And The Snow Brought Good Cheer

Anyone who is having troubles should pray. Anyone who is happy should sing praises. - James 5:13

I woke up this morning as usual, and walked to work. I noticed my hands were getting cold, but it never dawned on my what the weather would be like. It's like hit or miss here. By 6 a.m., it was snowing. When I jumped up to see for myself, it was really snowing. I had to do something to get out of the office to enjoy the snow. Then behold, someone needed me to run an errand. I gladly jumped up to do it. I ran out the door and did what most kids do...I stuck out my tongue to taste the snow. Then I saw two officers walking by and looking at me. I shouted, "This is probably not a good idea, huh?" They responded, "No, it's nasty." All I could do was laugh.

How is snow nasty? Over in Afghanistan the air is quite polluted. Everyone gets a cold within the first two weeks. Anyway, I didn't care. I proceeded to try and catch a snowflake as it falls. Before you know it, there were other people admiring the snow and smiling because they have never seen snow before. It was amazing and it felt good to see the snow.

But how much more amazing it is to go to others and talk about Jesus. We should all have that air of excitement and joy telling others how good Jesus has been to us. The Good News is not just for us believers, it is really for the unbelievers. They need to hear about Jesus' love, forgiveness, grace and mercy. We owe Jesus that much if not more. He's counting on our cheerfulness and obedience to shine the light of His righteousness.

I don't know about you, but the next time the snow falls ... it's all about Jesus.

Blessings Are Found Everywhere

You will be blessed if you obey the commands of the Lord your God that I am giving you today. - Deut 11:27

When was the last time you were in "awe" of God? Was it when I gave birth to my daughter 14 years ago? Was it when she received Christ and baptized on Christmas morning in 2005? Was it when I married my husband 7 years ago? Was it when I survived another deployment without any incident? Or was it when I was able to say thank you when I made it through that situation with God's much assistance? I don't know when actually?

What is God to you? I can tell you that from these past few weeks, He is my constant Friend. He has been my Rock, Lover, Refuge, Doctor, Father, and so much more too. But as you answer the question for yourself, answer it unselfishly. What do I mean by that? 1. Who do you say God is to others? 2. How do you walk in God? 3. How do you explain how good God is to you?

I say that God is a strong tower when I am weak. He gave me strength to walk in courage when I was working in a hostile environment. He was my best friend when I felt all alone because those closest to me had died. He was my lover when I had to walk away from a battered relationship. He was my Father when my own father disowned me because I married my husband (I was no longer daddy's girl). He is my doctor when they discovered a lump in my breast in 2002, and removed a polyp in time before it became cancerous in 2007. He was my protection when I was involved in a near fatal car wreck in 2006 (they still call it a miracle). We do understand that miracles aren't for the believers. We know what God can do. The miracles are for the unbelievers. He is my provider always because everywhere I go my needs are met. He is my joy the day He gave me my daughter (1994) and I married my husband (2001).

So where are the blessings?

God created everything. We can read that in Genesis 1:1 - 2:3

He showed us love by giving us Jesus. "God so loved the world so much that He gave His one and only Son so that whoever believes in Him may not be lost, but have eternal life."- John 3:16

And my friend, God continues to love us, extend His grace and mercy towards us, and He forgives us. These are blessings you have every day. We are able to use our five senses, we have food, shelter, and clothing. We wake up every day because He has allowed us another day to experience Him. Even through our sorrow, there is a blessing because we know God is right there with us.

So don't look at life as a bowl of cherries and sometimes there are the pits. No my friend, this is the day the Lord has made so let's us rejoice and be glad in it. For each day is a blessing, and blessings are found everywhere in God.

Sometimes Movies Speak Truth

A friend of mine gave me a movie to watch. It was the normal "R" rating movie with all the theatrical, shocking drama of nudity, language and content. But it wasn't the movie I enjoyed, it was the words of the bad guy who tried to go good. The main character said, "To be truly redeemed you have to take responsibility for all your actions." I heard this same phrase two more times throughout the movie.

What I heard: truly, redeemed, take, responsibility, all, actions

Having served in the Army for twenty years now, you come across many styles of leadership. Some good and some bad. You may even have many styles of following. Either your troops will do what needs to be done to complete the mission, or make accomplishing the mission very challenging. But is that the way we should be? No, of course not.

Many of us have done someone wrong and never apologized. We allowed pride to stand in our way instead of applying grace. Many of us have also waited for someone to apologize to us as well. Truth is, we may never hear that apology. That is called patience. Another truth is we must ask for forgiveness. Every time we sin, we should ask for forgiveness and be sincere about it. Don't allow Satan (he doesn't need all the status) to keep us distracted from God. That further reminds me of an old saying, "It's better to ask for forgiveness, than ..." My friends don't use that as a crutch. It's better to do what is right even when no one is around. That is called character.

