Okay, so I should be doing a "top 10 of 2011" post. Mine would be about books. Here's the problem: I don't actually know all the books I read in 2011. In fact, I only know one person who knows what books she read because she made a list. I think I'll do the same for 2012; I'd like to track what I read.
I have looked over my bookshelves, checked my library records, and looked at what I bought on-line. It helped a bit. Instead of a "top 10" I'll tell you what I read that you should read, in no particular order (most of them were read in the past 3 or 4 months, because that's how far back my memory goes).
God's Wisdom in Proverbs, by Dan Phillips: go down a few posts and find out why you should read it.
But God... by Casey Lute: To be completely honest, I bought this because I like the words "but God" but mostly because I know Casey and wanted to support him. It is a very, very good book. I wrote a review of it somewhere.
Just Do Something, by Kevin DeYoung: I did a review of this too; it's really good for countering the "you need to hear a voice or have a feeling before you act" crowd.
Uneclipsing the Son, by Rick Holland: One of the best books I read this year, and so convicting that I made a friend read it so I didn't have to be convicted alone.
A Passion for the Impossible, by Miriam Hufman Rockness: This is a biography of Lilias Trotter, who headed off to Algeria with a friend in 1888 to be a missionary. They didn't know the language (although they did know French, which helped) and they didn't know anyone in the country. It's amazing how God worked through her and her willingness to go.
When the Darkness will not Lift, by John Piper: This is a short, quick read, but deep enough to make you think. He writes about dealing with depression as a Christian, possible causes, and how to support people who are walking in this darkness.
Those are the big ones, the ones that made an impact on me in a big way. I also read and enjoyed:
Fine China is For Single Women Too, by Lydia Brownback
Inheritance, by Christopher Paolini (the last of the Eragon books)
From the Christian Heroes Then and Now series: Betty Greene and Wilfred Grenfell
Unbroken, by Laura Hillenbrand (about Louis Zamperini)
12 Stories of Christmas, by Joe Wheeler (the type of stories that might make you cry)
To Kill a Mockingbird, by Harper Lee
Why One Way? by John MacArthur
A Cup of Cold Water, by Christine Farenhorst (about Edith Cavell)
Hostage Lands, by Douglas Bond
The Betrayal, by Douglas Bond (a novel about John Calvin...I almost forgot about that one (I think it was this year))
There have been other books, but they were either for school, or not so good, or okay but not enough to recommend, or I've forgotten them!
Saturday, 31 December 2011
Thursday, 29 December 2011
The Girls
I have the younger girls over right now. There are 5 of them: 2 4-year olds and 3 6-year olds. I've never had them over as a group before, but I've had all of their older siblings over (and some of them have come with other family members). Today I finally found time and energy to entertain a group of small, giggly girls.
Actually, they're very easy to entertain. They played with my toys and then we had a picnic of pizza and cookies and Sprite on the floor. I made them very happy by letting them paint Christmas ornaments just like the big girls (but with t-shirts to keep them clean and a lot more supervision), and they were very careful to be neat and did a fairly good job of it. We also coloured and we had princess Christmas crackers. Now they are watching Bolt and eating popcorn and sour keys.
The line of the day....
Me: They made the biggest mess ever!
Small child: No, the rapture is the biggest mess ever!
Much later edit: It disturbs me, the number of hits this post gets. I'm changing the name in the hopes that it won't get found as much.
Actually, they're very easy to entertain. They played with my toys and then we had a picnic of pizza and cookies and Sprite on the floor. I made them very happy by letting them paint Christmas ornaments just like the big girls (but with t-shirts to keep them clean and a lot more supervision), and they were very careful to be neat and did a fairly good job of it. We also coloured and we had princess Christmas crackers. Now they are watching Bolt and eating popcorn and sour keys.
The line of the day....
Me: They made the biggest mess ever!
Small child: No, the rapture is the biggest mess ever!
Much later edit: It disturbs me, the number of hits this post gets. I'm changing the name in the hopes that it won't get found as much.
Wednesday, 28 December 2011
Why People Deny Creation
These are my thoughts on why people deny creation; I may not have all the reasons and I may be speculating. The thing is, I've never doubted creation as it's laid out in Genesis 1-2. I think the Bible is amazingly clear: God made everything from nothing by speaking it all into being. I don't see how you can read the Bible, accepting it as God's inspired word, and deny creation.
Oh... and I'm talking about professing Christians here; nonchristians deny creation because they are in active rebellion against the Creator.
First: They haven't been taught properly. They've been around people and in churches that teach alternative views of Genesis 1-2, and they've simply accepted what they've been told. They have also likely never been taught to read the Bible and think about what it really says. Either they are expected to accept what they are taught, they think that the Bible may be too hard to understand, or they are lazy.
Side note: I know that I am extremely blessed to be in a church family where reading the Bible regularly and thinking critically and making sure the teachers/pastors are teaching/preaching truth and asking questions or raising concerns if what they say does not seem to match Scripture are all encouraged. I send my Sunday School students home with orders (usually ignored) to read certain passages to make sure what I am teaching is truth. It's a very, very important part of their learning because one day they will run into people who claim things as Biblical that are not in the Bible.
Okay, second reason: They want to gain the respect of the scientific community, maybe with the intention of "finding common ground" to "start a conversation" and preach the gospel, so they start to compromise (maybe a day isn't a day....) and then it all goes downhill from there. Guess what? A day is a day...and there is nothing in Genesis 1-2 to say otherwise. Besides that, compromising to win the approval of the world is wrong and will never, never, never cause anyone to listen to the gospel. Read Acts; they opposed all sorts of beliefs with no compromise and God saved people. Got that? Compromise does not save people; God saves people.
Finally: No creation = no Adam and Eve = no fall = no original sin = I'm a pretty good person, really, with just a few flaws. I don't think anyone would state that as a reason, but I think it's there. I think that denying creation leads to a better view of ourselves than we should have, and I think it might be a reason, however subconscious, for the willingness to deny what is so clearly stated in the Bible. This way, they can feel good about themselves, and believe that they aren't so bad, and brush off any guilt, and go through life believing that God loves them just the way they are and sin isn't a big deal. And Jesus died just to show us how much He loves us (not to save us from eternal wrath and punishment which we deserve and can do nothing about because we are dead in our trespasses and sins), and He loves everyone because we're all good people (except maybe Hitler and Stalin and the like). It's a nice story...too bad it isn't true. And believing it undermines the cross, makes Christ's sacrifice and God's justice a sham, calls God a liar, and leaves people feeling happy and guilt free on their way to hell.
People... creation matters. Truth matters. And denying what is clearly stated in the Bible won't change the truth.
Oh... and I'm talking about professing Christians here; nonchristians deny creation because they are in active rebellion against the Creator.
First: They haven't been taught properly. They've been around people and in churches that teach alternative views of Genesis 1-2, and they've simply accepted what they've been told. They have also likely never been taught to read the Bible and think about what it really says. Either they are expected to accept what they are taught, they think that the Bible may be too hard to understand, or they are lazy.
Side note: I know that I am extremely blessed to be in a church family where reading the Bible regularly and thinking critically and making sure the teachers/pastors are teaching/preaching truth and asking questions or raising concerns if what they say does not seem to match Scripture are all encouraged. I send my Sunday School students home with orders (usually ignored) to read certain passages to make sure what I am teaching is truth. It's a very, very important part of their learning because one day they will run into people who claim things as Biblical that are not in the Bible.
Okay, second reason: They want to gain the respect of the scientific community, maybe with the intention of "finding common ground" to "start a conversation" and preach the gospel, so they start to compromise (maybe a day isn't a day....) and then it all goes downhill from there. Guess what? A day is a day...and there is nothing in Genesis 1-2 to say otherwise. Besides that, compromising to win the approval of the world is wrong and will never, never, never cause anyone to listen to the gospel. Read Acts; they opposed all sorts of beliefs with no compromise and God saved people. Got that? Compromise does not save people; God saves people.
Finally: No creation = no Adam and Eve = no fall = no original sin = I'm a pretty good person, really, with just a few flaws. I don't think anyone would state that as a reason, but I think it's there. I think that denying creation leads to a better view of ourselves than we should have, and I think it might be a reason, however subconscious, for the willingness to deny what is so clearly stated in the Bible. This way, they can feel good about themselves, and believe that they aren't so bad, and brush off any guilt, and go through life believing that God loves them just the way they are and sin isn't a big deal. And Jesus died just to show us how much He loves us (not to save us from eternal wrath and punishment which we deserve and can do nothing about because we are dead in our trespasses and sins), and He loves everyone because we're all good people (except maybe Hitler and Stalin and the like). It's a nice story...too bad it isn't true. And believing it undermines the cross, makes Christ's sacrifice and God's justice a sham, calls God a liar, and leaves people feeling happy and guilt free on their way to hell.
People... creation matters. Truth matters. And denying what is clearly stated in the Bible won't change the truth.
Sunday, 25 December 2011
The Joy of Christmas
In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.
He was in the beginning with God.
All things came into being through Him, and apart from Him nothing came into being that has come into being.
In Him was life, and the life was the Light of men.
The Light shines in the darkness, and the darkness did not comprehend it.
And the Word became flesh, and dwelt among us, and we saw His glory, glory as of the only begotten from the Father, full of grace and truth.
For of His fullness we have all received, and grace upon grace.
John 1:1-5, 14, 16
He was in the beginning with God.
All things came into being through Him, and apart from Him nothing came into being that has come into being.
In Him was life, and the life was the Light of men.
The Light shines in the darkness, and the darkness did not comprehend it.
And the Word became flesh, and dwelt among us, and we saw His glory, glory as of the only begotten from the Father, full of grace and truth.
For of His fullness we have all received, and grace upon grace.
John 1:1-5, 14, 16
Saturday, 24 December 2011
Friday, 23 December 2011
The Proverbs Book
Actually, there are 2 Proverbs books: the book of Proverbs (you know...in the Bible...right after Psalms) and God's Wisdom in Proverbs by Dan Phillips. I'm guessing that my readers know my feelings about the Bible, so today I'm going to focus on God's Wisdom in Proverbs.
I've been reading Dan's blog, Biblical Christianity, for a long time, and was excited when he announced that he was having a book published. This is not about that book; his first book is The World-Tilting Gospel, and is on my pile of books to read. The Proverbs book is actually his second book, published not long after his first.
