These are taken by Aivis - check out his photo gallery ( http://www.pbase.com/ilsters )
Sunday, January 29, 2006
Saturday, January 28, 2006
Friday, January 27, 2006
A week (or 2) in the life of a training officer
Wow! I’ve been so tired at night that I haven’t done anything, let alone write here! But, I’m starting to get into the routine and this weekend I’m FREEEEEEE! So, here goes a little catch up. It will probably be long again…
The retreat was great. I did a little teaching from a book called Soul Shaping (http://www.christianitytoday.com/tcw/6w6/6w6114.html) to start our spiritual development program. I’m going to use this book as a guide for teaching, preaching and mentoring. Now, just need to get it translated! Anyway, the cadets love to talk and laugh and pray together. It started at the retreat and 2 weeks later and many hours living with each other, it continues. I frequently thank God for this little (or maybe giant) miracle. With language, cultural and historical differences this is a very special thing for Latvia and the Army. They are developing important friendships which will be invaluable for them and for the future of the work here. This was a very long weekend for Solveiga, as she was the only translator. So, I cut down quite a bit and as they were getting along so well, they did a lot of small group discussion and prayer. I also assigned them some solitary time. We ate a lot and laughed a lot. What more could you ask for from a retreat?
Then classes started. Monday is a light day – house (dorm) meeting and then afternoon electives. Some are in computer classes. One is taking driving lessons and the last one is not yet in anything. I’m trying to set up beginning English classes. They will have lots of choices throughout training, as long as we can afford it and find teachers. Tuesday I teach Salvation Army Principles (‘who are we and why’). Dace has agreed to translate for that class. I’m really enjoying it. This week we watch some of the webcast from the Welcome to the High Council. That was cool. This Tuesday we also had Strategy Force meeting at RHQ. Remember I said Solveiga had a lot of work, well…by Wednesday she was sick and couldn’t come in. And no translator available – first crisis! But these cadets are wonderful! I walked into Doctrine class and said they only had me and would have to figure out how to translate. First they tried Arturs translating to Latvian and Andre to Russian. But then all of them said that was silly – they all understand Russian and only one translation was needed. This was another miracle because in Latvian society there are some issues about the Russian language. But, they showed such grace and goodness (and patience with me.) . Remember the furniture delivered to us last week? Well, an hour into class and a truck showed up to take it. So, class ended and we all became movers. This week Doctrine class got a bit heavy and I’m afraid I overwhelmed them with new terms and too much information. I have to slow it down. Guna (Riga 2 corps leader) is team teaching with me and she’ll teach in Latvian so that will help them. (of course I’ll have no idea what she is teaching.) Wednesday afternoons Sarah and I are team teaching Public Ministry (platform skills) class. So far this one is going fine. I don’t teach on Thursday or Friday this term. I have time to work in the office and set up meetings. Last weekend was our official welcome meeting. It was so good, even though it was the coldest day in decades. I was unbelievably calm and excited! I could feel the Lord working through the prayers of so many people around the world. (more on that subject another day.) It went great and everyone was pleased and I think inspired by the day. (pictures coming) Sunday we met together with Henrik, Lisbeth and our Chief Secretary from Sweden, Royston. It was a nice day. As I said, they love to be together and worship and pray together. By Monday I couldn’t function – so I stayed home and tried to put my house and everything in order. When I sat down to read and pray I was nearly wiped out. The Lord came to me in an amazing way and really restored my soul. As great as the weekend had been, I ended by feeling like I would not be able to last for 20 months doing this. It is wonderful and there are so many miracles happening, but I don’t have that much faith in myself. Anyway, the Lord provided both scripture and music to reach me and reassure me.
This week we were in full swing with classes and the routine. I’m really enjoying studying, teaching and getting to know the cadets. I’m practicing taking one day at a time and doing what I can but trying not to worry or become crabby about it. Not sure I’m always accomplishing that but I am trying and finding much strength. There is much more to tell but there are also 20 more months of writing and life to come. I’ll try to write more often so it doesn’t get so long. Now you know a little about how it’s going and what my routine will be.
The retreat was great. I did a little teaching from a book called Soul Shaping (http://www.christianitytoday.com/tcw/6w6/6w6114.html) to start our spiritual development program. I’m going to use this book as a guide for teaching, preaching and mentoring. Now, just need to get it translated! Anyway, the cadets love to talk and laugh and pray together. It started at the retreat and 2 weeks later and many hours living with each other, it continues. I frequently thank God for this little (or maybe giant) miracle. With language, cultural and historical differences this is a very special thing for Latvia and the Army. They are developing important friendships which will be invaluable for them and for the future of the work here. This was a very long weekend for Solveiga, as she was the only translator. So, I cut down quite a bit and as they were getting along so well, they did a lot of small group discussion and prayer. I also assigned them some solitary time. We ate a lot and laughed a lot. What more could you ask for from a retreat?
