Simply Beautiful

Dream Big Part 2 - Believe in Yourself

2012-02-14T11:34:00.001-06:00

Due to technical difficulties, aka my computer crashing, my dreams post is a day late. So sorry, but I'm excited about these posts, mostly because if they don't encourage anyone else, they are challenging me.

Last week, I talked about how inspiration can spark the pursuit of a dream. This week, we will turn inspiration into action. Without a doubt, to convince others to aid you in pursuing your dream, you must first believe in yourself.

This weekend, I had tenth and eleventh grade girls at a DNow. It amazes me that after only a few short years of escape from high school, I forget the struggles and complexities of this stage. On our long drive back to our host home, we turned the music off and talked about dreams.

"What would you do if there were no limitations, no one to tell you that you can't? How do you feel the Lord has gifted you?"

Silence. Awkward silence. Thankfully, I've been trained for this. So like any good counselor, I told them no music until they spilled their guts.

Mission accomplished.

One by one, I was amazed that several of them had already been told their dreams were impossible or impractical. I wanted to scream at the adults that were already crushing young dreams. What the Lord truly calls us to is NEVER impossible.

So, meet Gideon. He belonged to the least important tribe and was the least important in his family. By his own admission. In his fear of the conquering country, Gideon is wasting his time at a menial task in an attempt to keep it from his masters. In the midst of this, the Lord appears, sits in front of Gideon and says, "The Lord is with you mighty warrior." (Judges 6:11-15)

This is one of the many, many things I love about the Lord. The Lord knew He would use Gideon in a mighty way as a warrior for His glory. He knew Gideon's credentials, looked past them, and saw His dreams for Gideon - who the Lord would make Him. From insignificant to a warrior.

Now, how are you feeling about yourself? I serve a God who sees the weak and impractical and makes them strong and possible. Don't sell yourself short! The Lord is in control and is fashioning you for His glory. Believe in yourself. Believe in Him. Then, sit back and watch the magic happen.

Still doubting? Check out Melanie Amaro. My new favorite vocal talent. She's a girl with a dream. And the best part? She's trusting Jesus with the results. I love that combination.

Melanie began at the bottom of the totem pole, like Gideon. But she didn't stay there. She went on to win the X Factor and become America's next star.

What limitations do you need to surrender this week? What dreams are you dreaming? Check back next Monday for more on dreaming big. I'm trusting the Lord with my journey. Will you? Leave a comment below or join the discussion on facebook! Let's encourage one another!

Do You Trust Me?

2012-02-09T23:56:00.000-06:00

Every Friday, I link up with the Gypsy Mama and other writers to write for five minutes flat.We write because we want to, not because we have to. We write for fun, for joy, for discovery. Today's word?

Trust...

It was that game we played as kids. A friend stands behind us, arms extended, ready to catch us before we hit the floor.

Do you trust me?

A rejection letter comes. And another. Then another. Twelve in all. The floor is ready to embrace my body, desperate to enforce my failure. But a voice whispers,

Do you trust Me?

My best friend leaves. No explanation. Harsh words and a hurried retreat. Blame cast at my feet. A life time of memories acquire a bitter shade. Pain doubles me over. My hands shake. I've never hurt this bad, never been this angry. But still that voice...

Do you trust Me?

Death and sickness overwhelm those I love. I know it's not my end with them. Called home before me. Their job complete. No more pain. But I am not in my pain-free home yet. I still have to live this life without them.

Do you trust Me?

They've walked down the aisle. Most of my friends before me. I celebrate each one, so thankful for the men and women standing next to them. Godly spouses who love the Lord. Follow Him. But in my joy, I wonder, when is it my turn?

Do you trust Me?

Do you trust I have a bigger plan? Do you trust I hold you in My hand? Do you trust I take the silver to replace it with gold? Do you trust My plans for you yet untold? I made you special. I fashioned each part.

When you can't understand the why, TRUST that I hold your heart.

Dream Big Part 1 - Inspiration

2012-02-06T12:47:00.000-06:00

Every dream begins with a spark of inspiration.
My dream to write began in my third grade class with an assignment to create our own Dr. Seuss story. By the time I was finished, I had asked for several more pages to complete the assignment. My trees were white and made of cotton candy, the sky was pink perfection, and the houses were so twisted and creative, no architect could come close to creating them. It was brilliant if I do say so myself.

Whether you are in art or business, science or literature, you derive inspiration from something or somewhere. Have you ever identified it? Do you know what makes you tick, what encourages or enhances your best ideas?

In essence, what is your muse?

If you've never identified it, then let me challenge you this week....make a list of things you love to do, that spark your passion or make you think, that spur you on to do what you are good at. Odds are you will identify the source of your inspiration. Seek that source when you feel bone dry on creativity or drained from work.

Here are a few things on my list....
-Music - Praise music, country, pop, and even the crooning tunes of Sinatra or Buble help me relax and send my wheels spinning.
-Nature - Get out of the house or office! Life is best lived outside of four walls. The Lord made everything beautiful, so go enjoy it! I'm always reminded that there is something bigger than me or my circumstances.
-People - Spend time with those who make you smile, encourage you, and challenge you.
-Photography - I have to get creative through another medium. I am a visual person, so pictures of places I've been or people I see hold a thousand memories, ripe for the beginnings of a new scene or story.

Lee Brice's "Love Like Crazy" perfectly sums up how I want to live my life. I painted a canvas with the lyrics to display on my desk. Every time I see it, I'm reminded to keep going and keep writing.

It's your turn! What inspires you? Comment below or follow me on facebook or twitter and start a discussion there. Identify that muse and start pursuing your dreams. Whether you are 15 or 75, it's never too late!

"For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." Jeremiah 29:11

Check back on Mondays for more on Dreaming Big!

Five Minute Friday - The Real Deal

2012-02-03T10:23:00.000-06:00

Every Friday, I link up with the Gypsy Mama and other writers to write unfiltered, unedited for five minutes for the pure joy and discovery of the craft. Today's word....

Real

We gathered in the parking lot between our apartment buildings. An old man in prime physical condition huffed by on his 100th lap for the day. He would become a dear friend by the end of the summer.

Twenty-three of us in navy shirts in the Colorado evening. Strangers in a foreign state. Sojourners in her mountains. Conversation was stilted and awkward, a blur of names and smearing of new faces.

Who would have thought?

Who would have thought that an up and coming government genius would room with the guy who disliked government and favored communal living? Who would have thought a Yank from New Hampshire would become the best of friends with a Midwesterner and Southern Belle? Who would have thought a guy with a rough and liberal past would look at the guy who favored traditionalism in all things as a brother?

Who would have thought?

Because of differences, we were forced to be vulnerable, to find common ground, to accept the flaws, and embrace the quirks to live together, study together, hike together, grow together, and love together.

Few friendships are ever truly authentic. But on uncommon ground with foreign people, we were real.

Change on the Horizon

2012-02-01T14:49:00.000-06:00

Henry van Dyke once said, “Use what talents you possess. The woods will be very silent if no birds sang there except those that sang best.” On that note, it is time for some change around here. The blog experienced a new makeover recently, and after hours of trial and error with coding (which I have no idea how to do), everything is finally functional. I could have thrown a party. I was so proud of myself!

I love a challenge, especially one that I know is within my ability if I just push myself. Every year since I began this blog, I have had a theme. In 2009, I went from the mountains of Colorado to the desert. In 2010, I wanted to understand the love of the Father. Last year, I explored the great I AM to better grasp His character. It's time to revamp the theme for 2012. Since I launched my website last fall, three words have come to define my life and the ministry I desire to have: DREAMS, ADVENTURE, HOPE.

I believe God is a God of big dreams and desires to do big things in and through us. He designed each of us for a purpose and gifted each of us uniquely.

I also believe every day is an adventure. As Robin Williams said in his portrayal of the infamous Peter Pan, "To live would be an awfully big adventure." I have purposed to look for the adventure in the small things, like getting lost in Dallas (which happens weekly), as well as the big things, such as traveling Europe (which doesn't happen as often as I would like). The Lord desires to give us an abundant life, and with Him, every day is new.

Too many of us have bought into postmodern philosophy that there is no hope. It was programmed into me in school, but I refuse to acknowledge that we simply get through life and then die. There is a different end to that story, and it is eternity with Jesus. No more night, day, pain, tears. Paradise worshipping the King of Kings awaits those who trust in His death, burial, and resurrection. There is hope for tomorrow and for a thousand tomorrows.

So, this year on the blog, I will focus on dreams, adventure, and hope. I'll use my journey and the journeys of those around me. I'll tackle dreams first, and it is a topic near and dear to my heart. I also attempt the adventures of vlogging, linking with other bloggers, and who knows what else. Bear with me. I have exciting plans in the making to transform this space. But I want to hear from you!!

If there were no limitations, what dream would you pursue? Leave a comment below and feel free to get crazy!

Tender Means Strong

2012-01-27T12:33:00.001-06:00

Another 5 Minute Friday with the Gypsy Mama and other writers. Aren't Fridays great?

Around here we write for five minutes flat on Fridays.
We write because we want to, not because we have to. We write for fun, for joy, for discovery.
We just write without worrying if it’s just right or not.

Word for the day?

Tender

Dad cried when something broke my heart. Still does. He and Mom would lay in my little twin bed with me, stroking my hair, and encouraging me.

"This too shall pass, baby girl," Mom would say.

Tender.

As a child, everything is larger than life. Literally. As an adult, size shrinks, but lessons, situations, and friendships remain the same as my childhood perspective. Larger than life. Figuratively.

My parents have weathered it all. Through broken hearts and shifting friendships, through victories and graduations, through interviews and constant rejection.

"This too shall pass, baby girl." Both a reminder to treasure the moment and release it to Jesus.

Still, as an adult, dad cries when my heart breaks or when I celebrate a major feat. Mom still cheers or quotes her mantra. And I better understand the love of the heavenly Father for me, how He loves me through my victories and what I perceive as defeats but in reality are the prequel to better plans. He cries when my heart breaks and cheers when I celebrate.

Why?

Because His love is tender, like my parents. I understand it because I know theirs. It's tender and strong. It rebukes, redirects, challenges, and cheers. Never a sign of weakness.

Tenderness demonstrates strength. One doesn't exist without the other.

"How deep the Father's love for us, how vast beyond all measure that He would give His only Son to make a wretch His treasure."

"And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, may have power, together with all the Lord’s holy people, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, and to know this love that surpasses knowledge—that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God." Ephesians 3: 17-19

From Writing to Reality

2012-01-25T14:50:00.003-06:00

When crafting a scene, I write my character into a corner (emotionally, physically, spiritually). Then, I stare at the screen wondering why in the world I created a situation I can't figure out how to fix. I'm a fixer by nature, or at least I try to be, and the "unfixable" occasionally causes frustration. Thankfully, I am learning that my role isn't to fix but to be faithful. After A LOT of processing, creativity, and rewriting, the character wiggles out of the corner into another problem.

So, I got to thinking....if fiction is a reflection of reality, then my life mirrors my character, and as the writer, I am a reflection of the master Author. As the Lord crafts my story, I am wholly dependent on Him. I cannot get out of the corner unless He sees fit to pen the scene that way.

"Faith in God includes faith in His timing."

Over the past couple of years, I've become convinced that the Lord loves to write Himself into a corner that only He, in His sovereignty, can fix. His fingerprints are all over my life. It fascinates and humbles me that I can take no credit for my accomplishments or my path.

Currently, I'm stuck in a corner beneath a sign flashing "WAIT." This character is not patient, but I also realize that I'm not the author of my story. Thankfully, the One who created all, sees all, and controls all is at the desk completely aware of the big dreams I imagine, the hope I cling to, and the adventures that will come my way. He can craft the perfect scene better than anything I could initiate from my limited viewpoint.

Until the Lord crafts the next scene, I am writing, waiting, wondering, developing a greater trust in Him.

"Wait for the LORD; be strong and take heart and wait for the LORD." Psalm 27:14

Five Minute Friday - Vivid

2012-01-20T10:36:00.000-06:00

Every Friday, I link up with the Gypsy Mama and other writers to stop, drop, and write.

For fun, for love of the sound of words, for play, for delight, for joy and celebration at the art of communication.

For only five short, bold, beautiful minutes. Unscripted and unedited. We just write without worrying if it’s just right or not.

VIVID

I can see us all on the skywalk connecting buildings at our old church in downtown. Cars rush below us and horns blare. It's the sound of the city.

Vivid in my memory.

We're a team, untied by nursery toys and choir trips as teens. We've spent years together, and more are to come. Laughter plays continuously. It's our one night during the week to reconnect, our one night to treasure our friendship.

We can't wait to receive our licenses.

We're all so different, all attend different high schools, all involved in different activities....academics, football, band, choir.

But we are the Skywalk Gang, conquering the world together, destined for enduring friendship.

Eight years later, only a few bonds remain. Others have been lost to time. We live all over the country, licenses and cars no longer help. Visits are few and far between. It saddens me.

Yet, in my mind's eye, we will always be teens on our skywalk, now dust and vapor, replaced by a fancier addition. The cars and horns and sounds of the city will always be our anthem. Laughter will always be our theme. And there, we are still kids with nothing standing in the way of our friendship.

On that bridge linking substance and space, we stand side by side, the Skywalk Gang. Us against the world.

Vivid.

Under Construction

2012-01-19T10:36:00.002-06:00

Hey friends and fellow bloggers,

Please pardon the mess the next few days. I am working on giving the blog a new look with new features. Unfortunately, this means a lot of trial and error. Any tips on what I should add such as social media buttons? Tips from experienced bloggers would be much appreciated!

Kariss

Ugly Packages and New Year Resolutions

2012-01-18T13:06:00.001-06:00

Did you enter the new year with the need for a break, or did you enter it refreshed with the hope of a clean slate? Weary accurately describes my beginning of 2012. I've spent the last couple weeks of January playing catch up.

After reading Matthew 11, I realized that it's okay to feel weary. The Lord has designated a place for our burdens at the foot of the cross. Peace and rest are promised! However, I noticed that I try to package my burdens in nice paper and fancy ribbons before laying them at the feet of Jesus.

There are no pretty packages at the foot of the cross, no matter their wrapping.

I'll be honest, mine look like my brother wrapped them in newspaper, backed over them with his car, tried to fix them, and then ran over them again. (Sorry, bro! But you are a self-proclaimed wrapping paper mutilator.) The last couple of weeks, I've been down for the count, but I'm back on my feet and "resolute-ing" a little late. Now is the beginning of my year.

Here goes...

-remember my body is a temple and I how I treat it now will affect me years from now
-continue to identify how the Lord has gifted me and pursue those things
-build authentic relationships with those around me
-jump back into music - playing piano and clarinet again
-READ - a fiction, nonfiction/classical, growth, and 1 book for pleasure a month
-build up the blog (exciting plans coming...Stay Tuned!)
-write everyday, even when I don't feel like it
-finish polishing 1 book, writing another, and begin another
-memorize a verse a month
-try new things - travel, experience, see, and do (see my "Courage" post)

We'll see how I do! Laying my burdens at the cross, it's time to walk into 2012 feeling refreshed and motivated for the year ahead confident that the Lord has good plans for me.

"Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light." Matthew 11:28-30

Awake and Dreaming

2012-01-13T13:33:00.002-06:00

Every Friday, I link up with the Gypsy Mama to write for fun, for love of the sound of words, for play, for delight, for joy and celebration at the art of communication.
For only five short, bold, beautiful minutes. Unscripted and unedited. We just write without worrying if it’s just right or not.

Ready?

AWAKE

I glance at the clock every hour, every minute it seems. One AM. No, two. No, three. My brain sprints a hundred miles an hour with to-do lists, goals, events of the day, and ideas ideas ideas for stories. I wish there was an off switch. I wish it would shut up.

I pray for sleep.

My phone is silent, sleeping, and I wonder what friends are still awake. Then, I remember. My Lord never slumbers or sleeps. He doesn't grow weary. He knows the thoughts racing through my mind. And only He can grant peace.

So, I talk to Him. I dream big. I lay out my fears, faults, and failures. I share my hopes, dreams, and desires.

And slowly, my mind unwinds. The finish line nears, and my eyes begin to droop.

In my final moments of consciousness, I pray for the strength and courage to do in the daylight what I dream of in the night watches when I lay awake in the darkness and nothing seems impossible.

Roaring Lamb

2012-01-06T12:18:00.000-06:00

It's that time - 5 minute Friday. For only five short, bold, beautiful minutes, let your mind and your words and your heart fly free; wild – no editing, no over thinking.

ROAR

Sheep are in my blood. At least, that's what I discovered visiting my ancestral home in Scotland. Mist rolls over the ever green fields and thorny, yellow thistle bushes while sheep dot the countryside. Colored markings adorn their thick, woolly sides. Black faces peer out from a bundle of wool later to be converted to scarfs, coats, and gloves.

Sheep are nondescript - silent as the night and as unexciting as a game of cricket, but they do their job well. They bundle together when their master comes calling. They eat and sleep and eat some more and produce wool for the world.

Lions, on the other hand, only exist in zoos in my world, but I love to watch them. Mighty maws stretch open in a yawn, revealing teeth that could strip a gazelle in seconds. Manes adorn their faces like a crown, and they slink from place to place as if they know they are royalty.

Their is nothing dull about lions. They quietly slink up on prey, and then announce their presence when necessary. I can't help but better understand the analogy of sheep and lions in the Scripture after spending three weeks surrounded by sheep in the British Isles. Though we are called to follow our shepherd, we're also called to boldness. And I wonder, when the time comes, will I be inconspicuous, content to dot the landscape, or will I behave like a child of the king and roar?

One Word for 2012

2012-01-02T16:07:00.000-06:00

One word can change the course of a person's life. By definition, this change requires dedication, commitment, and a strength derived from a source greater than ourselves.

I once heard that "Growing is not being satisfied, but to always bepushing yourself." I would amend that slightly. I would say that I am content with who I am, but I am not satisfied or content to remain there. A new year means a fresh opportunity to change and grow. I chose one word to define 2012 and on which to focus. So, the word for this year is....

Courage.

....to step out of my comfort zone

....to believe in myself when reality argues against my creative genes

....to try new things even if I'm freaked out
....to be more in love with Jesus next year
....to tell others about Him and share my story of grace freely

....to remember why I love to write, and then write from that place

....to not grow weary

....to remember that what I do now will effect me years from now

....to take advantage of every opportunity

....to build relationships and not hold back

....to be myself no matter what others say

....to think outside my own box and not allow others to confine me to theirs

....to be a better version of myself this time next year

"Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go.” Joshua 1:9

What's your word for 2012?