To sum it up: this is a great book. It's well written, it's well researched, it's interesting, and it's very thought provoking. In fact, I really can't write about all of it because I need to go back and read and think about a lot of it. Right now, though, I want to give you an overall picture of the book, with a slightly greater focus on certain bits.
First, Dan gives background information: how to understand Proverbs, who wrote Proverbs (he gets into that more in Appendix One), and what the different types of proverbs are. He makes it very clear that proverbs are not promises or formulae guaranteeing success if you just follow the right steps. He says that "Proverbs are wonderful at being what they are: proverbs. They are not failed prophecies or systematic theologies.... Proverbs both teaches wisdom, and requires wisdom for its correct interpretation and application.... A proverb is not a magical formula, bringing wisdom and blessing by incantation." (p. 21-23, emphasis in the original).
Having set the stage, he goes on to talk about the fear of Yahweh as the foundation of wisdom and how to gain wisdom. This is about where I was when I last mentioned the book (below, discussing hearing God). Dan is very clear that everything we need for wisdom comes from God and that He has told us everything we need to know in the Bible. It is there that we learn to know, trust, and worship Him.
There are three chapters on what Proverbs says about relationships with others as well. There is one on general relationships, including what makes a good friend and a bad friend; how to be a good friend; and who to avoid. The advice in Proverbs includes looking for loyalty, honesty (someone who will give proper criticism and not flattery) and avoiding the hot tempered and easily offended.
Then there is marriage. To be perfectly honest: I tend to be hesitant about marriage books and marriage chapters. They have a very bad habit of assuming that everyone will be married and that being single means that there is a problem with me that I need to fix. Or, they set up unrealistic expectations of marriage. Or, they talk about how to fix the problems in your marriage, mostly by reading the Bible more or communicating better or something (honestly, I tend to stop listening after a while). And it's always so easy: follow the 5 or 7 or however many steps and your marriage will be perfect. If it isn't, you didn't do the steps properly.
I am happy to say that Dan avoids all of this (Mr. Phillips, in case you ever read this, I apologize for ever doubting you). If you're married, go read the chapter yourself and see what you think. I'm giving you the single person's perspective: it's a very good chapter to read when thinking about marriage or dating. From it I learned what Proverbs says about what I should be looking for in a husband and what I should be as a wife. From it I learned how to avoid a lot of trouble up front by being careful about who I marry and by studying Proverbs (and the entire Bible) to be a godly woman and wife. In the event that I start thinking about marriage (hey, it could happen) I fully intend to look at the chapter again. In fact, as I read it I though about how great it would be if I could find a way to teach this to my high school girls who are just starting to think about boys. Actually, I should give it to their parents.
The next chapter is on parenting. Again, I have no experience, but I have spoken with parents and read some parenting books and done a lot of observing. Here's what I take from this chapter: if you a a good parent, a godly parent, who attempts to parent your children according to Biblical principles, disciplining faithfully and training them in God's word, and your children walk away from your teaching and lead rebellious lives....it's not your fault. There is no magic formula here either. There is also no guilt as long as you are doing your job. Appendix three talks about Proverbs 22:6, looking at it as a threat rather than a promise. This will upset everyone who wants it to be a promise that one day their children will follow God and will reduce the guilt of everyone who has rebellious children. Only once before have I heard it explained this way, and I still can't remember where. I am glad to have it all spelled out for me.
That's just about all I have for you. You really need to read this book for yourself. It gets pretty deep at times, and delves into the Hebrew words, but don't let that concern you. Dan is good at explaining the meanings of the words, the background, and the way they are used.
Finally, 3 other pluses of the book...
1. Footnotes. Sometimes they give references and other times they further explain things. The important thing is that they are not end notes (I once read a book with so many end notes that I had to keep a separate bookmark in them).
2. The bibliography. I like going through bibliographies, first to see if I know any of the books, but also because I may want to study more. In this case, the bibliography is extra good since for some of the items Dan has added notes on which ones are good, which ones are good for more advanced studies, and which ones are not as good. My personal favourite: "Museum-piece of unhinged liberalism." Which brings me to
3. The language. Dan has a wonderful grasp of the English language and uses it extremely well. I knew from years of reading his blog that he was a good wordsmith; I know from his book that he is a master wordsmith. From the first page of the preface: "Proverbs is a kaleidoscopic microcosm of the wisdom of God." It starts well, it keeps going well, it ends well.
I've been reading Dan's blog, Biblical Christianity, for a long time, and was excited when he announced that he was having a book published. This is not about that book; his first book is The World-Tilting Gospel, and is on my pile of books to read. The Proverbs book is actually his second book, published not long after his first.
To sum it up: this is a great book. It's well written, it's well researched, it's interesting, and it's very thought provoking. In fact, I really can't write about all of it because I need to go back and read and think about a lot of it. Right now, though, I want to give you an overall picture of the book, with a slightly greater focus on certain bits.
First, Dan gives background information: how to understand Proverbs, who wrote Proverbs (he gets into that more in Appendix One), and what the different types of proverbs are. He makes it very clear that proverbs are not promises or formulae guaranteeing success if you just follow the right steps. He says that "Proverbs are wonderful at being what they are: proverbs. They are not failed prophecies or systematic theologies.... Proverbs both teaches wisdom, and requires wisdom for its correct interpretation and application.... A proverb is not a magical formula, bringing wisdom and blessing by incantation." (p. 21-23, emphasis in the original).
Having set the stage, he goes on to talk about the fear of Yahweh as the foundation of wisdom and how to gain wisdom. This is about where I was when I last mentioned the book (below, discussing hearing God). Dan is very clear that everything we need for wisdom comes from God and that He has told us everything we need to know in the Bible. It is there that we learn to know, trust, and worship Him.
There are three chapters on what Proverbs says about relationships with others as well. There is one on general relationships, including what makes a good friend and a bad friend; how to be a good friend; and who to avoid. The advice in Proverbs includes looking for loyalty, honesty (someone who will give proper criticism and not flattery) and avoiding the hot tempered and easily offended.
Then there is marriage. To be perfectly honest: I tend to be hesitant about marriage books and marriage chapters. They have a very bad habit of assuming that everyone will be married and that being single means that there is a problem with me that I need to fix. Or, they set up unrealistic expectations of marriage. Or, they talk about how to fix the problems in your marriage, mostly by reading the Bible more or communicating better or something (honestly, I tend to stop listening after a while). And it's always so easy: follow the 5 or 7 or however many steps and your marriage will be perfect. If it isn't, you didn't do the steps properly.
I am happy to say that Dan avoids all of this (Mr. Phillips, in case you ever read this, I apologize for ever doubting you). If you're married, go read the chapter yourself and see what you think. I'm giving you the single person's perspective: it's a very good chapter to read when thinking about marriage or dating. From it I learned what Proverbs says about what I should be looking for in a husband and what I should be as a wife. From it I learned how to avoid a lot of trouble up front by being careful about who I marry and by studying Proverbs (and the entire Bible) to be a godly woman and wife. In the event that I start thinking about marriage (hey, it could happen) I fully intend to look at the chapter again. In fact, as I read it I though about how great it would be if I could find a way to teach this to my high school girls who are just starting to think about boys. Actually, I should give it to their parents.
The next chapter is on parenting. Again, I have no experience, but I have spoken with parents and read some parenting books and done a lot of observing. Here's what I take from this chapter: if you a a good parent, a godly parent, who attempts to parent your children according to Biblical principles, disciplining faithfully and training them in God's word, and your children walk away from your teaching and lead rebellious lives....it's not your fault. There is no magic formula here either. There is also no guilt as long as you are doing your job. Appendix three talks about Proverbs 22:6, looking at it as a threat rather than a promise. This will upset everyone who wants it to be a promise that one day their children will follow God and will reduce the guilt of everyone who has rebellious children. Only once before have I heard it explained this way, and I still can't remember where. I am glad to have it all spelled out for me.
That's just about all I have for you. You really need to read this book for yourself. It gets pretty deep at times, and delves into the Hebrew words, but don't let that concern you. Dan is good at explaining the meanings of the words, the background, and the way they are used.
Finally, 3 other pluses of the book...
1. Footnotes. Sometimes they give references and other times they further explain things. The important thing is that they are not end notes (I once read a book with so many end notes that I had to keep a separate bookmark in them).
2. The bibliography. I like going through bibliographies, first to see if I know any of the books, but also because I may want to study more. In this case, the bibliography is extra good since for some of the items Dan has added notes on which ones are good, which ones are good for more advanced studies, and which ones are not as good. My personal favourite: "Museum-piece of unhinged liberalism." Which brings me to
3. The language. Dan has a wonderful grasp of the English language and uses it extremely well. I knew from years of reading his blog that he was a good wordsmith; I know from his book that he is a master wordsmith. From the first page of the preface: "Proverbs is a kaleidoscopic microcosm of the wisdom of God." It starts well, it keeps going well, it ends well.
Sunday, 18 December 2011
And So We Survived the Christmas Concert
And it went well. The grade 1-3 class was up first and they belted out Joy to the World, which was not only great to hear but set the tone for the rest of the evening! My kids did a great job with the nativity play and no one turned his or her back to the audience. They were very proud of themselves. The junior/senior high did a good job with readings from the prophets and then the fulfillments in Christ's birth; one girl jumped the gun a couple times which threw another girl a bit, but it still flowed really well and we could hear the promises that were fulfilled just with Christ's birth (and at that not all of them). The special music was really, really good as well. In the end, we had candles (real candles instead of battery operated ones) and sang Silent Night and it was properly Christmasy.
And now we are done for another year. We already have big plans for next year's concert, but for now we will rest!
And for a touch of class for a change....
And now we are done for another year. We already have big plans for next year's concert, but for now we will rest!
And for a touch of class for a change....
Friday, 16 December 2011
Bits and Pieces
It's been somewhat busy at work, with teachers off sick and writing exams, and kids having to change their schedules, and me getting to cope with everything. It's not terribly busy, just the usual December issues. One more week, though, and we're closed for Christmas (well, I have to work one day between Christmas and New Year's, but otherwise we close that week).
I'm pretty much ready for Christmas. The tree is up and decorated (last year it only got the lights) and Christmas parcels have been sent and received. There are presents hiding in my laundry room so I don't give in and open some before Christmas! Some of them I'm fairly certain about and others have me very, very curious. There are Christmas cookies in my freezer and the kids came over for our annual cookie decorating. I've been assigned a veggie platter and pickles as my Christmas dinner contribution, so that's nice and easy! One more week....
