hebrews 11:1 (AMP)

Wha-cha readin?

How many of you started the summer with your "lists", whether mental or actually written, of what you planned to do over the next 3 months? As with most summers, the kids and I talk about what would be fun places to visit and create a "wish list". One of the places we frequent is our local library. On really hot days, it's a cool place to visit, on really rainy days it's a dry place to visit, and before long trips, it's a resourceful place to visit and borrow some new movies to view. They also have a great summer reading program with lots of "incentives" for your time spent with the written word.

The great part about this program is that the kids actually remind me about their reading time AND it encourages Mommy to model this reading time as well. It has even encouraged us to be more consistent with "Jesus" time, or time spent in the Bible and other resources because Mommy counts this time as double points! In light of these incentives, the Lord has recently brought to my attention (and my door), some fabulous reads. I'd like to list them for you (many of which can be borrowed, or bought at a cheaper price through christianbookstore.com) Here are some on my current reading list:

Jesus Calling, Enjoying Peace in His Presence, by Sarah Young - a fabulous devotional written by a missionary, takes direct scriptures and writes in a way as if Jesus Himself were speaking to you.

The 7 Hardest Things God Asks a Woman to Do, by Kathie Reimer and Lisa Whittle - a mother and daughter team up to take an honest and insightful look into the liberating truth about what is required of us and the empowerment of the Lord who guides, strengthens, and enables us to do what He asks.

Behind Those Eyes, What's Really Going on Inside the Souls of Women, by Lisa Whittle - helps us readers to meet the cast of Ms. Perfection, Ms. Confidence, Ms. Happiness, and Ms. Spirituality. With humor, compassion, and biblical insight, Whittle encourages women to take an honest look at ourselves, to get real with one another, and to get real with God.

Battlefield of the Mind, by Joyce Meyer - helps direct us to know the Word of God well enough to be able to compare what is in our mind with what is in the mind of God. As 2 Corinthians 10:4-5 states, we are to cast down any thought that attempts to exalt itself above the Word of God. If you need guidance to think about what you are thinking about, or to look at the root of your thinking patterns, this book is a great resource.

A Shepherd Looks at Psalm 23, by W.Phillip Keller -shares his insights into the life and character of sheep, and of the Good Shepherd who loves and cares for them. Experience Psalm 23 in a new way, as Kelley reveals amazing new facets of Christ's love for those who trust him as their guide, protector, source of provision, and faithful keeper.

Becoming a Woman of Prayer, by Cynthia Heald - this study includes scripture as well as quotations from classical writers and thinkers to enhance understanding of our God-given need for prayer. This study takes an honest look at deepening our understanding of prayer so that we can pray more effectively and grow closer to our Lord.

What are you reading? How is God speaking to you?

Only God!

After posting about prayer requests this morning, I received a devotional in my inbox from Proverbs 31 Ministries, and guess what God placed on my computer screen? None other than the same verse from Ephesians 6 :18. The author so beautifully expounded on the same topic that the Lord helped me to ponder this morning - only God.

The author of this devotional happens to be an amazing lady, sold out, transparent, and authentically real about herself and her Savior. She is linked on the blogroll to the right. After reading this, I encourage you to click on Renee Swope's link. This will take you to her blog where you can do two things. First, read her post as well as devotional, and secondly, add your prayer request following her clear instructions. She has set up a place to have an opportunity to pray for the person that submitted a request just before you, and the promise that the person who requests after you will be lifting you up in prayer as well.

As I checked this amazing list, the person I am praying for has a need that the Lord has been revealing in my heart and teaching me of his ways the past several months. Reminds me of a verse that is so alive to me recently, found in Luke 22:32

...And when you have turned back, strengthen your brothers.

Again - only God! Isn't He amazing!

Prayer Request Anyone?

Got to enjoy another fabulous morning run with a cherished friend this morning. We talk about quite a variety of things while we run (really does make the time go by fast!), and one of the topics we discussed around the last 1/2 mile was... prayer. This was our pondering point - "Why do we possess a filtering system when it comes to sharing our prayer requests? What qualifies a prayer as something "Big" enough to deem appropriate to reach out and "bother" or "burden" someone in making time to intercede with us on our journey?