Stones of Remembrance 2011

2011-12-30T15:38:00.000-06:00

2011 has been a whirlwind! Where did the time go, and why is my brain struggling to remember all of it? Because of all the hits on last year's reflection post, I decided to continue the trend.

In the Bible, stacked stones often represent a memorial or altar intended to remind people of God's faithfulness in a specific circumstance. In Joshua 4, the Israelites finally inherit the land promised to them by the Lord.

"And Joshua set up at Gilgal the twelve stones they had taken out of the Jordan. He said to the Israelites, “In the future when your descendants ask their parents, ‘What do these stones mean?’ tell them, ‘Israel crossed the Jordan on dry ground.’ For the LORD your God dried up the Jordan before you until you had crossed over. The LORD your God did to the Jordan what he had done to the Red Seawhen he dried it up before us until we had crossed over. He did this so that all the peoples of the earth might know that the hand of the LORD is powerful and so that you might always fear the LORD your God."

As I reflect back on the past year, I have my own stones of remembrance: moments that shaped me, lessons that changed me, people who influenced me, and a God who never left me. As we usher in the new year, I hope you will join me in looking back on 2011 by celebrating and marking with stones of remembrance all the Lord has done. If you don't know my Jesus, there will be no better way to bring in the new year than to allow Him to be Lord of your life.

Stone 1: New job. 2011 began with a new writing job and a class through the Christian Writer's Guild that satisfied all that I missed in grad school.

Stone 2: In February, I headed back to Colorado for a my first big writing conference where I met with agents and editors to pitch my book idea, gained more insight into my field, and discovered a new network of writers who love the Lord. It's amazing how my rejection from grad school translated into a story bigger and better than I could have penned.

Stone 3: Friendships built. This year, my community group celebrated a year together. I am blessed to do life with these Godly women. Last year, I was lonely. This year, I have more community than I know what to do with and new friends added all the time.

Stone 4: Godly counsel. In April, it was back to Manitou Springs, Colorado where I spent several days under the teaching and coaching of Doc Hensley, DiAnn Mills, and Jerry B. Jenkins. I was "forced" to lead a devotional one morning which reminded me that despite my age, the Lord has a purpose and a plan. I can make a difference now. I ended the trip by conquering the Incline with my friend Amy. I can cross that off my bucket list!

Stone 5: Renewed creativity and inspiration. Where has this been locked up? There are so many story ideas and possibilities rattling in my head that I have to constantly remind myself to focus on one thing at a time. But I'm not gonna lie...I'm pretty excited about what's in store!

Stone 6: A new team. In August, I began serving on a young adults team at my church for The Porch. Every week, I am blessed with the opportunity to greet those who enter, pray for them, share the gospel, and encourage. My team is rock solid and running whole-heartedly after the Lord. Their walks encourage mine.

Stone 7: A story complete! I finished and submitted my first book in September. My website is launched. Now begins a new journey of trusting the Lord. Stay tuned. This blog will begin a new direction this year.

Stone 8: Dreams fulfilled. This year was full of travel within Texas and out. I was blessed with the chance to spend time with my cousin and her husband in England, Ireland, and Scotland for 3 weeks. Living the dream! Florida was the next stop with a Beach Camp for youth. That trip taught me more about myself, more about trusting the Lord, and more about speaking the truth in love than anything in a long time. A couple of my girls accepted Christ! San Antonio was another stop where I spent the weekend with another cousin and met up with one of my best friends from Focus to explore the historic city.

Stone 9: Family. This has been a rough year with several untimely deaths and two family members with cancer. I ended the year with a funeral of someone I loved dearly. A couple years ago, my reaction to these deaths would have been much different. My current reaction is a testament to the Lord's work in my life, and I am so thankful. I don't understand His ways, but these deaths didn't surprise Him. He has a plan and He is still good.

Stone 10: Above all, I learned to trust the Lord in a new way this year. I set out to study the great I AM's character. When I know who my God is, then I know and can trust who I am in Him. I have committed to practice being thankful in all things. Wow, it changes my attitude. The Lord is good in this time of waiting and wondering and asking what He wants me to do. In Him is my confidence, joy, and purpose. I pray I continue to learn that in 2012.

So many exciting things are already on the calendar! Stay tuned! Follow me on Facebook and twitter. Join this site. If nothing else, pray and grow with me this year as we anticipate the big things the Lord desires to do in your life and mine!

Happy New Year from Texas! May God richly bless you no matter what comes in 2012.

Kariss

Another Soldier's Coming Home

2011-12-28T00:03:00.000-06:00

On December 27, 2011, Buddy Angell's name was called, and he went to be with the Savior he loved above all else. The Lord changed him in the winter of his life and gave him an uncontrollable passion to share the gospel and use what he had been given to minister to others. Uncle Buddy had a sense of humor that bordered on cheesy. He was the grandfather figure I've desperately wanted to have nearby, always ready with a hug, kiss, and encouraging word. He loved with all he had, and his mercy smoothed his gruffness. He believed in second chances because the Lord had given him a second chance. He lived what it meant to be the hands and feet of Jesus.

Yesterday, Uncle Buddy closed his eyes for the last time and opened them in the presence of Jesus. This morning, I woke up to a planet where he is no longer in pain and no longer a phone call away. He's cancer free and walking with his Savior.

Two weeks ago, we were told his cancer had spread and that he only had months to a year if treated with chemo. Monday, we were told the cancer had spread through his whole body, and he only had a week.

I thought I would say one more goodbye, maybe sit in his hospital room and read to him while he rested. I would tell him how much I loved him, how much he meant to me, how his relationship with the Lord made me want to be like him. I would read those goofy chain emails that he loved to pass on just to make him smile. But with one phone call, he was gone.

Cancer is no respecter of person, age, character, or circumstance. It fails to distinguish between the good and the evil. It cannot be conquered with all the money in the world. No doctor can eliminate its reality. But my God knew Uncle Buddy's days. He knew that when I said goodbye Thursday morning before his surgery, it would be the last time I would see him on this earth.

It breaks my heart that he was in pain, but I know he is walking golden streets pain-free with Jesus. My life is richer for having known him, and I can only pray that this will be said of me when the Lord calls my name. Uncle Buddy fought the good fight, he finished the race, and at the finish line, the Lord called another faithful soldier home.

For those who are in Christ, death is never goodbye because Christ conquered death and the grave. It is merely a brief separation. We love and miss you, Uncle Buddy. See you soon.

"But our citizenship is in heaven. And we eagerly await a Savior from there, the Lord Jesus Christ, who, by the power that enables him to bring everything under his control, will transform our lowly bodies so that they will be like his glorious body." Philippians 3:20-22

"He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away." Revelation 21:4

"For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain." Philippians 1:21

Do You See What I See?

2011-12-14T15:50:00.004-06:00

She enters the room every Tuesday night dressed to thenines. Her sleek hair hangs loose around her face, shielding red-rimmedeyes. The glow of her phone illuminates her face in the dim interior. She studies the screen, avoiding my smile, and dashes through theentryway to the nearest available seat.

She’s alone.

He struts in ever Tuesday night, his scrubs a testament to a long day. His ego is his shield and he winks, flashing a charming smile. Ismile back, wondering how many girls have fallen for his charisma. Surely aline of broken hearts. But as his eyes dart around the room, seeking a familiarfemale face, I see the hurt, the insecurity, a broken boy shining from a man’sface.

He’s hurting.

The handsome couple slow as they enter the cavernous room. Clutching hands, this is clearly their first time. She leans closer to him, her eyes round as a childcaught stealing cookies. His mouth is set in a grim line. He looks neither tothe right or left, only nodding slightly at my hello. They come seekinganswers, counsel, peace.

They’re pregnant and scared.

Every week, I stand inside the doors of Watermark’ssanctuary to welcome Porch-goers. The air is electric with conversations andlaughter as friends and strangers mingle and meet. They come to hear a message. Truth. They come to meet others in their life stage. Hundreds of 20 and 30-year-olds.

I love to host those who enter. The smiling faces are asencouraging as they are energizing. But for every group of smiling faces, thereis a loner slinking in behind them, intimidated by the crowd or the room. Theyare the ones my heart goes out to, because in their eyes and actions I seestories of the hurting, lost, lonely, confused, and curious

As we ended our year last night, I wondered how many ofthose at the Porch would be lonely this Christmas. How many will go home tofamilies where they feel like the outsider? How many will gather around thetable on Christmas and stare longingly at an empty seat where a loved one satlast year? How many will be so stressed about buying the perfect gift to pleaseor appease that they will forget about the baby born in a manger? It is for these people that my heart aches. It is for them that I specifically pray that peaceand joy and love will be theirs this Christmas season. The baby in a mangergrew up to be a man, extended his arms on a cross, and walked out of a tombbecause Jesus Christ, the Son of God, loved YOU. If you are lonely or in pain this season, I pray youremember the God who holds you and never lets you go.

"For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace." Isaiah 9:6

5 Minute Friday - Color

2011-12-09T10:42:00.001-06:00

Here's the challenge: Every Friday, I join with other writers to write for 5 bold, beautiful minutes. No editing, no overthinking, no backtracking. The theme today? Color. I can think of no better example than my night hike up Pike's Peak to watch the sunrise. Ready?

The sky was black as ink with the most brilliant pinpricks of light embedded in deep shades of purple.

The end was near.

We rounded the peak and stopped to take in our victory. I doubled over, hands on my knees. I made it. Sunrise was near. The town below us was awash in the glow of light - orange, yellow, white. Just enough to invade the darkness of night. The stars disappeared, and then from the black horizon appeared the deepest crimson.

Blood red.

The tiniest sliver of red crested, shimmering in the morning light, shooting a firework of color onto the rest of the blank canvas. I held my breath. Never had I seen colors so beautiful. They are the colors artists pray to imitate and desperately fail to capture. They are from the original Painter, and nothing else comes close to their brilliance. As the glowing red orb rose higher and higher, orange, pink, and yellow shot into the sky, smearing under the brush strokes of a Master Artist.

I watched it all from my seat on the cold cap rock, dirty, white snow off to my left. Silence adorned our tiny group. It was a new morning, and the blue sky emerging from the depths of red appeared all the more beautiful.

A Ray of Hope

2011-12-06T22:08:00.001-06:00

It began with a phone call my last day in England this past May. My cousin, her husband, and I had just walked in the door from a few days in the Scottish countryside. With the ringing phone, life as my cousin knew it changed forever.

Test results returned. Her mom was positive for breast cancer.

After months of chemo, my aunt went into surgery this past Monday to hopefully take care of any remaining cancer. Radiation will begin shortly after the New Year.

As we drove to Lubbock to support her this weekend, we received another call...

My uncle is no longer in remission. Chemo began Monday as my aunt went into surgery.

Needless to say, this weekend was tense. Waiting wore on our emotions and will, but despite the current events, there was an unprecedented sense of peace.

Why?

The waiting room was bathed in prayer by friends and family aware of the situation. Not all my family believes prayer is effective, however, they are seeing firsthand the peace and change it brings.

The suffering in my family breaks my heart. A few years ago, I would have doubted the goodness of the Lord. I would have asked where He is, why this is happening to my family, why He doesn't heal.

But not today.

I don't question His goodness. I know He is good. I know He is Healer, though He doesn't always choose to heal. I know He is in the middle of this, although He doesn't always work the way I desire.

I KNOW HE IS GOD, and I know He is in control. In that, there is hope. Listen to the words of Laura Story's song, "Blessings."
Suffering changes, builds, and grows us into better people if we allow it. Suffering is a blessing in disguise. I don't know what will happen with my family. I don't know what today or two years from now will bring. My aunt is healing at home, and both she and my uncle have a long road ahead. I do know that I serve a God who knows what's coming and holds us in His hands. He is the Comforter, Healer, and Immanuel, God with us. He is my hope, and I will cling to Him. I pray my family does, as well.

I know the Lord brings beauty from brokenness. I know He is in the business of making things new. I know that this is my temporary home, and that moments of brokenness are opportunities to draw closer to Him.

"Not only so, but we also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope. And hope does not disappoint us, because God has poured out his love into our hearts by the Holy Spirit, whom he has given us." Romans 5:3-5

Day 30 - A Month of Gratitude

2011-11-30T11:02:00.001-06:00

Day 30 in this month of 30 days to a thankful heart. How did you do? A friend who joined me in the challenge messaged me last night to tell me that her heart has been so much more joyful since she has been intentional in her gratitude. That's awesome!

And I have to agree with her.

Gratitude is a heart changer. It takes the moments and things we usually complain about, and refocuses us. When we realize how much we are blessed, how much we really don't need, and how much God is in control, our heart changes from one of negativity to one of gratitude.

Today, I'm thankful I took the challenge, but this challenge is far from over. I began this challenge with every intention of a permanent heart change. However, that will take intentionality on my part to continue to be thankful in all things. Jesus is about transformation, not temporary change. Just as a caterpillar enters a cocoon and emerges changed forever, so the Lord desires to do with us. He is worthy of our praise, and I don't credit Him nearly enough.

Habit builds character. I want my character to say that I have a joyful, thankful heart instead of constantly complaining and wanting that which I don't have. Let this month of thankfulness set the stage for a new beginning. Will you join me?

Day 29 - All Creation Cries

2011-11-29T11:24:00.001-06:00

"The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of His hands."

Nature inspires me. It reminds me of my need for the Lord because it puts my worries in perspective. I have hiked beneath the Milky Way, scoured the Colorado and New Mexico mountains, filmed the sun breaking over the horizon, and rafted the white-capped river. I've spent sunsets on the beaches of California, driven for miles, snapping shots of the horizons and fields of west Texas, explored the highlands of Scotland, and the coast of Ireland, and sat on the edge of the Grand Canyon. I've sailed the Mediterranean and Black seas, stopped at the finest ports in Italy, France, Spain, and Ukraine. No matter where I travel, no land mark is the same and each bears the fingerprints of a God who is much bigger than me. It is this God I worship, and this God who can tame the oceans and calm the storms in my life. I'm thankful for the beauty of nature, that no sunset or sunrise is the same, and that man cannot duplicate the grandeur of the Lord's creation. He is good!

Enjoy the pictures...

"From the rising of the sun to the place where it sets, the name of the LORD is to be praised." Psalm 113:3

"You will go out in You will go out in joy and be led forth in peace; the mountains and hills will burst into song before you, and all the trees of the field will clap their hands." Isaiah 55:12

"Praise the LORD from the earth, you great sea creatures and all ocean depths, lightning and hail, snow and clouds, stormy winds that do his bidding, you mountains and all hills, fruit trees and all cedars, wild animals and all cattle, small creatures and flying bird." Psalm 148:7-10

"Praise him, sun and moon; praise him, all you shining stars. Praise him, you highest heavens and you waters above the skies." Psalm 148:3-4

"Let the heavens rejoice, let the earth be glad; let the sea resound, and all that is in it. Let the fields be jubilant, and everything in them; let all the trees of the forest sing for joy. Let all creation rejoice before the LORD, for he comes, he comes to judge the earth. He will judge the world in righteousness and the peoples in his faithfulness." Psalm 96:11-13

Day 27 and 28- The Urge to Write

2011-11-27T18:11:00.001-06:00

Only a couple more days left in November. It's impossible to cram what I'm thankful for into a couple days. Cicero said, "A thankful heart is not only the greatest virtue, but theparent of all the other virtues." Hopefully, this month has built a habit that I will continue to practice long after this month ends.

Today, I'm thankful for hypergraphia, or an overwhelming urge to write. I didn't even know there was a word for this condition, but thankfully I experience it without all the negative side effects. Last January, I began a course through the Christian Writers Guild to expand my writing skill while working one-on-one with a mentor, DiAnn Mills. She has been a Godsend, constantly coaching, encouraging, and pushing me to be better and stay true to who I am and my heart to write.

In the past year, I attended a residency with DiAnn, Jerry Jenkins, and Doc Hensley, completed a lesson and phone chat with DiAnn every month, finished a book, and submitted it. And somewhere in the middle of all that, I regained my confidence, my joy in writing, and my creativity that disappeared for a year after college. Thanksgiving night, I was up after midnight because a story idea would not let me sleep until I recorded it.

I'm so thankful for the urge to write. Though I still have to develop it, the skill comes naturally to me. I'm thankful that the Lord created me uniquely with this ability. I'm thankful for others who love to write and form a community I can encourage and call on for encouragement. I don't know what's next, but I commit to writing because it's how I'm wired and will allow the Lord to handle the results. Thoughts are rattling around in my head, so it's time to record them!

I'm thankful the Lord equips us all with different skills. What do you have the urge to tackle? How has the Lord gifted YOU?

I would love to hear from you!

Day 26 - An Apple a Day

2011-11-26T17:00:00.001-06:00

"An apple a day keeps the doctor away," or so I've been told. We've experienced a few major health scares over the past couple of years in our family. A few months ago, my brother was in the hospital for some football related injuries. I'm so thankful that, to our knowledge, we are all healthy and whole this holiday.

I believe this is something I often take for granted when in reality I'm not guaranteed tomorrow or my next breath. Life is precious, and I'm treasuring the health of today and will trust the Lord with tomorrow.

Sorry for the short posts, but the family is keeping me busy playing games and hanging out! Enjoy the weekend!

What are you thankful for?

Day 25 - Treasure Hunts

2011-11-25T13:08:00.001-06:00

Black Friday has a very different meaning around our house. To my knowledge, we have yet to brave the stores on this day every year. Instead of shopping for presents to put under the Christmas tree, we turn on Christmas music, heat wassail, and pull out the Christmas decorations. This is one of my favorite days of the year, and I'm so thankful we are all home to celebrate. When the sun goes down, our house looks like Christmas exploded. Beautiful! Black Friday involves a very different treasure hunt for us.

The Christmas tree is my favorite item to decorate. Every year, we dig through a box of old ornaments. As kids, we picked out a new ornament every Christmas and recorded the date. It's fun to see the stages and our mentality at the time. I have a beautiful carousel horse from when I was 7 and Santa holding a cell phone when I turned 16. Our Christmas tree tells a story.

We also have a porcelain nativity that sits above the fireplace. When we were younger, we would fight over who would arrange it. Since I tend to break things, Mom usually monitored me when it was my turn. It's the first thing people see when they enter our house, and I love the message it sends.

Move over ABC Family's 25 days to Christmas. Mom's version is better. As kids, we stuck Velcro felt ornaments on a felt tree every night leading up to Christmas. Each ornament contains a picture indicative of a piece of the Christmas story. We no longer sit around the tree every night, but each day I add another ornament to the tree and remember the story. I remember the reason we celebrate and decorate and give gifts.

Black Friday is a treasure hunt of memories. We remember where the Lord has brought us, laugh at every discovery, remember why we celebrate Christmas, and we remember why we give gifts at Christmas. We were already given the greatest gift in a baby who became a Savior. I'm thankful for the reminder, for the memories, and for the joy of this season! Merry Christmas season!