Even though I'm not doing school right now, I'm still incredibly busy. Most of all, I want to rest so I'm ready to start again in March. I'm hoping January is nice and quiet and peaceful so I can rest and maybe catch up on all the things I wanted to do this winter!
Today was pretty quiet and I didn't do much beyond laundry and a bit of cooking and a lot of reading and a nap. I'm still tired, but I feel better than I have most of this week. It just seems that when things start relaxing and going well, someone has to step in a make life complicated again and I just want it to stop! Still, just one more week to Christmas break. At least then work will stop interfering.
Overall....life is good. There are rough days and easy days and in the end....life is good.
I'm pretty much ready for Christmas. The tree is up and decorated (last year it only got the lights) and Christmas parcels have been sent and received. There are presents hiding in my laundry room so I don't give in and open some before Christmas! Some of them I'm fairly certain about and others have me very, very curious. There are Christmas cookies in my freezer and the kids came over for our annual cookie decorating. I've been assigned a veggie platter and pickles as my Christmas dinner contribution, so that's nice and easy! One more week....
Even though I'm not doing school right now, I'm still incredibly busy. Most of all, I want to rest so I'm ready to start again in March. I'm hoping January is nice and quiet and peaceful so I can rest and maybe catch up on all the things I wanted to do this winter!
Today was pretty quiet and I didn't do much beyond laundry and a bit of cooking and a lot of reading and a nap. I'm still tired, but I feel better than I have most of this week. It just seems that when things start relaxing and going well, someone has to step in a make life complicated again and I just want it to stop! Still, just one more week to Christmas break. At least then work will stop interfering.
Overall....life is good. There are rough days and easy days and in the end....life is good.
Friday, 9 December 2011
A Quick Book Review
I was doing a quick blurb for the book recommendation section of the women's ministries bulletin board and I though I'd share it with you. I really enjoyed the book (and found it rather convicting).
Uneclipsing the Son by Rick Holland
“Jesus, the Son of God, has been eclipsed, and we’ve made ourselves at home in this new normal.”
Rick Holland has seen a problem in the church: we have allowed many, many things to come between us and Christ. We do not desire Christ as we should, being content with shadows and a good life rather than the abundant life that God promises.
Holland does not stop with diagnosing the problem; he offers the cure as well. We must put aside all idols and focus on Jesus instead. Holland takes us through Scripture to see the place Christ must have in our lives, in our worship, and in our churches. And he brings encouragement: we can walk in the full light of the Son.
Sunday, 4 December 2011
Christmas Concert Update
It's all coming together...I know what everyone is doing and just need to confirm one group and it's all ready to go. Well, sort of ready! I was teaching Sunday School and it seems that some of the children in one of the Sunday School classes don't know what they're singing; it seems that rehearsals haven't started yet in that class!
In my class we had our second rehearsal and our first with the small children. I may need to find a way to inform a mom that her son just isn't ready to be in the concert and maybe next year. He doesn't want to be in it but she wants him to participate. The rest of the little guys did well, except the one new little guy who refused to join us, but that's fine; I don't want to push them. The angels mostly know their lines and are working on being happy when they speak; the shepherds are only looking a bit afraid and not like they're going to die of fright; the chief angel looks less afraid of the shepherds; and the narrator is learning to speak slowly the whole time.
The big kids seem more aware of what they're doing (last week they were handed a script and I don't think any of them read the whole thing). They had to rearrange some parts since their teacher (bless his heart) didn't stop to think and some students may not be around the day of the concert and made sure everyone had a part. I've been assured (by a wonderful friend who has taken over training them) that once they learn to speak slowly they'll do fine. We're bribing them to memorize their parts by next week!
It will be a good concert. I need to remember what I've been telling the kids: it's for God's glory, not ours, and our goal needs to be to bring Him glory by spreading the good news of Jesus to our audience.
And now, some classic Christmas music for your enjoyment...
In my class we had our second rehearsal and our first with the small children. I may need to find a way to inform a mom that her son just isn't ready to be in the concert and maybe next year. He doesn't want to be in it but she wants him to participate. The rest of the little guys did well, except the one new little guy who refused to join us, but that's fine; I don't want to push them. The angels mostly know their lines and are working on being happy when they speak; the shepherds are only looking a bit afraid and not like they're going to die of fright; the chief angel looks less afraid of the shepherds; and the narrator is learning to speak slowly the whole time.
The big kids seem more aware of what they're doing (last week they were handed a script and I don't think any of them read the whole thing). They had to rearrange some parts since their teacher (bless his heart) didn't stop to think and some students may not be around the day of the concert and made sure everyone had a part. I've been assured (by a wonderful friend who has taken over training them) that once they learn to speak slowly they'll do fine. We're bribing them to memorize their parts by next week!
It will be a good concert. I need to remember what I've been telling the kids: it's for God's glory, not ours, and our goal needs to be to bring Him glory by spreading the good news of Jesus to our audience.
And now, some classic Christmas music for your enjoyment...
Wednesday, 30 November 2011
Yesterday
It's been a rough month, both in and out of work. By yesterday I was ready to throw in the towel; nothing seemed to be going right and I had pretty much decided that I couldn't do anything right anyway.
Then....friends stopped by work with their baby boy and 2 year old daughter. I had a lovely bit of time playing with the little girl, who sat happily on my knee and looked at everything in my office. Whatever I gave her she declared to be "nice" and smiled. They actually came for more than to let me play with my girl for a little while; they came to thank me for being a good tenant and to bring me a Chapters gift card.
So....I admired the baby, played with the sweet girl, and heard that I am doing something right...and now I get to buy books.
It made everything a little bit better.
Then....friends stopped by work with their baby boy and 2 year old daughter. I had a lovely bit of time playing with the little girl, who sat happily on my knee and looked at everything in my office. Whatever I gave her she declared to be "nice" and smiled. They actually came for more than to let me play with my girl for a little while; they came to thank me for being a good tenant and to bring me a Chapters gift card.
So....I admired the baby, played with the sweet girl, and heard that I am doing something right...and now I get to buy books.
It made everything a little bit better.
Sunday, 27 November 2011
Christmas Concert
Christmas is coming, and with it the Christmas concert. This year I'm in charge, and it's going fairly well. Each class is doing their own thing (except the small ones are joining my class since there aren't many of them). There will also be some special music from some of the children.
That special music...that was almost my downfall. I asked the music person for help; she delegated it to someone else, and that is where the trouble started. The someone else first had an idea that she wanted to do with the whole Sunday School, so I had to explain that each class already had a plan. I told her I had just been asking about special music, and when we parted we agreed that I would let her know when we needed her help with the singing (because my class generally needs help; I can't sing). Then today I learned that she had spoken to a mom about having her son play piano for the Christmas Concert...but hadn't told me. In fact, she had a list of people to talk to because the other music person asked her to find people, but no one thought to ask me how many people we actually needed. I stopped her before she could ask anyone else and we've settled on three pieces of special music, and someone suggested that other people could do music during the offertory in December.
A note to my readers: if you're asked to help, remember that you're helping, not in charge, and that the person in charge needs to know what's going on. This same person spoke with me about doing music with Junior Church, and when I said she should talk to the teachers and that we would talk on Sunday, evidently took that to mean, "Go ahead and do it." We had another conversation about talking to the teachers first to find out if they want help with music, and also not taking time away from the teaching.
Okay, back to the Christmas Concert: My class had our first rehearsal today. I really need to teach the shepherds to look frightened without over-acting. They like over-acting, but need to remember that it's not about them. In fact, I finally sent one shepherd back to sit down because he wouldn't behave. Next week we'll have the little guys with us, so that should make it even more fun!
I think I have everything all arranged. I have someone else in charge of the Junior/Senior High class. They are doing a reading (well, actually they're all memorizing their verses) that goes back and forth from prophecies about Christ's birth to the fulfillment. Their teacher is great, but he admitted that he needs help getting it set up properly. I wrote the original script and know how it was supposed to work, and I talked it over with a friend who has agreed to get them trained (I believe she plans to use a combination of threats and bribery). The other class will be fine, and the kids doing the special music are all well trained.
I am not going to worry about it....really!
Here, to prepare you for Christmas, on of my favourites.
That special music...that was almost my downfall. I asked the music person for help; she delegated it to someone else, and that is where the trouble started. The someone else first had an idea that she wanted to do with the whole Sunday School, so I had to explain that each class already had a plan. I told her I had just been asking about special music, and when we parted we agreed that I would let her know when we needed her help with the singing (because my class generally needs help; I can't sing). Then today I learned that she had spoken to a mom about having her son play piano for the Christmas Concert...but hadn't told me. In fact, she had a list of people to talk to because the other music person asked her to find people, but no one thought to ask me how many people we actually needed. I stopped her before she could ask anyone else and we've settled on three pieces of special music, and someone suggested that other people could do music during the offertory in December.
A note to my readers: if you're asked to help, remember that you're helping, not in charge, and that the person in charge needs to know what's going on. This same person spoke with me about doing music with Junior Church, and when I said she should talk to the teachers and that we would talk on Sunday, evidently took that to mean, "Go ahead and do it." We had another conversation about talking to the teachers first to find out if they want help with music, and also not taking time away from the teaching.
Okay, back to the Christmas Concert: My class had our first rehearsal today. I really need to teach the shepherds to look frightened without over-acting. They like over-acting, but need to remember that it's not about them. In fact, I finally sent one shepherd back to sit down because he wouldn't behave. Next week we'll have the little guys with us, so that should make it even more fun!
I think I have everything all arranged. I have someone else in charge of the Junior/Senior High class. They are doing a reading (well, actually they're all memorizing their verses) that goes back and forth from prophecies about Christ's birth to the fulfillment. Their teacher is great, but he admitted that he needs help getting it set up properly. I wrote the original script and know how it was supposed to work, and I talked it over with a friend who has agreed to get them trained (I believe she plans to use a combination of threats and bribery). The other class will be fine, and the kids doing the special music are all well trained.
I am not going to worry about it....really!
Here, to prepare you for Christmas, on of my favourites.
Saturday, 26 November 2011
Inheritance
I just finished the final book in Christopher Paolini's Inheritance Cycle. I enjoyed all 4 books and I liked the way the story flowed through them. I also liked how things worked out for each of the characters. I think Paolini is a very good author and I would recommend his books to anyone who enjoys fantasy.