Then classes started. Monday is a light day – house (dorm) meeting and then afternoon electives. Some are in computer classes. One is taking driving lessons and the last one is not yet in anything. I’m trying to set up beginning English classes. They will have lots of choices throughout training, as long as we can afford it and find teachers. Tuesday I teach Salvation Army Principles (‘who are we and why’). Dace has agreed to translate for that class. I’m really enjoying it. This week we watch some of the webcast from the Welcome to the High Council. That was cool. This Tuesday we also had Strategy Force meeting at RHQ. Remember I said Solveiga had a lot of work, well…by Wednesday she was sick and couldn’t come in. And no translator available – first crisis! But these cadets are wonderful! I walked into Doctrine class and said they only had me and would have to figure out how to translate. First they tried Arturs translating to Latvian and Andre to Russian. But then all of them said that was silly – they all understand Russian and only one translation was needed. This was another miracle because in Latvian society there are some issues about the Russian language. But, they showed such grace and goodness (and patience with me.) . Remember the furniture delivered to us last week? Well, an hour into class and a truck showed up to take it. So, class ended and we all became movers. This week Doctrine class got a bit heavy and I’m afraid I overwhelmed them with new terms and too much information. I have to slow it down. Guna (Riga 2 corps leader) is team teaching with me and she’ll teach in Latvian so that will help them. (of course I’ll have no idea what she is teaching.) Wednesday afternoons Sarah and I are team teaching Public Ministry (platform skills) class. So far this one is going fine. I don’t teach on Thursday or Friday this term. I have time to work in the office and set up meetings. Last weekend was our official welcome meeting. It was so good, even though it was the coldest day in decades. I was unbelievably calm and excited! I could feel the Lord working through the prayers of so many people around the world. (more on that subject another day.) It went great and everyone was pleased and I think inspired by the day. (pictures coming) Sunday we met together with Henrik, Lisbeth and our Chief Secretary from Sweden, Royston. It was a nice day. As I said, they love to be together and worship and pray together. By Monday I couldn’t function – so I stayed home and tried to put my house and everything in order. When I sat down to read and pray I was nearly wiped out. The Lord came to me in an amazing way and really restored my soul. As great as the weekend had been, I ended by feeling like I would not be able to last for 20 months doing this. It is wonderful and there are so many miracles happening, but I don’t have that much faith in myself. Anyway, the Lord provided both scripture and music to reach me and reassure me.
This week we were in full swing with classes and the routine. I’m really enjoying studying, teaching and getting to know the cadets. I’m practicing taking one day at a time and doing what I can but trying not to worry or become crabby about it. Not sure I’m always accomplishing that but I am trying and finding much strength. There is much more to tell but there are also 20 more months of writing and life to come. I’ll try to write more often so it doesn’t get so long. Now you know a little about how it’s going and what my routine will be.
Thursday, January 19, 2006
Our retreat
Readings for Training Work
Here are 3 separate readings which were part of my usual devotional study this week. How appropriate and inspiring and what a joyful surprise! I’ve had them translated and we will use them this Sunday as the cadets meet for their first worship meeting together with our regional leaders and chief secretary.
Almighty God, in every age you have called out men and women to be your faithful servants. We believe you have now called us to join that great company who seek to follow you. Grant unto us today and always a clear vision of your call and strength to fulfill the ministry assigned to us. We pray in the name of Christ. Amen
O God, you are the fountain of all truth; we ask you to protect your church from all false teaching.
Protect the Church
From all teaching and preaching which would destroy men's faith;
From all that removes the foundations without putting anything in their place;
From all that confuses the simple, the perplexes the seeker, that bewilders the wanderer.
And yet at the same time protect the Church
From the failure to face new truth;
From devotion to words and ideas which the passing of the years has made unintelligible;
From all intellectual fear and laziness.
O God, send to your Church teachers,
Whose minds are wise with wisdom;
Whose hearts are warm with love;
Whose lips are eloquent with truth.
Send to your Church teachers
Whose desire is to build and not to destroy;
Who are adventurous with the wise,
and yet gentle with the simple;
Who strenuously exercise the intellect,
and who yet remember that the heart has reason of its own.
Give to your Church preachers and teachers who can make known the Lord Christ to others because they know him themselves; and give to your Church hearers, who will follow truth as blind men long for light. This we ask through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen
(adapted from Prayers for the Christian Year by William Barclay)
Go forth now as God's servant. Remember God's presence often and draw strength from the knowledge that the One who calls and sends also sustains. Amen
Almighty God, in every age you have called out men and women to be your faithful servants. We believe you have now called us to join that great company who seek to follow you. Grant unto us today and always a clear vision of your call and strength to fulfill the ministry assigned to us. We pray in the name of Christ. Amen
O God, you are the fountain of all truth; we ask you to protect your church from all false teaching.
Protect the Church
From all teaching and preaching which would destroy men's faith;
From all that removes the foundations without putting anything in their place;
From all that confuses the simple, the perplexes the seeker, that bewilders the wanderer.
And yet at the same time protect the Church
From the failure to face new truth;
From devotion to words and ideas which the passing of the years has made unintelligible;
From all intellectual fear and laziness.
O God, send to your Church teachers,
Whose minds are wise with wisdom;
Whose hearts are warm with love;
Whose lips are eloquent with truth.
Send to your Church teachers
Whose desire is to build and not to destroy;
Who are adventurous with the wise,
and yet gentle with the simple;
Who strenuously exercise the intellect,
and who yet remember that the heart has reason of its own.
Give to your Church preachers and teachers who can make known the Lord Christ to others because they know him themselves; and give to your Church hearers, who will follow truth as blind men long for light. This we ask through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen
(adapted from Prayers for the Christian Year by William Barclay)
Go forth now as God's servant. Remember God's presence often and draw strength from the knowledge that the One who calls and sends also sustains. Amen
Monday, January 16, 2006
Not about training!
Wednesday, January 11, 2006
Openings Days of the Training School
The Salvation Army Training School in Latvia has officially opened. Here’s a little bit of it all from my perspective. (This is a bit abbreviated from what I just sent to my ‘journal’ friends, so if that’s you, feel free to skip and just look at the pictures.) Last weekend was a bit crazy, running around trying to make everything perfect. I realized that wouldn't happen and so just tried to have it ready. Even that was not quite possible. I remember spending lots of time cleaning cadets' rooms and the rest of the college in Chicago, so that all was spotless. That's what I hoped I could do here, but no. I did get to do a little sweeping and shifting on Monday morning and then decided it was fine. Not up to the Marilyn Arnold test, but OK. I was very calm on Monday amazingly. I had a sense of all of the people praying and a picture of myself just resting on Jesus and not worrying. And I didn't. I had invited the cadets’ corps leaders and the training program committee to join us for dinner and a short program. I'm trying to keep as many people involved as possible. Henrik (RC) couldn't be there but Lisbeth came. Aivis shared some scripture and a few nice thoughts (I think, it was in Latvian). He will be the discipleship coordinator. We had a few get acquainted activities and then I had the cadets spread around the room and 2-3 of us gathered around each and prayed for them - very powerful. Lisbeth ended with a beautiful pastoral prayer.