What are you thankful for today?

Day 24 - Thanksgiving

2011-11-24T14:07:00.001-06:00

It's the day I've been leading up to all month. There is so much to be thankful for. I woke up this morning and jumped into the psalms. The heart of David amazes me. His joyful heart is directly tied to his determination to praise the Lord in all things. Even when David is in the depths of despair, he usually brings the psalm back to praising the Lord for who He is in spite of the situation. What an example to learn from! I hope this month will create that in me in a greater measure.

I'm thankful for God's goodness. I've often heard that if I was the only person on earth, Christ would have died to save me. I understand the concept, but today, I realized what it meant. My sins alone would nail Him to a cross. How humbling. I'm so thankful for the cross and for an empty grave. I'm thankful for a risen Savior who is Sovereignly in control over all. I'm thankful that He forsook His own life for me and for the sins of the world.

I'm thankful for family. They've taught me about the Lord and what it looks like to pour into one another and others.

I'm thankful for my friends, for their constancy, encouragement, and the joy they bring to my life.

I'm thankful for the passion the Lord has given me to write. It's a weird gift to me at times, but I love seeing how He uses it.

I could keep going, but I'm taking a break from cooking to write, so time to go.

I hope your Thanksgiving is beautiful!

In Him,
Kariss

Day 23 - Full House

2011-11-23T11:33:00.001-06:00

This morning, I woke up to the sound of three huge dogs skidding across the hardwood floor. My brother and sister are home and their dogs! I'm excited to spend the next few days together cooking, watching football, and putting together the Christmas tree.

Our family is in a transition that I began 5 years ago when I left for college. Family time is few and far between. We are spread out all over Texas, and the holidays are precious. Today, I'm incredibly thankful for a full house and am excited to spend the day tomorrow really being thankful with my family.

Have a beautiful day! What are you thankful for?

Day 22 - Muddy Jeans

2011-11-22T10:57:00.001-06:00

I woke up this morning to muddy ground. Many people grumble as they grab their rain jackets and umbrellas while doing their best to side step puddles. But not me.

This past summer and spring, Texas received very little rain. Our lakes are depleted, fires have blackened many of the plains, destroying property and lives. Grass has crunched beneath our feet from lack of water, and foundations shifted in homes as the brittle ground cracked and spread.

We prayed and prayed for rain. Meteorologists predict next year's spring and summer to be equally as hot and dry. Hopefully, they are wrong as usual, but if that is the case, Texans will be in trouble. So, this fall, I'm thankful for the frequent cloudy, rainy days, even if that means the bottom of my jeans will remain muddy and wet. Last night's thunderstorm was an answer to pray, and I refuse to complain.

Enjoy the rain!

What are you thankful for today?

Day 21 - Our Greatest Joys and Dad's Greatest Pain

2011-11-21T12:42:00.001-06:00

Meet Wise Guy, Gunner, and Duke, the furry, four-legged members of our family.

Wise Guy is our 12-year-old golden retriever. From the time we brought him home as a puppy, he has been ever faithful to follow us wherever we go, except when he catches a good scent outside. He is protective, barking and charging the door when the doorbell rings. Every one who enters immediately finds him lovable and affectionate.When I'm typing, he sticks his nose under my arm bumps my hand so that it rests on his head. Can you say attention hog? He always knows exactly where I am, and will head butt my door to tell me good morning. He has been an absolute blessing the past 12 years, and I have loved moving home from college and having him constantly at my feet.

Gunner and I had a love-hate relationship when Toby first brought him home. He is the baby of the group at just over a year old. He is above all curious and lives to make us chase him. More than once, 4 of us have had to block him under the ping pong table and crawl in to pull a broken treasure from his mouth. Like my brother, he is constantly on the go and wants to be in the center of everything. He makes a valiant effort to understand our conversation, and delights in talking back. He is roughly the size of a moose, and has earned the nickname.

Duke is our almost-two-year-old big baby. We haven't the heart to tell him he isn't human. I like to call him Sneezy from the seven dwarfs because he has every allergy known to dogkind. He is even alergic to grass. Duke was a rescue and suffered abuse prior to my sister adopting him. He tears up carpet when he gets nervous, raids the trash can, and recently polished off two cakes my sister and her roommate baked. When we sit on the floor, he is instantly in our laps. He barks like Scooby Doo and refuses to let my sister out of his sight. Loyalty is intrinsic to Duke.

Our dogs form the remainder of our family. They occassionally tear something up, causing Dad to bite his tongue and run to Lowe's, but we love them and would be lost without them.

What are you thankful for today?

Day 20 - Bubba

2011-11-20T19:15:00.001-06:00

My 6'4", tight-end-football-sized brother is still my little brother. He tells me people laugh when I introduce him with that adjective. Before my sister arrived to "complete" us, it was just my brother and me.

Mom calls him our gentle giant. He fits the title unless you mess with someone he cares about or treat them with disrespect. He is a defender of the underdog. He is unfailingly patient and pursues an idea wholeheartedly if he is convinced it can work. He is always an encourager.

Once upon a time, I could lay him flat in our wrestling matches. More often than not now, I find myself in the air and then flipped on my back on the couch. Memo to all big sisters out there - one day they will outgrow you.

Toby is determined. He knows what he wants and goes for it. He is unafraid of change and avoids drama at all costs. He is funny and invests in friendships that last. Dad has trained Toby what it looks like to be a man. He steps up to help my mom, my sister, and me with what needs to be done around the house. He gives up his Saturdays to go serve with Dad.

He loves working with youth, and is strong and encouraging with teen guys who are trying to find their way. He has a giving heart, rarely realizing it may leave him in a rough spot.

I love my big, little brother and am so thankful for him today.

Day 19 - Chapters

2011-11-19T15:07:00.001-06:00

I view every stage of life like a chapter. Some last pages and pages. Others are the length of a few paragraphs. Regardless, each chapter leaves indelible marks that change me forever.

Today, I'm so thankful for these chapters. I often wrestle with change and kick and scream as one chapter closes and another opens, but I never regret the transition. By the time I go to bed tonight, I will have spent time with people from 3 different stages of my life.

I enjoyed a three hour lunch with a friend from Tech. It was so good to see a face from Lubbock here in Dallas. We haven't seen one another for a while, but we didn't miss a beat. I love to see how we have both grown and changed and can't wait to see where the Lord will lead next.

This afternoon, I will spend time with a girl in my Bible study. The Lord brought her into my life a little over a year ago, and He has grown our friendship by leaps and bounds over that time. She has become a confidant, a friend, and source of laughter and fun. She is always an encouragement and believes in me when I don't believe in myself.

Tonight, I will spend time with a childhood friend who has survived all these stages. She is a blessing. She speaks straight, weathers distance, time, and changes, and is a kindred spirit. I'm looking forward to time with her.

Each of these stages has changed me. The people have all been a blessing. I'm thankful for each chapter and am excited to see where the Lord will continue to lead.

What are you thankful for today?

Day 18 - Parents

2011-11-18T14:04:00.001-06:00

Thanksgiving is right around the corner, which means family time is here. Today, I'm very thankful for my parents.

My dad is a pastor on staff at a local church. He loves to work with people, and is constantly busy serving, doing the thankless tasks that many don't notice. He practices this at home, as well. I love his consistency, his strength, and his heart for the gospel. He didn't grow up in a home where the gospel was shared, and he was bound and determined to makes sure our home was chalk full of this message.

My mom stayed home with us when we were younger, quitting her teaching job when I was born so she could raise me. I can't tell you how much of a blessing this was. Dad worked hard so that we could be a one income family. Mom has been there for every moment, large or small. She was diligent to teach us scripture at an early age and constantly created funny songs or goofy games to play. She looks well to the ways of her household and is always there for a hug or encouraging word. Mom is a prayer warrior.

My parents blended the best of their very different homes to create ours. In college, they determined to help me through with no debt. We all worked hard to make this a reality. Now, they are intent on helping me achieve my dreams, and have supported me every step of the way. This has been an amazing blessing. The time is fleeting, but today, I will enjoy every moment with them.

Day 17 - Community

2011-11-17T12:21:00.001-06:00

Yesterday was a no good, very bad day.

My community group made it better. We've been together for over a year now. In that time, strangers have became confidants and sisters in Christ became friends. We desire to encourage, challenge, laugh, cry, and grow together. Last night, they did all of those things with me.

We seek to celebrate the big moments and the small. So far, 2 out of our original 10 have walked down the aisle. Another found a place to serve that took her away from our weekly meetings. Several have lost grandparents, a couple have changed jobs, others have ended important relationships. Without fail, these women constantly weather it all and emerge stronger and closer.

All 6 of us have different personalities, interests, passions, and jobs. Every week, I love to see what each person will add to the group. Their walks with the Lord challenge mine. Their hearts to serve, motivate me. Their prayers encourage me. Their love strengthens me. I don't know what I would've done without them the past year. They bless me every day, and today, I am so thankful for them.

Who do you run to in the good times and bad?

I'm linking up with Dawn as we continue to find things to be thankful for every day this month.

Day 16 - Lessons from a One Year Old

2011-11-16T13:34:00.001-06:00

She's my charge in the afternoons. Her black eyes take in every nuance. Delight lies in the little things...

-wind knocking leaves off tree

-thump of acorn falling on concrete

-drone of airplane

-the sound of her little shoes tapping the concrete as she learns to walk

-her body sinking into the thick blanket of grass that is her front lawn

-cackling of birds

-wet kisses from her dogs

-strains of music coming from my phone

-the rocking of the swing at the park

Everything is a source of wonder. At 23, I take those occurences for granted. I'm thankful that each day this little darling teaches me something about life, enjoying the moment, and seeing the world through the eyes of a child.

"Truly I tell you, anyone who will not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it.” Luke 18:17

Day 15 - Art

2011-11-15T09:58:00.001-06:00

"I am still far from being what I want to be, but with God's help I shall succeed." Vincent van Gogh

Currently, I am working on my second book in which the main character is an artist. When creating a character, the writer must get inside her head, determine what drives her, shapes her, and what she's passionate about. I'm excited to delve into the mind of an artist. To help me with this, I am interviewing my friend, Amy, a Dallas arist who has a passion to paint for the glory of God. Every person has a story to tell, and an artist tells hers by imitating the world around her through recreation.

In high school, I had the privilege of traveling all over Europe, visiting Rodin's gardens, the British Museum, the Louvre, the Vatican, and several churches where Michelangelo's work is on display. Every piece of work I saw told a story. If a picture is worth a thousand words, art captures a memory, a moment, a story, a life. The goal is preservation and communication of a message to the viewers.

We were created by a master Creator, One who intended our lives to be a display of His glory. It amazes me that He has given people like Amy and my sister the mind to create. I am so thankful for this gift. While our creations are mere imitations, they point to the One who made the original.

What are you thankful for today?

Check out Dawn's blog for more posts on gratitude during this month.

Day 14 - Sisters

2011-11-14T11:41:00.001-06:00

Day 14 of being thankful, and today, I am thankful for my little sister. I say little, but she turns 20 today.

According to her, she completed our family. We would be lost without her. She is the constant chatter and laughter around our dinner table. She works hard and sleeps hard. She is well-liked and the life of the party. I am so proud of how she has jumped into college life, formed new friendships, found a church home, and is growing in the Lord. That takes a lot of courage, and she didn't fail the test.

Chasya is protective of those she loves. She works hard to maintain relationships, never eager to cut ties when she can fix the problem. She is quick to help others, giving of her time to make them laugh and brighten their day. She is gentle, yet tough.

She is our little mastermind. She sees a problem and can attack in such a way that it turns into a masterpiece by the time she finishes. Did I mention that she is an art major knocking it out of the park? Statement of a proud sister here. She can't write to save her life, but she can create better than most people I know. We balance one another out.

I love who she is. She's right: No one else could have completed our family the way she does. As dad says, "She's our caboose."

Happy birthday, sis!

What are you thankful for today?

Day 13 - Church Family

2011-11-13T16:43:00.001-06:00

Today, I'm so thankful for my church family. A little over a year ago, I began attending a new church. I knew no one and would come, sit by myself, meet the people around me during greeting time, then leave after it was over.

I love having a community within the larger body to worship with now. Although I know worship is possible anywhere there are believers, it makes it that much sweeter when you are sitting next to people whose story you know and whose faces are not only familiar but part of your life.

No hype or flash today. My thankful heart is pretty simple.

What are you thankful for?

Day 12 - The Unexpected Part 2

2011-11-12T13:08:00.001-06:00

Yesterday, I joined the Gypsy Mama for her 5 minute Friday exercise. Ironically, "unexpected" was her word for the day, and it is something I have been increasingly thankful for this week.

I shared part of my story about an unexpected rejection yesterday here. Today, I'm thankful for the rest of the story...

The Lord didn't leave me lost in the unexpected. For months after receiving that letter, I wrestled with bitterness, depression, anger, and loss. What now? My plans were replaced by an indefinite period of the the unknown.

Strangers braved the walls of bitterness and pain to show me the healing and direction that comes when we trust the God who loves us and has our best at heart. They became some of my best friends. I spent the summer with them hiking the mountains of Colorado and allowing the great outdoors to draw me closer to the One who fashioned both the mountains and me.

It wasn't until I climbed Pike's Peak with a group of friends to watch the sunrise emerge over the horizon that I really understood that the unexpected hadn't ended my plans. It had simply given me a new, unpredictable beginning. As the sun rose in crimson brilliance, I felt peace for the first time since the letter had arrived.

After the summer, I returned to Lubbock, panicking that I didn't have a job or a place I really felt I fit as a newly-turned 21-year-old college graduate. Bottom line? I had no idea what I was doing. I wish I could say that life developed a routine and everything was rosy, but I was more lonely than ever, missing my friends, and back in the place where I had experienced rejection.

To make a really long story short, the Lord has caused all my plans to fail. That may sound awful, but in truth, it has been a blessing. Every step of the last two years has been unexpected. I wouldn't trade any of it. I have experienced healing and growth that I never would have if I hadn't first experienced rejection.

The Lord has much bigger plans for me. I see His fingerprints over ever step of the road I have tread recently. The song above is by Josh Wilson and the words ring true with my story. The Lord is present when we fall apart. If you are experiencing a desert...look for the beauty the Lord will bring. He uses the unexpected to write a beautiful, adventurous story for us.

The best part? More unexpected is yet to come, but the Lord is in control of every step. Every day is an adventure. "For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future" Jeremiah 29:11

What are you thankful for today?

Linking up with Dawn today. Be thankful with us!

More of what the Lord taught me can be found when you click the "Focus on the Family" link under "My Thoughts" on the side panel.

Day 11 - Sacrifice

2011-11-11T19:41:00.001-06:00

Happy Veteran's Day! I must tell you that I have a huge appreciation, admiration, and respect for those who currently serve and have served. Today is a day to honor them, and I am so thankful.

In May, I spent time with my cousin, Shanna, and her husband, Logan, at their base in England. I was constantly surrounded by Logan's fellow air force buds and their families. The more I interacted with them, the more I realized that it is a family commitment and a family sacrifice. They know the risks and they do it anyway.

Today, I want to honor and thank their families, as well. Their families hold down the fort while these men and women travel all over the country and the world to defend and protect America and to fight for the less fortunate. They sacrifice time, relationships, big events, freedom of movement, etc.

They are willing, and often do, sacrifice their very lives.

There is something amazing about the heart of a warrior who sees needs bigger than himself and stands up to fight for them. Thank you to all who have served and who currently serve. You are a blessing!

It's day 11 of my month long challenge to be thankful daily. What are you thankful for today?

The Unexpected Part 1

2011-11-11T14:34:00.001-06:00

I'm joining the Gypsy Mama for her 5 minute Friday again. The instructions? Stop. Drop. WRITE for 5 minutes. The theme today? Unexpected

The letter came on a Saturday.

My roommate handed it to me. A grin spread across her face, and her fingers squeezed the paper like precious treasure.

I retreated to my room. I couldn't open it in front of her. It was a pride thing. I wanted the freedom to react in whatever way necessary.

"Dear Miss Lynch,
We regret to inform you..."

I didn't read any farther. Couldn't. The feeling left my legs as I sank into my computer chair. FRIENDS played in the background on TV, but for once it wasn't funny. I couldn't laugh. I couldn't cry. I couldn't feel.

I was numb.

This wasn't how it was supposed to happen. My GPA was near perfect, my recommendations stellar, my writing critiqued and approved by my professors. I was supposed to be an easy pick. It just made sense.

Rejection was unexpected.

The best laid plans fall short in the eyes of a mighty God. Little did I know the journey I would travel the last two years. The unexpected made me stronger. It made me more dependant on the One who holds the world in His hands.

And it made me remember that this was NEVER unexpected to Him.

Stay tuned tomorrow for part 2 of the story....

Day 10 - The Night Hours

2011-11-10T20:46:00.001-06:00

While you were sleeping...

I was writing. Or reading. Or creating a new project.

Clearly, I'm a night owl. I'm thankful for these evening hours. Tonight, the moon is full and the night clear. If I still lived in west Texas or Colorado, the sky would be awash with stars. Man, I miss that. Wish I could go for a walk, but that might not be wise.

Often, I lie in bed at night and wish for morning. If I'm not asleep by midnight, I usually grab my laptop and write. Otherwise, my thoughts will keep me up for hours. Last night, I saw 2 am before my brain shut up. Not fun.

My remedy? Grab a recorder and talk about my ideas. The result? Instant sleep.

Many people associate night with evil because of the darkness. I disagree. For me, it's a time of peace and stillness. While the rest of the world sleeps, I come alive. I bloom in moonlight, much like the moon flower. These flowers fold open as soon as the moonlight touches their petals. They grow and flourish when the moon is new or waxing. As soon as the sunlight touches their petals, they twist closed. It's comforting to know that I'm not the only part of creation that is on the wrong schedule.

The night hours are my time with the Lord. I treasure them, even if it's a quirk not many understand. So today, I'm thankful for the peace of the evening, the creativity that comes with the night, and that the Lord wired me this way.

Sweet dreams...

"Praise him, sun and moon, praise him, all you shining stars." Psalm 148:3

Day 9 - Big Dreams

2011-11-09T14:28:00.000-06:00

Last night was a busy night at The Porch. I met several women who continually approached me with the same question, "I feel like I am supposed to be doing something bigger with my life, but I don't know what it is. Will you pray for me?"

NOTHING excites me more than this statement. I truly believe I serve a God of big dreams, impossible dreams. I took great pleasure in praying for these young women last night that the Lord will ignite their hearts for truth and fill them with a passion for the lost and for His people. Today, I am so thankful for big dreams and people who are courageous enough to pursue them!