I had some issues, though, with the final book that I did not have with the others. Because of the 3-year gap between the final 2 books, I re-read the first three a couple months ago to refresh my mind about what had gone on before. This turned out to be a very good thing, because there was a lot I had forgotten! It also heightened a few issues with the final book.
SPOILER ALERT!
If you intend to read the book, stop reading here. I'm going to tell you about the end.
Okay, you've been warned!
First, I think the book was too long. It isn't that it was longer than the others; I don't mind a long book if the length is necessary. In this case, Paolini could have told the story just as well in a shorter book. I think he knew that this would be the last book and wanted to tell and describe everything. A lot of the discussion (especially every time Galbatorix spoke) was to drawn out and slowed the action too much. On the other hand, a lot of the action was also too drawn out, especially the fight scenes. There did not need to be as much detail. The final battle especially could have been told in less detail and been just as (or possibly more) effective.
Much of the discussion in the book, again especially with Galbatorix, seemed to be an opportunity for Paolini to voice his world view. In general, books reflect the world view of the author; that's perfectly natural, and is usually somewhat subtle. Paolini, however, seems sometimes to be determined to spell it out for his readers and make sure they get what he believes, and perhaps see how reasonable it is.
I also determined, part way through the book, that none of the characters closely connected to Eragon would die. This took away some from the scene with Nasuada in Galbatorix's torture chamber because I knew that she wouldn't die and she wouldn't give in, so there was no concern. I also knew that Roran, Katrina, Ayra, Angela, and Orik would be safe. There were a couple important characters who did die in the series (various important leaders), but they were not so closely connected to Eragon (there was always a barrier between them), and their deaths were important to allow other people to take their places. My guess is that Paolini liked his characters too much to be able to kill them off.
Finally, the ending was also too long. They won on page 719, but the book went on for another 130 pages of wrapping things up. There were chapters that could have been summed up in a paragraph or two without losing anything important. Again, though, I think Paolini wanted to tell everything that happened in detail because the series was ending and he had all sorts of ideas about what was happening and should happen.
END SPOILERS
And yet....I enjoyed the book. I like how the characters interacted and the futures that they received. There were no plot issues and I did not feel disappointed at the end.
So...if you like fantasy and dragons and good stories, by all means read the Inheritance Cycle.
I had some issues, though, with the final book that I did not have with the others. Because of the 3-year gap between the final 2 books, I re-read the first three a couple months ago to refresh my mind about what had gone on before. This turned out to be a very good thing, because there was a lot I had forgotten! It also heightened a few issues with the final book.
SPOILER ALERT!
If you intend to read the book, stop reading here. I'm going to tell you about the end.
Okay, you've been warned!
First, I think the book was too long. It isn't that it was longer than the others; I don't mind a long book if the length is necessary. In this case, Paolini could have told the story just as well in a shorter book. I think he knew that this would be the last book and wanted to tell and describe everything. A lot of the discussion (especially every time Galbatorix spoke) was to drawn out and slowed the action too much. On the other hand, a lot of the action was also too drawn out, especially the fight scenes. There did not need to be as much detail. The final battle especially could have been told in less detail and been just as (or possibly more) effective.
Much of the discussion in the book, again especially with Galbatorix, seemed to be an opportunity for Paolini to voice his world view. In general, books reflect the world view of the author; that's perfectly natural, and is usually somewhat subtle. Paolini, however, seems sometimes to be determined to spell it out for his readers and make sure they get what he believes, and perhaps see how reasonable it is.
I also determined, part way through the book, that none of the characters closely connected to Eragon would die. This took away some from the scene with Nasuada in Galbatorix's torture chamber because I knew that she wouldn't die and she wouldn't give in, so there was no concern. I also knew that Roran, Katrina, Ayra, Angela, and Orik would be safe. There were a couple important characters who did die in the series (various important leaders), but they were not so closely connected to Eragon (there was always a barrier between them), and their deaths were important to allow other people to take their places. My guess is that Paolini liked his characters too much to be able to kill them off.
Finally, the ending was also too long. They won on page 719, but the book went on for another 130 pages of wrapping things up. There were chapters that could have been summed up in a paragraph or two without losing anything important. Again, though, I think Paolini wanted to tell everything that happened in detail because the series was ending and he had all sorts of ideas about what was happening and should happen.
END SPOILERS
And yet....I enjoyed the book. I like how the characters interacted and the futures that they received. There were no plot issues and I did not feel disappointed at the end.
So...if you like fantasy and dragons and good stories, by all means read the Inheritance Cycle.
Wednesday, 23 November 2011
Thankful
I've been emotionally messed lately and somewhat grumpy, so to remedy it (and in honour of American Thanksgiving this weekend), here's what I'm thankful for.
1. I have the final Eragon book. I haven't read much yet, but I plan to read a lot on Friday. I'm torn between wanting to make it last (since it's really the last one) and wanting to find out how it ends. I had it delivered to work (I'm not home when UPS comes) and was reading it while my student was doing math last night. We were laughing about the description on the front flap; near the end it asks, "But will they topple the evil king and restore justice to Alagaesia?" Um...yeah...probably, or the whole series becomes a giant disappointment, and the author will have to get into witness protection or some such thing.
2. On Monday my new pants arrived in the mail (because I don't like shopping; I like clicking buttons and having things shipped straight to me). They fit beautifully and don't have to be hemmed....and they're a size smaller than I had originally thought I needed.
3. Christmas is coming and my mum assures me that there will soon be a box of presents heading my way!
4. God is incredibly patient with me, even when I let emotions rule for a while before I remember to turn to Him.
5. No matter what happens, God is in control and I can turn to Him.
6. I have an amazing church family.
7. Chocolate, in many, many forms.
8. Tomorrow is Thursday. Thursday evenings are my happy times. First, I get to have supper with a friend and her family and can be part of a family for a while. Then it's Bible study time and I love my Bible study group; plus, we're studying Romans and I love Romans.
9, I got free samples in the mail yesterday: 2 teabags, one for dark chocolate chai tea and one for vanilla bean chai tea.
10. Last night I watched Fiddler on the Roof. I'm thankful for a TV, and a DVD player, and musicals.
1. I have the final Eragon book. I haven't read much yet, but I plan to read a lot on Friday. I'm torn between wanting to make it last (since it's really the last one) and wanting to find out how it ends. I had it delivered to work (I'm not home when UPS comes) and was reading it while my student was doing math last night. We were laughing about the description on the front flap; near the end it asks, "But will they topple the evil king and restore justice to Alagaesia?" Um...yeah...probably, or the whole series becomes a giant disappointment, and the author will have to get into witness protection or some such thing.
2. On Monday my new pants arrived in the mail (because I don't like shopping; I like clicking buttons and having things shipped straight to me). They fit beautifully and don't have to be hemmed....and they're a size smaller than I had originally thought I needed.
3. Christmas is coming and my mum assures me that there will soon be a box of presents heading my way!
4. God is incredibly patient with me, even when I let emotions rule for a while before I remember to turn to Him.
5. No matter what happens, God is in control and I can turn to Him.
6. I have an amazing church family.
7. Chocolate, in many, many forms.
8. Tomorrow is Thursday. Thursday evenings are my happy times. First, I get to have supper with a friend and her family and can be part of a family for a while. Then it's Bible study time and I love my Bible study group; plus, we're studying Romans and I love Romans.
9, I got free samples in the mail yesterday: 2 teabags, one for dark chocolate chai tea and one for vanilla bean chai tea.
10. Last night I watched Fiddler on the Roof. I'm thankful for a TV, and a DVD player, and musicals.
Monday, 21 November 2011
Hearing God
I've been reading God's Wisdom in Proverbs by Dan Phillips. When I finish it, I plan to write a proper review, but this is not a fast and easy read; it requires time to stop and think and ponder. Anyway, here's where my thoughts were with it today.
People often say "God told me" and "I heard a small voice" and such to explain a decision. You see them on TV a lot, too, talking about new messages that God gave them, and sometimes encouraging us to listen for God's special messages to us as well. It worried me some because I never hear God telling me what to do. I usually make decisions based on gathering information, praying, talking to people who are wiser than I, and then doing what makes the most sense. No "still, small voice" and no "it just felt right." (In fact, I tend to worry about all the big decisions so I never feel an immense sense of peace. If I waited for that, I'd never do anything.)
Further, all the "prophets" people have told me about have turned out to have prophesied falsely at least once, so I'm not ready to trust them. I've never felt the need for new prophesies and small voices in my head and the like, but there are people who make me feel like I'm missing some new truth when I won't listen to this or that "prophet" (who prophesies on a schedule, incidentally, which seems rather forced to me) and that I would understand God so much better (as an aside: not the people at my church, who seem to see things the way I do in this area).
Which brings me to the Proverbs book. Dan Phillips was talking about fear of the Lord, and how we need to learn about God to fear Him, and that this revelation comes through the Bible and always has. Back in Deuteronomy17:18-19, the future kings of Israel are told to copy out and study and know the Law, and that way learn to fear the Lord.
Listen to what Dan says: "Even though he lived in the day of ongoing revelation, with prophets hearing words straight from God's mouth, the king was not directed to focus on them. He was not told to have daily coffee with a prophet, asking for the latest scoop from Heaven. No, he was directed to the written word that he (and all Israel) already possessed." (p.74)
Did you get that? Back in the days when there was on-going revelation, people were still told to turn to Scripture that was already given to know God. And we have the entire Bible now, much more than they had.
We don't need feelings or small voices or new prophetic utterances. We only need the Bible: that is how God speaks to us.
People often say "God told me" and "I heard a small voice" and such to explain a decision. You see them on TV a lot, too, talking about new messages that God gave them, and sometimes encouraging us to listen for God's special messages to us as well. It worried me some because I never hear God telling me what to do. I usually make decisions based on gathering information, praying, talking to people who are wiser than I, and then doing what makes the most sense. No "still, small voice" and no "it just felt right." (In fact, I tend to worry about all the big decisions so I never feel an immense sense of peace. If I waited for that, I'd never do anything.)
Further, all the "prophets" people have told me about have turned out to have prophesied falsely at least once, so I'm not ready to trust them. I've never felt the need for new prophesies and small voices in my head and the like, but there are people who make me feel like I'm missing some new truth when I won't listen to this or that "prophet" (who prophesies on a schedule, incidentally, which seems rather forced to me) and that I would understand God so much better (as an aside: not the people at my church, who seem to see things the way I do in this area).