I know I am a work in progress on this one. I carry a double standard. I consider it a complete honor and privilege to approach His Almighty throne of grace on the behalf of another's request and need, to walk alongside someone on their journey. But, for me, I hesitate in asking others to do the same. My first instinct is to "feel" as though I am a burden to other's, or that it comes from a selfish need to project my "issues" onto someone else. What is my source for this feeling? In light of this, am I robbing others of the same blessing and opportunity I am granted in the pursuit of prayer for others?

Well, let's go to THE source, what does God have to say about this...

1 Thessalonians 5:17 - pray continually

2 Thessalonians 1:11 - we constantly pray for you

James 5:16 - ...pray for each other...

Luke 18:1 - ...that they should always pray...

Ephesians 6:18 - And pray in the Spirit on all occasions, with all kinds of prayers and requests...always keep on praying...

There you go. No request big or small. They are all of equal importance. No discrimination here. Did you catch the "continually, constantly, and always" part? What requests do you have today?

Date Night

Baseball cap, baseball glove, some snacks, some drinks - all that was required for a fabulous mother-son date night. Last evening, Austin and I had a rare occasion to just sit in each other's presence and take in a Columbus Clippers baseball game. Very much a spontaneous event, due to a hot afternoon spent swimming, our girls were pretty tired out, so they chilled with Dad. We were first encouraged to attend this event in lieu of a friend gracing the audience with his brilliant vocal rendition of the "Star Spangled Banner" (way to go Matt!), and because of it, Austin and I shared some time just enjoying the "talk" of the game.

Favorite memories for me:

• Wear matching "free" Clippers hats while chewin on some twizzlers
• Talking about batter's stances
• Talking batting stats. as shown on the big screen-thingy, asking questions, not just to stir conversation, but because I actually know nothing about them
• Predicting where the "next ball" would be hit
• Receiving the "gift" of a ball that the man-behind-us caught
• Talking "numbers"

Favorite all-time memory - hearing Austin say, "Mom, that was fun", while holding my hand (sniff, sniff). For my little man of little words, this went straight to my heart. I love you Austin.

A run with substance

Nothing like waking up at 6:00 am on a Saturday to go "pound the pavement" for 2 1/2 hours! If you would have asked me this 2 years ago, "Heather, wanna join me for a run?" I would have answered, "You have fun with that, call me when you're done." Many times people ask me why in the world I train for marathons, and I simply answer, "Because I think it's cool watching toe nails fall off. " No, not really. I first started running because He asked me to, I'm still running today because I simply can't get enough of my time with him.

Now in case you think I have it all figured out, let me reassure you that I'm far from it. In case you think that I have this journey and the joy of running thing all figured out, let me tell you that I don't. Just this morning, I was dragging my feet. Every excuse in the book was rattling through my mind. My amazing running friend, Amanda, had a wonderful opportunity to visit a friend this weekend, so that bit of accountability made "shushing" the voices that much more difficult. But, I did get up, I did lace up, and without another thought of the excuses, off I went.

Now there have been many times along this journey where my Jesus saw fit to share some amazing things with me, and other times where he just listened to my mind race along from one topic to another. (I always say that years of life-guarding have taught me to hone my skill of "talking to myself" for hours). At times, I've seen some things about his creation I've never "seen" before, at times he's spoken to me through a song, and other times, I've simply appreciated the breeze just when I needed it. Today, I just spent time with his presence. Ever have those times with a close friend, or maybe you're spouse where you can be in the presence of each other, no words needed. I just ran in his joy this morning. Least you think running in joy means running pain free, let me tell you the pain is real and the pain is there, but somehow it's not in the forefront of your mind. It's almost as though a separation occurs. If asked, are you in pain, your body will say yes, yet there I am with a smile that cannot be wiped off.