"Find Your Wings" is a song by Mark Harris about a father praying for his children to pursue big dreams for the Lord. If this is the heart of man for his kids, how much greater is the heart of our Father in heaven for us! © Mark Harris

I believe the Lord instills big dreams in us. His people Israel cried out in slavery for freedom, and He led them to a land of milk and honey. Sounds pretty sweet to me! Abraham wanted a son, and the Lord made Him the father of many nations. Paul wanted to follow the laws of his people, and the Lord made him an ambassador to the Roman world of the story of Jesus Christ. Mary wanted a family, and the Lord gave her the Christ child. Jacob wrestled with the Lord until the Lord blessed him, and the Lord made him the father of Israel. Ruth wanted to stay with her mother-in-law and travel to a new land, the Lord made her the great-great-etc grandmother of Jesus. The disciples wanted to fish, but Jesus made them fishers of men and used them to spread the gospel to mankind.

We think so simplistically in light of a mighty God. Often, the Lord takes the desires of our hearts and multiplies them into something we never would have imagined. The question is, "Will you trust Him in this big adventure, even if you never get to see the pay off?" He has a great purpose for you, awesome plans, a future and a hope. Will you have the courage to seek it? Will you be faithful in small things so He can bless you in bigger things?

Believe me, I'm asking these questions of myself. I have no idea how the Lord is going to work through this publishing thing. I have one book finished, another in progress, but no promises right now. But, every time I sit down at my computer to craft another scene or character, I know I am doing exactly what I was made for.

I believe the Lord wants to do big things through me. Success may not come as the world defines it, but whatever road comes, it will be success as the Lord defines it if I am faithful to follow Him. This is a huge trusting process, but I'm ready to take the leap. I pray you will have courage as you seek these things!

"For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future."

"Do not fear, for I have redeemed you; I have summoned you by name; you are mine." Isaiah 43:1

If you know the Lord....

You are called...

You are claimed...

You have a purpose...

Now walk in it!

Day 8 - The Heart of a Volunteer

2011-11-08T15:01:00.002-06:00

"Nothing is stronger than the heart of a volunteer." Lt. Col. James H. Doolittle

There is a place in Dallas every Tuesday where young adults gather. Couches, a coffee shop, a great band, and a good speaker are just part of the package. In this building every week, lives are changed.

We call it The Porch.

While this event officially begins at 7 pm, a small group of people meet beforehand to prepare. Many of these people come straight from work, braving traffic, skipping dinner, leaving work early so that they can welcome anyone and everyone who enters.

As a combination of 5 teams, these volunteers work together every week to go above and beyond what is necessary. No one gets paid. Each team has a job. Each member of each team has a part to play.

Why would they do this?

Short answer? Because they have a heart for people. Because they love the Lord. Because they have hearts to serve and help others. Each one has the heart of a volunteer.

They would never brag about this, nor is this post meant to do so. Today, I am thankful for their hearts. A volunteer is distinct from those who simply follow orders. While some serve out of a sense of obligation, a volunteer CHOOSES to work hard and serve.

Every week, I leave The Porch encouraged because of these people. I'm always humbled, and I'm always challenged. I'm thankful for those who bear the heart of a volunteer, and I pray the closer I grow to the Lord, the more I develop that heart.

"Do nothing from rivalry or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves. Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others. Have this mind among yourselves, which is yours in Christ Jesus." Philippians 2:3-5

It's the beginning of week 2 of being thankful this month. How are ya doin'? What are you thankful for today?

Day 7 - New Week

2011-11-07T11:12:00.003-06:00

"Tomorrow is always fresh, with no mistakes in it." Mrs. Stacy on Anne of Green Gables

I love Mrs. Stacy's wise words. Today, I am thankful for a new week, something fresh with no mistakes in it. Check back with me at the end of the week to see how many mistakes I rack up. Wait, just check back with me at the end of the day.

I like to look at each new day, week, or year as tabula rasa - a blank slate. A blank slate allows me to set new goals or continue to pursue previous goals. It allows me to view each morning as a new beginning, no matter how crazy the day before. It is a time to refocus, to build a positive attitude, and to go forward expecting the best to happen and graciously tackling what inevitable will go wrong.

You may have heard the quote, "Each day has the potential to be the best day of your life." It's all about perspective. So, on this beautiful, cloudy Monday morning, I am thankful for a fresh day, for energy, for how much I have already accomplished this morning, and for whatever the Lord decides to throw my way.

What are you thankful for? I pray you have an AMAZING week!

"Because of the LORD's great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness." Lamentations 3:22-23

Day 6 - Phone Dates

2011-11-06T18:20:00.001-06:00

I have committed to being thankful for something every day this month. My hope is that as I make an intentional effort to be thankful for the things I too often overlook, my heart will develop the habit of being grateful in all things. So, here I am on day 6 of this challenge....

There are some relationships that enter our lives that change us forever. They defy time, distance, crazy schedules, and bad attitudes.

A little over two years ago, I met a few friends that qualify for this category. At that particular point and time, I was incredibly bitter and defensive. These particular friends blew right past all that. They met me at my worst and loved me anyway. But there is one problem with these friendships...

All 4 of these women live in different states: New Hampshire, Nebraska, Virginia, and California.

As often as possible, we brave different time zones and messed up schedules to still do life with one another. We celebrate the big moments and small. Jenna celebrated an engagement this week. I had the privilege of helping Ashley pursue her dreams for law school. I was able to encourage and be encouraged by Rachel this week as we both trust the Lord for the next step. And Brittany is always my constant encourager, optimist, and the one I laugh with.

Somehow, this week I was able to talk to all 4 of them. Phone dates are an amazing thing. I am so thankful for these friends who have fought with me to maintain these friendships when it would've been easier to give up after 2 years of physical absence. They are beautiful, strong, Godly women who have a passion to serve others, and run after the Lord with their whole hearts. I am so thankful to be able to pray for them and then see what God does.

So, today I am thankful for phone dates.

Will you join me in being thankful this month, or even this week? What are you thankful for today?

Join Dawn on her blog for more posts on 30 days of a thankful heart in November. We happened to have the same idea!

Day 5 - Saturdays

2011-11-05T17:41:00.000-05:00

Thank the Lord for Saturdays!

My body needs about two extra Saturdays this week. A year ago, I prayed for friends and everything that comes along with that. Now, I have to say "no" to some of the social time because there is so much of it! I prayed for a job, and now I have one and am swamped. What a blessing! Just goes to show you that the Lord answers prayer above and beyond what we ask for.

But man, my body needs rest.

Bottom line - Saturdays are wonderful...

I'm thankful for time to do what I haven't had time to all week.
I'm thankful for the chance to sit down and watch a football game or movie while I catch up on email.
I'm thankful for no constraints or appointments, although I did have one today.
I'm thankful for time to let my brain unwind and catch up with people or work on fun projects.
I'm thankful for extra sleep.
And today, I am really thankful we get to fall back an hour, which means I gain an hour of sleep in the morning before I get ready for church. Woohoo!

Happy weekend, friends! What are you thankful for today?

Join Dawn on her blog for more posts on 30 days of a thankful heart in November. We happened to have the same idea!

Every Mile a Memory

2011-11-04T21:37:00.001-05:00

Time to stop, drop, and write for 5 minute Friday with The Gypsy Mama. Today's word is remember, and I love to do that. I can truly see the hand of God at work in the subtle moments when I remember and at where He has led me.

Ready?

It took two months to create soul mates. I'm not talking about the romantic kind. I'm talking about a connection that goes beyond romance and sweet feelings. I'm talking about tears, mountain climbing moments, laughter, late nights, long distance, and hundreds of phone calls since.

I'm talking about friendship.

I haven't seen these people in almost two years, but I still feel the connection of twenty-three strings connecting my heart to theirs all over the country.

We couldn't have been more different - politically, economically, socially, physically, mentally, emotionally. But there was one area where we didn't differ, and it is the one are that transcends life itself. We are bonded spiritually. That makes all the difference. The bond is too strong too break because it is eternal.

These people have a heart for the Lord, a desire to serve, a passion to make a difference, a commitment to change their section of the world. Two years later and we still laugh together, cry together, encourage, correct, experience mountain moving moments. And we love, because He first loved us.

We are bonded. And these memories are some of the sweetest in my life.

Day 4 - Creativity

2011-11-04T20:30:00.002-05:00

I love to work with my hands, and I love a good story. So, usually I combine the two. Whether I'm creating a story in my head or watching one on television, my hands stay busy. Writing, photography, working with color - it doesn't matter. Creativity is my way to relax.

After reading the creation story, I am convinced that the Lord loves to make something beautiful out of nothing. He even loves to make something beautiful out of what has been broken. Both are seen in His Word, and both take a Master Artist.

But, creativity is more than allowing your mind to go wild with possibilities and then throwing things together. To make something that fulfills its purpose, the creator must be both architect and engineer. I discovered this first-hand today. Or, maybe I just identified it for the first time when I worked with a family friend to put together a quilt.

I thought it would be easy.

It was anything but easy!

Each seam had to line up precisely, each stitch had to be straight, the fabric couldn't pull, and each piece had to be exactly even. Sounds simple, right?

I wish!

Over the course of a few hours, something began to emerge out of nothing, but it wasn't without careful planning and detailing. If the seams are off, the quilt will not look appealing and will be much harder to complete later.

This process really made me appreciate the care the Father took when creating me and you. He spent nine months making sure each piece of me was seemed just so. He fashioned my brain and heart and the traits and personality and gifts that make me me. And He did that with you, too. Even if you feel flawed, He didn't mess up. He designed you as a masterpiece for His glory.

So, today, I am thankful for creativity and a God wasn't satisfied with easy, but determined to make a masterpiece out of all of His creation.

"For we are God's workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do." Ephesians 2:10

What are you thankful for today?

Day 3 - Brrr

2011-11-03T11:18:00.002-05:00

Hello, cool weather! Welcome to Texas.

Today, I am so thankful for cooler weather and the little bit of precipitation we got last night. What a blessing! After the drought to end all droughts and the record breaking string of days over 100 degrees this past summer/fall, I welcome the cool respite.

Whether or not it lasts, only God knows. It is Texas after all. Cool weather tends to have the shelf life of a banana, but for today I will be thankful. So, I'll enjoy my Tech hoodie and mug of hot chocolate until the next heat wave.

"Giving thanks always and for everything to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ..." Ephesians 5:20

What are you thankful for today?

Day 2 - Be Still!

2011-11-02T13:26:00.002-05:00

I live for Wednesdays. Middle of the week, Bible study, no work. It is purely a time to write and catch up on my ever expanding "to do" list.

Today, I am thankful for rest and motivation. But I'm not just talking about sleep. Since summer 2009, Psalm 46:10 has been my constant companion. “Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth.”

Too often, this achiever gets caught up in the "to do" list. Then, I get overwhelmed. Then, I get frustrated. Granted, it takes me a while to get to this place, but eventually, I have lost sight of what I am really working toward.

When I take time to be thankful and remember that everything I do is for God's glory, I remove myself from the equation and allow the Lord to fully move and work in His way and in His time. Today, I am thankful for the rest and strength He gives me to pursue my dreams and pray He is exalted in the midst of it all.

What are you thankful for today?

Day 1 - Practicing the Pilgrim Method

2011-11-01T09:39:00.003-05:00

"Alright" by Darius Rucker is the perfect song to usher in November, a month to be thankful. My life seems to be changing at the speed of light right now. I can't tell you where I'll be a month from now or after the New Year. In the craziness, I too often forget to be thankful.

Kinda pathetic, right?

I mean, I have a job that pays the bills. I am able to write books (which I absolutely love). I have the ability to spend a lot of time with my family. I am surrounded by amazing friends and an awesome church. I AM BLESSED.

But, for some reason I continually complain and think I deserve more. What a spoiled, ungrateful brat am I?

So, this month, it's time to change the tide. As Darius Rucker sings, I have everything I need, everything I want to make me comfortable - the most important things. I think my desire for what I don't have is directly tied to my ungrateful heart.

Here's where you come in...

Since it is national writing month and a time to be thankful, every day this month, I commit to write a short post, acknowledging something I am thankful for. It doesn't have to be anything big. This will help me notice the daily blessings, as well as appreciate the bigger blessings. Not only will I begin to recognize and acknowledge how blessed I am, but I will also see how good the Lord is.

Will you join me? For the next 30 days, find something each day to be thankful for. If I miss a day, call me out on it! I both relish and dread the challenge to come.

"Give thanks to the LORD, for He is good; His love endures forever." Psalm 107:1

Today, I am thankful for a new month, new motivation, and a fresh start.

What are you thankful for today?

Relevant

2011-10-28T12:19:00.001-05:00

Today I am joining The Gypsy Mama for her 5 Minute Friday. The purpose is to write unscripted, unedited, and purely for the joy of it for five minutes. The theme this morning is relevance. So here it goes...

The Lord blessed me this year with a group of 10 women to do life with. Wednesday nights are our time. We laugh together, cry together, study God's Word together. Lately, as it always seems with those fresh out of college, we wonder, "Do we matter?"

Is what we are doing right now relevant? I have heard it said that my generation is marked more than previous generations by a desire to be relevant in our jobs. We want what we do to count for something with someone else.

Money isn't the end game. We all feel that the job we work now is not what we want to do long term, what God hard-wired us to do. We crave purpose and to be used for something bigger than ourselves.

But the good news is....we are significant and relevant because we belong to the King of Kings. He knows the plans He has for us, and He alone will direct them. (Isaiah and Proverbs) That makes the interim period have relevance, as well.

Happy Friday!

Remember the Alamo

2011-10-26T13:08:00.000-05:00

There is a legend in Texas of a line drawn in the sand by Col. William B. Travis on March 5, 1836. As the legend goes, Santa Anna and the Mexican army waited outside the Alamo, planning ways to breach its walls and kill the men desperately fighting inside. Travis knew there was little hope but decided to give his men a chance to run.

With his sword, Travis drew a line in the sand. "We must die," he began. "Our business is not to make a fruitless effort to save our lives, but to choose the manner of our death." All but one man crossed over that line, ready to make a final stand, ready to die. According to Travis, by crossing the line, they committed to "remain in this fort…resist every assault, and to sell our lives as dearly as possible."

The men who fought valiently at the Alamo died the morning after their decision when Santa Anna breached the walls and slaughtered every last man. But their sacrifice did not die. To this day, Texans remember the Alamo, remember the sacrifice, the brutal fight, and the purpose behind it - freedom.

We all draw lines in the sand. We all have a point of no return. Often, that line indicates a separation between right and wrong. The line does not allow for a gray area.

Just like Travis allowed his men to choose death or escape, so, too, Jesus Christ gives us the option to follow Him. Most people don't like the line in the sand. They want to earn eternal life on their own terms, with no set standards or holy God holding them accountable for what they don't feel like doing. The line in the sand is not popular, but it is immovable.

In John 14:6, Jesus draws His own line in the sand: "I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me." Crossing this line means following Him into battle, obeying His commands, being willing to die, understanding His sacrifice on the cross. It is not a guarantee of a happy ending, but it is a guarantee of a life of worth and significance with a Commander and Chief who only has your best at heart.

He isn't a dictator. His death on the cross and resurrection afforded us a choice. The line in the sand at the Alamo represented an option for men to choose to be courageous and live and die in such a way that mattered. That is what choosing to follow Christ is all about.

Do you have the courage to cross the line? Will you trust Him enough to follow Him no matter what? If you don't understand what crossing this line looks like, check out the tab at the top of this page called "know Jesus." I have never met anyone who regretted the decision.

The X Factor

2011-10-19T13:20:00.000-05:00

"You don't have to necessarily have the best voice. You may not be the best looking person, but there is something about you that makes you a star." Simon Cowell

Goodbye, American Idol, and, hello, X Factor USA. This is a show open to all and won by one. As Simon said, it does not necessarily measure a person by their talent but by their inherent "it" factor that could make the next Lady Gaga or Jay- Z.

I wasn't a fan of American Idol, but I love the X Factor. Why? Maybe I connect with these artists who work thankless jobs so that they can provide for their family but still have a small piece of time to display their talent. Maybe I understand desiring something more or believing in a person's ability to achieve a dream, no matter how far-fetched. Regardless, I cry as they are eliminated and cheer when they are pushed through.

Last night as I watched the eliminations, I noticed a startling truth: As human beings we will stand before the Lord someday and He will ask why He should allow us into heaven. Unlike these talented contestants, we won't be able to compete for a spot or be accepted on pure talent or past successes. The Lord will be looking for each person's "it" factor, that something that makes that person qualified above and beyond their talent.

Unfortunately, this "x" factor is not something we come by naturally. It is not something we can earn. In Acts 16, the apostle Paul and Silas are thrown into prison. In the middle of the night, there is an earthquake and the prison doors open. The guard believes all the prisoners escaped, but Paul tells him that everyone is still present and accounted for. The man falls on his face and asks, "Sirs, what must I do to be saved?” In verse 31, Paul tells him, "“Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved." That is the "x" factor that qualifies us for heaven.

When we make the decision to follow Jesus, to believe He is the only Son of God who died on the cross and rose from the grave for us, it changes the way we live. Our "it" factor becomes a reflection of the God we serve and not a selfish pursuing of riches or talent. It doesn't diminish the gifts God gave us, but it does change our motivation in how we use them. Then, our "x" factor is the result of belonging to Christ, and our emotions and acceptance do not rise or fall based on the judgements of man but on the character of the Lord.

"But the LORD said to Samuel, 'Don't judge by his appearance or height, for I have rejected him. The LORD doesn't see things the way you see them. People judge by outward appearance, but the LORD looks at the heart.'" My final judgement before the Just Judge will be a reflection of who I am, not what I have done. For that, I am so thankful.

Do you have the X factor?

Shattering the Superhero Myth

2011-10-11T10:27:00.000-05:00

As a kid, my favorite superhero was Superman. He could soar over the clouds, into outer space, jump off buildings, and with one graceful swoop, rescuing those in trouble. Not only that, throw in the laser eye thing and other-worldly strength, and I was sold. Glowing green rock was pretty rare in my life, so I figured I was home free. The bruises on my knees from jumping off the couch, however, proved I had other weaknesses to tackle before I could jump off buildings.

And then there are all those Marvel superheros that we love to watch on the big screen - Iron Man, Wolverine, Spiderman, Hulk, etc. Though I've never read the comics, I've always enjoyed watching these heroes in action. There is something attractive and appealing about someone who can outsmart the hardships of life, save humanity, and still get the girl (or guy in my case) at the end.