Which brings me to the Proverbs book. Dan Phillips was talking about fear of the Lord, and how we need to learn about God to fear Him, and that this revelation comes through the Bible and always has. Back in Deuteronomy17:18-19, the future kings of Israel are told to copy out and study and know the Law, and that way learn to fear the Lord.
Listen to what Dan says: "Even though he lived in the day of ongoing revelation, with prophets hearing words straight from God's mouth, the king was not directed to focus on them. He was not told to have daily coffee with a prophet, asking for the latest scoop from Heaven. No, he was directed to the written word that he (and all Israel) already possessed." (p.74)
Did you get that? Back in the days when there was on-going revelation, people were still told to turn to Scripture that was already given to know God. And we have the entire Bible now, much more than they had.
We don't need feelings or small voices or new prophetic utterances. We only need the Bible: that is how God speaks to us.
Wednesday, 16 November 2011
Monday, 14 November 2011
Winter
Winter seems to have struck Edmonton full force today. There was a bit of snow over the weekend, but not much. Today, though, it's snowing a lot. It was really pretty, walking home in the dark with the snow falling gently. Come February I'll probably be saying nasty things about the snow, but right now I don't mind it.
Plus, today I got off work a bit earlier than expected and now I'm at home enjoying tomato soup and a grilled cheese sandwich. It's the ultimate in comfort food and perfect for the start of winter.
Plus, today I got off work a bit earlier than expected and now I'm at home enjoying tomato soup and a grilled cheese sandwich. It's the ultimate in comfort food and perfect for the start of winter.
Wednesday, 9 November 2011
Making into Laws the Traditions of Men
Pastor James was preaching from Mark 7 on Sunday, about the Pharisees making the traditions into laws, even overriding the actual Law. He spoke about how we can do that too: we apply Scripture to our lives and then expect that everyone else will apply it the same way and become upset or self-righteous or just annoying when they don't.
It's like this: we need to have convictions, to be fully convinced in our own minds about things (Romans talks about eating certain foods; Pastor James also used home schooling as an example) and act on our convictions.
BUT these convictions aren't spelled out in Scripture; they're simply how we apply Scripture. And what is spelled out is how we are to act: love others, humility, fellowship, etc. So if our convictions, or really the way we act concerning them, counteract the stuff that Scripture clearly commands, then we have a problem and we're making our traditions and convictions into laws.
I've been thinking about this. It's really, really easy for me to see other people do this. They're the ones who are proud of leaving facebook and giving up blogging to spend more time with God and having real fellowship with people and you can hear how much more spiritual they are now. Or they get up at 5 to spend 2 hours with God and how can you get through your day without doing that. Or...you can insert your own here. You follow, yes?
So that's them, but what about me? Where do I start to feel superior to others because of my convictions? How do I want to make traditions into laws? I don't know for sure, but it is something to think about.
It's like this: we need to have convictions, to be fully convinced in our own minds about things (Romans talks about eating certain foods; Pastor James also used home schooling as an example) and act on our convictions.
BUT these convictions aren't spelled out in Scripture; they're simply how we apply Scripture. And what is spelled out is how we are to act: love others, humility, fellowship, etc. So if our convictions, or really the way we act concerning them, counteract the stuff that Scripture clearly commands, then we have a problem and we're making our traditions and convictions into laws.
I've been thinking about this. It's really, really easy for me to see other people do this. They're the ones who are proud of leaving facebook and giving up blogging to spend more time with God and having real fellowship with people and you can hear how much more spiritual they are now. Or they get up at 5 to spend 2 hours with God and how can you get through your day without doing that. Or...you can insert your own here. You follow, yes?
So that's them, but what about me? Where do I start to feel superior to others because of my convictions? How do I want to make traditions into laws? I don't know for sure, but it is something to think about.
Sunday, 6 November 2011
Bits and Pieces
The essays are done and were handed in on time. I think they were okay; at least I liked them and so did my friend who edits them for me. All I really care about right now is that they're done and I can stop now. I've been doing school for almost 4 years with only a week off here and there and I am so ready for a break. I've decided to take the winter off and leave the rest of the independent study classes for now. I'll start school again in March.
It sounds easy, this business of getting a master's degree slowly and through correspondence, but I know three people who have had to stop, at least for a time, because of time constraints. This last year almost did me in, and left me totally tired out, and I don't have a family to care for as some of my classmates do.
I had the first sleepover Friday night. It was for my class, so they were younger girls (grades 3-6), and only 4 of them were able to attend. They're a pretty low key group and not much trouble, although they get very giggly as it gets late! This weekend I will have the junior/senior high girls. It's sort of turning into a youth group activity (Friday is officially a "split youth session" for the group, and I understand the male leaders have plans for the boys). The good news is that the youth group leaders will be here so I won't be the only adult. On the other hand, there are at least 10 people planning to attend, and I have a small apartment! Well, we'll all squeeze in somehow.
Work is beginning to settle down into a regular schedule which means I can settle into a regular schedule. There's still a lot going on, but I'll get to rest as well and catch up on stuff.
It sounds easy, this business of getting a master's degree slowly and through correspondence, but I know three people who have had to stop, at least for a time, because of time constraints. This last year almost did me in, and left me totally tired out, and I don't have a family to care for as some of my classmates do.
I had the first sleepover Friday night. It was for my class, so they were younger girls (grades 3-6), and only 4 of them were able to attend. They're a pretty low key group and not much trouble, although they get very giggly as it gets late! This weekend I will have the junior/senior high girls. It's sort of turning into a youth group activity (Friday is officially a "split youth session" for the group, and I understand the male leaders have plans for the boys). The good news is that the youth group leaders will be here so I won't be the only adult. On the other hand, there are at least 10 people planning to attend, and I have a small apartment! Well, we'll all squeeze in somehow.
Work is beginning to settle down into a regular schedule which means I can settle into a regular schedule. There's still a lot going on, but I'll get to rest as well and catch up on stuff.
Sunday, 30 October 2011
Blah
I'm ready to pack it in, essay-wise. I'm tired and I have no idea what to write. In fact, I'm wondering if honesty is the best policy: I don't know why Matthew leaves out a statement that Luke and Mark include! I bet I'd still get an okay mark if I admitted that.
Anyway...instead of working I'm watching YouTube and hoping inspiration will strike. Probably not, but until it does, I'll leave you with something to watch as well.
Well, I don't know about you, but I feel better now!
Anyway...instead of working I'm watching YouTube and hoping inspiration will strike. Probably not, but until it does, I'll leave you with something to watch as well.
Well, I don't know about you, but I feel better now!
Thursday, 27 October 2011
10 Things Married People Miss
I read an article about 10 things married people miss about being single. Here's my take on them, from the perspective of a single person.
1. Spontaneity. Absolutely. It is much easier for me to just do stuff, even little stuff like running errands, than it is for married people and especially if those who are married with children.
2. A good night's rest. Again, there is something to be said for not sharing the bed, and for not having children wake me up in the night.
3. Being selfish. Okay, here's where things are different. I get that it's fun to be selfish, but it's something I actually fight as a single person. I need to keep myself involved in the lives of others to avoid selfishness. Unlike the writer of the article, I don't think it's a good thing (but I agree that we all tend to lean that way).
4. Traveling solo. Yes. Although that may be just me; I know single people who want traveling companions.
5. The chase. Really? If it's just the admiration of men that you want, you'll still get it (assuming that you got it when you were single), so your need for affirmation is fulfilled. If it's the choice you miss... maybe you should be happy with your choice. At the very least, remember what it was really like: generally the ones who chase are not the ones you want to chase you. Trust me on this one.
6. Not checking in. There is something to be said for being able to change my plans last minute or stay out longer than I had planned (some of that comes under point 1). On the other hand, there is some bit of loneliness that comes from knowing that if I get home late -- or not at all -- no one will notice.
7. Random hook-ups. I have no experience with this one, nor do I ever plan to.
8. Shameless flirting. Yeah, like married people never indulge in this. The difference is that they shouldn't, and if they do, it shouldn't lead anywhere.
9. Not sharing the remote. I do like that I can watch what I want, when I want (well, movies and TV on-line, but the idea is the same).
10. Meeting new people. Do married people not do this? Really? Actually, I'm not big on meeting new people. I'd really like a way to go from strangers to friends (or at least acquaintances) without having the stress of meeting people, trying to remember names, and deciding if I really want to know this person.
So here's what I take from this: married people miss being selfish, being spontaneous, and other relationships (which often seem to link back to points 1 and 3). Interesting. As a single person, I will concede points 1, 2, 4, and 9 as being good things. Point 3 I try to fight. For points 5, 7, and 8, I have to say as I don't have enough experience (um, which means that even if you were single, you might not either; even if you did, it may not last). Point 6 has both pros and cons.
There: 4 good reasons to remain single. That's enough for me!
1. Spontaneity. Absolutely. It is much easier for me to just do stuff, even little stuff like running errands, than it is for married people and especially if those who are married with children.
2. A good night's rest. Again, there is something to be said for not sharing the bed, and for not having children wake me up in the night.
3. Being selfish. Okay, here's where things are different. I get that it's fun to be selfish, but it's something I actually fight as a single person. I need to keep myself involved in the lives of others to avoid selfishness. Unlike the writer of the article, I don't think it's a good thing (but I agree that we all tend to lean that way).
4. Traveling solo. Yes. Although that may be just me; I know single people who want traveling companions.
5. The chase. Really? If it's just the admiration of men that you want, you'll still get it (assuming that you got it when you were single), so your need for affirmation is fulfilled. If it's the choice you miss... maybe you should be happy with your choice. At the very least, remember what it was really like: generally the ones who chase are not the ones you want to chase you. Trust me on this one.
6. Not checking in. There is something to be said for being able to change my plans last minute or stay out longer than I had planned (some of that comes under point 1). On the other hand, there is some bit of loneliness that comes from knowing that if I get home late -- or not at all -- no one will notice.
7. Random hook-ups. I have no experience with this one, nor do I ever plan to.
8. Shameless flirting. Yeah, like married people never indulge in this. The difference is that they shouldn't, and if they do, it shouldn't lead anywhere.
9. Not sharing the remote. I do like that I can watch what I want, when I want (well, movies and TV on-line, but the idea is the same).