Tuesday was orientation, of course. Solveiga has to translate everything. Please pray for her. She may have the most demanding job. I'll explain in a minute. We started the day with prayers, which I led. It was a special time. We prayed for each other and many shared their concerns about those they left at home. I think we were much more open than would be normal for the first day of training. Another answer to prayer. Remember we have 3 Latvian speaking and 3 Russian speaking. So - it's always complicated. Some understand English and so they get the original info. More understand Latvian and get the second. That's what we can manage. I thought all would be able to pick up something from one of those languages. But, after an hour Irina came to me and said she didn’t understand anything. I'm glad she came but I have to admit I wanted to cry or scream. I said she would have to sit through the morning and we would try to think of a solution. I slowed down my speech until I nearly put myself to sleep. And afterward I simply walked toward my office and yelled (silently) "Help, Lord!" All I could think of was that I would have to teach each class twice and that nearly sent me packing. On instant messenger was Henrik who asked how I was so I told him! He said he thought he had the answer in one of our temp employees who may be able to be hired, if he is interested. That was a fast answer! He speaks Russian, Latvian and English! The cadets are great. We talked today about the hard things like their finances, uniform wearing and discipline, etc. They were so good about it all, even when it was confusing or they didn't really like the information. Everything is brand new to them. We laughed a lot today, too. Especially when I gave them their work detail assignments. And when the ladies met privately to talk about how we should wear uniform. So, all with the cadets has really been great. Even the language issues are not causing them to be angry or negative, at least not to me. Everyone is working to make this as good as it can be. I have to admit that being the only full-time staff person has been exhausting so far. All of this talking and thinking of every detail and finding every answer is going to wear on me. So, you can pray for me, too!
We did have one big crisis today. Sweden's training college has donated some of their old (not really) furniture to us. Our warehouse arranged for a truck to pick it up and I hoped it would be done before the cadets arrived. No, it came today! I had to cancel afternoon interviews, skip lunch and go. I climbed into the semi-truck and realized there was way too much furniture for us. It got very complicated and very stressful. Lisbeth was with me and trying to keep me from freaking out. The truck driver needed to leave and only wanted to go to my place. Which meant I had to store it all. Of course the cadets were not in, except dear Arturs. So with a few from the warehouse, Arturs, Lisbeth and I, we unloaded a semi truck and took most of it upstairs to the training center. Our friends from Riga 2 also pitched in. The more furniture we got, the more worried I became about what I would do with it all. We had to fill the corps Sunday School room. Before everything got carried into the building our 3 warehouse men left. Lisbeth had already left, so there stood Arturs and I looking out at a snow-covered yard with lots of big pieces of furniture. Panic set in! I called Lisbeth and as soon as she heard my quivering voice she went into action and made Henrik and another guy (on their way to teach a Bible course) come and carry the rest in. By the time they arrived I had calmed down and Arturs and I had started to arrange the furniture we did want. Anyway, a very long, long day and I've left out lots of interesting and frustrating details. But, we ended OK and thank goodness for Lisbeth today. The training center library is filled with furniture and I still have to figure out how to get some of it out. All before our Open House and Welcome next Saturday! And I'm gone all weekend on the cadet retreat. But, it will work if I have to push it all out the window! The good thing is, we got some very nice furniture that we never could have afforded. Just way more than we can ever use!
So, 3 days into it and I love the cadets. And as we have found so many times here, the Lord does provide, sometimes in very surprising ways. I'm looking forward to the retreat and enjoying fellowship with the cadets and also the new lieutenants. I expect the Lord has some wonderful plans for us.
Tuesday was orientation, of course. Solveiga has to translate everything. Please pray for her. She may have the most demanding job. I'll explain in a minute. We started the day with prayers, which I led. It was a special time. We prayed for each other and many shared their concerns about those they left at home. I think we were much more open than would be normal for the first day of training. Another answer to prayer. Remember we have 3 Latvian speaking and 3 Russian speaking. So - it's always complicated. Some understand English and so they get the original info. More understand Latvian and get the second. That's what we can manage. I thought all would be able to pick up something from one of those languages. But, after an hour Irina came to me and said she didn’t understand anything. I'm glad she came but I have to admit I wanted to cry or scream. I said she would have to sit through the morning and we would try to think of a solution. I slowed down my speech until I nearly put myself to sleep. And afterward I simply walked toward my office and yelled (silently) "Help, Lord!" All I could think of was that I would have to teach each class twice and that nearly sent me packing. On instant messenger was Henrik who asked how I was so I told him! He said he thought he had the answer in one of our temp employees who may be able to be hired, if he is interested. That was a fast answer! He speaks Russian, Latvian and English! The cadets are great. We talked today about the hard things like their finances, uniform wearing and discipline, etc. They were so good about it all, even when it was confusing or they didn't really like the information. Everything is brand new to them. We laughed a lot today, too. Especially when I gave them their work detail assignments. And when the ladies met privately to talk about how we should wear uniform. So, all with the cadets has really been great. Even the language issues are not causing them to be angry or negative, at least not to me. Everyone is working to make this as good as it can be. I have to admit that being the only full-time staff person has been exhausting so far. All of this talking and thinking of every detail and finding every answer is going to wear on me. So, you can pray for me, too!