Unfortunately, too many people buy into the marvel of the Marvel superheroes. We seek to embody this ideal image of strong, powerful, handsome/beautiful people. We can conquer the boardroom, be the top of our class, sell the most records, become an A-list actor, live in the biggest house on the block, or drive the fanciest car. We are superheroes in our own right. Or maybe you have heard this line: "You are your own god. You don't need anyone else. Only you can save yourself." This mantra preached in most -ism's today (feminism was pushed heavily in my department in college).

If we are honest with ourselves, despite our outward belief that we can be these superheroes, we know there is something missing. Listen to this song by Krystal Harris called "Supergirl."

In case you missed it, the chorus says, "I'm supergirl/ And I'm here/ To save the world/ And I wanna know/ Who's gonna save me?/ I'm supergirl/ And I'm here to/ Save the world/ And I wanna know/ Why I feel so alone?/ Seems like a dream / But there's one thing missing /Nobody's here with me (Here with me)/ To share in all that/ I've been given I need someone /That's strong enough for me."

This song perfectly identifies our attitudes. We claim to be our own superheroes, strong enough to take on the world, but we can't save ourselves. No matter how hard we try, no matter what we do, it's never enough to satisfy our own loneliness when we go home at the end of the day and crawl into bed. Nothing satisfies.

I admit, I have a strength complex. I think I can handle things on my own. I want to step in and fix the problems affecting my family and friends. I want to be supergirl. The Lord may have given me an ability to handle some things well, but at the end of the day, I am weak and completely fall short of being able to rescue myself, or anyone else for that matter. My bruises show my humanity, my weakness. Luckily, I know the ultimate Superhero.

The Apostle Paul recognized his inability to save himself. 2 Corinthians 12:9-10 says, "And He (Jesus) has said to me, 'My grace is sufficient for you, for power is perfected in weakness.' Most gladly, therefore, I will rather boast about my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may dwell in me. Therefore I am well content with weaknesses, with insults, with distresses, with persecutions, with difficulties, for Christ’s sake; for when I am weak, then I am strong."

What a relief! The Lord empowers me to be strong. He is my superhero. Don't get me wrong. He isn't a genie. He doesn't always grant my wishes or rescue me from the troubles of this world. That's how I grow as a person. I don't have any strength or ability besides what He chooses to give me. His power is perfected in my weakness. His strength is sufficient for what I face today and tomorrow and the rest of my life. He is the ultimate Marvel hero. May I marvel in Him alone!

Since I have a thing for superheroes, I would love to know...Who is your favorite superhero?

Fear of Failure

2011-09-27T13:18:00.000-05:00

I have a ridiculous fear of failure. There. I said it. Aren't confession and acceptance the first steps to change? I first identified this fear two years ago when I was rejected from grad school. Up until that point, school was my kingdom. There was rarely a class I couldn't conquer or a test I couldn't master with a little hard work, good friends, and studying (although math gave me a run for my money on more than one occasion). But as much as I would fret over test results or grades, I rarely doubted that I would succeed in the end.

When I received that dreaded rejection letter in the mail, something snapped. My fear of failure stretched like a mile-wide valley, and I was about to plunge over the edge. Okay, I actually did plunge over the edge. It was more like a nosedive. My fear beat me. More than that, it paralyzed me. I grew angry and bitter, defensive to anyone who challenged me or touched a raw nerve in passing conversation. Not my best moments, and I wish I could take them back. But, I wouldn't change that season.

It took an act of failure to acknowledge my fear. My heart was wrapped in a wall thicker than Jericho's. But through people and circumstances, the Lord took a chisel, and piece by piece began to whittle away the stone. When my heart was once again exposed, I panicked. I had allowed a mentor to talk me into writing a book, a dream I had long nursed but denied reality. I began this wonderful, scary process of walking by faith and not by sight (2 Corinthians 5:7) It is much like Indian Jones staring out over a chasm and taking a step onto a bridge he can't see.

Now, two years later, I daily acknowledge and commit my fear to the the One who has overcome the world. I remember that success as the world defines it is not always success as the Lord defines it. If I wish to be faithful, no matter the outcome, I must do as Jesus said in Matthew 16:24 "deny himself and take up his cross and follow me." I am still deathly afraid of failure. I am afraid that I misread the direction when the Lord closed all the doors, pointed to my computer screen, and said, "Write." I'm fearful that I'm making a mistake in starting book 2. But, I acknowledge that my faith is now bigger than my fear. My God is in control. He always has been. Regardless of whether either book ever sees publication, what He taught me through the journey was acknowledgement of His Lordship and His hand in the midst of the process. So, rejecting my fear of failure, I cling to this promise, "The LORD will fulfill his purpose for me; your steadfast love, O LORD, endures forever. Do not forsake the work of your hands." Psalm 138:8. With the Lord, I won't fail. He simply has better plans in mind.

What are you afraid of?

This post is linked with (In)courage

Buried Treasure and Capt. Jack Sparrow

2011-09-15T12:45:00.000-05:00

After 10 hours, my garage is finally clean. Sort of. The better word may be organized. As I helped my parents rearrange everything, we ran across buried treasure - my favorite children's book, a Russian Bible I got on a mission trip to Ukraine, old vases, Disney puzzles. The list goes on. I relived my childhood during those dirty hours. My favorite discovery was the silly string. Of course, since it was old, it needed to be thrown away, but it is so wasteful to throw something away when it still has stuff in it. So, like any responsible adult, I decided to use the rest of the can on my parents, which they really appreciated.

But, as I sifted through my buried treasure, I was struck both by how blessed I am and how much I need to give away. When I moved back home over a year ago, I left a lot of my belongings in boxes, thinking I would move within a few months when I found a job. If you've been reading for a while, you know the Lord had drastically different, way more amazing plans for me. Since my first book is finished, I took the opportunity to clean out those boxes before beginning book 2. I determined that I would get rid of everything I hadn't missed or needed to use in the past year. I was also convicted by how attached I can become to "stuff," especially that which has sentimental value. Even if I no longer use it, I have difficulty throwing it away because of the memories associated with it.

Matthew 6:19-21 says, ""Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moth and rust do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also." I'm thankful my memories aren't bound by that which is temporal. I'm thankful that my actions and my life can count for something more. And, I hope when I die and people go through "my things" that they aren't discussing the memories associated with the material goods but the memories we made doing things that actually mattered, things of eternal significance. I can't help thinking about Pirates of the Caribbean and the infamous Captain Jack Sparrow. When he is sent to the afterlife (which is really weird, by the way), no people are with him, only his ship and a box of what he treasured in his life. Captain Jack Sparrow was nothing without his ship and his treasure stored in that cave. Will my treasure be stored in eternal dwellings or man made inventions?

Where is your heart? What do you treasure?

Discovering the Courage of William Wallace

2011-09-08T12:04:00.001-05:00

Imagine a massive group of people from different faiths, families, cultures, backgrounds, states, and countries. They have little in common, have never spoken, but they are united in their gathering. If you have ever attended a football game, then you understand this concept. During games in college, it didn't matter if I had never spoken to the person next to me. We were bonded and could celebrate every good play together because of our love for our school, our team. We were connected because of something bigger than ourselves.

I recently returned from a trip to Scotland. I knew a little of the history before I left, but history truly comes alive when you stand in the places where it was lived. My grandmother is Scottish, and my cousin and I made it our personal quest to discover the history of our clan, the Chisholms, while there. So, we visited the Culloden Battlefields. On these fields, the Scottish tribes united against the British to fight for freedom. Imagine William Wallace in Braveheart and you'll get the picture. The Scottish are very proud of their heritage, and this battlefield is a memorial to those who willingly fought and lost their lives. But here's the cool thing: The Scottish were pretty violent back in the day, and the tribes warred against one another. They could not get along. So, for them to unite under a common flag to fight against the British was a big deal.

A belief in freedom, in country, in a people group bound the Scottish tribes together and made them strong. In the same way, a belief in something bigger than ourselves bound a group of Dallas young adults together this past weekend and made them strong. We gained a new perspective and a new purpose.

Imagine if the Scottish tribes had never united. In Braveheart, one man made the difference. He inspired the masses, cooled tempers, and united enemies in a common cause - one more important than any individual. Over Labor Day, One Man also united a group of 700 twenty and thirty somethings. Many didn't know a soul before embarking on the trip to east Texas, but hearts were knit, friendships formed, and faith grown. I truly believe, this group of Dallas young adults have the potential to change their city. Why? Jesus Christ was the unifying bond. His message of love and salvation crosses cultures, beliefs, denominations, and controversy.

He is big enough to unify a group of strangers. His message changes hearts. This belief is stronger than the bond uniting ecstatic fans and deeper than the ties of Scottish blood. There is something that exists that is bigger than you and me. His name is Jesus and He is Healer, Father, Friend, Counselor, Comforter, Judge. And He loves you! When you choose to follow Him, you are immediately adopted into an eternal family. With Him, you will ultimately never lose. And you NEVER fight alone. The courage of William Wallace was rooted in his desire for freedom and his trust in the men fighting with him. Where does your courage lie? There is a Father and family waiting for you to join their team. Will you trust Him?

"Now the full number of those who believed were of one heart and soul, and no one said that any of the things that belonged to him was his own, but they had everything in common." Acts 4:32

The Places You'll Go

2011-08-25T12:23:00.000-05:00

"Congratulations!

Today is your day.

You're off to Great Places!

You're off and away!

You have brains in your head.

You have feet in your shoes

You can steer yourself

any direction you choose.

You're on your own. And you know what you know.

And YOU are the guy who'll decide where to go." Dr. Seuss in Oh, The Places You'll Go

Place is a big deal to me. It's where I find inspiration, something I identify with, something I connect with and attach to. I love to travel. Recently, I traveled to England, Ireland, and Scotland. Both sides of my family have deep roots in Ireland and Scotland, so I really felt a connection with those places. But in all honesty, there's nothing magical about place. The Lord calls us to go into all the world. So, I can use that as an excuse to travel, right? Listen to this song by Steven Curtis Chapman as you read the rest of the post.

As a kid, life looks simple. Or at least it did to me. Finish high school, go to college, get married, have 2.5 kids, work, get a dog, buy a house, live happily ever after, and do it all over again when grandkids start rolling around. Simple, right? I think a better word for my state of mind was "naïve." Once I graduated college, the Lord rocked my world. I often wondered what He was up to, why life wasn't going the way I planned. But life rarely goes as we plan.

In Joshua 1, the Israelites are preparing to enter the Promised Land, but another people group is occupying it, and they are terrified. The Lord makes Joshua a promise, "I will give you every place where you set your foot, as I promised Moses. As I was with Moses, so I will be with you; I will never leave you nor forsake you" (vs 3-5). I tenaciously claim this promise as my own. I know the Lord never leaves me, or at least I embrace that more every day. I want the confidence to go wherever He leads and know that wherever I set my foot is claimed for Christ.

The main character in my book is a young college graduate who chooses to give up her dreams for a greater calling to serve in Haiti. She thinks she is going to help the people and essentially save the world, but that isn't how life works. The earthquake strikes, and lives are forever changed in the aftermath. As I created her character, I tried to put myself in her shoes. Would I trust the Lord in the middle of something that catastrophic? Would I truly believe that every place I set my foot was claimed territory for Him? As my character wrestled to understand why the Lord would take her somewhere to help and then allow something that awful to happen, I wrestled with her. The truth is, the Lord asks us to change jobs, move, go and serve somewhere and we fight Him in that new place because we doubt He is with us or has our best at heart. Wrong! As the Lord told Joshua, He will NEVER leave or forsake you. You never walk into a new place alone. He goes before you, claims it as your promised land, and then enters it with you, promising you every place you set your foot. If He truly is a God who never changes as His word says, then the promises made to Joshua hold true for you.

What promised land does the Lord desire to use you to conquer right now? Will you trust Him?

A Series of Questions

2011-08-11T11:36:00.002-05:00

"Where my gifts and abilities meet the world's need, that is where God wants me to be." Albert Schweitzer

WHAT NOW?
I recently finished writing my first book and now am into a heavy editing stage. "What now?" I asked my mentor during our first phone conversation after completion. I knew I needed a new purpose, a new goal, a new finish line to look forward to and accomplish. Maybe you're there. Maybe you're in a stage of life where you're asking, "What now? What's next, Lord?" I've been there too many times to count in the last couple of years. This is one of the most frustrating and liberating questions in the world. It requires complete dependency on God and an anticipation of what He promises to do.

WHAT BREAKS YOUR HEART AND BAFFLES YOUR MIND?
When I was in Colorado, one of my mentors posed this question. After making a list, my eyes were open in a new way to how the Lord has made me and different directions I should pursue. You can see a portion of my list here. He prayed the question would haunt us. Well, mission accomplished. Every time I ask the Lord what He wants me to do next, I remember this question and look to my list. Jeremiah 29:11 promises that the Lord has good plans to give us a hope and a future. I can rest in that promise, but so often it is hard to trust in His good plans for me right now. I pray this question haunts you until you identify these areas the Lord has wired you for.

WHAT PASSIONS AND GIFTS HAS THE LORD INSTILLED IN ME?
I fail to remember that God has promised good plans for me when I focus on my insecurities instead of His consistent character. In my uncertainty, I run back to my list of what breaks my heart and baffles my mind, and then I look and see the passions and gifts the Lord has given me. The areas where they line up are the areas I need to be pursuing service and work. My job will never fulfill me, but my purpose and motivation behind my task can and will if I am seeking to bring others to the Lord and help instill a passion for Him within them.

HOW AND WHERE CAN I USE THESE FOR HIS GLORY?
I firmly believe that life is an adventure. I'm not talking about high speed chases, guns blazing, James Bond always gets the girl kind of adventures. I'm talking about the twists and turns of daily life, the drastic shifts in direction, the wondering and waiting and hoping. I'm talking about hopping on a train without knowing where you are going, only knowing that you can trust the train to take you somewhere you've never been. That's what trusting Jesus is like, and we should look to our destination with anticipation. Psalm 138:8 says, " The LORD will fulfill His purpose for me; Your love, O LORD, endures forever-- do not abandon the works of Your hands." "For we are God's workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do." Ephesians 2:10. The Bible is full of God's promise to fulfill a purpose for us, to place us right where He wants us for His glory. That doesn't always mean that you will enjoy that place. Sometimes it will be a time of growth, challenge, and trusting Him in greater ways. But He will place you there for a purpose. Look for it. Don't miss it!

WHAT'S YOUR PURPOSE?

Package Deal

2011-08-04T11:35:00.000-05:00

How awesome would it be to have a genie? This magical being would come at the slightest rub of our fingers. He would grant our deepest, most desperate desires, and the world would be beautiful and perfect. Right?

Too often we treat the Lord like our personal genie. He should answer when we call, give us exactly what we ask, and make us happy all the time. The fact is, the Lord isn't a genie in a bottle. He is both GREAT and GOOD, the total package deal. The Lord is the Maker of the heavens and the earth (Isaiah 40:28). He fashioned man from the dust of the earth and breathed life into him (Genesis 2:7). Your every breath is a gift. God is beyond your understanding. He is holy, and therefore, should be honored and revered. Unlike the genie, there is nothing He can't do. He is not limited or contained by our fears or imagination. He is not confined to a box of our beliefs. Like Genie sings, the Lord is the power in our corner. He is GREAT.

The Lord is also GOOD. I can't explain all that this word means to me. Nahum 1:7 says, "The Lord is good, a stronghold in the day of trouble, and He knows those who trust in Him." He is holy and above all, but because He created us and loves us, He desires a relationship, a friendship as Genie's song said. That friendship is not lost or swayed. Unlike Genie, because the Lord loves us, He does what's best for us. "'I know the plans I have for you,' declares the Lord, 'plans to prosper you, and not to harm you, plans to give you a hope and a future.'" Genie must obey Aladdin's every whim. The Lord does not answer our every request because, like a good friend, like a good father, He loves us too much to give us that which will harm us.

With Jesus, we get the total package deal. He is a God who can do anything and is beyond our wildest imaginings. He is holy and above us, which requires respect and reverence on our part. But He is also a friend, good, and loving. His relationship with us includes doing what is best because it will be far more than we can ask, think, or imagine (Ephesians 3:20). He knows our three wishes, and the ways in which He chooses to answer the requests that are God-honoring will bring Him glory because He is GREAT, and be for our benefit because He is GOOD. Better than the most powerful genie and not limited by a lamp.

Copyright of video belongs to Disney.

Contest!

2011-08-01T11:08:00.000-05:00

Hey fellow bloggers, friends, and lurkers,

Head shots are up on my facebook fan page. "Like" the page and select the photo you think should be sent to the book publishers. Proposals go out next week! I would appreciate your support.

God bless,
Kariss

Follow me on twitter and facebook!

Wrestling Match

2011-07-24T12:56:00.000-05:00

As kids, my brother, sister, and I would have wrestling matches. Many times, my parents had to stop them because one of us got angry or frustrated. In our family, all five of us are stubborn and giving up is rarely an option. In the Bible, Jacob reflects this stubbornness on an even greater level.

In Genesis 32, Jacob wrestles with the Lord. Literally. Now on this side of the Old Testament, that seems pretty stupid to me. This is the same God who parts the Red Sea, reveals His glory to Moses, makes a donkey speak, destroys Sodom and Gomorrah. I don't think I would willingly wrestle with Him. But as I studied this passage over the last few days, I realized that the last two years of my life have been a wrestling match with God. Here's what I learned from this passage:

1) The Lord ALLOWS us to wrestle with Him. He could stop it at any time. He isn't backed into a corner or on the ropes. He knowingly allows us to wrestle with Him. Verse 24 says, "Then Jacob was left alone; and a Man wrestled with him until the break of day." Jacob wrestled with the Lord all night. Man, to have witnessed that in the middle of the desert.

2) When we wrestle with the Lord, we will ALWAYS walk away changed. We never leave that match unscathed. It is a turning point where a decision is made one way or another. Will we follow the Lord? Verse 25 says, " Now when He saw that He did not prevail against him (Jacob), He (God) touched the socket of his hip; and the socket of Jacob's hip was out of joint as he wrestled with Him. Jacob refused to give up. He was stubborn and persistent and desperate. I almost wonder if the Lord allowed Jacob to wrestle with Him to see if he would hold on no matter what.

3) The results are ultimately for the Lord's glory and our good. Jacob refused to let go unless the Lord blessed him. Verse 28 says, " And He (the Lord) said, 'Your name shall no longer be called Jacob, but Israel for you have struggled with God and with men, and have prevailed.'" Then, the Bible says that the Lord blessed Jacob. Because Jacob refused to give up, the Lord gained a man who became the father of Israel and gave him a new name and identity. Jacob meant "deceiver." Israel means "God's fighter" or "he struggles with God." The Lord took a man who cheated his brother of an inheritance and made him God's man, a tool, a beautiful picture of God's grace, and a blessing to generations to come. Jacob gained a blessing from the God he worshipped. Sounds like a pretty good deal to me.