Am I stepping on your toes? I hope not. I pray I am stepping all over you (head to toe and then some).

The next time you are watching a movie, listen and see what is going on because there could be a hidden message.

"To be truly redeemed, you must take responsibility for ALL your actions."

Don't Lose Sight, Stay Focused - Keep Me True

Keep your eyes focused on what is right, and look straight ahead to what is good.
Be careful of what you do, and always do what is right.
Don't turn off the road of goodness; keep away from evil paths. - Proverbs 4: 25-27

Working for someone who is very belligerent can pose a difficult task for any person. Sometimes we lose who we are trying to build a tolerance, or fooling ourselves to think we can change that person. If we aren't careful, we end up changing and not always for the better. Here we are just as belligerent as the one who molded us. But is that a true statement. No. The person didn't mold us, we allowed that person to get under our skin and conform us as their equal. But how is a nasty attitude equal? It isn't. It is a crying shame.

Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will. - Romans 12:2

I can't change any one's attitude. I can only remain steadfast in Jesus. I can pray that God uses me to be a vessel, and that they hear His words according to His will. I can stay firm in His Word and speak gently. I can be the better person and let the God in me shine in them. Perhaps you think it takes a strong person to do this. No, it takes a person grounded in Jesus. Even still, I need to encourage myself to hold to God's unchanging hand. I admit it won't happen overnight or even when I expect it, but a change is coming and I believe God will prevail.

Don't let anyone allow you to stray from God, you can do that all by yourself. Stay focused and keep me true

Song: Keep Me True

Keep me true, Lord Jesus, keep me true
Keep me true, Lord Jesus, keep me true
There's a race that must be run,
There's a victory to be won,
Every hour by Thy power keep me true.

It's Not What You Say I Am - It's Who I Know I Am

God blesses those who work for peace, for they will be called the children of God. - Matthew 5:9


Have you ever been called or labeled something that contradicts who and what you are? Have you ever felt persecuted? We all have at one point, but at what point do you stand up against the enemy or giant? Is it when you decide to reach into that lowest pocket and speak, or is it when you hold your tongue and pray silently?

Yesterday at work, many things were going wrong. A certain co-worker, again, failed to pass information from the previous evening to the morning and afternoon shift. Information about a reporter's flight status, embed schedule on so forth. My supervisor asked me about the status, and I could not answer the question. Then I was tasked to do the night shift's work and my daily work in addition to the work received from my supervisor, but there was a deadline. The deadline was possible to meet, but it took 95% of my devotion because I had to work from scratch. In other words, doubling efforts and reinventing the wheel. I truly hate that but it is what it is. After 15 minutes of tackling the situation, I called the night shift worker to get answers. All I got was a circle of information that went nowhere. So, I directed the person to come in. Of course there were words exchanged, but the end result is the person came in. As the person came in, our supervisor began the normal routine of berating us. I swallowed the pill and continued to work the rest of the taskings. Then out from nowhere, the supervisor referred to me as a very negative name in front of the whole office. I turned to look at him, and he called that name to me to my face. I could not believe what I heard, and the office was quiet. He finished by shouting, "Do I need to do your _____ job for you too!" My feelings were hurt, and my heart was hardened. I now know how Pharoh felt when he refused to let God's people go.

I looked him right in the eyes and said, "I have done what you asked and the operations section did not have the answer then and they don't have it now. And I don't need you to tell me how to do my job or even to do my job. Sir."
I went to the other side of the office building and had to really use self-control. My thoughts ran wild: "Who are you to say who I am. You have only known me for 3 weeks. I have gone above and beyond what is expected of me at work, and still have time to devote myself to serving God." One by one, people would come up to me and apologize or offer me some colorful words they would say on my behalf. But I couldn't say those words or have them say the words. That is not who I am or how I walk. I told myself not to cry or show anger in front of him. Why? He's the type to enjoy other's misery, and I refuse to allow him to steal my joy.

I went back to my cubicle and printed out the NCO Creed. I posted three copies in my cubicle for all to see. The first sentence of the first paragraph, the first sentence of the second paragraph, and the third paragraph reads as follows:

No one is more professional than I.

Competence is my watchword.

Officers of my unit will have maximum time to accomplish their duties; they will not have to accomplish mine. I will earn their respect and confidence as well as that of my soldiers. I will be loyal to those with whom I serve; seniors, peers and subordinates alike. I will exercise initiative by taking appropriate action in the absence of orders. I will not compromise my integrity, nor my moral courage. I will not forget, nor will I allow my comrades to forget that we are professionals, Noncommissioned Officers,... leaders!