We did have one big crisis today. Sweden's training college has donated some of their old (not really) furniture to us. Our warehouse arranged for a truck to pick it up and I hoped it would be done before the cadets arrived. No, it came today! I had to cancel afternoon interviews, skip lunch and go. I climbed into the semi-truck and realized there was way too much furniture for us. It got very complicated and very stressful. Lisbeth was with me and trying to keep me from freaking out. The truck driver needed to leave and only wanted to go to my place. Which meant I had to store it all. Of course the cadets were not in, except dear Arturs. So with a few from the warehouse, Arturs, Lisbeth and I, we unloaded a semi truck and took most of it upstairs to the training center. Our friends from Riga 2 also pitched in. The more furniture we got, the more worried I became about what I would do with it all. We had to fill the corps Sunday School room. Before everything got carried into the building our 3 warehouse men left. Lisbeth had already left, so there stood Arturs and I looking out at a snow-covered yard with lots of big pieces of furniture. Panic set in! I called Lisbeth and as soon as she heard my quivering voice she went into action and made Henrik and another guy (on their way to teach a Bible course) come and carry the rest in. By the time they arrived I had calmed down and Arturs and I had started to arrange the furniture we did want. Anyway, a very long, long day and I've left out lots of interesting and frustrating details. But, we ended OK and thank goodness for Lisbeth today. The training center library is filled with furniture and I still have to figure out how to get some of it out. All before our Open House and Welcome next Saturday! And I'm gone all weekend on the cadet retreat. But, it will work if I have to push it all out the window! The good thing is, we got some very nice furniture that we never could have afforded. Just way more than we can ever use!
So, 3 days into it and I love the cadets. And as we have found so many times here, the Lord does provide, sometimes in very surprising ways. I'm looking forward to the retreat and enjoying fellowship with the cadets and also the new lieutenants. I expect the Lord has some wonderful plans for us.
Saturday, January 07, 2006
about yesterday and today
P.S. I know there were lots of people praying yesterday and actually it ended up being kind of a fun day, in a masochistic sort of way. I get something done and we would think of 2 more things I should do. My shopping list was updated every 5-6 minutes. I didn't get it all done, but we accomplished a lot and I felt good about it when I left. I also remained fairly pleasant, I think. You'll have to ask Solveiga to be sure. So, thanks for your prayers. Zoe and Graeme and Sian went shopping with me today and helped me get a lot checked off of my list. We also had a great lunch. We had our regional employee 'holiday' party today, too. It was very nice. We had it here and Edgars' sister who is studying catering did an amazing and beautiful job with the food. Then we played a couple of the usual mixer games, always fun in 2-3 languages. The big programming bit was getting us all to try line dancing. Funny how many had to leave suddenly! I tried the first dance - the traditional beginners line dance steps and did all right. I'm a plodder not graceful, but at least I had my feet in the right places most of the time. The second one seemed easy until the music started and the tempo was sooooo fast. I sat right down. Henrik stuck it out and managed to do some of the steps. Hope someone got a picture of that!
Hannah and Patrick, with Angelina, have arrived from Sweden to do regional youth work. They will add a nice flavor to our multicultural staff. More about them later, I'm sure.
Thanks for praying - don't stop, please! Still much to do but at the moment I'm feeling a bit too tired to do much. Maybe I'll go to bed early and work extra hard tomorrow.
Hannah and Patrick, with Angelina, have arrived from Sweden to do regional youth work. They will add a nice flavor to our multicultural staff. More about them later, I'm sure.
Thanks for praying - don't stop, please! Still much to do but at the moment I'm feeling a bit too tired to do much. Maybe I'll go to bed early and work extra hard tomorrow.
Friday, January 06, 2006
Prayer please!
Quick - if you read this would you pray for me (and my support staff, such as it is) today and this weekend. We are in the last hours before the training school opens and of course, there is much to be done, some small crises and I'm trying to hold it all together. I don't doubt that we will be OK on Monday, my prayer is that I will be loving and kind to those around me NOW!
Tuesday, January 03, 2006
Words for today and the new year
"And where I cannot see - I'll trust"
John 15:16 Jesus says: "you did not choose me but I chose you. And I appointed you to go and bear fruit, fruit that will last (has eternal significance - Evie's note), so that the Father will give you whatever you ask him in my name."
My promise and Jesus' promise - I can only make mine based on His.
John 15:16 Jesus says: "you did not choose me but I chose you. And I appointed you to go and bear fruit, fruit that will last (has eternal significance - Evie's note), so that the Father will give you whatever you ask him in my name."
My promise and Jesus' promise - I can only make mine based on His.
Sunday, January 01, 2006
Reflections on the season
It's New Year's Day and I've been gathering Christmas decorations to put away. So, anything for a distraction - I decided to write a bit in my blog! Christmas in Latvia (or maybe I should say, Christmas outside of the US) is much quieter and much less stressful. However, at least for me, it is also missing much of what brings me joy - the ministry of helping others. I miss helping with kettle counting and even the occasional playing at the kettle, nursing home caroling and gift distribution, Cook County jail visits, helping sort gifts and various other tasks around the corps. It dawned on me this week, that this is especially the time when I miss the corps fellowship of Oakbrook Terrace. Don't feel sorry for me - I have wonderful fellowship and friendship here. And because there is less activity, I have more time to do some special things. Here are some of the blessings I received during this season - Christmas Day with Smiths and extended family. We had a very nice meal and then walked to Old Riga. Just as we got there the snow came in great big, beautiful flakes and we were soon covered with it and because it wasn't too cold, very wet. But, it was perfect! This year I received many more gifts than I expected - my friends and family were very generous. I also got some creative and fun gifts. A santa scarf, a denim apron, lots of socks and some good music. The day after Christmas I visited Sarah, Aivis and Josh. What a nice day we had, eating their leftovers and lots of sweets, talking and playing with Josh and then a really nice walk around the neighborhood. I'm so grateful for the Smiths and the Ilsters, who take care of me and are real friends.