Ultimately, God is holy and we are human. We can never forget that distinction if we choose to wrestle with the Lord. Seek out the hard questions. Wrestle and talk to the Lord in the middle of tough times. Cling to Him. Refuse to let go until He blesses you. He's God, and He can handle all that. But NEVER make the mistake of thinking you will come out the victor against a holy God. He is in control. Because the Lord touched Jacob's hip, Jacob walked with a limp, possibly for the rest of his life. When we wrestle with God, we are never the same. It is a life-defining and altering moment.

Have you wrestled with the Lord? What did He teach you?

Beating My Best

2011-07-18T22:06:00.000-05:00

In my past life, I was a band nerd.

Okay, maybe it wasn't my past life. Maybe it was just a few short years ago. But it is a title I claim proudly because I love music and I loved playing my clarinet. Every day was a challenge. I worked hard to make my fingers and tongue move in perfect rhythm. Many felt the need to compete. I felt the pressure, but my band director had a phrase that he often told our band:

"Your main goal in this competition is to be Poteet (that was us). If you can beat what we were this time last year, you will have accomplished our goal."

I still remember that admonishment. While I am not the most competitive person, I do understand the need to beat myself. I don't need to be the best, but I do need to be my best. I constantly push myself to beat my previous standard of "best," and in this way, I am always growing.

Mr. Jones was another of my band directors. He taught me to play my clarinet and was present and active in my life from the time I entered middle school until I graduated. He was my silent cheerleader. I never knew how much until recently.

When I graduated, Mr. Jones gave me a book written by John Maxwell called, Developing the Leader Within You. This book teaches leadership skills rooted strongly in Maxwell's faith in Christ. When I went to college, I attempted to read this book, knowing that Mr. Jones had given it to me for a reason. It was above my head as an 18-year-old who was only focused on making good grades and meeting new people. I've recently read through it, and value the lessons I have learned. But I value something else even more.

In the front of the book, Mr. Jones wrote me a letter. Several lines stuck out to me and have bridged the 5 years since I was his student. "As you embark on this new journey, I know you take a strong faith in the Lord and His teachings. I have no doubt that you will bring Him much glory! I pray that you will hold steadfast to His promises even in the hard times."

Mr. Jones believed in me before I believed in myself, before I recognized the hardships life would throw my way, before I realized my own leadership potential, or before I realized that Maxwell's words would help me grow in my people skills and my faith. Mr. Jones challenged me throughout my teen years and his words continue to challenge me today. Hard times have hit, and I am clinging to the Lord for dear life, just as Mr. Jones prayed I would.

He left me with a verse that I leave you with today, "Therefore, my dear brothers and sisters, stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain." 1 Corinthians 15:58

I pray whatever you do brings God glory, that your hardships point you to the goodness of God, and that you remember that what you do for the Lord is never in vain. I pray that you don't compare yourselves to others but constantly push yourself to excel beyond what you were previously capable. Beat your best and stand firm in the Lord.

HE IS FAITHFUL.

Letting Go

2011-07-06T12:45:00.001-05:00

I think one of the hardest things in life is letting go. I struggle with change more than anything else in my life, and it's only in hindsight that I view it as beneficial and necessary.

For over a year now, I have lived back in my home town. College was a cliche time of "finding myself" apart from the people who have known me for years. It was a time of reinvention. I had a clean slate and continued to find the voice I had only begun to scratch the surface of in high school. Being home has been an all new adventure in understanding who I am. But, it isn't a mission to find myself so much as it is one where I remember who I am in Christ. "Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus." Phil 3:13b-14

My old haunts bring back memories of people I loved whom time has removed; activities I excelled in which I am now incapable of returning to; and places full of memories and milestones. These things I see as I drive through town, and I struggle to let go. I struggle to forget, as the Bible says. I am a firm believer that our past shapes us. Every day adds to the person we will be tomorrow and next year. Often the days that have come before are more comfortable, or, dare I say it, safe. Maybe that's what makes change so hard. It isn't safe. It's unpredictable and often equates to loss and heartache and more misplaced memories.

But, I will choose to look at it this way: Proverbs 25:4 says, "Remove the dross from the silver, and out comes material for the silversmith." Dross is equated with impurity. When the bad material is removed, the silversmith is free to mold the material into a planned shape and design to serve a specific purpose. When the silversmith sees the correct image, his job is not only complete, but perfected. I am choosing to view change as the process by which the dross is removed from my life, so that in my next transition stage to God knows where, I am a little better for having gone through the process.

"We fight to hold on. We fight to let go." I wish I could tell you that I've mastered the balance. The truth is, I wish I had. This will be a lifelong process for me. Maybe my struggle to let go at the moment exists because I am on the brink of finishing something that could potentially change life as I know it. No going back. That reality is not safe.

But forgetting what is behind, I move on to see what the Lord has in store for me next. Hopefully, in the next stage, I will be a little wiser and slightly more equipped to let go of clinging to my comfort zone.

What are you holding on to?

"I'm Letting Go" by Francesca Battistelli

Trapped

2011-06-29T16:38:00.017-05:00

Do you ever feel trapped?

Stuck somewhere you don't want to be, in a relationship you don't want to be in, or just stuck inside your own skin? Do you ever look around and want things to be different but aren't sure how to change them?

The past week, I have felt trapped - trapped inside my own head, trapped in a mess of city noise and iron, trapped in a routine that I want to spice up but am not sure how. Just trapped. One night this week, I was rehashing a load of memories, once again feeling trapped when I begin to think of places I love and times I have felt free.

One
My brother plays football at a college three hours away from where I went to college in West Texas. To go to his games, I drove the loneliest stretch of earth with nothing visible but cows, windmills, and cotton fields. Driving home from the games, that stretch of road was my haven. I would roll down the windows and watch the sun set in array of reds, pinks, and oranges and then fade into deeper purples and navy's before dropping off the curve of the earth. Each time, the sky was different patterns and shades. I imagined God sitting at an easel in heaven with his paint brush and streaking these fiery colors across the sky. No painting could be like the last and each one was a masterpiece. On that lonely stretch of road where I watched the sun sink below the curve of the earth for miles, wind blowing in my hair, and music blaring, I felt free.

Two
During college, I spent three spring breaks in California working on local, underprivileged churches. I worked from sun up to sun down and then crashed before doing it all over again. I loved working with these churches, meeting the pastors, hearing their stories. I especially loved the day set aside to spend on the beach. Each of those trips, I watched the sun set over the Pacific Ocean. The crash of the waves on the sand and the open space made me feel free. I knew at any moment, the sky could turn a deep black and the ocean rage but I never worried. It was peaceful.

Three
Two summers ago, I spent my summer in the mountains of Colorado Springs. I don't think I ever truly appreciated their beauty until living in them. They are harsh, unwavering, difficult to thrive in, yet they are beautiful, peaceful, and serene. Hiking the trails, pushing my body to a breaking point, spreading out under the stars on a cold night made me feel free.

As I began to think about why each of these places and instances are so significant to me, I came to one solid conclusion - these places denote the bigness and greatness of my God. Psalm 19:1 says, "The heavens declare the glory of God." Genesis 1:1 says, "In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth." My lit professors would say that this sentence is too generic, too broad, too unbelievable. So the Bible goes on to list what God created and when He created it. I think that this statement is perfect. There is nothing finite or generic about a different sunset every evening, or the mountains, or the waves crashing against the beach. The are big, bigger than anything science can explain. They stand for a BIG, GREAT GOD. When I think about the One who spoke these big miracles into being and remember that I belong to Him, I no longer feel trapped

I know I'm free.

'Generation Y' R U Here?

2011-06-21T14:37:00.000-05:00

Why are you here? In all reality, this a question argued by the greatest philosophers from every religion, belief system, culture, and background. It is asked during every life stage by many, but this is especially the classic question for those of us reaching adolescence or early adulthood. We are constantly experiencing transitions that kick us from one city to the next or one school or job to another. We find friends, move, and are forced to find friends again. We exist in a culture tied by the Internet rather than personal bonds. In the midst of all this transitioning, greater opportunities, and a desire to find our place, this question is common:

WHY AM I HERE?

I AM a Gen Yer. There are varying years characterizing those in Generation Y, but most experts agree that this generation is characterized by those born in the 1980s and 90s. According to studies, Gen Yers are marked by a desire for worth and purpose. They are idealistic with a 'conquer the world' mentality. One of my mentors told me recently that the Christians in this generation are marked by a desire to "be the church" rather than simply "do church." While this mentality is great on some fronts, we have a lot to learn from those before us and are eager to do so from those who will listen and support our dreaming.

We have all these dreams and many of us take steps to make them a reality but still there is the question "Why am I here and what do I exist for?" A google search reveals that this question is addressed by 137 million articles. What is my purpose? Who am I? Why am I here?

Psalm 8:4 says, "What is man that you are mindful of him, the son of man that you care for him?" Even those in ancient Israel wondered why they existed. But in the following verses we see an answer..

Psalm 8:5-9 says, "You (God) made him (man) a little lower than the heavenly beings and crowned him with glory and honor.You made him ruler over the works of your hands; you put everything under his feet: all flocks and herds, and the beasts of the field, the birds of the air, and the fish of the sea, all that swim the paths of the seas. O LORD, our Lord, how majestic is your name in all the earth!"

We are created and designed uniquely for a purpose, to have dominion over the earth, and ultimately...we exist to bring God glory. We have our dreams, ambitions, goals, and hopes because He created us that way. Being an overseer of the earth is a big job. Why would a BIG GOD who created us uniquely to fulfill a BIG JOB give us anything less than BIG DREAMS? We fall short when we twist those dreams into pursuits for our own glory instead of His.

So, why are you here?
You are created uniquely for a PURPOSE to bring God glory.

It's really that simple.

Legacy

2011-06-16T10:42:00.000-05:00

Listen to this song by Nichole Nordeman as you read the post. Copyright belongs to her.

I am the product of a legacy. Growing up, I attended First Baptist Dallas. For those who grew up there, we are FBD children. It is our heritage. It is something special. This past week I returned to this church, no longer a member of the children's or youth group, but as a young adult and counselor over what I was once a part of. It was an interesting balance. Several of the teachers who once had me in youth group were counselors, as well. I found myself continually going to them for advice and seeking the wise counsel of these weathered veterans who have stuck through multiple youth pastors, teenage attitudes, and apathetic hearts. All because they love this ministry and they love the kids.

After spending this week with them, I realized something: I am a product of their legacy. My eighth grade Sunday school teacher, Mrs. White, was one of the counselors I continually went to. After the first day, I was feeling particularly drained. I went up to Mrs. White, hugged her neck, and thanked her for her patience and love for students despite their disrespect and attitudes.


Mrs. White and Ms. Darwin - my teachers since 8th grade.

She looked at me and one of the other counselors (also an FBD kid) and said, "Y'all make it worth it. When you come back to serve these kids and the lessons you have been taught stick, you remind me why I do what I do."

I am part of her legacy.

One of the camp pastors asked the students one night, "When you get to heaven, will there be people waiting for you thanking you for the impact and influence you had in getting them there?" I began to wonder what my legacy will be. Am I putting time and effort into things of eternal significance?

Matthew 6:19-20 says, "Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moth and rust do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal." Will there be people when I get to heaven that thank me as I thanked Mrs. White for pouring into them and not giving up regardless of the circumstances?

I'm 23 and I want to leave a legacy, not for my glory but so that it brings glory to the One who made me...Jesus Christ. The things I invest in now are building an eternal legacy.

What will your legacy be?

Florida

2011-06-13T10:28:00.000-05:00

I spent this past week in Panama City, Florida with 200 teenagers for a beach camp. The theme of the week was connection. While the word got REALLY OLD by Friday, I loved watching the teenagers connect with a Kenyan child who they wrote and sent virtual pictures to throughout the week. The kids learned they have a voice and the ability to make an impact.

PURPOSE
DIFFERENCE
IMPACT
CONNECTION
SUCCESS
DREAMS
RELATIONSHIPS

These words define this generation. They want to make a difference. They want purpose. They want to connect and make relationships with those around them. They want to see success and experience dreams coming true. And they need to be told they can do it. They need to be told that they are not too young or inexperienced or incapable. They need to be equipped and trained and encouraged. An older woman told me that I could not write or make an impact because I am too young. Her words crushed me. I struggled to motivate myself each time I sat down to write because her words rang in my ears. Our words impact these kids for better or worse.

"Don't let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in speech, in life, in love, in faith and in purity." 1 Timothy 4:12

I am not far removed from the experiences of these teens but I learned about life and love and desire and need for relationships and encouragement from them this week. I love what Jeremiah 1 says to those who are young and feeling inexperienced. The chapter is a conversation between this young prophet and the Lord...

“Alas, Sovereign LORD,” I said, “I do not know how to speak; I am too young.”

But the LORD said to me, “Do not say, ‘I am too young.’ You must go to everyone I send you to and say whatever I command you. Do not be afraid of them, for I am with you and will rescue you,” declares the LORD.

Then the LORD reached out his hand and touched my mouth and said to me, “I have put my words in your mouth. See, today I appoint you over nations and kingdoms to uproot and tear down, to destroy and overthrow, to build and to plant.”

“Get yourself ready! Stand up and say to them whatever I command you. Do not be terrified by them, or I will terrify you before them. Today I have made you a fortified city, an iron pillar and a bronze wall to stand against the whole land—against the kings of Judah, its officials, its priests and the people of the land. They will fight against you but will not overcome you, for I am with you and will rescue you,” declares the LORD.

The Lord called Jeremiah to go and speak truth to Israel and Jeremiah told the Lord he was scared because of His youth. The Lord equipped him to do BIG THINGS and then promised to NEVER LEAVE HIM. I pray that the youth on this trip claim who they are in Christ and allow Him to do big things through them as they grow to love Him more. I pray for you as you do the same, no matter your stage of life. He didn't call us to sit on the sidelines but to live abundantly and follow wherever He leads.

Seeking to do big things with you,

Kariss

England

2011-06-03T22:26:00.000-05:00

I spent three weeks in England with my cousin Shanna and her husband Logan. They helped me research for a character who is an air force pilot. I enjoyed getting to know all their friends, exploring their village and different cities in England, as well as spending several days each in Ireland and Scotland. Enjoy pictures from my trip!

Shanna and I took a day trip to Brinkley to do a photo shoot for my head shots for my book. It was beautiful and picturesque.

Beautiful path back into a glade in Brinkley.

Because of how cold it is, we had tea breaks A LOT. I learned the hard way that tea time is not a time to pull out your lap top and work. Tea time is taken very seriously. So good.

Loved Oxford University! And loved Oxford City.

Christ Church in Oxford.

Christ Church in Oxford

We ate lunch at the Eagle and Child's pub, known by locals as the Hawk and Babe.

The Eagle and Childs pub was once the meeting place of CS Lewis and JRR Tolkien. The inside is full of quotes from Lord of the Rings and Narnia. I felt inspired.

An old quaint building in Oxford. I was convinced it was about to fall over.

Traditional telephone booth shot. And it was such a bright, pretty color.

Christ Church and Oxford dorms. Some students were playing croquet in suits...on a Saturday. Very different way of life.

I spent a day wandering around Bury St. Edmunds. I loved the Abbey Gardens in the town center. I read a book and listened to the elderly as they chatted about the friendly squirrels. It was a beautiful, sunny day and the flowers were colorful and in fool bloom in the middle of the ruins.

The ruins are well preserved and popular place for locals on lunch break. I enjoyed exploring.

Abbey Gardens. I stopped and had tea at Harriets and then headed back to Logan and Shanna's when I got lost in the city center on market day for 30 minutes. Once again, always an adventure.

Scotland

2011-06-03T21:36:00.000-05:00

We spent three days in Scotland in Inverness area. It was beautiful and green. We were on an excursion to study our family history. Our grandmother's family, the Chisholms, are from Inverness are. Enjoy a few of the snap shots from the trip.

Scotland is a huge producer of beautiful wool. Sheep are everywhere in this country! This was the wool mill in Inverness that we stopped at on our bus tour of the city. I bought three scarves that I am very excited to wear next summer.

Shanna and Logan in front of the part of the Inverness city scape.

Inverness castle is now part of the government system. It sits on a hill overlooking the River Ness. The core of the city is built around the river.

Scots are big on family names and history. Loyalty and identity are paramount. This is the Chisholm family tartan and the family motto...Feros Ferio - I am fierce with the fierce.

The city line along the river is made up of several churches from different eras, all with beautiful steeples. The city is a perfect combination of the new and old in Scotland.

Welcome to Erchless Castle, once home to the Chisholm clan. At one point the castle sat on over 250,000 acres. Now it sits on 12,000 acres. We met the man who owns when we trespassed on the land accidentally. He invited us in for a cup of tea and took us on a tour of the entire castle. It was amazing! Then we sat in the old Chiholm sitting room and drank tea and chatted with the owner for two and a half hours. It was the perfect ending to our first day in Scotland.

Erchless Castle grounds still host tons of sheep and cows. This is the back side of our property. We spent most of the trip driving the scenic countryside of Scotland.

Sunset on the beach on our way back to Inverness. Not quite as pretty as Texas but we were just happy to see the sun after a cold, rainy day.

Day 2 we took a river cruise on Loch Ness. We didn't see Nessie and no one was eaten but the Loch is beautiful, even when it rained...again.

Our boat for our Loch excursion.

On the boat

Our first glimpse of Urquhart castle on the banks of Loch Ness and the only stop on our tour. I loved the rainbow created by the spray and rain.

The castle is now in ruins but we explored a little anyway. In the tourist center, we discovered that this was once a home to the Chisholm clan, too, before a warring clan seized the castle from the family.

We also went to the Culloden Battlefields. The Scots love their history. Culloden is the site of a bloody battle between the Scottish clans led by Bonny Prince Charlie and the British. The Scots were fighting for freedom from England, something they have yet to win. The concrete print is from the Chisholm Clan Society in honor of those who died in the battle. 150 Chisholm clansmen fought on the front lines of the Scottish offensive.

A memorial in honor of those who died stands in front of the Battlefields. "Our blood is still our fathers, and ours the valour of their hearts."

This marked the turn of the battle. As soon as this clan chief fell, the clansmen were pushed back. Those from local clans braved the fields and buried the dead in mass graves for each clan, marking the place with a stone like this. The British remained unburied and their resting place unmarked until the 1800s when the Scots placed another stone that simply reads, "Here fell the English."

Part of the beautiful countryside. An ocean inlet, fields of flowers, pastures and fields, woods and hills. Definitely Scotland.