But more importantly, I am a child of God. I am His and He is mine. He is not mine alone for I share Him with all. I need to remember to be holy for He is holy. No one can give me my salvation. Only Jesus can give me my salvation. His love is unconditional. He never disappoints me. He only loves me. He promised never to never leave me nor forsake me. As I abide in Him, He will abide in me.

So the next time someone tries to tell you what you are. Remember, who you are. Know that you are God's child and walk in God's light.

Filled From Within

The church is filled with Christ, and Christ fills everything in every way. Ephesians 1:23

We are always filling ourselves with the latest, greatest, newest, and biggest next best thing. Truthfully, it is all the same to me. I mean, aren't these the same things last year or years ago that the government proved caused cancer, or some horrible illness? Why are we so easily fooled? It's because we're searching for something. Searching for fast, quick results. Most of the time, those results end up false or changing constantly. Now is that satisfying? No, not at all.

My friend, we need to fill our spirit with something eternal and everlasting. When we allow God to enter into our lives according to His will and time, we benefit more graciously. That grace empowers to overcome such silliness as the newest diet pill, or the latest fitness workout. In fact, when we we reach that ultimate level of true Christian-like transformation others will follow suit. They aren't following us, but instead they are following the Christ in us. Jesus is the Bread of Life and quenches our every thirst ... confirming our need of being filled.

So do not consume yourself with material things, but fill your life with the Word of God daily.

Renewed Spirit Brings About Positive Change

So we do not give up. Our physical body is becoming older and weaker, but our spirit inside us is made new every day. 2 Cor. 4:16

I noticed I force myself to eat because I don't have the appetite, and I am so tired. I'm tired from work (personality wise), and tired of church folk (not practicing what they speak or preach).

You see, I needed someone to talk to but all I got i return was a cold shoulder, a laundry list of their problems, or the twisting of my words so they could preach to me. I could not take it anymore, so I decided to be by myself and rest. When I did that, it raised more questions of concern. Questions you don't want anyone to ask because you're in a combat environment. Here are a few of them: "Many people get depressed this time of year because of the season" "You haven't been yourself lately, is there something I can help you with?" "If you need me just come to me and talk." The very ones that were asking were the ones who didn't have time for me or interrupted me to tell me how I was really feeling. As time went on, I talked to each one and only one heard me. That person prayed for me and gave me encouragement. I felt better spiritually, but my body was still tired. I talked to a few co-workers about their personalities in the office overall, and another burden was lifted. Yet, I was still tired. Then it hit me. I was trying to get sick.

Ladies and gentlemen, I have come down with sinusitis, and I was fighting it drastically. But, I was not claiming a cold. By the third day, I obviously lost that battle and went to sick call to get medication. I am taking a 6 hour medication and a 12 hour medication in addition to the other 4 pills I take daily. (Malaria pill, colon health pill, birth control pill, and a pain reliever). A lot of pills huh? I guess that's what happens when you get old or older.

I was informed that the medication will either make me wired first or sleepy second. Usually, I have to eat food, take the pill immediately and then I fall asleep. Not this time, I was wide awake and fighting sleep. Sleep that I desperately needed. By the time the second hour rolled around, I was out cold. I mean 'knocked out' cold too.

When I awoke in the morning, I wasn't as tired. My taste had come back and I could begin to smell again as day two flew by. Today, is day 3 and my voice is back, my nose doesn't run anymore, and I cough less. I am not tired as much either. I'm not tired because during the time I rested, I was in my Savior's charge. He whispered words of love to me, and basically said, "You have been too busy, and you need to stop. But you didn't hear me. So, I got your attention through your voice, head, and chest. You will sit down and allow me to minister unto you." Now what can you do when the Father talks to you like that? Nothing but heed His wise teachings.

Every once in awhile we need to sit down and really listen to God. In truth, we should be listening to Him daily. However, when we do this we find ourselves renewed in His spirit. And that my brother and sister is a change for the better.

You have begun to live the new life, in which you are being made new and are becoming like the One who made you. This new life brings you the true knowledge of God. Col. 3:10

Coming To Grips Within

Today at work, I was on guard. I was more alert than all the other times before, until I got this email from the Chaplain. He said he wanted to discuss with me the Gospel Service and the Music Ministry. I wasn't sure of how to take the email because it didn't convey too much. Nonetheless, I replied I would meet him in his office tomorrow afternoon (after my shift). Being curious as we all are, I went to my mentor. We talked a bit and then one thing led to another. We moved our conversation into the bathroom so we wouldn't be interrupted. We were in there for a good hour or two. She prayed for me and gave me advice, spiritual advice. Her words were stamped with God all over it, and He made sure I listened. How? I began to cry tears that somehow I had held back for a while now. These tears were acknowledgement of my needing to let go of anger and pride. I needed to become humble, submissive, and holy. Then she told me to be like Paul (in the Bible). He said he knew nothing, but we all know Paul was an educated man. So, in other words I had to not go by what I know, but instead go by what God tells me. When I don't know what to say, the Holy Spirit will speak.

