FROM: Banbury, Oxfordshire, United Kingdom
ABOUT ME: Living the highs and lows of life in the adventurous pursuit of God Himself and of who I'm meant to be as the Bride of Christ.
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Wednesday, January 31, 2007,8:40 p.m.
TIRED
Tired.
Tired, tired, tired, tired, tired, tired, tired, tired, tired.
I'm a little tired.
The new job is going well. It turns out I'm not a complete idiot. Praise the Lord.
But I AM tired.
Who knew accounting could take so much out of you? (Accountants, I imagine.)
So, I'm just a wee bit tired.
PS - There's an interesting conversation about hearing and deciphering God's voice in the comments section of the blog directly below - check it out.
Tired, tired, tired, tired, tired, tired, tired, tired, tired.
I'm a little tired.
The new job is going well. It turns out I'm not a complete idiot. Praise the Lord.
But I AM tired.
Who knew accounting could take so much out of you? (Accountants, I imagine.)
So, I'm just a wee bit tired.
PS - There's an interesting conversation about hearing and deciphering God's voice in the comments section of the blog directly below - check it out.
Saturday, January 27, 2007,11:00 a.m.
LOVE LANGUAGES
Not sure there are any surprises here....especially about the first one. (Indeed. I think they could easily have left out the word "probably.") But I can't help but wonder how many of my close friends actually know about the second one? Or if they've noticed how closely behind the second is the third? I wonder how much harder I need to work at expressing love to my friends who are "gifts" people in the way that they will most appreciate? (My guess is a lot - sorry, Rae, I'm going out now to buy more postage stamps....)
My primary love language is probably Physical Touch
with a secondary love language being Words of Affirmation.
Complete set of results
| Physical Touch: | 11 | |
| Words of Affirmation: | 9 | |
| Quality Time: | 7 | |
| Acts of Service: | 3 | |
| Receiving Gifts: | 0 |
Dr. Gary Chapman's book, The Five Love Languages: How to Express Heartfelt Commitment to Your Mate is available from Amazon
Thursday, January 25, 2007,10:53 p.m.
LITTLE FOXES
I finally "get" the little foxes. Those pesky little critters that ruin the blossoming vineyards in Song of Songs. I've always rather wondered about them in the midst of the lovers' interaction in this book, but I think for possibly the first time I really understand what they are, or at least one of the things they might represent.
Catch for us the foxes, the little foxes that ruin the vineyards, our vineyards that are in bloom. (Song of Songs 2:15)
I think that they are faith-killers. Little things, too - words from others, incidences, experiences, doubt. Anything that is subtle enough to worm its way into the foundation of faith in the promise of God and try to break it up or weaken it.
Foxes are crafty. "Sly as a fox" is an old saying. If the enemy knows that our knowledge of his more obvious tactics is strong and therefore so is our defense, he will resort to more subtle strategies. I find it interesting in this passage from Song of Songs that it is the Lover (God) speaking to the Beloved (us). We are instructed to catch the little foxes. We need to be on the lookout.
I caught a couple of little foxes tonight. And it was because of the simply prophetic prayer of a friend who prayed that the Lord Himself would catch and kill the little foxes. Even thinking about those little critters puts their recent actions into sharp relief.
The Lord answered my friend's prayer, and caused those little faith-killers to be themselves destroyed by showing them to me and allowing me to get rid of them and their subtle power. And now I have one more example that "I can do all things through Him who strengthens me (Philippians 4:13)."
Even catch little foxes.
Catch for us the foxes, the little foxes that ruin the vineyards, our vineyards that are in bloom. (Song of Songs 2:15)
I think that they are faith-killers. Little things, too - words from others, incidences, experiences, doubt. Anything that is subtle enough to worm its way into the foundation of faith in the promise of God and try to break it up or weaken it.