We spent our last day at Spey Bay watching several pods of dolphins feeding and playing in the surf. I researched dolphins in college and I was fascinated to see them so near. The beaches in Scotland and Ireland are mostly rock and are not warm, so no bare feet and swim suits, but it didn't rain and the sky was a beautiful blue.

Ireland

2011-06-03T21:01:00.000-05:00

I visited Ireland last week and fell in love. It's been my dream to visit since childhood and it was everything I'd imagined...with a little more rain than I like. Green is truly in my blood. Here are some of the memories from the trip. England and Scotland updates to follow soon!

The trip got off to a rough start. The GPS wouldn't work. Our phone was about to shut off when we traveled from England to Ireland. Shanna forgot her license and they almost didn't let us rent our car. We were those Americans at the Ireland airport and provided entertaining dinner conversation for the Irish employees at the car rental place who told us a GPS was pointless anyway because none of the roads are marked or have signs. It was a fun adventure.

It rained the WHOLE time we were in Ireland. Truly the Emerald Isle. But we rolled with it and had a great time. In Galway, we were caught in a sudden downpour on the beach and were completely soaked to the bone by the time we found our way back to our Bed and Breakfast.

Our first stop on our tour through the Irish countryside was Galway, a coastal town and the ancestral home of the Lynch's. Galway is known as the City of the Tribes. Back in the day, the Lynch family was one of the top 3 most prominent families and and over 40 Lynch's were mayors in this town. Lynch is Gaelic for "mariner" or "seafarer" and the family motto is Semper Fidelus...always faithful.

Welcome to Lynch castle, located in the heart of Galway town center. It was actually the townhouse and the family castles were located outside the city. It is now a bank.

We decided it was only appropriate to eat lunch and warm up with some tea at Lynch's cafe. Both were delicious.

There is nothing dreary about Ireland. They live life in vibrant color, especially on the seaside. These are shops in the Galway city center.

This is Lynch's window. Apparently one of my ancestors way back in the day, a mayor at the time, hung his guilty son on this spot and the town commemorated his courage and justice with this memorial. Can't seem to get away from that hanging connection.

This was on the beach in Galway Bay right before the torrential downpour. We were told by our tour guide (an old Irish man who told us our whole family history and sang "The Yellow Rose of Texas" when he found out where we were from) that in October the sky turns a crimson color at sunset and the water is a deep turquoise. Beautiful!

Bunratty Castle. We loved our time in the village around the castle. They remodeled the cottages to symbolize the homes of the serfs who once lived and worked there.

Once again, they were bright colors and set in deep green woods. Each house symbolized a different trade. This was the fisherman's cottage. I LOVED the thatched rooms and the earthy smell of the fire place.

The beautiful Cliffs of Moher. Cows grazed on the hills and the water was a deep turquoise color before it smashed against the rocks. It was REALLY windy but I enjoyed exploring the hills.

I loved this place!

King John's castle in Limerick.

Blarney Castle. Home of the famous Blarney Stone. It is said that if you hang upside down and kiss the stone then you will forever be blessed with the gift of blarney, or insulting someone in a round about, unoffensive way. We decided not to kiss the stone that has had millions of lips on its surface. Kinda gross.

So instead of kissing the Blarney Stone, we explored the Wishing Steps. The grounds of Blarney Castle are said to be magical. The Wishing Steps are bewitched. If you walk up and down the steps backwards with your eyes closed and don't fall while thinking of a single wish, your wish will come true within a year. We had fun trying to do this on uneven steps that go into a tunnel. Always an adventure.

The Ultimate Question - Why?

2011-05-16T06:55:00.000-05:00

The ultimate question is summed up in one word..."why." Why does God allow certain things to happen? If He truly is in control as the Bible says, why didn't he stop the earthquake in Haiti or the events of 9/11? There are no easy answers but there is a lingering truth that shines from the shadows and debris.

The song above struck a special cord with me. I understand it. I imagine most of you can pinpoint a time in your life when the events in your life were awful. A loved one was suffering from an incurable illness, died from cancer, your home was ripped from you like those in the South have experienced lately, you were fired or something you had worked for your whole life came to nothing.

In those moments, I have cried, questioned why God would allow these things to happen, but looking back, the Lord used those times of questioning and trials to show me Himself. They were mercies in disguise. A year ago, I moved home from college, no job prospects, rejected from several grad schools, a very low bank account, no community. Now, I have two jobs, a mentor helping me get my first book published, money to provide for my bills and expenses, and an amazing community group of girls who continually lift me up in prayer.

I have changed and grown in the last year because of all the ‘no’s’, redirects, disappointments, and new dreams. The trials of the last year were mercies in disguise to bring me somewhere so much better than I could have planned a year ago. The Lord’s plans for me are far better than my own. This is such a minor issue compared to the plight of those in Haiti or the grief of those who lost someone in the recent tornadoes, but because it was such a big deal to me, the Lord used it.

Jeremiah 29:11 says, “’I know the plans I have for you,’ declares the Lord, ‘plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you a HOPE and a FUTURE.’”

After the storm, there’s a rainbow. Sometimes you just have to look closely to see it. He is the great I AM of mercies in disguise. Will you trust him in the midst of your trials and disappointments? Will you look to see the imprint of His hand in the midst of your brokenness? There are no easy answers. Very few words will soothe the pain. But if His word is true as I believe it to be, then He is good in spite of your circumstance and promises a hope and future despite the chaos. There is rest and peace in understanding the goodness of this God. "Sorrow may last for the night, but joy comes with the morning." Psalm 30:5

Compassion for the Confused

2011-05-01T14:00:00.044-05:00

"We Are the World: Haiti"

They say Haiti is 80% Catholic, 20% Protestant, and 100% Voodoo. My heart breaks for Haiti, for the cultural confusion and the spiritual darkness that is rooted in a violent history. My heart breaks for the Christians who have accepted it so as not to offend. My heart breaks that the presentation of voodoo in my book may offend some because it speaks truth.

About 2 weeks ago, I was royally stuck in the middle of my story. (There is a voodoo doctor in my book who is a conflicted antagonist.) I was stuck because I want so desperately to portray him and his culture accurately. I knew next to nothing about voodoo, only that what I have seen in movies of dolls and pins is not an accurate portrayal. So I dug deeper, wholeheartedly desiring to shed light on this culture in a way that respects and loves the people who practice. What I found was chilling. Not only is voodoo not like the Hollywood version, it is much worse. After watching several news broadcast voodoo rituals and ceremonies of spirits and sacrifices, I am convinced the spirits are very real and very ungodly.

I prayed, researched, and asked questions. I was advised to portray voodoo as peaceful and the people that follow both voodoo and Jesus as Christian. But here is the startling Biblical truth...God speaks to Moses in Exodus 20:3 and says, "You shall have NO OTHER GODS BEFORE ME." God didn't sugar coat how important His holiness and individuality are and neither will I, though it may offend some. I apologize if this truth offends you. I will not apologize for the truth itself. Just as I spoke of life earlier this week, abundant, sweet life in Christ, Haiti is not only locked in a cycle of death from the earthquake but from spiritual blindness and confusion.

In John 14:6 says, "Jesus answered, 'I AM the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.'" The people of Haiti cannot straddle a fence by worshiping God and following voodoo spirits. It isn't possible. Many are walking a road of death that expands past the grave and it absolutely breaks my heart. Please join me in praying for the people of Haiti. Pray that the Lord will give me the words to say. They are not bad people, just confused and lost. Pray that people will read the character of the voodoo doctor and have compassion on him as Jesus did to those who crucified Him - "Jesus said, 'Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing.'"

The woman in the brown dress in the photo is a voodoo priestess one of my friends met on a trip to Haiti who was interested in Jesus. Pray that eyes will be open and ears will be receptive. The song above inspires me daily to pray for the people of Haiti, not only their daily lives but for them to know Jesus and experience LIFE. There are some very Godly people in Haiti who love their people and want to see it changed for Jesus. Voodoo is a looming reality and some in Haiti confuse the two religions or follow voodoo because it is traditional or cultural. Only Jesus can change their hearts and shine truth into darkness.

Life and Tim McGraw

2011-04-26T14:12:00.000-05:00

"Jesus said to her, 'I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in me will live, even though he dies.'" (John 11:25)

Jesus is I AM LIFE.

This past weekend, we celebrated Easter - a holiday of life as a result of the death of an all-powerful God. It amazes me that Jesus was born for the end purpose of dying on a cross to save the lives of all mankind. Would you do that? It's easy to visualize ourselves as the hero of our own story. Of course we would go to the rescue of a loved one, we would brave a bullet or a bad guy, we would fight for their right to live, and for those we really love, we would die in their place. But do we really understand the motivation behind Jesus' gruesome death on a cross?

Jesus said, "The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the FULL." (John 10:10) His blood ransomed the lives of all mankind so we are not merely living but living to the fullest potential possible when we follow Him.

Abundant life. Utilizing every moment. We exist for a purpose - to glorify God and make Him known. How are you demonstrating this philosophy to those around you? We celebrated the death of Jesus on Easter, but ultimately, we celebrated the life that we can have in Him if we choose to obey.

Freedom. Fullness. Life Abundant. Purpose. I desperately desire to live a life that is worthy, filled with meaning and drive, enjoying every moment, touching lives wherever I go, taking time to stop and smell the flowers, growing, changing, being the best version of myself that I can possibly be. With Jesus we thrive rather than simply exist, have direction rather than aimlessly wander. That is LIFE to the FULL!

Enjoy others thoughts on living well:

"The purpose of life is a life of purpose." Robert Byrne

"Our lives begin to end the day we become silent about things that matter." Martin Luther King

When I stand before God at the end of my life, I would hope that I would not have a single bit of talent left, and could say, "I used everything you gave me." Erma Bombeck

"Our talents are the gift that God gives to us... What we make of our talents is our gift back to God." Leo Buscaglia

One of my favorite country artists is Tim McGraw. Though not always biblical, many of his songs capture inspiring philosophies. Enjoy his song called "Live Like You Were Dying."

It's never too late to follow the one and only Son of God who died for you. It's never too late to start living life to the fullest!

Colorado Update

2011-04-20T14:41:00.001-05:00

Hey friends and lurkers,

I'm back in Texas and wanted to give you an update since so many of you have asked how my residency went and prayed for me while I was gone.

The time was sweet and amazing,challenging and confirming. I know I am where the Lord has called me to be and that knowledge is wonderful and scary all at the same time.

My mentors for the week were DiAnn Mills, Jerry B. Jenkins, Doc Hensley, and Janice Mitchell. Every day we listened to a devotional and then split into groups to meet with each of these teachers. Our chapters were critiqued by our classmates and mentors. The goal by December is to have the tools necessary to finish and publish a first novel.

I received encouragement and challenge from all the mentors. I was coached in speaking so that I can be involved in interviews and talk shows when/if the book is published. McNair Wilson and Julie Neils were my coaches in this area. I sat for a mock interview about my book, Shaken, and am really excited about where the Lord is leading.

Here is the premise behind my novel, Shaken.

When your world is shaken, you seek a stronger foundation.

Never one to welcome change, Kaylan Richards is forced to choose between her dream education and a calling to work in Haiti. She chooses to go to Haiti and immediately battles culture shock, language barriers, and an angry voodoo doctor determined to harm her physically and hinder her ministry. Then the earthquake hits, devastating Haiti and killing her best friend, and Kaylan is left returning to the states questioning a God who claims to be good. Can the love of the man she left at home help her heal and show her the God who never abandoned her, or will the earthquake shake even the most rooted faith?

I hope you will stay tuned as I complete the book. I am half way there and it is due in a little over a month! Pray for motivation and a focused heart and mind. My band director in high school used to tell me, "Give it all ya got, but don't give it more than you have." It seems like a pretty good philosophy.

I also hiked the Incline with my friend, Amy while I was in Colorado. I think they should call it "Devil's Staircase." It was a good life analogy of the struggle to get to the top, the exertion and pain and determination, and then the sweet success when you finally arrive. On the way down, the journey up seems worth the pain (except I don't EVER want to hike that thing again). That is much how my writing has seemed over the last few weeks. Thank you to those who have prayed and continue to love and support me as I push on toward fulfilling the dreams God has called me to. He is a God of big dreams and I can't wait to see what He does with mine.

In the One who is Mighty to Save,

Kariss

Low Man on the Totem Pole

2011-04-14T14:43:00.001-05:00

I am officially in Colorado with a beautiful view of a snow covered Pike's Peak. Memories and writing mentors are my constant companions. In my 22 years, I have tasted a lot of success and a lot of failure. But as I have prayed and struggled to identify success this week, I have come back to one statement made thousands of years ago by the greatest man to ever walk the earth:

"Whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, and whoever wants to be first must be slave of all." Mark 10:43-44

When I stand before Jesus one day, He won't ask me what my college GPA was or how I tasted success in my writing career. He won't applaud me for winning a state competition my senior year of high school or stand in awe of my traveling adventures. He will ask me, "How did you serve with the gifts I gave you?"

Man, that's humbling. Jesus defines success as servant hood. That puts a new spin on failure, doesn't it?
Success isn't a focus on the end all, be all. The journey is the destination that will define your success.

You want to be great? You want to find success and happiness? Jesus says success is an eternal mindset. Success requires sacrifice. In that, there is greatness.

In Native American cultures, totem poles were used to tell tribal legends, show family history, or represent the culture. We often refer to those figures on the bottom as less important because of our phrase "low man on the totem pole." Different cultures arranged figures different ways, but I would argue that to be the low man on the totem pole is a title the Lord holds in high regard. The low man is the odd man out, the one everyone overlooks, and undervalues. He is thought of as weak, unimportant, and ordinary.

But...

If you think about it, the low man on the totem pole supports the rest of his members. He is strong yet unnoticed, base but vital, exalting and supporting the others yet unappreciated and criticized. He is the servant. He is the least of his members, but the Lord calls the least, the greatest.

The measure of success is becoming that low man on the totem pole, succeeding at edifying and serving others, even if no one else notices. It isn't success as the world defines it, but success as the God of the Universe defines it.

Are you succeeding at what counts?

Epic Fail

2011-04-11T16:17:00.001-05:00

"Stand" by Rascal Flatts

Failure is not an option if your perspective is an eternal one.

Writer's block has been a killer the past two weeks for this budding author. I am a perfectionist and, ironically, failure is part of my daily life. Such a bitter pill to swallow. This week as I prepare for my residency in Colorado Springs with the Christian Writer's Guild, I want to focus on success and failure.

Failure is not the end game. It is the means by which we are forced to push ourselves, dream big, and reach success. I am encouraged that the great people in history failed multiple times before they succeeded. Failure only defined them if they chose to stop in the midst of it.

So this week, I use the words of others who have walked the path of FAILURE before and lived to tell the tale. They conquered this demon and tasted their own version of success. Their eyes were on the finish line, not on the current trap. As I focus on their words, I encourage you...KEEP ON KEEPING ON.

"Being confident of this very thing, that He who has begun a good work in you will complete it until the day of Jesus Christ." Philippians 1:6

"My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever." Psalm 73:26

“There are no secrets to success. It is the result of preparation, hard work, and learning from failure.” Colin Powell

“My imperfections and failures are as much a blessing from God as my successes and my talents and I lay them both at his feet.” Mahatma Ghandi

"The say President Wilson has blundered. Perhaps he has, but I notice he usually blunders forward." Thomas Edison

"There is no failure. Only feedback." Robert Allen

"Because a fellow has failed once or twice or a dozen times, you don't want to set him down as a failure till he's dead or loses his courage." George Horace Lorimer

Bottom line - failure is an opportunity to stand back up after you fall. It is a test of your courage, perseverance, and joy. It is a tool used to build your character to handle both success and failure. Embrace it, use it, learn from it, and MOVE ON. The Lord promises a future and a hope for you and it NEVER ends with failure.

Hello Spring!

2011-04-04T12:46:00.000-05:00

The wildflowers of Texas are in full bloom and beautiful along the highways. Green is sprouting everywhere and the weather is warm and welcoming. It is a season of new life and new beginnings. Hello, Spring!

With this time of year, I am reminded that not only is nature undergoing transformation, but I am, as well. "Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come!" (2 Corinthians 5:17) Tenth Avenue North sings, "You are more than the choices that you make, you are more than the sum of your past mistakes, you are more than the problems you create. You've been remade." If you know Christ, you are being made into something new and beautiful.

In The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe by C.S. Lewis, the four siblings shake off their fur coats when Aslan arrives to melt the long winter. When Jesus came, winter was over. When we acknowledge He is the Son of God who sacrificed Himself for us, we can shake off our winter coats. Shame, guilt, regret, doubt, and anger all melt away in light of the empty grave.

A friend of mine said that she feels intense shame knowing that Jesus knows her imperfect thoughts and actions performed in secret. My response is that I feel freedom that someone knows all my imperfections and rough edges and loves me in spite of myself. Jesus desires to mold us into His image. It is a lifelong process but He is transforming me for His glory. There is no shame or regret in bearing my imperfections to the One who has promised to change me. It is time to throw of the coat of shame and regret from a long winter.

Celebrate this spring! There is freedom and new life in Jesus Christ! He is the great I AM of making things NEW.

Jesus said, "I came that they may have life, and have it abundantly." John 10:10

Song property of Tenth Avenue North

My Book!

2011-03-29T13:34:00.001-05:00

Heavenly Whispers Kariss LaRee Lynch by Kariss LaRee Lynch | Make Your Own Book

Bigger Picture

2011-03-28T14:00:00.000-05:00

Check out this song by Matthew West called "My Own Little World." It's on my playlist today and I pray I can do what it says.

This week, I am hitting my book hard. I am determined to finish several chapters that are pivotal to the story by the end of the week. Ironically, as I write my character is inspiring me.

My character's name is Kaylan. She is a recent college graduate choosing between her dream education and career and a calling. She leaves everything behind to serve in Haiti. Idealistic and inexperienced, she arrives in Haiti and sees the breadth of misfortune and hard living. How can she make a difference in this small country where so much is wrong? Can one person possibly change the course?

As I write her experience and read blogs of those who actually serve in Haiti, I am convicted. I live such a comfortable existence in comparison to the plight of Haiti. I have never had to consider where my next meal will come from or sell my body for a roof over my head or a meal. I have never lost or experienced something as large as the earthquake or hurricanes that have shaken the country over the last few years.

As the Body of Jesus Christ we are called to serve, not just in the midst of crisis, but daily in everything.

"Remember the words of the Lord Jesus, how He Himself said, ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.’”Acts 20:35

"As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God's varied grace."1 Peter 4:10

"The greatest among you shall be your servant." Matthew 23:11

"For you were called to freedom, brothers. Only do not use your freedom as an opportunity for the flesh, but through love serve one another. For the whole law is fulfilled in one word: 'You shall love your neighbor as yourself.'" Galatians 5:13-14

Notice the reoccuring words? Give, serve, love just as Christ did! How could we do any different? I am praying about ways I can serve and meet the needs of others, not just in Haiti but where I live. What can you do to get out of your comfort zone to serve others? Not out of a guilty conscience, but from the overflow of loving Jesus and a desire to mimic His behavior.