Later this afternoon, the Gospel Choir guitarist came by to see me. We talked about the songs and he had a friend who is interested in playing the keyboards for us. Wow! Another musician has come into the midst. Isn't God good? Of course He is! As we began talking he told me about his life before God and his spiritual gift of music. He sings, but he takes it all out on his guitar. One thing led to another and you could tell the Holy Spirit was all over us. It was truly awesome. God gave me confirmation from this morning's word through talking to my brother in Christ this afternoon.

Then I go to Women's Bible Study. God was in the midst all over again. As we gave reflections of designated scriptures, God began to open the hearts, minds, eyes and ears of each woman present tonight. He had each one of us asking and answering questions in a way we could understand, but, more importantly, He brought us to Afghanistan to administer to one another, pray for one another, and encourage one another. In fact, we all had to come to grips with what God was saying to us.

1 In the beginning there was the Word. The Word was with God, and the Word was God. 2 He was with God in the beginning. 14 The Word became a human and lived among us. We saw His glory-the glory that belongs to the only Son of the Father-and He was full of grace and truth. John 1: 1-2, 14

You can't help but see, hear, believe, and know that Jesus came to bring us God's Good News. We have Jesus because God loves us enough to sacrifice His only begotten Son. So, why do we keep God at a distance? Is it our sin, pride, guilt, anger, shame, lust or self? It's all of it. We need to remember that Jesus came as a human. He was made human to take away our sin. So, confess to him and watch Him take you into the marvelous light. That my friend is coming to grips within.

Song reads:
Just as I am, without one plea, But that Thy blood was shed for me,
And that Thou bidd'st me come to Thee, O' Lamb of God, I come! I come!

Just as I am - Thou wilt receive, Wilt welcome, pardon, cleanse, relieve,
Because Thy promise I believe, O Lamb of God, I come! I come!

Consider The Source When Listening To Advice

I know I'm not the only one who has 'this friend' who loves or is it "lives" to give advice. You know the one who's life is in disarray, but is quick to tell you about yourself and how the world is coming to an end. So, why do I even listen to her? Because though she may not have it altogether, there is some logic I can pull from it. For example, her boyfriend treats her like a queen, but she has to do something in return. I think that is conditional love, but to hear her explanation it made sense to her, and got me to thinking. "Girl, he opens the door for me and buys me nice things. The least I can do is fix his plate for him and clean the house." Of course I chime in with, "Well yeah, but you also have to be in the house at a certain time and talk to your friends while at work. What's up with that?" After a startled look I get this answer. "You know that _____ can't keep secrets and my Boo thinks that is too messy." Okay, I agree with not hanging around with messy people, but how does conditional love compensate for that? It can't, but she is in love with him and appears to be happy. After all, they have been together for three years.

Having said all that above, I think there are people who love God, but don't understand His love in return because they focus on Him being judgemental and angry. Our Father can be angry at times, but He doesn't stop loving us. He continues to love us even more. If He didn't love us we would be in a way more horrible mess. So, out of our own acceptance of His love can we begin to learn of God's great love and share it unconditionally with others.

Here's something to back it all up. God showed how much he loved us by sending His one and only Son into the world so that we might have eternal life through Him. This is real love - not that we loved God, but that He loved us and sent His Son as a sacrifice to take away our sins. 1 John 4:9-10

What I get from that is God's love is here for us to receive through His Son Jesus Christ. We are taught of that love in His Word. We are reminded of His love whenever we meet our loved ones, friends, church family, strangers and even those who are hard to love (enemies and ourselves). All I need to do is repent, believe, receive, and share His love with others.

The next time someone gives you advice use the checklist:
1. Is there a message in what they are saying?
2. Does it align with what God says in His Word?
3. Are you listening to God's voice?
4. Is God your first source for advice?

If you answered "no' to any of the questions, consider the source.

Covering Up The Mess Doesn't Make It Clean

Remember when our mother would tell us to clean our room, and it took only a few minutes to do it? What would she do? Come right behind us and tell us to clean it again, but this time to her liking and not our own. I would be so angry at her for making me do it the right way. It also took longer to do it. Truthfully, what was wrong with the way I had cleaned it in the first place? Looking back, I can tell what was wrong. See if this rings a bell.