The week was quiet at work and I had time to catch up on some things to get ready for the training school to open. (next week - AUGH!) I had some eclectic music experiences, all of them special. First, I went to hear "The Messiah" at the Riga Dome Cathedral. It was AMAZING! The acoustics were perfect and the conductor used them beautifully. I met Solveiga and family there, but sat on my own. This is one of my favorite musical experiences of each year and especially this one. I didn't sing along...maybe hummed once in a while! During the Hallelujah Chorus I felt like I was being lifted to heaven - the music rang through the room and seemed to fill every space. I could hardly breathe. And then as they sang "Come unto Him all ye that labor and are heavy laden and he shall give you rest" - I could feel my burden being lifted. It is such a soulful and moving melody and just what I need. For the first time I noticed the difference in the tempo of the next piece. When "His yoke is easy and his burden is light" is sung, the music picks up speed. I thought how much easier it is to move and what energy comes when the Lord carries the burden, instead of me. Handel got it right (duh!)
So from that I woke up the next day and went to Ilsters again. This time to do our own caroling. The Smiths, Andersens, Ilsters and I sang traditional carols together, in English! It was a lot of fun and of course again, included eating lots of sweet things! I got home and raced right back out to go to another concert of a totally different nature - The Harlem Gospel Singers. WOW! I knew that would be good but I had no idea how moved I would be. Maybe because it was from America, maybe because I really miss the African American influence in my life and maybe especially, because it was clearly a Gospel message, I couldn't sit still or keep a tear or two from falling. They sang mostly old gospel songs, so I knew them and this time it was OK to sing along! I did and danced (well, swayed) and clapped, too. Not sure what my neighbors thought (again, I went alone) but I didn't really care. This was my comfort zone and I took full advantage of it.
Last night (New Year's Eve) I spent at Smiths again and we had a nice evening. I brought one of my new CDS, The Chicago Staff Band chorus. Such a blessing, again and not just because I'm in a few of the pieces. I just love the music and the message. We also watched part of the BBC Proms concert, which was fantastic.
I just heard a conductor on some music special I'm watching say, " music is one of the most beautiful things of our life -our spiritual nourishment". That is definitely what has been the primary food for me this Christmas (OK, along with all of the chocolate). I've listened to Christmas music since Thanksgiving, gone to these concerts and through it all I've been blessed by the images of Jesus, the Messiah, Immanuel and my Savior. It's been a lot of fun, too!
The week was quiet at work and I had time to catch up on some things to get ready for the training school to open. (next week - AUGH!) I had some eclectic music experiences, all of them special. First, I went to hear "The Messiah" at the Riga Dome Cathedral. It was AMAZING! The acoustics were perfect and the conductor used them beautifully. I met Solveiga and family there, but sat on my own. This is one of my favorite musical experiences of each year and especially this one. I didn't sing along...maybe hummed once in a while! During the Hallelujah Chorus I felt like I was being lifted to heaven - the music rang through the room and seemed to fill every space. I could hardly breathe. And then as they sang "Come unto Him all ye that labor and are heavy laden and he shall give you rest" - I could feel my burden being lifted. It is such a soulful and moving melody and just what I need. For the first time I noticed the difference in the tempo of the next piece. When "His yoke is easy and his burden is light" is sung, the music picks up speed. I thought how much easier it is to move and what energy comes when the Lord carries the burden, instead of me. Handel got it right (duh!)
So from that I woke up the next day and went to Ilsters again. This time to do our own caroling. The Smiths, Andersens, Ilsters and I sang traditional carols together, in English! It was a lot of fun and of course again, included eating lots of sweet things! I got home and raced right back out to go to another concert of a totally different nature - The Harlem Gospel Singers. WOW! I knew that would be good but I had no idea how moved I would be. Maybe because it was from America, maybe because I really miss the African American influence in my life and maybe especially, because it was clearly a Gospel message, I couldn't sit still or keep a tear or two from falling. They sang mostly old gospel songs, so I knew them and this time it was OK to sing along! I did and danced (well, swayed) and clapped, too. Not sure what my neighbors thought (again, I went alone) but I didn't really care. This was my comfort zone and I took full advantage of it.
Last night (New Year's Eve) I spent at Smiths again and we had a nice evening. I brought one of my new CDS, The Chicago Staff Band chorus. Such a blessing, again and not just because I'm in a few of the pieces. I just love the music and the message. We also watched part of the BBC Proms concert, which was fantastic.
I just heard a conductor on some music special I'm watching say, " music is one of the most beautiful things of our life -our spiritual nourishment". That is definitely what has been the primary food for me this Christmas (OK, along with all of the chocolate). I've listened to Christmas music since Thanksgiving, gone to these concerts and through it all I've been blessed by the images of Jesus, the Messiah, Immanuel and my Savior. It's been a lot of fun, too!
Sunday, December 25, 2005
God With Us!
“And His name shall be called Immanuel” – God With Us!
What makes life splendid is the constant awareness of God. What transforms the spirit into his likeness is intimate fellowship with him. We are saved – from our pettiness and earthiness and selfishness and sin – by conscious communion with his greatness and love and holiness.
From Discipline and Discovery by Albert Edward Day
What makes life splendid is the constant awareness of God. What transforms the spirit into his likeness is intimate fellowship with him. We are saved – from our pettiness and earthiness and selfishness and sin – by conscious communion with his greatness and love and holiness.
From Discipline and Discovery by Albert Edward Day
Corps Christmas party
1. Russian group - yes that's an upside down training potty seat on her head!
2. Jonah and her sailors
3. &4. The devil after Vika and group.