Foxes are crafty. "Sly as a fox" is an old saying. If the enemy knows that our knowledge of his more obvious tactics is strong and therefore so is our defense, he will resort to more subtle strategies. I find it interesting in this passage from Song of Songs that it is the Lover (God) speaking to the Beloved (us). We are instructed to catch the little foxes. We need to be on the lookout.
I caught a couple of little foxes tonight. And it was because of the simply prophetic prayer of a friend who prayed that the Lord Himself would catch and kill the little foxes. Even thinking about those little critters puts their recent actions into sharp relief.
The Lord answered my friend's prayer, and caused those little faith-killers to be themselves destroyed by showing them to me and allowing me to get rid of them and their subtle power. And now I have one more example that "I can do all things through Him who strengthens me (Philippians 4:13)."
Even catch little foxes.
Monday, January 22, 2007,3:56 p.m.
UPDATE ON THE UPDATE
So here it is - the latest news. I have a job! It seems like record time, but I am confident that everything that has happened in the last two weeks is entirely God's design. I have received so many e-mails and phone calls and even comments here that express how well loved I am by friends and family, that I would almost recommend getting laid off for anyone who needs a boost! (OK, not really, but still....)
This was one of my favourite comments:
"Hey, I'm eagerly awaiting the good news and further testimony of how God has once again proved Himself faithful in your life, planning and leading all along in the way you should go."
So here is the testimony: GOD IS FAITHFUL. God plans out our lives, and if we let Him, He plans them well and does not leave us with concerns or needs. What is the reason that I am back in business instead of pastoring in a different congregation? I don't know yet. But I know that it's planned. Am I still a pastor? Sure, as the Lord chooses to use those gifts in me. Am I still a worshipper? ALWAYS. Never-ending - not even ending in Glory. Do I get to do those things while also playing with numbers (nice!) and seeing what the plan is as far as accounting goes? Yup. The testimony: God is good. Really, really GOOD.
For those who weren't on the e-mail circuit or didn't receive the letter due to SPAM filters (I've been having trouble with SallyNet users for that, so my apologies if you didn't receive it), here is the update letter that was sent out today. And after this, I'm expecting to get back to my more normal blogging routine, so stay tuned.
Dearest Friends and Family,
I am excited to be sending you an update so quickly! As many of you have heard already, I have been offered and accepted a position as Bookkeeper for a small accounting firm in North Vancouver. I will start some time within the next week. Some of you may be thinking that this is a far cry from pastoring; rest assured that I have an accounting background and a love for numbers, and that I am excited about this new venture. The company for which I will be working seems like an excellent place to work, with good people and excellent opportunities for growth.
To everyone who wrote in response to my initial e-mail - thank-you so very much. If I haven't yet responded to you, please know that I am not ignoring you; it is simply that I was rather overwhelmed with e-mails and phone calls, and am still working my way through them all. As always, your love and prayer support is not only appreciated but needed, and I am truly thankful for every one you in my life.
Much love and blessings to you all,
Karyn
This was one of my favourite comments:
"Hey, I'm eagerly awaiting the good news and further testimony of how God has once again proved Himself faithful in your life, planning and leading all along in the way you should go."
So here is the testimony: GOD IS FAITHFUL. God plans out our lives, and if we let Him, He plans them well and does not leave us with concerns or needs. What is the reason that I am back in business instead of pastoring in a different congregation? I don't know yet. But I know that it's planned. Am I still a pastor? Sure, as the Lord chooses to use those gifts in me. Am I still a worshipper? ALWAYS. Never-ending - not even ending in Glory. Do I get to do those things while also playing with numbers (nice!) and seeing what the plan is as far as accounting goes? Yup. The testimony: God is good. Really, really GOOD.
For those who weren't on the e-mail circuit or didn't receive the letter due to SPAM filters (I've been having trouble with SallyNet users for that, so my apologies if you didn't receive it), here is the update letter that was sent out today. And after this, I'm expecting to get back to my more normal blogging routine, so stay tuned.