My dirty clothes were in a pile in the far left corner (hanging out the basket). My clean clothes were not neatly hung on the hangers in the closet (they were just wrinkled/wrapped on the hanger). My shoes were (thrown) under the bed. My stereo, clock, record player, TV, drawer and chest had dust all over it. My bed was half made. Oh yeah, the floor was dirty. I couldn't find the dust pan so I swept some of the dirt under the rug. Big mistake. But it gets even better, I tried to mop around the rugs and compensate for the dirtiness with Pine-Sol and Lysol. Problem was, the smell didn't cover up the dirty, filthy room I had. No, it made it dirtier.

There are other good examples of trying to cover up messes in our lives. We pretend everything is wonderful when the Pastor asks how we are doing. Why is that? Why can't we just say, "My husband hasn't been faithful to me." "I found out I have cancer and it's terminal," "My child ran away from home because I have a problem with drinking," "I don't have enough money to pay the light and water bill this month because I spent it on the race last week," But when you cover up one mess, you begin covering up another and another until you can't find the original mess. It's like living a lie or covering up a lie (even a white lie is a lie). My brothers and sisters, we need to stop covering up our mess and let God handle it. But God can't handle it unless you give Him all of it.

Take a look at this scripture passage about being clean. How much more is done by the blood of Christ. He offered himself through the eternal Spirit as a perfect sacrifice to God. His blood will make our consciences pure from useless acts so we may serve the living God. Hebrews 9:14. (New Century Version). Sin is an useless act that only keeps you from obeying God. And how can we serve God if we're too busy being kings and queens. We can't. Our purpose in life is to serve God and serve Him only. Every sin we commit and not ask for forgiveness makes it that much easier to sin. The hard part in our minds is admitting to God our sins. But that's what the devil wants, and I am not giving him any more credit for taking me down. I'm going right on up ... up to glory shouting, singing, and clapping.

So, when my mother asked me to clean my room I had a choice to clean it right or do it all over again. God too gives us a chance each day to do it right. Sure we may not do it right today, but praise God that He allows us the opportunity to do it right again and again and again. It's when we cover our sin up that keeps our conscience from going to God first. Instead my friend, turn it around. Go to God and ask Him to forgive you and cover you in His love, grace and mercy. And all that ugly mess, will be God's blessedness.

Disconnect Doesn't Mean Giving Up; It's Time Well Spent In God

This morning I went to work all bright and early (5 am). Okay, it wasn't that bright. Nonetheless, I go into to work to find only one other person there, an information specialist. To my surprise, she informed me that the work email is down, the outside phone lines are down, and the shared portal is still inoperable. Wow, I have no means of communication whatsoever. A ha! We are able to connect on the secret side, and oddly we can check our webmail addresses. So, around 6:20 am a few people start coming in to work, and then it begins.

'I knew it wasn't working last night, but today too." "What's the point of coming to work then, why exactly am I here?" were just some of the complaints I heard. How could everything go from quiet to chaos in a matter of seconds. I couldn't help but laugh. Majority of the complainers were wanting a moment of peace and quiet a few days ago. And some of those people just arrived in Afghanistan. I've been here since 12 October. Anyway, I began to read my Daily Bread, and went over Sunday's song list, and made copies of the songs to ensure everyone has it for choir practice this afternoon. Then 'bam'! I have an interview set up with the General tonight. The communication has to be up tonight for that alone. Please let the camera guys be prepared. That means more coordination and relying on others to come through for me while I try to enjoy what bit of time off I have (6 hours).

Okay, back to the story in hand. As people came in they totally disconnected themselves from the situation and let anger fester inside them as they went back to their living quarters, eat brunch, or the gym. Me, I took it all in and smiled. I didn't give up. I stayed and did other things that can add value to my day. I managed to organize the songs for church, complete a press release, collect information on a few incidents outside the area, and spend time with God reading the Word. I had a very productive morning. I know this afternoon I am prepared to direct the choir, go eat, and have 1.5 hours to prep for the interview. Now, if I had taken the other route ... complain and totally give up, I would be a nervous wreck for the rest of the day. But God knows how much you can handle. He gives you everything you need, you just have to listen and obey.

So, my friends, the next time you feel disconnected and want to give up ... use that precious time with God. You'll see it's time well spent.

A Room Is Still A Room Unless God Is In It

Have you ever stepped into a room and felt you were on stage? How about the wrong stage, with the wrong attire, and at the wrong time? Sure you have, we all have. But what did you do next?