5. Worship team does a little line dancing
It's Christmas
It’s Christmas! Well, barely – 12:34 a.m. Since it’s only me I didn’t see any sense in waiting until the morning to open gifts – I’ve waited this long! The box came from Chris and family yesterday, so I had lots under my little tree. It was fun to open them because there were lots of surprises and goodies. One was the Polar Express DVD which I promptly put in and watched. That’s why I’m still awake. It’s a really sweet movie. So, Christmas in Latvia…it’s not so bad. People are very loving and kind to me. I got a few gifts from unexpected people and many hugs tonight at the Christmas Eve service. Last was our corps Christmas party. Our small group did a little drama, which I let them put together without me and told them I’d do anything they needed. Wrong thing to say – I had to be the devil. I’ll try to put some pictures up later. The party was great – we had a very funny drama from the Russian ministry group about Jonah. I can’t begin to explain it but I’ll also put some pics from that here. There are lots of people home from all over the world and many of them were in church tonight. That was nice. The Sunday School did a pageant complete with dancing angels. It was great.
Yesterday I had one of those ‘catch my breath’ moments. I was walking to the Christmas Market in Old Riga and not really feeling very Christmasy. The shops were full and the streets were dirty with most of the snow gone. Then I walked into one of the city parks and it was as if I walked into another world. There was clean, white snow everywhere and the trees were all frosted over and beautiful. I had to stop because it was so amazing. I had my camera and pulled it out (more pictures to put here). Everyone in the park was walking around as if they couldn’t believe it was real. Wow – another beauty of the Lord scene.
Ieva bought me a ticket to see the Chronicles of Narnia with her yesterday. I loved it! No, it wasn’t as technically impressive as Lord of the Rings but it is the best story and the actors were good. Even though I knew what would happen, I got a bit emotional a few times (I won’t say anymore in case you haven’t seen it.) As we were leaving, Ieva said, “It’s great that so many people are in the theater to see this. I just wish the knew the real message.” I pray that somehow they do hear the real message of redemption and new life through Jesus Christ. Or at the least, that it makes them seekers after the truth of the gospel and that there are people prepared to share this truth.
Isaiah 9 - [2] The people walking in darkness have seen a great light; on those living in the land of the shadow of death a light has dawned. [6] For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.
Yesterday I had one of those ‘catch my breath’ moments. I was walking to the Christmas Market in Old Riga and not really feeling very Christmasy. The shops were full and the streets were dirty with most of the snow gone. Then I walked into one of the city parks and it was as if I walked into another world. There was clean, white snow everywhere and the trees were all frosted over and beautiful. I had to stop because it was so amazing. I had my camera and pulled it out (more pictures to put here). Everyone in the park was walking around as if they couldn’t believe it was real. Wow – another beauty of the Lord scene.
Ieva bought me a ticket to see the Chronicles of Narnia with her yesterday. I loved it! No, it wasn’t as technically impressive as Lord of the Rings but it is the best story and the actors were good. Even though I knew what would happen, I got a bit emotional a few times (I won’t say anymore in case you haven’t seen it.) As we were leaving, Ieva said, “It’s great that so many people are in the theater to see this. I just wish the knew the real message.” I pray that somehow they do hear the real message of redemption and new life through Jesus Christ. Or at the least, that it makes them seekers after the truth of the gospel and that there are people prepared to share this truth.
Isaiah 9 - [2] The people walking in darkness have seen a great light; on those living in the land of the shadow of death a light has dawned. [6] For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.
Thursday, December 22, 2005
Eternal things!
A required part of my Christmas routine includes Handel’s “Messiah”. Whether is actually attending a concert or sing along (preferred) or listening at home, it’s not Christmas for me without it. Last Christmas I discovered I don’t have a recording with me, but I did find a concert and it was wonderful. This year, Lisa sent me a recording and I’m going to the concert – I just have to be careful not to make it a sing along! Yes, the music is amazing and fun to sing, but every year I’m overwhelmed by some part of the text that applies directly to my life and what I need to be reminded of regarding my relationship with the Messiah, Jesus Christ. Yesterday I was listening to the CD while reading my devotions. At almost the same time, I was reading Isaiah 40 and it was being sung on the CD.
Isaiah 40:1-5 Comfort ye, comfort ye my people, saith your God. [2] Speak ye comfortably to Jerusalem, and cry unto her, that her warfare is accomplished, that her iniquity is pardoned: for she hath received of the Lord's hand double for all her sins. [3] The voice of him that crieth in the wilderness, Prepare ye the way of the Lord, make straight in the desert a highway for our God. [4] Every valley shall be exalted, and every mountain and hill shall be made low: and the crooked shall be made straight, and the rough places plain: [5] And the glory of the Lord shall be revealed, and all flesh shall see it together: for the mouth of the Lord hath spoken it.
Honestly, it made me long for heaven. Not a death wish, but an amazing hope and expectation of eternity with Jesus. Just think – the crooked made straight and the rough places plain! I find comfort in that in the ordinariness of today and draw on the promise when life seems very crooked and rough. It makes me want to sing!
Isaiah 40:1-5 Comfort ye, comfort ye my people, saith your God. [2] Speak ye comfortably to Jerusalem, and cry unto her, that her warfare is accomplished, that her iniquity is pardoned: for she hath received of the Lord's hand double for all her sins. [3] The voice of him that crieth in the wilderness, Prepare ye the way of the Lord, make straight in the desert a highway for our God. [4] Every valley shall be exalted, and every mountain and hill shall be made low: and the crooked shall be made straight, and the rough places plain: [5] And the glory of the Lord shall be revealed, and all flesh shall see it together: for the mouth of the Lord hath spoken it.
Honestly, it made me long for heaven. Not a death wish, but an amazing hope and expectation of eternity with Jesus. Just think – the crooked made straight and the rough places plain! I find comfort in that in the ordinariness of today and draw on the promise when life seems very crooked and rough. It makes me want to sing!
Monday, December 19, 2005
Surprise!