Dearest Friends and Family,
I am excited to be sending you an update so quickly! As many of you have heard already, I have been offered and accepted a position as Bookkeeper for a small accounting firm in North Vancouver. I will start some time within the next week. Some of you may be thinking that this is a far cry from pastoring; rest assured that I have an accounting background and a love for numbers, and that I am excited about this new venture. The company for which I will be working seems like an excellent place to work, with good people and excellent opportunities for growth.
To everyone who wrote in response to my initial e-mail - thank-you so very much. If I haven't yet responded to you, please know that I am not ignoring you; it is simply that I was rather overwhelmed with e-mails and phone calls, and am still working my way through them all. As always, your love and prayer support is not only appreciated but needed, and I am truly thankful for every one you in my life.
Much love and blessings to you all,
Karyn
Wednesday, January 17, 2007,11:55 p.m.
WHAT'S UP
I had some news last week that I have shared with most, but thought I would also post it here to keep up-to-date anyone I might have missed out on unintentionally. To save figuring out how to say it all again, I've simply posted most of the letter that I e-mailed to friends and family yesterday.
Dearest friends,
I thought I would write to fill you all in on some recent news for me. Some of you will already have heard, but many will not - I am writing to tell you that I am no longer working as a Worship Pastor at The Salvation Army. In recent budget meetings for the upcoming fiscal, it became clear that my little church was not going to be able to propose a balanced budget without the elimination of a job; the job that was decided upon was mine and I was consequently laid off. This news actually came and was effective last Tuesday, January 9th, but was kept quiet until the news was broken to the congregation on Sunday morning, hence the reason for my delay in writing to you all. Everything has been handled with great graciousness and love, and I leave without any rancour, just with grief at the loss of my congregation and also for their loss and the adjustment that must take place. I am greatly blessed that for the last 5 years I have also been involved in a different (Sunday evening) congregation, and I will continue to make that my church home and place of fellowship and ministry. I will be visiting the New Westminster Salvation Army often, but have chosen both to take a little time away for everyone to adjust to the change and also to delay making any immediate decision about whether I will regularly still attend there.
I have already received a number of phone calls and e-mails expressing support and promises of prayer on my behalf. Please know that I greatly appreciate it as I move forward and look for a new job. Rest assured that I am doing very well; my spirits are high and I have no doubt that my future is in good hands. As you pray, please remember my congregation at New West, especially the young people and the Worship Team, with whom I have probably spent the most time and had the most depth of relationship.
If you have been used to using my Salvation Army work e-mail address please note that I am sure they will shortly neither be working. My personal e-mail address is still the same; I would welcome your e-mails, but ask that you do make any changes to your address books that need to be made.
I will keep you posted with any further important news. Please know that I know of your love and concern for me, and I appreciate it, more than you might ever realize.
With much love to you each,
Karyn
To the many people that have already written or called to express their surprise, concern and care: thank you. I love you more than words could adequately say. I trust I will have more news for you soon.
Dearest friends,
I thought I would write to fill you all in on some recent news for me. Some of you will already have heard, but many will not - I am writing to tell you that I am no longer working as a Worship Pastor at The Salvation Army. In recent budget meetings for the upcoming fiscal, it became clear that my little church was not going to be able to propose a balanced budget without the elimination of a job; the job that was decided upon was mine and I was consequently laid off. This news actually came and was effective last Tuesday, January 9th, but was kept quiet until the news was broken to the congregation on Sunday morning, hence the reason for my delay in writing to you all. Everything has been handled with great graciousness and love, and I leave without any rancour, just with grief at the loss of my congregation and also for their loss and the adjustment that must take place. I am greatly blessed that for the last 5 years I have also been involved in a different (Sunday evening) congregation, and I will continue to make that my church home and place of fellowship and ministry. I will be visiting the New Westminster Salvation Army often, but have chosen both to take a little time away for everyone to adjust to the change and also to delay making any immediate decision about whether I will regularly still attend there.