I happened to walk into a conference room full of Officers not knowing they were giving a briefing to the Chief of Staff. Imagine the looks I got when I continued to walk in the room towards the printer. Yes, I was interrupting the briefing, but I figured I had already caused a scene so I minus well close the curtains. As I exited the room, I silently said, "excuse me, sorry." Then I did my signature smile. When the door closed behind me, I remember feeling so embarrassed and then angry. Why didn't they post a sign that said 'Briefing in session' or have someone come around the office area to announce 'Briefing taking place for the next hour and no printing'? Maybe someone did, and I didn't hear it. Now, doesn't that make me the bright one? Isn't that how it is ... things happen? Of course, but you never know until you step out.

Anyway, 15 minutes passed by and it was over. A few folks came out flushed, stressed, and blank. I take it their slides had issues. Others came out smiling. Maybe their slides were approved. Just like my nature, I went up to one of the officers and began talking about the day. He was just a ray of sunshine as he talked about God and asked me how my day was. I had literally forgotten all about the other room. Instead, we were in another room talking about God and how bright the day is. I went back into that blessed room and saw people carrying on with their lives as if nothing had happened.

Truthfully, isn't that how we are? We go into church and either feel comfortable with sitting up front, or automatically in the back. We enter with busied minds, hurting hearts, praised souls, or angry from the moments before. Are we paying attention to God like we should? We may even feel awkward when reading one translation of the Bible and everyone else is reading another one. Here's one, standing up to say who you are, where you're from, and etc. Not everyone feels comfortable doing that. My favorite, trying to sing a song you have no clue about and the person beside/behind/in front of you turn to look at you. I keep on as if I belong there. And indeed I do. I am a child of God and I belong wherever He is.

Now, I'm not saying you need to interrupt service or briefings, but don't dismiss a chance to seek God wherever you are. Always look at the sunny side. A room is still a room, but with God in it, it's a wonderful resting place.

Jesus In Any Language Is Still Understood

The ISAF Gospel Choir was invited to attend the German Service Friday. They wanted us to sing two songs during the service. So the outgoing choir director and myself came up with the two songs. We were ready and anxious to see how the service would turn out. I had already anticipated staying for the whole service, but the other choir members had to go back to work.

As the service began, I noticed they were all speaking in German. I don't know many words in German except for Silent Night because the school choir had to sing that version, but that was back in 1982. Wow, a lot of years had passed since then! I digress. The Chaplain expressed his gratitude for the choir coming and all those good things, but it was in German. So a Lieutenant Colonel in the audience interpreted what he said for us. Then it was our time to sing. We sang, "Welcome Holy Spirit". Then the Chaplain began to speak. I couldn't understand a word, and then I heard it. He said, "Jesus". I couldn't believe my ears, but I lost count after hearing the name of Jesus for the fourth time. The Chaplain kept talking and showed a picture of Jesus embracing a man and another picture of people gathered around Jesus. He continued talking about Jesus, and I began to cry. The very name of Jesus rang clear, so clear I could feel His presence. Before you know it, it was our turn to sing another song. I got up and gave a testimony. This is what I said:

'I want you to understand why I am crying. I don't understand a word of what you are saying, but when I heard the name of Jesus, I knew what you were saying. In the Word it says, where two or three are gathered in my name... as I looked around the room men were crying and the choir members were crying. I know that God is here in the midst and that we are made to give Him praise. So let's praise Him in song right now as we sing "Open The Eyes Of My Heart". I could barely sing the song, but we all made it through. Then the Chaplain got his guitar and began singing "Amen" in English. He was filled with the Spirit and the congregation was rejoicing. It was wonderful.

Later on in the service, we found out it was the Chaplain's last service. This service was even more special because it was Communion Day. As we broke the bread and drank the blood of Christ, my soul rejoiced even more. I was in true fellowship with my brethren from another country in remembrance of Jesus dying on the cross for our sins. What a glorious time we had!

After the service, a German General made remarks. He said, "I know that many Americans are fighting for freedom here, but today there is victory in my American brothers and sisters singing for freedom in Christ."

Many of the congregation came up to us and told us how more moving the service was by our singing. But they wanted us to know that we continued to pray in song. I asked them to explain. Their reply, "When you are singing it is a prayer to God as well, so we prayed even more today." I never thought of singing as a continued prayer like that before. I plan on attending their services again while here, and they have attended ours as well.

What I do know is, Jesus' name is a beautiful name in any language, and I still understand His name in any language as well.

Jesus, Jesus, Jesus
There's just something about that name

Majestic From A Plane's View

I was in Kandahar, Afghanistan this week conducting training on some equipment. I rather enjoyed being away from the office and seeing how other service members and nations work, relax, and live together. It was rather amusing.