On Sunday, Sarah talked about God being a God of Surprises. The fact that the shepherds were the first told about Jesus must have been a surprise to them and to everyone else. So, I started thinking about how God has surprised me. Of course, the first thing I thought was that 2 Christmases ago I had not one idea about the country of Latvia and now – here I am! That’s a big surprise and certainly all God’s. God sends lots of little surprises too. After church I was talking to Dana about doing some work at the training center and I felt the urge to tell her that she was a definite answer to prayer. She got a surprised look on her face and said that I was an answer to her prayer! We spent a few minutes talking about that. What if I had simply made it a business conversation? We would both have missed out on a blessing and a surprise. What if I hadn’t listened to the little voice that has been telling me for months that I needed to involve Dana in my plans? A lesson – I have to be in the place God wants me to if I want to experience His surprises! Another lesson – instead of worrying today or even in the next few months about what I will do ‘after Latvia’, I need to wait and see what surprise God might have planned. Who knows where I’ll end up!?
Liz leaves early tomorrow morning. I hadn’t realized how much I’ve enjoyed her being here. A little bit of the US and a friend who’s willing to do just about anything. I’m going to miss her. And now, I’m the only American again!
Liz leaves early tomorrow morning. I hadn’t realized how much I’ve enjoyed her being here. A little bit of the US and a friend who’s willing to do just about anything. I’m going to miss her. And now, I’m the only American again!
Friday, December 16, 2005
Smile!
Tonight, Graeme and Zoe and I went to hear the BBC Singers concert at the National Opera House. We talked about how we would probably catch ourselves singing along with the English Christmas carols. Well, it wasn’t exactly what we expected. It was a classical concert with music in several languages and only a few songs in English. But, it was beautiful. They are really good, especially with tight harmonies and varied rhythms. They sang an amazing version of “Lo, how a rose”, one of my favorite carols. They also sang some really fun pieces with lots of odd syllables and rhythms. But, it definitely wasn’t a sing along concert. I did smile a lot and even once got the giggles because a song was so silly – but also very difficult and they did it incredibly well. I found myself filled with joy as they sang “Glory to God” and told the story of salvation through Jesus’ birth and life. One line that especially hit me was “Why are all the people so sad, when God has given us life through His Son?” That is maybe not an exact quote, but you get the point. And I got the point – smile! Let people know that there is joy this season, because of Jesus!
Wednesday, December 14, 2005
Lesson from a friend
Today my friend, Ieva, who is one of the corps leaders for Riga 2 and the regional prayer coordinator, had some good words for me. She reminded me that I had nothing to worry about regarding training – “It’s all about God’s grace” she said. Every step of the way it is a miracle and grace moment. She also reminded me that the whole process, including me, is covered in so much prayer that she knows we are protected from a lot that might happen, especially due to our (my) own will and wisdom or lack of. She says these things so casually and matter-of-fact(ly?), it’s all natural to her. I know the truth of what she says and am experiencing it, but my nature wants to fret and worry and be in control. I have a lot to learn from Ieva. And then my advent reading for today reinforced and took me further with this lesson – IT’S NOT ABOUT ME!!
Rev. 1:8 "I am the Alpha and the Omega," says the Lord God, "who is, and who was, and who is to come, the Almighty."
Our repose is to rejoice in the infinite happiness of God and, on a lower scale, in our own crosses, and to desire still more of them, for in them we have the privilege of imitating him and proving our love, and there is nothing dearer to the heart that loves. We shall never lack either this happiness, nor God nor the Cross.
How can one pity anyone who is doing the will of the Lord? Is there anything sweeter on earth than to do the will of him one loves? And if it gives one some trouble to carry it out, the sweetness is all the greater.
–from Meditations of a Hermit by Charles de Foucauld
Rev. 1:8 "I am the Alpha and the Omega," says the Lord God, "who is, and who was, and who is to come, the Almighty."
Our repose is to rejoice in the infinite happiness of God and, on a lower scale, in our own crosses, and to desire still more of them, for in them we have the privilege of imitating him and proving our love, and there is nothing dearer to the heart that loves. We shall never lack either this happiness, nor God nor the Cross.
How can one pity anyone who is doing the will of the Lord? Is there anything sweeter on earth than to do the will of him one loves? And if it gives one some trouble to carry it out, the sweetness is all the greater.
–from Meditations of a Hermit by Charles de Foucauld
Monday, December 12, 2005
Books
From my advent reading, for those of you who are readers like me:
Leave me not, O gracious Presence, in such hours as I may today devote to the reading of books or of newspapers. Guide my mind to choose the right books and, having chosen them, to read them in the right way. When I read for profit, grant that all I read may lead me nearer to thyself. When I read for recreation, grant that what I read may not lead me away from thee. Let all my reading so refresh my mind that I may the more eagerly seek after whatsoever things are pure and fair and true.
A Diary of Private Prayer by John Baillie
Leave me not, O gracious Presence, in such hours as I may today devote to the reading of books or of newspapers. Guide my mind to choose the right books and, having chosen them, to read them in the right way. When I read for profit, grant that all I read may lead me nearer to thyself. When I read for recreation, grant that what I read may not lead me away from thee. Let all my reading so refresh my mind that I may the more eagerly seek after whatsoever things are pure and fair and true.
A Diary of Private Prayer by John Baillie
Friday, December 09, 2005
True Beauty
Wednesday evening I was driving home and it was snowing. As I turned the corner to head down my street, I found a winter wonderland. The snowflakes were big and fluffy and I was driving into them. My street which is usually dull and dirty was freshly covered and lovely. The trees were coated with snow. I felt as if I had driven into one of my snow globe scenes. I slowed down and took it all in for a few seconds. My mind went right to this theme of “the beauty of the Lord”. I thought, “God made this snow just for me!” Then this evening I went to Bauska to do their youth meeting. On the way there, the road was closed and I had to take a detour through unknown Latvian back roads. I wasn’t happy about it and it made me a few minutes late. But on the way home, I wasn’t tense or in a hurry and discovered I was driving through another beautiful winter scene. There was no one else on the road and I had the bright lights on. I could see the fresh snow on the ground and the evergreen trees and again, I thought how wonderful God is for creating this world for us. Except that I took one wrong turn and ended up in a strange town, it was a very nice ride home.