10. Meeting new people. Do married people not do this? Really? Actually, I'm not big on meeting new people. I'd really like a way to go from strangers to friends (or at least acquaintances) without having the stress of meeting people, trying to remember names, and deciding if I really want to know this person.
So here's what I take from this: married people miss being selfish, being spontaneous, and other relationships (which often seem to link back to points 1 and 3). Interesting. As a single person, I will concede points 1, 2, 4, and 9 as being good things. Point 3 I try to fight. For points 5, 7, and 8, I have to say as I don't have enough experience (um, which means that even if you were single, you might not either; even if you did, it may not last). Point 6 has both pros and cons.
There: 4 good reasons to remain single. That's enough for me!
Saturday, 22 October 2011
Almost Done
I have one major paper and one small paper to write. They're due in 10 days. Then the semester is over and I'm done until March.
I've started the major paper and fully intend to write the small one in a day (or a couple hours, depending on how things go). I'm still feeling very unmotivated to actually write. Which is probably why I went to Calgary with friends yesterday instead of working on the paper. The official reason is that there is a used Christian bookstore in Calgary that's closing down and all their books are half price. We picked up 22 books for the church library for $50. We also got a few books for ourselves. And I actually did some work on the drive down (not so much on the drive back because it was dark) and have a very detailed outline of the first 3 sections of the major paper (including notes for which source to use when). I suppose it will get done on time...somehow.
In more amusing news: I have a new cell phone and it has a voicemail-to-text feature. It doesn't always get the voicemail right though.
What my friend said: I feel touched to have such lovely ladies talking to me (or something like that).
What was transcribed: I touch a lovely lady.
I've started the major paper and fully intend to write the small one in a day (or a couple hours, depending on how things go). I'm still feeling very unmotivated to actually write. Which is probably why I went to Calgary with friends yesterday instead of working on the paper. The official reason is that there is a used Christian bookstore in Calgary that's closing down and all their books are half price. We picked up 22 books for the church library for $50. We also got a few books for ourselves. And I actually did some work on the drive down (not so much on the drive back because it was dark) and have a very detailed outline of the first 3 sections of the major paper (including notes for which source to use when). I suppose it will get done on time...somehow.
In more amusing news: I have a new cell phone and it has a voicemail-to-text feature. It doesn't always get the voicemail right though.
What my friend said: I feel touched to have such lovely ladies talking to me (or something like that).
What was transcribed: I touch a lovely lady.
Sunday, 16 October 2011
Church Notes
Today's sermon was about the sending of the 12 and the death of John the Baptist (Mark 6:6-30: John's death comes between the 12 going and then coming back).
My small elf draws pictures of the sermon passage. Today she had John in jail off to the side. Then there was a line down the page to indicate the next scene in the story. I'm going to do my best to describe the scene for you.
At the top of the page was a banner. Then there were 2 people sitting on chairs at a table holding forks and knives with plates of salad in front of them. They were happy and enjoying their food. There were balloons all around the page. At the bottom of the page was a similar scene with a slight difference: under the table a balloon had popped which startled one person at the table; the person jumped and hit the table, causing his salad to fly off the table into his face. These people looked startled.
Got that? It's a happy, banquet scene for Herod's birthday. And right in the middle of the picture, with a table of happy people above and startled people below, were two people with a platter between them. And on the platter was John the Baptist's head. These were also happy people, except John, who was definitely not happy!
And on that note....
The line that struck me most was "all that borrows life from Thee." Think about it; if I have time, I'll write some of my thoughts later this week.
My small elf draws pictures of the sermon passage. Today she had John in jail off to the side. Then there was a line down the page to indicate the next scene in the story. I'm going to do my best to describe the scene for you.
At the top of the page was a banner. Then there were 2 people sitting on chairs at a table holding forks and knives with plates of salad in front of them. They were happy and enjoying their food. There were balloons all around the page. At the bottom of the page was a similar scene with a slight difference: under the table a balloon had popped which startled one person at the table; the person jumped and hit the table, causing his salad to fly off the table into his face. These people looked startled.
Got that? It's a happy, banquet scene for Herod's birthday. And right in the middle of the picture, with a table of happy people above and startled people below, were two people with a platter between them. And on the platter was John the Baptist's head. These were also happy people, except John, who was definitely not happy!
And on that note....
The line that struck me most was "all that borrows life from Thee." Think about it; if I have time, I'll write some of my thoughts later this week.
Friday, 14 October 2011
Kids and Personal Space
Most kids have no understanding of personal space. I have a girl at work who is always right in my face. Yesterday...
Me (moving back and extending my arms enough that she can't come forward): Personal space! This is my space!
She always laughs and complies when I outline my personal space...until the next time! But this time there was a third voice.
Younger girl: That's right, everyone has a bubble and her bubble is bigger than yours. My bubble popped!
At least now I understand why they have no thought for personal space!
Me (moving back and extending my arms enough that she can't come forward): Personal space! This is my space!
She always laughs and complies when I outline my personal space...until the next time! But this time there was a third voice.
Younger girl: That's right, everyone has a bubble and her bubble is bigger than yours. My bubble popped!
At least now I understand why they have no thought for personal space!
Tuesday, 11 October 2011
Disobedience and Blessings
I know, all the time, that I don't deserve God's love and forgiveness and blessings. Sometimes, though, it seems extra clear that what I deserve has nothing to do with what I get.
Today....was a very bad day (or at least a bad morning). In fact, it's been a rough week or so. I'm so busy with work and school and stuff and I've been overwhelmed and overloaded. And, in the midst of it all, I've been pushing aside prayer and time spent in the Word (yes, while I've been writing a paper on the epistles of John....go figure). And, eventually, it affected my attitude hugely.
So today was not a day to be proud of. And then, at the end of it, He handed me a little, unexpected break and blessing. And it was enough to stop me in my tracks and lead me to repentance.
I makes me wonder, too. Here I was ignoring God and walking straight into a sinful attitude, and He very gently and kindly reminded me that He is here and He loves me no matter what and nudged me back where I belonged. There have been other times, though, when He's pulled out the big guns and knocked me back in line and it was very painful. I wonder, though, if He tried gentleness then too and I ignored Him, or took the blessings for granted.
I think that I need to pay attention to all of God's blessings and to always remember that I don't deserve them, and be thankful.
Today....was a very bad day (or at least a bad morning). In fact, it's been a rough week or so. I'm so busy with work and school and stuff and I've been overwhelmed and overloaded. And, in the midst of it all, I've been pushing aside prayer and time spent in the Word (yes, while I've been writing a paper on the epistles of John....go figure). And, eventually, it affected my attitude hugely.
So today was not a day to be proud of. And then, at the end of it, He handed me a little, unexpected break and blessing. And it was enough to stop me in my tracks and lead me to repentance.
I makes me wonder, too. Here I was ignoring God and walking straight into a sinful attitude, and He very gently and kindly reminded me that He is here and He loves me no matter what and nudged me back where I belonged. There have been other times, though, when He's pulled out the big guns and knocked me back in line and it was very painful. I wonder, though, if He tried gentleness then too and I ignored Him, or took the blessings for granted.
I think that I need to pay attention to all of God's blessings and to always remember that I don't deserve them, and be thankful.
Sunday, 9 October 2011
Unbelief
Today Pastor James preached from Mark 6:1-6, on the wonder of unbelief. He said some things that resonated with me; I've seen them over and over when I've been speaking with people. Here are my notes:
Unbelief makes anything but the truth more believable than the truth, no matter how unbelievable it is.
Unbelief is a state; it is not an intellectual problem but a spiritual problem; it is a problem of inability apart from divine intervention.
Unbelief fails to recognize the obvious, gets entangled in the inconsequential, and takes offence at the messenger.
Here are my thoughts:
He's absolutely right. I have spoken with enough people who will believe the oddest things but will not believe the Bible. Moreover, nothing will change their minds. And as Pastor James said, the people around Jesus saw miracles, knew that what Jesus was doing was amazing and had never been done before...and still rejected Him. If proof was all people really needed, there would have been no unbelievers in Israel when Christ was alive.
Beyond that, I have had enough people argue irrelevant points when I speak with them about God. They get stuck on things that Christians (and professed Christians who likely were not really Christians) have done in the past and refuse to care about what Christ has done.
But Pastor James didn't leave us there. He pointed us to John 6:65 and reminded us that unbelief can be overcome through God.
Unbelief makes anything but the truth more believable than the truth, no matter how unbelievable it is.
Unbelief is a state; it is not an intellectual problem but a spiritual problem; it is a problem of inability apart from divine intervention.
Unbelief fails to recognize the obvious, gets entangled in the inconsequential, and takes offence at the messenger.
Here are my thoughts:
He's absolutely right. I have spoken with enough people who will believe the oddest things but will not believe the Bible. Moreover, nothing will change their minds. And as Pastor James said, the people around Jesus saw miracles, knew that what Jesus was doing was amazing and had never been done before...and still rejected Him. If proof was all people really needed, there would have been no unbelievers in Israel when Christ was alive.
Beyond that, I have had enough people argue irrelevant points when I speak with them about God. They get stuck on things that Christians (and professed Christians who likely were not really Christians) have done in the past and refuse to care about what Christ has done.
But Pastor James didn't leave us there. He pointed us to John 6:65 and reminded us that unbelief can be overcome through God.
Friday, 7 October 2011
Lyrics
I was listening to "Clayton Erb: Unceasing Worship." Clayton Erb is the music minister (or some such title) at Grace Community Church in California (John MacArthur's church, the one I attend when I go down for school) and the CD is from his 30th anniversary in that role (and it was free). On of the hymns is "It Is Well..." and listening to it (and singing it) always makes me smile. There's a line "My sin, o the bliss of this glorious thought,...." When I was very young, I didn't understand the use of dashes and commas and could not understand why we were singing about being happy about sin!
The full lyrics, though, are:
My sin -- O, the bliss of this glorious thought,
My sin -- not in part but the whole,
Is nailed to the cross and I bear it no more,
Praise the Lord, praise the Lord, O my soul!
I also have trouble not giggling whenever we sing the fifth line of the second verse of "God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen."
In Bethlehem, in Israel,
This blessed Babe was born
And laid within a manger
Upon this blessed morn
The which His Mother Mary
Did nothing take in scorn
O tidings of comfort and joy,
Comfort and joy
O tidings of comfort and joy.