However, today something spiritual happened as I hopped the plane heading back to Kabul. First, it was supposed to be an hour flight, but things happened. Things like: the cargo had to be repacked, and we received word we were going to another destination first before landing to Kabul. None of it bothered me because it wasn't in my control. Second, we had to wait. So as we waited for the flight to go underway, the Load Master asked me if I have ever ridden in the front. Of course, I hadn't because I usually fall asleep before we take off and wake up as we land. But for a change of pace, I went up top to the cockpit. It was exciting and boring at the same time. Boring because no one talked. They just sat there... timeless in a bottle. I made my own fun by looking around the cockpit pretending I'm Captain Kirk from Star Trek. Yeah, I was dreaming. And all those gadgets... confusing. I didn't understand all the buttons and knobs, but I was curious...too curious. I think I was acting like it was a virtual flight. I came back to reality when one of the After we reached 3,500 feet one of the pilots told me I could walk around and look out. Oh my goodness! It was awesome.

The warmth of the sun against the side of the window glistened across the cotton ball clouds. The hues of blue mixed with white and gold were absolutely marvelous. Then I saw the snow-capped mountains. It was truly amazing. But then right ahead of me was a bright red valley of some sort. Even the pilots were looking around in amazement, or should I say ensuring the grid coordinates were correct. LOL! Anyway, I couldn't stop smiling and taking it all in. I could feel the majesty of God's creation as I flew through the air in the plane. I never had that feeling before. I can't even remember the last time I was in total "awe" of God. Can you?

I'm not saying you have to ride in a plane to see the majesty of God. No, you can walk outside your door and see the wonders of God (trees, birds, grass, your ability to use your five senses, and more). You can even look around inside your home and count all your blessings (television, radio, food, shelter, clothing, heat, electricity, water, telephone, and etc). No matter what you have, there is something majestic in it because God gave it to you. And today, God gave me a plane's eye view of His radiant majesty and it was glorious.

So the next time you truly see something for the very first time, give thanks to God the Father of all creation. He is holy and worthy to be praised.

Who Is It You Are Looking For?

Last week, I was doing some soul searching.  I didn't search high or low, fast or slow, but it was a continuous search.  You know the kind where you have an idea of where the answer lies or what the answers are, yet you try to make more sense of it than needs to be?  I was at that place today.  

A few nights ago, some co-workers put cubicles together to provide a better working environment.  They put all the computers, chairs, copying machines, phones and etc back too.  So, when we all went to work that following morning, the office looked new, bigger, and organized.  Truthfully, it was the same small office area as before.  Then the problems arose.  People were angry that their computers (which no one had assigned computers) were not in the same area as before.  I admit, I was trying to find the PC that had my personal folder on it, but I didn't get angry.  I just mapped my settings to each computer, and asked people to resend me files.  This one officer was so upset that he was kurt with me.  He apologized 10 minutes later and said, "they took my computer with all the slides I had been working on to present to one of the Generals.  Now, I have to go look for it, or they'll look for it later."  I looked at him and said, "You know, I have the same problem.  But, I can't do anything about it, so I asked a select few to resend me documents and emails."  He didn't like my answer, but he knew it made it sense.

What I got from that whole experience is that we already know the answer, but we don't want to say it aloud.  It kind of reminds me of Jesus in the garden before he was arrested.  Remember when Judas came up to him with the soldiers?  Jesus asked them, "Who is it you are looking for?"  They replied, "Jesus."  They knew it was him surely because of Judas, but still they asked.  They went seeking the one person who can provide them salvation, yet they were seeking for the wrong reason.  Some of us seek God for the wrong reasons, but yet claim him in our hearts.  There are some who will never claim Jesus, and will seek some other god or higher being.  There are some who seek God and claim Him as King of Kings and Lord of Lords forever and ever.

I say the real answer to soul searching is finding you.  And when you find you, God is there waiting at the door.  The door you have to open seeking a God who is real, powerful, mighty, willing to love you, forgive you, and provide you with His grace and mercy.  That my friend is who you are really looking for.  

When Tempers Fly, Lift Your Wings In Love

Is it just me or do things that fly really annoy you?  Things like flies, gnats, mosquitoes, bees and such.  The first reaction is acknowledgement of the object.  The second is to swat it away.  Then, begins the impossible mission of defeating the object.  Before you know it, you have spent several moments watching the object land and getting its flight pattern down.  You may defeat it, and then you may not.  The satisfaction of defeating it is quickly destroyed because there is another one.  

Well, people are like flying insects too.  For example, the office where I work in Afghanistan is very cramped.  Imagine fitting 70 people in your living room with computers, chairs, tables, printers, copying machines, file cabinets, book cases, air conditioning units, trash cans, and cases of water bottles.  How would you cope day in and day out?  Precisely.  So, after 30 days your emotions and stress levels have risen beyond basic coping skills.  Before you know it, the person who coughs excessively gets on your first nerve, the person who laughs loudly gets on your fifth nerves, and the person who has no people skills gets on your last nerves.  I couldn't contain myself.  I lost composure and snapped.  Imagine the looks I got.  Some were of relief, some were shocked and some were annoyed at me.  What did I do?  Exactly, I did the normal thing, but that isn't normal in a combat zone.  It could be automatic referral to the chaplain or a medical professional.  Granted these are great people to go to if you have a problem, but going to them because I'm annoyed is a bit much.

