Memorial Day 2010

Pentecost

I think it so interesting as we celebrate Pentecost today. Back in Genesis, when God scattered man, he divided him with many languages. Now, on the birthday of the church, when the Holy Spirit is poured out upon man/woman alike, he breaks through the barrier of language just like a hot knife through butter! Languages are the consequence of Man disobeying God. Many times, we think that God cannot break through our consequences from disobeying God. WRONG! Just as he gave the disciples the gift of language that day, so God can break through our troubles that are often from long-ago sins. He wants to do a new work with his Spirit in us.

BUTTERSCOTCH OATMEAL

Ingredients
1 egg, beaten
1 3/4 cups milk
1/2 cup packed brown sugar
1 cup rolled oats
2 tablespoons butter

Directions
1.In a saucepan over medium heat, whisk together the egg, milk and brown sugar. Mix in the oats. When the oatmeal begins to boil, cook and stir until thick. Remove from the heat, and stir in butter until melted. Serve immediately.

Farmville and Life

Farmville and Life

I have just entered the world of Facebook. At first I tried it and was overwhelmed with the "stuff" I got and the long-lost people who wanted me to confirm them as friends. So I quit. But I just got back on and am enjoying it slowly....I am officially hooked on the adorable game called "Farmville" which involves plowing, planting, harvesting and buying crops for your own farm.

I'm also learning a lot in my Bible Study, "Conversation Peace". It challenges me to use speech as a way to build up relationships rather than build up strong towers for myself that "I AM RIGHT!". The author asks, "Do you focus on getting what you want, or do you try till the soil and cultivate the relationship?"

WOW.

Over the centuries, Christians have focused on doctrine, thesis statements, and IDEAS and many times have forgotten the PEOPLE in the process. Yes, doctrine is important, making a stand for your faith is important, but 98% of the time we can soften our words to make a PERSON feel like a PERSON. It's not about being right, it's about being Christ-like. Christ shared His truth never by beating it over the heads of folks. He spoke in gentle stories, firey parables and always, always, always with LOVE.

I can learn a lot from that.

I need to think of conversations just as I think of Farmville's tasks....trying to produce positive things in the soil of others so a garden of blessed relationships can grow! Time to get my overalls on.