Know what I'm talking about? Ever found yourself in a time, situation, or circumstance in your life that should have given you the "right" to hole up in your room, licking your wounds, when in fact, you are living and breathing in ways beyond your own self, your own strength. Reminds me of a favorite verse from Psalm 121,

I lift my eyes up to the hills - where does my help come from? My help comes from the LORD, the Maker of heaven and earth.

We have a dear friend who is in the hospital at the moment, withstanding an amazing amount of physical pain. As I ran this morning, asking the Lord to help me finish the course that we had planned, my thoughts ran directly to him. My pain is short-term, can be resolved with a bit of Advil. His pain is daily, minute after minute. He is running his marathon, one that the Lord is asking of Him. Lord, may he know that he inspires and encourages our faith daily. May he cry out to you for help Lord, may he feel your presence so strongly that he may claim like James,

"Consider it pure joy my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything." James 1:2-4

Stef, we love you brother! Sandi, may He give you His almighty strength to endure! It's a privilege and an honor for all of us to walk this road with you. For more of Stef's story, please click on the link to the right. Have a joy-filled day in Him.

What a game!

Words cannot describe, really, they allude me. How does one adequately retell and "pen" feelings with the same vigor and sheer raw emotions that happened in the moment? My last post told of the story of our son Austin's baseball team pulling together for an amazing victory Monday night. Well, they headed to the National League Championship game Wednesday evening and just flew flew an almost perfect game, winning 13-0 against the Giants. This then led them to this evenings match up against the A's for the World Series Championship game. It was actually held on a different field, complete with full dug-out for each team to experience (they loved it!) Well, except for poor Mason who somehow twisted his ankle in said dugout :( Did I mention that his mom rescheduled her induction date for after the game so her sweet husband could pitch and she could come and watch! Amy is one amazing Mama!

Basically, in a nutshell, it came down to the fourth inning, of which they play 5. (Feel free to hit Aaron's blog, he's much better at "these kinds" off details than I). Marlins were down 12-4. With several defenses errors behind them, spirits were a bit low, but then again, they're 8. Their sweet hearts don't stick on anything for too long. From the first batter that hit, the fire ignited! Batter after batter after batter stood at the plate. Hit after hit after hit ensued, and with each hit, the excitement and the energy just took on an amazing crescendo all on it's own. Parents, and coaches, kids and players, standing to their feet, clapping their hands, shouting till their voices strained, hearts beating fast enough to impale your breathing. Time just stopped, nothing else mattered, they had fought the good fight, they had finished the race, they had won! 15-12 (with a 1-2-3 out clincher, double play to top that!)

As I stood in the stands, next to both of my sisters, holding my precious nephew (who was the victim of a little jostling as we stood to cheer! Your Aunt Heather is so sorry baby Jackson!), we watched Austin, remembering how he started this journey, simply swing as if he's been doing this since birth, connect with the ball and watched it soar up and over the outfielders reach and land in the grass beyond. A visual that will forever stick with me as I SO proudly watched my son run to first, then to second, my emotions just overtook me as teas spilled out and gently rolled down my cheeks. As my sisters and I gently wiped each of ours silently, I whispered a prayer...

Lord...thank you. Thank you for this amazing example that will live on in our family's heritage. Thank you for the day that you allowed our son to rise up against the odds (Giants, or A's in this matter), to stay the course (not give into the competitive bickering), to win and lose as a team, and to remind us of the last phrase in that precious verse....

I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. 2 Timothy 4:7

Austin, you are Mommy's hero! I love you precious boy!

Proud parent

Last night, my heart had a front row seat to a spectacular 8-year-old, coach-pitch league baseball tournament game! Our son, Austin, and the rest of the mighty Marlins truly pulled it all together to beat the Cubs and head off to the National League Championship game! No matter what your age, race, or walk of life, there is something in our human nature that just loves to see the "best" in those trying, be able to be displayed. Go USA OLYMPICS - 8/8/08!