I know it's "which" and not "witch" but I still think it sounds like you're calling Mary a witch. I used to think I was the only one until one Christmas. I was standing with some friends in church, singing the hymn, and when we came to that line I made the mistake of catching someone's eye. We started the fight against giggles which spread to the rest of our little group.
I know these are great hymns of the faith (well, the first one is anyway) and I don't want to detract from that. I just find certain lines very funny, and I wonder why no one else laughs. Either everyone else is more mature than I (possible, but not probable; not everyone I know is that mature) or they are also trying not to laugh (more likely in some cases, which is why I don't look at anyone at these lines) or they don't see/hear things the same way I do (rather likely, in my experience) or they don't think about what they are singing (and in some cases, I think that's very likely).
The full lyrics, though, are:
My sin -- O, the bliss of this glorious thought,
My sin -- not in part but the whole,
Is nailed to the cross and I bear it no more,
Praise the Lord, praise the Lord, O my soul!
I also have trouble not giggling whenever we sing the fifth line of the second verse of "God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen."
In Bethlehem, in Israel,
This blessed Babe was born
And laid within a manger
Upon this blessed morn
The which His Mother Mary
Did nothing take in scorn
O tidings of comfort and joy,
Comfort and joy
O tidings of comfort and joy.
I know it's "which" and not "witch" but I still think it sounds like you're calling Mary a witch. I used to think I was the only one until one Christmas. I was standing with some friends in church, singing the hymn, and when we came to that line I made the mistake of catching someone's eye. We started the fight against giggles which spread to the rest of our little group.
I know these are great hymns of the faith (well, the first one is anyway) and I don't want to detract from that. I just find certain lines very funny, and I wonder why no one else laughs. Either everyone else is more mature than I (possible, but not probable; not everyone I know is that mature) or they are also trying not to laugh (more likely in some cases, which is why I don't look at anyone at these lines) or they don't see/hear things the same way I do (rather likely, in my experience) or they don't think about what they are singing (and in some cases, I think that's very likely).
Sunday, 2 October 2011
Church Notes
Today I started teaching my class about the Reformation. We are going to take one Sunday a month to learn about different characters and events of the Reformation. Today we talked about some of the problems with the Roman Catholic church by the 1100s: they only wanted the Bible in Latin so the common people couldn't read it, they preached about purgatory and penance, and they equated the teachings of the church with the Bible. We also learned about Peter Waldo, one of the pre-reformation characters, who lived in France in the 1100s (we won't actually get to the actual Reformation until December). I think it's important for the children to start learning some church history now so they know not only the truth but what people are willing to sacrifice for the truth and so that they could all have nice English Bibles (and that they should know their Bibles).
In the lesson we learned that at one time 35 of Peter Waldo's followers were burned in one fire by the Church. To which one student replied, "Well, at least they weren't tarred and feathered." I guess....
Today's hymn is one from my childhood, a version of the 23rd Psalm.
In the lesson we learned that at one time 35 of Peter Waldo's followers were burned in one fire by the Church. To which one student replied, "Well, at least they weren't tarred and feathered." I guess....
Today's hymn is one from my childhood, a version of the 23rd Psalm.
Thursday, 29 September 2011
One Way God Works
God turns around individual situations to change the world. He works in the lives of individuals, bringing them change and life and joy, as part of His master plan.
For an example, we can turn to Luke and see how God worked in one individual life as part of His great plan. He turned around Elizabeth’s life by removing her barrenness, bringing her joy. It was bigger that that, though: while He brought her joy, He brought the world the forerunner to Jesus.
It's amazing to see how God is in the details, and how He uses all the bits to make an amazing whole. It's equally amazing how His plan is not just to do great, overarching deeds that change the world, but to intervene in people's lives, bringing them good, and changing the whole world at the same time.
Elizabeth gets a baby, great joy, and the removal of the stigma of barrenness. At the same time, the world gets John the Baptist.
Tuesday, 27 September 2011
A Conversation
I don't know if she spoke directly from a script, lacks listening comprehension, or thought I was lying, but here is a phone conversation I had with some lady today.
Her: I'd like to speak with the person in charge of ordering office supplies, please.
Me: We don't do that here; it's all done through our main office.
Her: Okay. My name is (name) and I'm calling from (place that does surveys about office supplies) and we'd like to include you in our survey. Are you the one responsible for purchasing office supplies?
Me: We don't do that here. It's all done through our main office.
Her: Is there someone I can speak to?
Me: No; we don't purchase our own office supplies.
Her: Okay, bye. (Click goes the phone).
So you be the judge: script, stupid, or skeptic?
Her: I'd like to speak with the person in charge of ordering office supplies, please.
Me: We don't do that here; it's all done through our main office.
Her: Okay. My name is (name) and I'm calling from (place that does surveys about office supplies) and we'd like to include you in our survey. Are you the one responsible for purchasing office supplies?
Me: We don't do that here. It's all done through our main office.
Her: Is there someone I can speak to?
Me: No; we don't purchase our own office supplies.
Her: Okay, bye. (Click goes the phone).
So you be the judge: script, stupid, or skeptic?
Sunday, 25 September 2011
An Update
Well, for a while I was good about writing regularly! I'm still going to try, but I'm really busy right now. I'm a bit short staffed at work; I was able to hire, but she can't start training for another week. It's made for some long days. I also have papers to research and write. I'm getting some research done, but it's been slow. I did arrange to take next Friday off so I'd have 2 days free to do school. In preparation, my freezer is full of meals (frozen in individual portions) as well as baking; I also prepared the next two month's worth of Junior Church lessons. Most of everything that needs to be done has been done and I'm free to write essays.
We have software for the church library now. One of the men has been looking at different programs and finally found one that meets our needs. This afternoon the other librarian and I, with the help of a barcode scanner, entered all the books into the system (except the 15 that are currently checked out and the 3 without ISBN numbers that we also couldn't find in the system). We now have 450 books as well as a selection of DVDs. We also have a sign so people can find us. Today, for the first time, we had a line up to check books out. Granted, the line up was 3 people, and they made up 60% of the total patrons who came by today! Still, that makes for a busy Sunday in our library!
The small elf who sits with me on Sundays was trying to write down something from the sermon. We were learning about Jesus healing the demoniac, sending the demons into the pigs. My small elf finally wrote that the man was "controlled by Satin." I managed to not laugh and then corrected her spelling.
My Sunday School class is going well. Most of them even learned their memory verse this week, which starts things off nicely.
That's about all I have for now. I'll try to write a little more often this week. For now, I leave you with this....
We have software for the church library now. One of the men has been looking at different programs and finally found one that meets our needs. This afternoon the other librarian and I, with the help of a barcode scanner, entered all the books into the system (except the 15 that are currently checked out and the 3 without ISBN numbers that we also couldn't find in the system). We now have 450 books as well as a selection of DVDs. We also have a sign so people can find us. Today, for the first time, we had a line up to check books out. Granted, the line up was 3 people, and they made up 60% of the total patrons who came by today! Still, that makes for a busy Sunday in our library!
The small elf who sits with me on Sundays was trying to write down something from the sermon. We were learning about Jesus healing the demoniac, sending the demons into the pigs. My small elf finally wrote that the man was "controlled by Satin." I managed to not laugh and then corrected her spelling.
My Sunday School class is going well. Most of them even learned their memory verse this week, which starts things off nicely.
That's about all I have for now. I'll try to write a little more often this week. For now, I leave you with this....
Tuesday, 13 September 2011
"But God...": A Rather Short Book Review
I like the word "but" in the Bible; I think it often introduces important, encouraging, "from despair to hope" moments. It often reads: "Everything is bad. Very, very, very bad. We are all going to die. But God....changes everything."
Casey Lute (who was in some of my classes at Masters) has written a book about this very concept. "But God..." The Two Words at the Heart of the Gospel shows how God changes darkness to light and despair to hope.
Casey looks first at the flood and the formation of the nation of Israel; second at the coming, death and resurrection of Christ; and finally at God's election, salvation, and perseverance of His people. Through it all he shows us from Scripture that without God's direct intervention in our lives, we have no hope. With God,though, we have life and hope everlasting.
The book is well-written, interesting, and (for my non-readers) not very long! It can be ordered through Cruciform Press. I enjoyed it and I'm sure you will....so go buy it and read it!
Casey Lute (who was in some of my classes at Masters) has written a book about this very concept. "But God..." The Two Words at the Heart of the Gospel shows how God changes darkness to light and despair to hope.
Casey looks first at the flood and the formation of the nation of Israel; second at the coming, death and resurrection of Christ; and finally at God's election, salvation, and perseverance of His people. Through it all he shows us from Scripture that without God's direct intervention in our lives, we have no hope. With God,though, we have life and hope everlasting.
The book is well-written, interesting, and (for my non-readers) not very long! It can be ordered through Cruciform Press. I enjoyed it and I'm sure you will....so go buy it and read it!
Sunday, 11 September 2011
Church Notes
Today we started Sunday School again. I have a good-sized class, around 12 grade 4-6 students (actually, 2 of them are in grade 3; we moved them up to make the grade 1-3 class smaller since they acquired 8 grade 1 students this year). I really enjoy teaching my class; they're fun and funny and smart. I did tell the new students that since this week was review from last year that they didn't need to be smart until next week.
We have more and more books in the library every week. One of the men at the church has a Christian book store and any "defective" books that are written off and not sold make their way to us now! It's nice, because most of the defects are small: a ripped cover, pages not cut properly (which only required a trim to fix them), or things I don't even notice. Plus, one of my friends new where to get me a copy of Journey Through the Night (the publishers live and sell their books in the farming community where her parents live) so I'm very happy. It's been years since I've read it and it was one of my favourites.
We had a sandwich lunch and baby shower right after church. I like that all baby and wedding showers are done with the entire church so we can all celebrate. Actually, I was off in the library checking out items for someone and talking with some of the young people during the formal part of the baby shower!
In all, it was a good Sunday. I love my church family and I thank God for them often.
We sang this when I was at church in California this summer and I really liked it...
We have more and more books in the library every week. One of the men at the church has a Christian book store and any "defective" books that are written off and not sold make their way to us now! It's nice, because most of the defects are small: a ripped cover, pages not cut properly (which only required a trim to fix them), or things I don't even notice. Plus, one of my friends new where to get me a copy of Journey Through the Night (the publishers live and sell their books in the farming community where her parents live) so I'm very happy. It's been years since I've read it and it was one of my favourites.