"What if there's a bigger picture? What if I'm missing out? What if there's a greater purpose I could be living right now? I don't want to miss what matters." Purpose only comes from knowing Jesus Christ and following Him.

More on this thought can be found HERE on a post from last October. Check it out!

I Choose Joy (Part 2)

2011-03-24T14:39:00.003-05:00

In the last month, my family has experienced the deaths of four people close to us. It has been difficult to say the least. My heart has felt heavy. I have fought tears and dug for strength and understanding. I didn't question God's goodness in this situation. He is still God and still good despite my circumstance. But I did wonder why. Three of the four were under 21 years of age.

One of these friends lost his joy. It pains my heart that he forgot the hope and power that comes from being a child of God. Is it difficult for you to understand joy that comes from an unknown, unseen God? Let's see if I can explain. Remember the last time you were truly, completely happy? Were you with a loved one? Did that feeling last past the moment? Now imagine that feeling rooted at the very heart of you. Multiply it times ten and imagine that it doesn't go away. It stays on the bad days and in difficult times. It reassures you when you cry or are angry or hurt.

The only way this kind of deep rest and contentment sticks is with a relationship with Jesus Christ. He doesn't abandon you when you are less than pleasant. He doesn't give up on you when you continue to fall to your addiction. He doesn't shy away from your tears and anger. You may not feel happy, but you feel loved and content and with that comes joy that doesn't go away.

When these people passed away, I felt heavy, confused, sad, and closed off. I forgot the joy promised to me in Christ. But this week, the Lord has reminded me in so many sweet ways. I am learning to daily thank Him for the blessings, especially the smallest ones like making it through a particularly difficult work out or receiving a letter from a friend. When I remember the smallest blessings, when I remember how big my God is and that He already knew about these deaths, I remember who I am in Him and I have joy. I choose to look to the only One who can bring me that sense of peace and contentment and happiness.

"But let all who take refuge in You be glad; let them ever sing for joy. Spread Your protection over them, that those who love Your name may rejoice in You." Psalm 5:11

"But I trust in Your unfailing love; my heart rejoices in Your salvation." Psalm 13:5

"The LORD is my strength and my shield; my heart trusts in Him, and I am helped. My heart leaps for joy and I will give thanks to Him in song." Psalm 28:7

"For His anger lasts only a moment, but His favor lasts a lifetime; weeping may remain for a night, but rejoicing comes in the morning." Psalm 30:5

"You turned my wailing into dancing; You removed my sackcloth and clothed me with joy." Psalm 30:11

"In Him our hearts rejoice, for we trust in His holy name." Psalm 33:21

"Let the righteous rejoice in the LORD and take refuge in Him; let all the upright in heart praise Him!" Psalm 64:10

All these verses point to the Lord being our joy. If we look to our circumstances for joy that surpasses the moment, no wonder we lose hope! We began another war this week. People are dying. The economy still suffers.

And yet...

Jesus Christ is still God. He is still in control. He knows the cry of our hearts. He loves us so much He died for us. No other God could or would do that. The Bible says to take heart because the Lord has overcome the world. Joy comes in the morning. (Check out my last post on joy HERE if you want to read more. It is the most read post on my blog.) I pray that you look to Jesus Christ to find limitless joy. When we focus on Him, there is joy even in the midst of hardship because we are rejoicing in the One who already overcame our suffering!

HE IS THE I AM OF JOY!

It's Your Life

2011-03-20T12:05:00.000-05:00

In the 2003 underwater adventure, Finding Nemo, a group of seagulls know one word: MINE. I think the sole focus of the seagull accurately reflects the culture to which I belong, a culture focused on "me" and "mine."

"It's my life. I'll do what I want, when I want, and how I want."

Does this sound familiar? Maybe you've said it yourself.

In reality, it is your life. You make choices you have to live with and you say and do things that you are responsible for. But the question becomes...

What are you going to do with it?

Listen to this song "It's Your Life" by Francesca Battistelli from her album My Paper Heart.

"Everyday the choices you make say what you are and who your heart beats for...it's your life." The Bible says in Matthew 6:24, ""No one can serve two masters. Either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and Money." You can't serve both yourself and the Lord. You will serve one. Will you be as the single-minded seagulls only able to say, "Mine?" Or will you be like Mary, the mother of Jesus, who, when the angel came to tell her she would bear the Messiah, said, "'I am the Lord's servant,' Mary answered. 'May it be to me as you have said.'" (Luke 1:38)

A statement like that requires a denial of self. Let's face it, we are hardwired to look out for Number 1. Are you willing to surrender the ownership of your life for something better? I pray that daily I become more and more devoted to serving Jesus. I have a long way to go. I can be so selfish and prideful. Nemo's misadventure started with doubting the wisdom of his father. Nemo thought he knew best. It was his life and he wanted to make the decisions. In the end, all he wanted was to swim home. Luckily, he had a father who would do anything to save him. Like Nemo, will you come home to the Father in Heaven who has been waiting and searching for you? Will you stop seeking your own adventure and wait and see the amazing plans the Lord has promised to fulfill in your life?

It's your life. What are you going to do with? Who will people say that you serve?

Photos copyright of Disney. Video contents copyright of Francesca Battistelli

Lespwa Means Hope

2011-03-10T16:00:00.006-06:00

If you know me at all, you know that I love to study Greek mythology, not because I believe it is accurate but because it accurately portrays the human condition apart from God. The story of Pandora's Box is no different.

Pandora was the first woman to live and her creation was a combined effort by all of the gods. Pandora opened a box given to her by the gods that contained all the ailments of mankind. In her curiosity, she released all evil to plague the earth and only hope remained inside. It is said that as long as hope remains within the box, mankind can combat evil and overcome, but if hope is ever released, mankind has given up the fight against evil.

As I have researched Haiti, I have come to the realization that if any nation in the western world has reason to give up hope, it is this tiny country. The living conditions are terrible - water is undrinkable, homes are made of metal and wood pieces, many cannot afford food that nourishes themselves or their children, the government is corrupt, jobs are scarce, children live on the streets or in orphanages, the education system does not foster learning and continued education. And now damage from the earthquake has only increased the devastation. Haiti seems HOPELESS.

But that is not a word in the Lord's vocabulary.

Because we know He has compassion for the lost, lonely, poor, broken, and weary, we know He looks at the Haitians and feels their pain. But He promises HOPE! Hope for you in your situation and hope for Haiti. He meets us at our point of need...

Romans 5:5 - "And hope does not disappoint us, because God has poured out his love into our hearts by the Holy Spirit, whom he has given us."

Hebrews 6:3 - "But Christ, as the Son, is in charge of God's entire house. And we are God's house, if we keep our courage and remain confident in our hope in Christ."

Jeremiah 29:11 - "'For I know the plans I have for you,' declares the LORD, 'plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.'"

Even in a seemingly hopeless situation the Lord promises a future and a hope. I attended a worship service this week where a group of guys in their 20s presented a message and a method of hope for the Haitian people. The campaign is called "Lespwa Means Hope." In Haitian Creole, "lespwa" is the word for "hope." These guys are committed to changing one life at a time, and maybe, over time, a nation will be changed. Please check out their website if you are interested in knowing more or helping. There are many needs in this small nation and you can help and give hope to those who may have none.

If your situation seems hopeless, run to Jesus. Email me or leave a message and I would love to talk with you. He sees your need and has compassion. Then He extends His hand to you and offers eternal hope, a hope and joy that can only come from knowing Jesus Christ. He is the Great I AM of HOPE.

"There is surely a future hope for you, and your hope will not be cut off." Proverbs 23:18

Like Grew to Love - Growing to Love Haiti

2011-03-08T12:14:00.000-06:00

"God of Justice" by Tim Hughes, posted on youtube with a slide show of Africa

In the 2001 romantic comedy, The Wedding Planner, the main character, Mary, is under pressure from her father to marry a man he has picked. When Mary balks at the idea, her father tells her of his own arranged marriage saying this, "Respect grew to like. Then like grew to love. A deeper love than I could ever have hoped for." This is how I feel about Haiti.

In March 2010, I sat in a classroom substitute teaching and wrote a graphic scene of a girl in the midst of the Haiti earthquake. I have never been to Haiti but my emotions were stirred from the horrific quake that devastated the nation and from the struggles of a childhood friend who was caught in the effects and aftermath. Over the year that has followed the story has taken on a life of its own. When I first heard of the earthquake, I felt pity. I was broken-hearted for the people, but it remained at that. I prayed for the people there, prayed for my friend who struggled, prayed for the people who lost loved ones, and prayed for recovery. As I have researched for this book, my pity has grown to compassion. I am involved. I grow alert every time I hear the word "Haiti", I talk to everyone in my life who has been about their stories and love for the country, and I feel my heart shifting from like to love - from pity to compassion to passion.

It is an interesting progression and one I can no longer ignore. I pray that if the Lord allows this book to be published, I will be able to donate some of the money towards the multitude of activities going on in Haiti to make it a stronger country. In identifying my dawning compassion, I was struck with the depth of Jesus' compassion for us. He is the great I AM of COMPASSION. Compassion is defined as a sympathy and empathy for the suffering and less fortunate and is a trait of love itself. Does it blow your mind that the God of the Universe has compassion for the broken places in your life? That humbles me. In the Bible, He cares so much that Jesus cried for those who saw who were broken and in pain. See if you can identify with any of these verses.

Weary and Burdened - “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.” Matthew 11:28-30

Weak and Young in Faith - He tends his flock like a shepherd: He gathers the lambs in his arms and carries them close to his heart; he gently leads those that have young." Isaiah 40:11

Those wrestling with Temptation - "Because he himself suffered when he was tempted, he is able to help those who are being tempted." Hebrews 2:18

Broken-hearted - "When the Lord saw her, his heart went out to her and he said, 'Don’t cry.'" Luke 7:13 (widow who lost her son)

- "When Jesus saw her weeping, and the Jews who had come along with her also weeping, he was deeply moved in spirit and troubled. “Where have you laid him?” he asked. “Come and see, Lord,” they replied. Jesus wept." John 11:33-35 (best friend, Lazarus, died)

Sick/Diseased - "And a leper came to Jesus, beseeching Him and falling on his knees before Him, and saying, 'If You are willing, You can make me clean.' Moved with compassion, Jesus stretched out His hand and touched him, and said to him, 'I am willing; be cleansed.'" Mark 1: 40-41

Poor - "I have compassion for these people; they have already been with me three days and have nothing to eat." Mark 8:2

Lost - "For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life." John 3:16

The last verse is the ultimate act of compassion, the all-consuming result of a love so deep that it is willing to sacrifice. That is the depth of Jesus Christ's love for you. He sees you in your poor, broken, sick, weak, and weary state and His heart breaks over you. He is there asking you to reach out to Him and allow Him to heal you and pour out His compassion and love on you.

Someone once told me that if I prayed to have but a drop of the Lord's compassion for others it would break my heart. I don't know if I can handle that. But I pray that my compassion moves me to action on the behalf of others - whether that means prayer, raising awareness, or going to serve in person. Rest in the great I AM's compassion for you! And then take that compassion and turn it into action. Serve, share, help others. Be the hands and feet of Jesus.

May He fill us up and send us out to show His compassion to others.

Kariss

Know Thyself!

2011-02-28T15:09:00.002-06:00

"Know thyself!" declared the ancient Greeks. I truly believe they had it right. In our American culture, we often interpret this to mean focusing on ourselves and what makes us happy. That is called self-centeredness. Let's not confuse the two. The ancient Greeks interpreted this saying in several ways:

1) "the proverb is applied to those whose boasts exceed what they are."
2)Plato interpreted it as an admonition to those entering a sacred temple to remember and know their place, aka recognize they are frail and human compared to the Greek gods
3) Socrates said, "people make themselves appear ridiculous when they are trying to know obscure things before they know themselves"

Bottom line? You are not all you are cracked up to be. Sound depressing? Not at all. It is a call to humility.

Ephesians 2:10 says, "For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do."

According to this verse, we have a specific job to do. But how can we know what that is without knowing ourselves? It is as Socrates said, we appear ridiculous when we attempt to do things before we fully understand how God hardwired us.

We must acknowledge we are God's handiwork! We are uniquely crafted. In Genesis, the Lord created the whole earth in 6 days. He spoke everything into being except one thing: Man. The Bible says God formed Adam from the dust of the earth and then eventually put him to sleep and used one of his ribs to create Eve. We are physically crafted by the Master Artists and made in His image. And He created us for a purpose, a purpose He already knows!

Know thyself! Learn how God wired you - the strengths, personality, and gifts He gave you. Look at your passions and interests, and then get going. When we know who God is and who we are in Christ we are much more effective and "we, who were the first to put our hope in Christ, might be for the praise of his glory" (Ephesians 1:12).

What did God uniquely create you to do? I would love to hear from you!

The Blessing in a "No"

2011-02-23T15:23:00.001-06:00

"This" by Darius Rucker

Ever feel like you just can't catch a break? Nothing seems to be going your way? Have you ever heard no so many times it starts to lose its meaning?

I have. In the last two years, I have heard "no" so many times, I have learned to laugh and look for the next open door. When I first started hearing "no" it was a foreign concept to me. All my life I worked hard for what I had - job, grades, academic standing - and then I put one foot into the real world, and for some reason none of my achievements carried much weight. Crazy how that works, isn't it? But over the last two years, I have learned the blessing in "no."

Applied to grad school at Texas Tech. No
Applied to 11 other grad schools (About the eighth letter, I started laughing instead of crying.) 11 No's
Moved back home and applied for A LOT of jobs A LOT of No's
Wanted to move out of state No
Applied for more jobs and internships More No's

Starting to get the picture? No started to lose its meaning. I don't hold any resentment or anger towards those who told me no. They were just sending me another direction and, in a weird way, helping me find my way. Know what happened when I stopped trying to make things happen and allowed the Lord to direct my steps? A lot of those "No's" became "Yes's" in directions I never would have explored.

Got a acceptance letter to Focus on the Family Institute in the same month I was rejected from Tech. The Lord changed my life. Yes
Found a freelance writing position two days after my most recent job rejection. Yes
Attended a writer's conference and was accepted into a writing course with a mentor doing the exact same thing a graduate degree in writing would have given me for an eighth of the cost. Yes
Attended another conference and found agents and editors who are interested in my book. At least I am on the right track. Yes

The Lord began to open doors to all the things I had been pursuing, except He determined the direction! I feel like I am in pretty good company. In the Bible:

The Lord told Abraham to leave everything He knew and travel to a land He would show him.

Abraham prayed for a child, and the Lord said "no" until Abraham was so old it seemed impossible, and then the Lord gave Abraham, Isaac, the promised child.

Jonah didn't want to go to Nineveh to preach. He ran away but the Lord said "no" to Jonah's direction. He sent a whale to swallow him and then spit him up on the beach near Nineveh. It changed that city.

Mary probably expected to go into her marriage a pristine virgin with no children. The Lord said "no" to that plan. She was still a virgin, but she was shamed by her people with a child, who turned out to be the Christ child - the One who changed the world.

My "No's" seem pretty insignificant in the grand scheme of things. The Lord used all those "No's" in the Bible for His glory and redirected all these people to a better path. There is blessing in "no."

"In his heart a man plans his course, but the LORD determines his steps." Proverbs 16:9. I follow my own way so much. But the Lord wants to tell me YES. He just wants to do it in His own time and in His own way. Just as He has been faithful in all His covenants and promises in the Bible until now, I know that He will be faithful to answer my "No's" as "Yes's" in far better ways than I could. They never look like what I thought or planned. They are always, always better.

Trust Him with your "No's." They are blessings in disguise! He is so FAITHFUL!

Excited to see where He leads next,
Kariss

Hot Stuff

2011-02-21T21:51:00.001-06:00

If I entered "Survivor," I wouldn't last 24 hours. Let's face it...that is not my thing. And camping? Also, not my thing. Don't get me wrong, I love being outside. It's where I find the most inspiration

Two years ago, I went on a camping trip in the Colorado mountains over the fourth of July weekend with 30 plus college students. We took tents, sleeping bags, clothes, and big expectations. The trip went from bad to worse. Two cars full of girls got stuck in the mud on a deserted trail, it rained the whole time, and we forgot the hot dogs. By the way, college boys without food are not pleasant, to put it mildly.

Despite the rain, lack of food, and cold temperatures, I never had more fun than ever. It was the best/worst camping trip I have ever been on. The upside? We had a roaring bonfire that provided heat, light, and melted chocolate for smores. We gathered around the blaze and sang, laughed, told stories, and enjoyed fellowship. When we woke up in the morning, it was still burning. It withstood the rain, the cold, attempts to put it out. It still blazed. It was a focal point, a means of provision, sustenance, and survival.

Hebrews 12:29 calls the Lord "an all-consuming fire." He is our Provider, Sustainer, and our source of fellowship. He is what we center around, and he is the only One who withstands the elements and storms of life. He turns a miserable, cold, wet weekend into a time of beauty and fond memories.

Solid Rock

2011-02-18T18:27:00.002-06:00

"Our peace shall stand as firm as rocky mountains."

William Shakespeare

Driving through Colorado Springs last week, I remembered the strength of the mountains. They are immovable, majestic, and strong. In the Bible, Jesus is called "the Rock." Can you think of a more accurate term to describe a God who is mighty, majestic, ever-present, and strong? William Shakespeare was correct...peace comes from resting in the Rock of Ages.

Enjoy the verses about my Rock and lean on His strength this week...

"The LORD is my rock, my fortress and my deliverer; my God is my rock, in whom I take refuge, my shield and the horn of my salvation." 2 Samuel 22:2-3a

"The LORD lives! Praise be to my Rock! Exalted be my God, the Rock, my Savior!" 2 Samuel 22:47

"But the LORD has become my fortress, and my God the rock in whom I take refuge." Psalm 94:22

"From the ends of the earth I call to you, I call as my heart grows faint; lead me to the rock that is higher than I." Psalm 61:2

"They all ate the same spiritual food and drank the same spiritual drink; for they drank from the spiritual rock that accompanied them, and that rock was Christ." 1 Corinthians 10:3-4

Rocks provide refuge, support, strength, protection.

In mountains we see the power of my Almighty God. He is strong and above all, but this Rock is also the God who says, "Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls." (Matthew 11:28-29) Jesus, our Rock, became Man to die for you! He won't let you down.

Leaning on the Rock,

Kariss