So why is this post entitled "proud parent"? Well, I think I broke the no-mammas-in-the-dugout-rule when I felt compelled to congratulate my son on making 5 out of the 6 outs during the first two innings! He so graciously accepted my hug and kiss with a little smirk on his face. What was I so proud of? The catches, not really. I am so proud of the young man our son is striving to become. He began the year wanting the ball to simply fall into his glove, and ready to stop trying when it didn't happen. After a few father-son talks, and lots of playing catch in the backyard (including two missed catches to the noggin), he had some choices to make. Austin had an opportunity to learn about persistence, patience, and also human limitations. He had an opportunity to win and lose as a team, a chance to understand about an "off" day, and a chance to recognize his strengths and weaknesses. As I stood and reflected on how he began the season, my heart just burst watching my little boy desire to focus, be still, be smart, and simply just have fun!

So many life lessons yet to learn, but on that evening I stood on a truth - Austin overcame. He overcame his fears, his insecurities, and his worries. He had listened to advise, had practiced, had tried. Whether he was successful in his attempts or not, his Christ-like character is being formed. You see, Jesus overcame too, and because of that we can have peace.

I have told you these things so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world. John 16:33

Ask and you shall receive

If you are a first time visitor, welcome! I'm new to this blogging world, so let me begin by saying, I'm a work in process, though aren't we all. Interesting timing of this post... yesterday I was vacuuming my van as the kids took a much needed nap. I had a chance to write about the fourth of July, so I hadn't thought about posting again. I remember soaking in the beautiful sunshine and listening to some tunes when all of a sudden, some thoughts came to mind about my recent haircut. I couldn't get the thoughts out of my mind, so I decided to post them before they became lost in the spaghetti of my many thoughts.

Later last evening, I decided to grab my recent copy of Today's Christian Women as we headed out the door to drive to the east side and catch some more fireworks. Lo and behold, smack in the center is a 10 page article all about beauty - only God! Last post, I posed the question: What lessons has God taught you about beauty? Here are some points to ponder:

• Our Creator looks at the heart, but our culture tells us image is everything.
• How can we value biblical beauty in a body-obsessed world?
• In a 2004 global study on beauty commissioned by Dove, only 2 percent of surveyed women selected beautiful from a list of words to describe themselves.
• True beauty should reflect something greater than itself. God intends beauty - both internal and external - to reflect his brilliance and draw us closer to him.
• Our face, bodies, and outward appearance are icons or signs directing other people's attention beyond our own forms to God.
• Appropriate body care allows us to pay attention to ourselves, confident we're our healthiest, best selves so we can then forget about ourselves and be present to others.
• A woman is beautiful not because of who she is (her looks or roles), but because of Whose she is. As we learn to live in the midst of God's "wild about us" love, we're transformed. We become fully alive and impossibly beautiful.
• How we look is less important than how we think we look.

I also thought this quote from Angelina Jolie was interesting, she states, "I struggle with low-self esteem all the time. I think everyone does. I have so much wrong with me, it's unbelievable." Just me, or is their something a little backwards about this whole thing.

God has so much neat stuff to say about this topic, but time and time I find myself falling back on these truths the Lord shares in II Corinthians 5:15-20. This passage talks about how we are a new creation in Christ, and how we should see ourselves not as the world sees us but as Christ sees us. Let's face it, sometimes I simply need a daily reminder, not about who I am, but who I am in Christ.

Lord thank you for sharing with me today both the realities of this world and the reality of your truth. As negative and very believable thoughts enter my mind, help me to realize that these thoughts are not coming from you. I love you.

Hair today, gone tomorrow

What is it about girls and their hair? If we have long hair, we look at short hair cuts, if we have short hair, we can't wait for it to grow long again, if we were born with straight hair, we secretly envy the spiral-lock beauties, and if we have curly, we spend hours with a straight-iron (or, if you're like my sister Lindsey, you'll straighten your beautiful locks, then curl them AGAIN with a straightener for a "different look").

We all see the beauty in others, but sometimes strain to look in the mirror and find beauty in ourselves. Who do we "look" at to define beauty? Do we simply look at the world around us and adapt their view (TV commercials, magazines, billboards)? It's so easy to, it smacks us in the face daily. What is it about hair that can make us feel beautiful, or the most unattractive girl in the world? Why is this accessory so unique to us women?