We had a sandwich lunch and baby shower right after church. I like that all baby and wedding showers are done with the entire church so we can all celebrate. Actually, I was off in the library checking out items for someone and talking with some of the young people during the formal part of the baby shower!
In all, it was a good Sunday. I love my church family and I thank God for them often.
We sang this when I was at church in California this summer and I really liked it...
Wednesday, 7 September 2011
And I'm Back
Vacation was wonderful. I'd recommend that everyone try it: leave everyone behind and go somewhere else. I walked, I read, I slept, I ate, I walked more, I went to bookstores, I visited a museum, a castle, a wharf, and a Chinatown....
Now I'm relaxed and de-stressed and happy. Even work today didn't raise my stress levels noticeably. Plus, I'm sleeping better again, which is undoubtedly why I'm less stressed and happier.
And now....back to my regularly scheduled life!
Now I'm relaxed and de-stressed and happy. Even work today didn't raise my stress levels noticeably. Plus, I'm sleeping better again, which is undoubtedly why I'm less stressed and happier.
And now....back to my regularly scheduled life!
Wednesday, 31 August 2011
Vacation
Tomorrow at 3:00 I'm leaving work and heading off on vacation. I'll be back in Edmonton next Tuesday at 5:01. Until then, I will be unreachable: I'm turning off the phone and avoiding computers. If you need me for anything.....I'm sending my contact information to 2 people. If you can find them, you can reach me.
I'm tired. The summer has been very long and I'm tired all the time now. I need time to rest. I also need time to deal with some personal stuff, time to think properly without any distractions or stuff that needs my attention.
Have a lovely weekend.
I'm tired. The summer has been very long and I'm tired all the time now. I need time to rest. I also need time to deal with some personal stuff, time to think properly without any distractions or stuff that needs my attention.
Have a lovely weekend.
Sunday, 28 August 2011
Church Notes
I got everything all set for Junior Church today. We have 5 teachers now, plus assorted helpers (in fact, we have a back-up helper, which is nice). This means that they teach for 2 months between now and June (one month at a time). Summer is always a bit complicated, but if everyone takes a week I can cover the rest. It's usually the only time I teach now unless there's an emergency. Mostly, my teachers trade off among themselves. This year, though, I plan to be in Junior Church a bit more just observing. I figure I should know what's going on, and I haven't actually seen some of them teach. Plus, I have a couple younger teacher who still need some guidance.
Sunday School is good to go as well. We start in 2 weeks. I have all the books for the classes and there are teachers and a spare teacher. For my class, we're following the regular curriculum for the most part, which means we teach the lesson one week and do review and workbooks the next week. We're continuing our study on the providence of God. I have it set up with my new helper that I'll do the lesson weeks and she will do the workbook weeks. That way she gets to start teaching with less stress. It's sort of a training period for her. This year, though, I'm adding something. One Sunday a month I'm leaving the regular stuff to do a lesson on what I'm calling "Reformation Heroes" (so named after a book I have teaching about them). We'll learn about Wycliffe, Tyndale, Luther, Calvin, etc. I think the children need to know some church history. After them, maybe next year, I'm going to start on missionaries: William Carey, Hudson Taylor, whoever I think of.
That's the news from church! I leave you with one of my favourite hymns....
Sunday School is good to go as well. We start in 2 weeks. I have all the books for the classes and there are teachers and a spare teacher. For my class, we're following the regular curriculum for the most part, which means we teach the lesson one week and do review and workbooks the next week. We're continuing our study on the providence of God. I have it set up with my new helper that I'll do the lesson weeks and she will do the workbook weeks. That way she gets to start teaching with less stress. It's sort of a training period for her. This year, though, I'm adding something. One Sunday a month I'm leaving the regular stuff to do a lesson on what I'm calling "Reformation Heroes" (so named after a book I have teaching about them). We'll learn about Wycliffe, Tyndale, Luther, Calvin, etc. I think the children need to know some church history. After them, maybe next year, I'm going to start on missionaries: William Carey, Hudson Taylor, whoever I think of.
That's the news from church! I leave you with one of my favourite hymns....
Saturday, 27 August 2011
On Being a Grown Up
Well, it had to happen eventually.
Last Sunday at the end of the service we were singing a hymn, one that is slower, more contemplative....usually. In fact, it started off that way, and then suddenly the drums picked up and it all sped up and it was different, and it struck me as not quite right. Actually, it jarred me enough that it was difficult to focus on the words. I realized then that I might not be part of the younger generation anymore. (For the record: I don't entirely object to the drums, although I might if we had them every week and during every hymn. It is the idea that they belong in every song, and that they can make contemplation and focus on the words difficult.)
Then one day I was listening to Great Big Sea and they got to Consequence Free, and I thought, how incredibly immature and stupid. I want to live like what I do does, in fact, matter. Furthermore, the only reason to live consequence free is to give in to whatever desires you have with no thought for the future. And yet there might have been a time that I agreed with them.
Today I went to the elder's house to write an exam. Afterwards, we were talking about school and such, and about the younger generation and their lives. They are the ones who tend to continue in school longer than the rest of us did. They travel more than most of us have (although some of my generation traveled a lot as well, but I think fewer of us and for a shorter period of time). They work overseas a lot, often using work as a way to fund their travels: work to make some money, then travel and play, then work wherever they happen to be. They don't settle down as soon. And it's not necessarily a bad thing; it's just different.
And I.... I am settled down. Although sometimes I would like to travel more and work overseas and see stuff, I think settling down is a good thing. I have a full time job and responsibilities both at work and at church. I might be one of the least settled of all my friends, being single and childless with the freedom that brings, and yet I feel settled, at least for this time in my life. I could pull up stakes and travel, but I feel some responsibility to the church and to the children there, who are my ministry. It surprised me when I realized that because I had always though that being single meant that if I wanted to move on I could; now I know that it won't be that easy.
It just finally struck me that I'm not part of the younger generation. I know they're younger in many ways; I hire and train and work with them, so I should have seen it sooner. I think that I spend enough time with older people and married people that I felt younger and not as settled. Today, though, the elder referred to us as being in the same stage of life; we're the older ones and they are the younger generation. The thing is....he's around fifty, so if we're in the same grouping then I must be a grown up. And of course I have been for many years. It's just that I still don't feel old enough to be one of them, and certainly not mature enough!
There are times when I'm sitting in my office running the centre or I'm explaining things to parents and they assure me that I'm the expert or I'm telling my teachers what I expect of them and expecting them to comply... and all the while I'm wondering how I became the boss anyway. It happens in church too, when I give the teenagers a command and they obey or the parents ask me for advice on homeschooling and I know the answers or I realize that I'm training the next generation of teachers... and I realize how much I don't know and how young I feel.
Sometimes I want to go back. The responsibility scares me: what if I mess up? We all know it's going to happen. But of course there's no going back short of walking away from everyone and everything and drifting from place to place, and I can't do that. I belong here.
Maybe it has nothing to do with age or feeling. Maybe it's all about taking responsibility for myself and my actions, and about understanding that there's more to like than what I want. Maybe it's about realizing the benefits of settling down and being involved in the lives of others and doing for others.
I don't know. All I know is that all the evidence adds up to one thing: I'm a grown up and no longer part of the younger generation. I just wish I knew when it happened.
Last Sunday at the end of the service we were singing a hymn, one that is slower, more contemplative....usually. In fact, it started off that way, and then suddenly the drums picked up and it all sped up and it was different, and it struck me as not quite right. Actually, it jarred me enough that it was difficult to focus on the words. I realized then that I might not be part of the younger generation anymore. (For the record: I don't entirely object to the drums, although I might if we had them every week and during every hymn. It is the idea that they belong in every song, and that they can make contemplation and focus on the words difficult.)
Then one day I was listening to Great Big Sea and they got to Consequence Free, and I thought, how incredibly immature and stupid. I want to live like what I do does, in fact, matter. Furthermore, the only reason to live consequence free is to give in to whatever desires you have with no thought for the future. And yet there might have been a time that I agreed with them.
Today I went to the elder's house to write an exam. Afterwards, we were talking about school and such, and about the younger generation and their lives. They are the ones who tend to continue in school longer than the rest of us did. They travel more than most of us have (although some of my generation traveled a lot as well, but I think fewer of us and for a shorter period of time). They work overseas a lot, often using work as a way to fund their travels: work to make some money, then travel and play, then work wherever they happen to be. They don't settle down as soon. And it's not necessarily a bad thing; it's just different.
And I.... I am settled down. Although sometimes I would like to travel more and work overseas and see stuff, I think settling down is a good thing. I have a full time job and responsibilities both at work and at church. I might be one of the least settled of all my friends, being single and childless with the freedom that brings, and yet I feel settled, at least for this time in my life. I could pull up stakes and travel, but I feel some responsibility to the church and to the children there, who are my ministry. It surprised me when I realized that because I had always though that being single meant that if I wanted to move on I could; now I know that it won't be that easy.
It just finally struck me that I'm not part of the younger generation. I know they're younger in many ways; I hire and train and work with them, so I should have seen it sooner. I think that I spend enough time with older people and married people that I felt younger and not as settled. Today, though, the elder referred to us as being in the same stage of life; we're the older ones and they are the younger generation. The thing is....he's around fifty, so if we're in the same grouping then I must be a grown up. And of course I have been for many years. It's just that I still don't feel old enough to be one of them, and certainly not mature enough!
There are times when I'm sitting in my office running the centre or I'm explaining things to parents and they assure me that I'm the expert or I'm telling my teachers what I expect of them and expecting them to comply... and all the while I'm wondering how I became the boss anyway. It happens in church too, when I give the teenagers a command and they obey or the parents ask me for advice on homeschooling and I know the answers or I realize that I'm training the next generation of teachers... and I realize how much I don't know and how young I feel.
Sometimes I want to go back. The responsibility scares me: what if I mess up? We all know it's going to happen. But of course there's no going back short of walking away from everyone and everything and drifting from place to place, and I can't do that. I belong here.
Maybe it has nothing to do with age or feeling. Maybe it's all about taking responsibility for myself and my actions, and about understanding that there's more to like than what I want. Maybe it's about realizing the benefits of settling down and being involved in the lives of others and doing for others.
I don't know. All I know is that all the evidence adds up to one thing: I'm a grown up and no longer part of the younger generation. I just wish I knew when it happened.
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