I have already received a number of phone calls and e-mails expressing support and promises of prayer on my behalf. Please know that I greatly appreciate it as I move forward and look for a new job. Rest assured that I am doing very well; my spirits are high and I have no doubt that my future is in good hands. As you pray, please remember my congregation at New West, especially the young people and the Worship Team, with whom I have probably spent the most time and had the most depth of relationship.
If you have been used to using my Salvation Army work e-mail address please note that I am sure they will shortly neither be working. My personal e-mail address is still the same; I would welcome your e-mails, but ask that you do make any changes to your address books that need to be made.
I will keep you posted with any further important news. Please know that I know of your love and concern for me, and I appreciate it, more than you might ever realize.
With much love to you each,
Karyn
To the many people that have already written or called to express their surprise, concern and care: thank you. I love you more than words could adequately say. I trust I will have more news for you soon.
Friday, January 12, 2007,10:54 p.m.
CHEWING
Advice from my niece, Eliana, about what things one can put in one's mouth (when you're 6 months old, that is - I wouldn't try it now.....):
Two fingers (Eliana's personal favourite):
One thumb:
Your sleeve:
Someone else's fingers:
Flies (I think....):
OR.....
Feet:
Two fingers (Eliana's personal favourite):
One thumb:
Your sleeve:
Someone else's fingers:
Flies (I think....):
OR.....
Feet:
Monday, January 01, 2007,7:41 p.m.
I RECEIVE IT
Well, I've officially turned into El Slackerino with the blog in the last couple of weeks! Though in my own defense, Christmas and pastors mixing doesn't leave much in the equation for thought-provoking blog-writing.
Last night was New Year's Eve, and as we did our best to worship our guts out together as a body, I felt led to ask everyone to take a few moments to listen to what the Lord was saying to them right then. And then we took another few moments to tell the Lord that whatever He has for us in the year to come, we will receive.
We will receive it.
As we each spoke those words, "I receive it," I wondered what that will look like in my own life. I feel like I don't know at all. Truthfully, when it comes to the Lord's will in my life, I rarely do know too far in advance what that looks like. But one thing I do know - if the Lord is giving it, I will receive it, and receive it with alacrity.
What is it? I don't know.
But I receive it.
Will it be difficult or easy? I don't know.
But I receive it.
Will it move me? Shake me up? Make me uncomfortable? I don't know.
But I receive it.
His gifts and His will may not always be easily understood at the time, but they are always good. Receive what the Father has for you for 2007. And may you be greatly blessed this year.
"Which of you, if his son asks for bread, will give him a stone? Or if he asks for a fish, will give him a snake? If you, then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give good gifts to those who ask him!" (Matthew 7:9-11)
Every good thing given and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shifting shadow. (James 1:17)
Last night was New Year's Eve, and as we did our best to worship our guts out together as a body, I felt led to ask everyone to take a few moments to listen to what the Lord was saying to them right then. And then we took another few moments to tell the Lord that whatever He has for us in the year to come, we will receive.
We will receive it.
As we each spoke those words, "I receive it," I wondered what that will look like in my own life. I feel like I don't know at all. Truthfully, when it comes to the Lord's will in my life, I rarely do know too far in advance what that looks like. But one thing I do know - if the Lord is giving it, I will receive it, and receive it with alacrity.
What is it? I don't know.
But I receive it.
Will it be difficult or easy? I don't know.
But I receive it.
Will it move me? Shake me up? Make me uncomfortable? I don't know.
But I receive it.
His gifts and His will may not always be easily understood at the time, but they are always good. Receive what the Father has for you for 2007. And may you be greatly blessed this year.
"Which of you, if his son asks for bread, will give him a stone? Or if he asks for a fish, will give him a snake? If you, then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give good gifts to those who ask him!" (Matthew 7:9-11)
Every good thing given and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shifting shadow. (James 1:17)