I dare to venture that our hair is an outward sign of how we define ourselves. I've heard southern ladies passionately talk about the BIG hair style days, the rebellious nature in us might experiment with some color(s), and the conservative nature in us will stick with the simple, low-maintenance "do". In catching a few TLC shows over the years, I remember hearing an "expert" say that we women tend to keep a hairstyle that defines a time in our lives when we felt beautiful, and often young and vibrant. We flex back and forth between all these choices, what is a girl to do?

Well, this girl just decided a week ago to go from a middle-of-the-back length to a just-above-the-chin length. I had an itch for something "new", saw cute short hair styles everywhere, and decided to make the call, before I talked myself out of it. That first cut is always a doozie, but I walked out a free woman! Free of the "weight", delighted with a stylish new look. Guess what my thoughts were today, just one week later... you guessed it, I missed my long hair. I decided to share my "true confessions" with Aaron. His response:

"No way. I love your short hair."

I love my man.

From one woman seeking beauty in how my Lord and Creator defines it, what has he taught you about beauty?

The Four - F's

Days of tradition and celebration are something we look forward to in the Conrad household. Since Austin was little, it's a tradition for us to attend our local city parade. The past three years, Austin has been a part of the parade, complete with baseball uniform, borrowed truck, and bags of candy. Each year we remember stories of years past and laugh about them as if they happened yesterday. One common thread that is talked about each year is the weather, and this year was no different. Complete with traditional plastic grocery bags for candy catching, fold up chairs slung on our shoulders, and clothing attire the colors of red, white, and blue; we needed umbrellas, BIG ones. Did the rain damper our fun? Absolutely not! And from the looks of things, others enjoyed themselves just as well. In fact, one bonus about the rain included a Conrad family nap at the conclusion of a fabulous grilled lunch at some dear friends home.

Memories of this year? After our refreshing siestas, we had a wonderful opportunity to spend some time at a friend's home, catching up with those we haven't seen in awhile, and meeting some new ones. Thank you Neff family for welcoming us with open arms and treating us as one of the family. Isn't it interesting how this happens? I used to see this as a coincidence. Friend knows a friend, said friend is having a get together, because of association, other said friend gets invited to join the party. Yet, in the slow and gentle way that I now recognize as the way of my Jesus, he now gives me an understanding of the treasures that come with delighting in his ways. Getting to know Jesus, and desiring to seek him, thirsting for more of Him, on a daily basis, results in the Lord graciously giving me the desires of my heart- even those I didn't know I had. (Psalm 37:4)

During our time together, the question was asked, what do you like most about Fourth of July? As each guests shared their answer, I had the privilege of getting just a glimpse of their heart and uniting with them in a common bond - the pride of being an American. My favorite memory of the night came when my good friend Amanda shared her clever answer - the Four F's - food, family, friends, and fireworks. Pretty much sums it up! Thank you Lord for a day to push away from our daily routine and to sit at the feet of one another in celebration, to share some past memories, while creating new ones. What memories unfolded for you this year?

I'm hearing ya!

If there is one thing I love and appreciate most about my Jesus is that He is so personal. I can't seem to wrap my mind around how he is SO BIG and has created all we see, yet reaches down and speaks to me just like a friend. God in his almighty grandeur, allows me to know he is right there, as if whispering... See? How do I know it's him that speaking? It has to be, answers to my questions, thoughts, ideas, and feelings are often times things I haven't shared with one single soul. He knows my heart, even better than I do - such a loving creator.

This was a thought a had this morning... I'd like to post something else, wonder what I could say... let's check my email. The first two emails in my box are devotions that I receive daily. Keep in mind, two different sources, two different ladies, each written states away, probably a month or two prior to today, and this is what I read:

Matthew 21:21-22, I tell you the truth, if you have faith and do not doubt, not only can you do what was done to the fig tree, but also you can say to this mountain, 'Go, throw yourself into the sea,' and it will be done.

