After my last 'poor me' posting, I decided I need to stop being so pitiful and look for the many blessings I know the Lord regularly provides me. Thanks to the comments from my 'East European' friends, I'm reminded that what I experience is not unique and some have it much harder than I. So, here goes:
First, see the update on MacKendy http://www.xanga.com/haitisteve This one story includes so many miracles and such a great testimony as to how the Church should work. I talked to Steve and Ketsia last night. I really miss them and plan to visit them in Haiti while I'm home this summer. I also talked to my sister Chris and her husband and daughter, Abbie. It was fun to feel like I was with the whole family for a few minutes.
Both morning prayers and the doctrine class were good. I used 1 john 4 in prayers. Of course, before I could share any lessons with the cadets, the Lord had a new one for me. When John talks about fear being removed by love, I was struck by the fact that love itself can be frightening. At least for me! Sometimes I hold back my love because I'm afraid of taking the risk of loving without knowing what the response or the long-term commitment might be. If it is God's love and not my own self-centered, weak and imperfect love, than I don't have to be afraid. He also provides the courage, strength and everything else I will need to love. A promise and a challenge.
Doctrine class was great. We talked about the various creation theories, the problem of evil and just started talking about how Satan came to be. I have a lot of studying to do before next week to keep up with the cadets' questions. Guna has to rest and be very careful until the baby arrives, so I'm on my own for the rest of the term. Keep praying for Guna. There are some serious concerns for her health and that could put the baby at risk.
Small group last night was different. Sarah kept apologizing for a random plan, but actually it was fun. I don't very often get to just sit around and talk about whatever comes to mind. Sarah gave a little direction and then we (especially Hanna and I) took off talking about whatever we wanted. I find I really miss the group when I can't be there.
Today I had lunch with Ieva. She's a great support and advisor. I especially appreciate her prayer support. I know she prays for me and our whole training program regularly and I believe that makes a difference. She also makes sure her corps people pray for us. Today she seemed especially concerned about me and I have to admit, I didn't mind that concern. Maybe I need to pursue more regular meetings with her and even a plan to pray together.
Yesterday, Graeme and I went electronics shopping. Someone from the states donated their tithe to the training center and with that we were able to buy a TV. The cadets will be able to watch the news and we will be able to use DVDs and videos for teaching. That is one of those unexpected blessings. I also treated myself thanks to some generous friends. (OK, shopping does make me feel better!) I've been using my laptop as an entertainment center which has limitations like not being able to work and watch a movie! I finally purchased a multi-region DVD player and little stereo system for my flat. Now I can borrow movies from my UK friends which greatly expands my movie watching options!
These are blessings both great and relatively insignificant, but all reminders of God's personal interest and His love.
No comments:
Post a Comment