But, more than the beauty of creation, I have seen the beauty of God’s people. During a training committee meeting yesterday, I began to talk about our candidates and I was overwhelmed at how God has ‘made all things beautiful’ in their lives and yet, He has much more that He plans to do in and through them. It will be so exciting to see how that plan unfolds. I can’t even imagine what they will be like when they finish training. Then there was a moment with the Bauska youth group tonight when I felt like the Lord was really speaking to them. I was reminding them that Advent is the time when we wait for the Lord, but we also invite Him to come. I felt like I needed to challenge them about their relationship with Jesus. It got very quiet (they were chatty all evening) and I believe that message was specifically for someone. I don’t know who or if they responded to God’s voice, but I could feel His presence. Another ‘beauty’ moment.
My scripture reading from John 1 today gave me another beautiful picture – of the Messiah:
[14] The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the One and Only, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth.
[29]… "Look, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!”
But, more than the beauty of creation, I have seen the beauty of God’s people. During a training committee meeting yesterday, I began to talk about our candidates and I was overwhelmed at how God has ‘made all things beautiful’ in their lives and yet, He has much more that He plans to do in and through them. It will be so exciting to see how that plan unfolds. I can’t even imagine what they will be like when they finish training. Then there was a moment with the Bauska youth group tonight when I felt like the Lord was really speaking to them. I was reminding them that Advent is the time when we wait for the Lord, but we also invite Him to come. I felt like I needed to challenge them about their relationship with Jesus. It got very quiet (they were chatty all evening) and I believe that message was specifically for someone. I don’t know who or if they responded to God’s voice, but I could feel His presence. Another ‘beauty’ moment.
My scripture reading from John 1 today gave me another beautiful picture – of the Messiah:
[14] The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the One and Only, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth.
[29]… "Look, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!”
photos from Spain
Tuesday, December 06, 2005
Beauty and Spain
I spent a few days in Spain with my friends, Brad and Heidi Bailey. They moved to Madrid this summer from my home corps, Oakbrook Terrace. They were my corps officers for the last few years, but much more than that, they have been good friends for a long time. We keep saying “Who would have ever imagined that we would be living in Europe and at the same time?!” So, before my life is completely absorbed by the training program here, I escaped to Madrid and to my friends. We talked and talked, ate and ate, drank many cups of coffee and watched movies, as well as touring the country. It was exactly what I needed and I’m so glad I did it. I realized on the way home to Latvia that they will be my last physical connection to home (USA) until this summer. (unless someone gets inspired to come and visit me – hint, hint…) I could write paragraphs about the beautiful things I saw. Incredible architecture and wonderful inspiring art in museums, castles and cathedrals. The Catholic influence means many biblical paintings and I love to see the perspective each artist puts in his work. I’ll try to post some pictures. I could also write about the precious conversations we had, but you had to be there to follow all the different directions we took as we talked and really, they were just between us. So, instead I’ll share something I read while I was there. Along with my Advent reading, I decided to catch up on some magazines which have been sitting in my ‘to read’ pile. I grabbed one published by The Upper Room, called Weavings. If you have any leanings toward contemplation this is a good resource. My friend, Diana Winters, recommended it to me a while ago. You can check it out at www.upperroom.com. This issue is called “Behold the Beauty of the Lord” and I was blessed and moved as I read articles about discovering the Lord’s Beauty in the ordinary places and events of life. Here are a few quotes which really touched me:
Simple Places – As Jesus’ followers, if we are to find true community with one another and with him, then we should look not just to the massive throng or the dramatic moment. We should look as well to the simplest instance of one life brushing up against another. We should open ourselves to the small and intimate moments when persons draw together in their joys and in their needs.
Luminous Saints – “They are persons irradiated by the grace of God who answer back to the love of God in whatever setting they may be placed and ‘in whom…Christ is felt to live again.’ They seek not to be safe but to be faithful. They have developed a gristle that enables them to stand fast in adversity. They love persons rather than humanity in general. They believe all life is sacramental.” (Douglas Steere) (Evie’s note – I started to make a list of these kind of saints in my life and filled a page in just a few minutes. I wish I could thank them but for now, I thank God for them. Maybe someday I’ll list them here, but I’m sure I’d miss someone or two or three – it will be a never ending list.)
Being Buoyed by Beauty – She peered down at her funny looking feet, aged by years of trudging along, marked by the effects of heredity. Suddenly the verse came to her: How beautiful are the feet of those who carry the good news of peace. She decided to sing a new song.
Simple Places – As Jesus’ followers, if we are to find true community with one another and with him, then we should look not just to the massive throng or the dramatic moment. We should look as well to the simplest instance of one life brushing up against another. We should open ourselves to the small and intimate moments when persons draw together in their joys and in their needs.
Luminous Saints – “They are persons irradiated by the grace of God who answer back to the love of God in whatever setting they may be placed and ‘in whom…Christ is felt to live again.’ They seek not to be safe but to be faithful. They have developed a gristle that enables them to stand fast in adversity. They love persons rather than humanity in general. They believe all life is sacramental.” (Douglas Steere) (Evie’s note – I started to make a list of these kind of saints in my life and filled a page in just a few minutes. I wish I could thank them but for now, I thank God for them. Maybe someday I’ll list them here, but I’m sure I’d miss someone or two or three – it will be a never ending list.)
Being Buoyed by Beauty – She peered down at her funny looking feet, aged by years of trudging along, marked by the effects of heredity. Suddenly the verse came to her: How beautiful are the feet of those who carry the good news of peace. She decided to sing a new song.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)