Immediately Jesus reached out his hand and caught him. “You of little faith,” he said, “why did you doubt?” Matthew 14:31 (NIV)

Notice any similarities there? None other than the age-old struggle of doubt and faith. What's the significance here? The Lord has asked me, one who functions on logic, seeks proof and understanding, along with my husband to do something that defies logic and challenges understanding. Just like the priests carrying the covenant, he's asking us to take that first step, and place our toe in the river when we cannot see how or what the path looks like (Joshua 3:15-17). Mary Southerland, from Girlfriends in God, writes this:

Notice that God did nothing until those toes touched the water! That first step was all God needed to see! Many times, we won't take the first step because we're afraid we won't be able to make the whole journey.

Don't wait until you believe it all!
Don't wait until you can see it all!
Don't wait until you understand it all!

Just step out in childlike faith, knowing that every step deposits faith into your spiritual account and strengthens your trust in God. Got doubts? Don't we all? One way to weaken your doubts is by strengthening your faith in God.

Yes God, I hear you. Lord, why is it that I can put my immediate faith in my pharmacist, whom I only exchange pleasantries with, more than in you? Lord, thank you for teaching me, thank you for showing me, help me weaken my doubt by strengthening my faith. Lord, I believe, help me in my unbelief. I love you.

New-balance

Ever have that sense that you just needed to do something, but just dragged your feet about it for some reason or another? Well, I've been needing to get a new pair of shoes, shoes for running, that is. When I first began this journey of running, I wanted to do it right, so I went to the right store, asked the right questions, got fitted for the right shoes. I'm the kinda girl that likes to stick with what she knows (unless otherwise notified), so I have faithfully stuck with Asics for the past 2 years. I put them on and just feel like home.


Well, just recently, the ol' familiar ache in my knees started showing signs of a comeback, so I started thinking of ways to squelch this preview before it became a full-blown feature film. Thus my current dilemma of "dragging my feet". I knew I probably needed to go back to the "right" store and revisit my now 2-years-of-pounding-2-years-older feet. So, I took my 5 year old daughter, and headed off to Front Runner, the complete feet store.


It's not too often that we experience true service in this fast paced, in-out, get-it-and-go society, but here, the rules don't apply. You are greeted the moment you step foot inside, kindly directed to where you need to go, gently guided to a place in which to rest, and the service is brought to you (sounds great already doesn't it). Now comes the personal part - a knowledgeable person kindly asks you to walk a few feet to access your pronation, then they look at your arch support needs, then they ask about your intentions, and bring your several shoes (of which they put on and even lace for you!) After your fitting, they instruct to walk outside and put these new additions to the test by running around their parking lot area. My daughter loved this part! After weighing and feeling out your options, they even leave you with a guarantee of a full refund if after a week they are not the shoe for you- what service!


Well, this stick-to-it girl had every intention of just updating her currently out-dated, on-sale Kohl's purchase for a new Asics model. However, after my full-service entourage, I was given the gift of a different brand of shoe. This shoe had the familiar feeling of home, yet had some added "cushion" feeling that I figured my poor knees were definitely crying out for. That, complete with my one-week guarantee sold me on the purchase of a Newbalance shoe. Little did I know that I left that day with a complete gift. Not only has my nagging-achy-knee pain subsided, but I had quite a story to share with my daughter. I could have returned the shoes for those that are familiar, comfortable, yet I would have missed out on the blessing. Not only did we talk about the gift Jesus gave me that day, but she got to "see" something else. She not only saw the act of service, but she got to see the act of gift-acceptance. There is a balance that needs to happen between stepping out in action, and also receiving the gifts He gives us (and remembering to say thank you!)


Thank you Lord for this New-balance in my life. Help me to seek first your kingdom. Matthew 6:33

I'm in!