How does one regroup?  Take a few breaths and walk away from the area for a little while (no more than 10 minutes).  Walk back in and go to the person and tell them gently what the annoyance is and request they stop.  But before you go to them, pray that God gives you words to speak gently.  If the person continues after you asked nicely... look at them the way God does.  Perhaps they are having a bad day.  See what's going on with them.  Maybe it will work, but the bottom line is they will see you really care.  Your going to them is the same way Jesus went to others.  He approached them in a loving way.  He had compassion.  Your walking in God's light will shine and warm them up in a loving way.  

So the next time your temper flies, use your wings of God's love to heal, console, and embrace a spirit that needs His light to make it through the day.

Accepting, Redirecting, and Following Through

When I first arrived in Afghanistan it was 14 October 08.  I had no sense of direction as far as what I should expect, and what I could deliver.  I had only 4 hours to get some sleep before departing Bagram and heading towards Kabul.  Of course it took just two hours to settle my racing brain, while at the same time, people were snoring, moving about,  and repacking their military bags before I could actually fall asleep.  I managed to wake up (mildly refreshed) and go to the air field. It was there, the airfield, where things changed.

A sudden chill of reality hit as the announcer said, "please come outside to pay respects to your fallen comrades."  Wow!  I'm here to do a mission and return home in a few months, but it wasn't about "doing" a mission.  As I stood with many other brothers and sisters in arms, I saluted 3 vehicles with a fallen comrade.  Not one sound was heard, but the silence rang loud.  The sound of that Soldier, Sailor, Airman, or Marine I saluted who died for all to have a better way of life.  I could feel them as my heart chanted, "I am that Soldier, Sailor, Airman, and Marine."  

Have you ever considered yourself to be someone who stood for a bigger cause than you?  Someone who stepped out on belief?  Someone who understood selfless service, loyalty, and honor all in one?  You don't have to be a military member to understand those characteristics.  God has instilled those characteristics and more in us already.  We only need to apply them to our lives daily.

So, I'm not here to "just" do a mission.  I'm here to serve God by stepping out of my comfort zone to become someone who stood for a bigger cause than just living life to the fullest.  I've learned to accept who I am in God.  I have redirected my thoughts to become more compassionate towards others.  All I have to do is follow through in Christ by obeying Him and doing His will.  I admit it's hard, but I can do all things in Christ who strengthens me.

What are you going to do?

Pedestals are for God not leadership

Saturday, 15 November 2008, at 5 a.m., I awakened to another day in Afghanistan.  

I make it to work within the hour and begin preparing press releases for the day (from those generated during the wee hours).  To my surprise, there were none to generate.  

I then focus on the big day ahead me.  I'm giving a plan of action briefing to my supervisor.  All is ready to go by 8:45 a.m., or so I thought.  Oh my gosh, he went off as soon as I told him the equipment couldn't move.  I was "falling on my sword" left and right.  I'm thinking to myself, "what in the world is going on?"  I tell you what was going on, I was the messenger of bad news.  After he blasted me for 30 minutes, I felt like an idiot, and was completely kicked back by his attitude of not having it his way. Yes, he shot the messenger!  I know we have all been victim to that situation, and it doesn't feel good.

Needless to say, the rest of my day was not going so well either, but I tried to stay focused and positive.  After 12 hours had passed, I let it fester until I blew up in tears in the bathroom (latrine).    Why was I carrying anger, and he was going on about his day?  Why was I crying?  And for some of you guys out there,  it wasn't because I am a female and all emotional.  No, no, no!  It was because I put my supervisor on a pedestal.   Clearly a place he should not have been on. 

I finally realized, he had the problem.  I truly had to let it go and count it all joy.  Isn't that the Godly thing to do, count it all joy?  When I did that, reality hit me.  The only person I need to place on a pedestal is Christ.  All others are like chasing the wind.  So, instead of going around in circles and getting all upset about it, I stopped thinking of my supervisor as some great person.  He's human and has flaws.  I'm human and have flaws too.  As Stedman Graham said, "People who let events and circumstances dictate their lives are living reactively.  That means that they don't act on life, they only react to it."  

In essence, if I truly place God first and look up to Him, everything else is just chasing the wind.  And I don't have time for chasing the wind in Afghanistan.  I only have time for Jesus.