Well... here goes nothin'! I'm officially swimmin' upstream into the blogging world! Until today, I've left the bloggin' up to my fantastically creative husband. He has an amazing gift and talent for... or shall I say... outlet, for all those thoughts rollin' around up there. He not only is an amazing husband, adoring father, man after God's own heart, and encyclopedia of useless knowledge, but also is a patient teacher. Aaron, I thank you for opening this door to allow the Lord to work as he sees fit. Have a fabulous day from this proud American! Happy 4th to you and your family!

Heal the wound, leave the scar

Do you have a scar? I mean, a physical one. A mark that serves as a reminder of a time in your life where you experienced a hurt. A mark that has a story to go along with it. I do. But this scar I have is different, I asked for this one.

It happened one cool, late summer evening. For a year prior to this evening, about 4 evenings a week, I run. I typically run the same path, give or take a few turns here or there. This evening, I rounded a corner close to home, one that I had rounded many times before. Listening to some tunes, enjoying the last few moments until my return, I found myself in a different position. In a split second, I heard a loud smack, realized that my body had rolled over onto soft grass, and felt an intense burning in my knee. I sat there stunned, wondering what in the world happened. I slowly stood up and attempted to assess my injuries. Everything seemed to be functioning alright as I glanced down at the source of the burning near my knee. Sure enough, blood could be seen and felt running down my leg. Next thought... "Did anyone see me ?" (glance right, glance left)...whew. Next thought... "How dare you! You stupid sidewalk! I know you just decided, hey, let's get her!" Oh well, no real harm, let's just get home.

As I began to walk, I heard that clear, gentle voice that I've come to recognize as the voice of my Jesus whisper to me, "Heather, how did you just react to that fall?"

"That one? Aww, just a scrape. The burning will go away."

"If that was one of your children, what would they have done?"

"Oh, that's easy...wait for it...3,2,1....AAAAAAAAAAAAA (a.k.a. blood curling scream)."

"Why didn't you react like that?"

"Because I've experienced all sorts of different pains in my life, I know this is no big deal. I'll be alright."

"And what else would your children have done?"

"Frantically look for me, run to me with all there might, desperately seeking reassurance, a hug and a kiss."

"When was the last time you ran like this to me?"

(Gulp.)

Pause.

"Heather, what will you do when you get home?"

"Take a shower, clean the wound."

"Will it hurt?"

"Yes, a little."

"Then, why will you do it?"

"If I don't clean it, it will fester, get infected, heal incorrectly."

"Heather, what other wounds do you have? Ones you have ignored, ones you tried to clean yourself, ones left to fester. Will you let me open your wound again, I need to clean it the right way. Will you let me come in and cleanse? Come in and heal?"

"But Lord, it's going to hurt."

"I know." He was beaten so we could be whole. He was whipped so we could be healed. Isaiah 53:5

"But Lord, I don't want to."

"I know." If it is possible, let this cup of suffering be taken away from me. Yet I want your will to be done, not mine. Matthew 26:39

"Lord, I'm scared."

"I know." He was in such agony of spirit that his sweat fell to the ground like great drops of blood. Luke 22:44

"Lord, I believe, help me in my unbelief." (Mark 9:14-29)
"Oh, one more thing Lord. Could you do me a favor? When you heal my wound, could you leave the scar?"

One year later, he has continued to answer my prayer. I even have a mirror-image scar, same knee, one inch to the left.



Where is your scar? Do you see it as God sees it, beautiful? If you are interested in further investigation, may I highly recommend 2 books. Check out the links section on the sidebar to your right. Visit Sharon Jaynes and her book Your Scars are Beautiful to God, as well as singer and author Gwen Smith's newly released title Broken Into Beautiful. These ladies have allowed the Lord to come in and heal their wounds in a way only He can. Because of their obedience to His call on their life, they speak of hope and of God's grace. Also, at your leisure, visit About Me, and check out a fabulous song by Point of Grace, released just two weeks after my fall, entitled, none other than...Heal the Wound. God Bless!

Then your light shall break forth like the dawn, and healing shall spring up quickly. Isaiah 58:8

Daughter, your faith has made you well, go in peace, and be healed in your disease. Mark 5:34