Many of you who read my blog will know that I am in the process of preparing to go to Ukraine as a full-time missionary, focusing on ministering particularly to the needs of the orphans there.
I moved to BC in October to live with my parents while I am raising my support, and there have been many changes, some easier than others, but God is ALWAYS FAITHFUL!
I have some debts from the car that I left behind in Thunder Bay, Ontario, and so I have been prayerfully seeking a job that would enable me to take care of those financial obligations and set some savings aside as well. It has taken some time, but Praise the Lord, I have a full-time job starting on Monday! I will be working alongside another Christian and so I am praying for grace to bring Christ's light into that place.
Financial support is beginning to come in and I have a strong prayer team behind me...I also have had some contacts which I am trusting will lead to opportunities to share about this ministry that God has laid on my heart and that He is preparing me for. I am excited to see how God continues to surprise me with His provision and grace!!
- DEC. 4 - I have an opportunity to share some photos from my trip this summer and about the ministry we were a part of.
- DEC. 11 - I have been given time to share in the morning worship service about this ministry with the church family here in Ashcroft.
This is so NOT about me, and I am very grateful for the circumstances God has allowed to remind me of this. As long as I am obedient and completely trusting, I know that He will accomplish His good plans, and it is wonderful to know the peace of being in His perfect will.
About Me
- Darlene Joy Koop
- I am a disciple of Christ and I desire to love and serve God in everything. I have many passions and I desire to share my adventures, joys and struggles to encourage others in their faith.
Thursday, November 24, 2011
GIVING THANKS...
Just before I left Thunder Bay, a friend gave me a book to read...it's called ONE THOUSAND BLESSINGS, by Ann Voskamp. It is a different writing style than I am used to, so it took me a little while to get into the book, but once I did, the truths that it contained gave me a new perspective, or lens, to see life through, one that has completely changed the way I interact with day-to-day life.
And just as she did, so I began a "One Thousand Blessings" dare of my own...to write down 1000 blessings -- even the things that might not at first glance seem like a blessing. I'm more than halfway there, and every day I find myself giving thanks for God's gracious hand in EVERYTHING.
It really is a change in perspective, and it is the beginning of true joy -- to give thanks. I want to share with you just a few insights from the book that have impacted me and I hope that they speak to you in some way as well...
Is the height of my chara joy dependent on the depths of my eucharisteo thanks?
As long as thanks is possible, then joy is always possible. Joy is always possible. The holy grail of joy is not in some exotic location or some emotional mountain peak experience. The joy wonder could be here! Here, in the messy, piercing ache of now, joy might be - unbelievably - possible! The only place we need see before we die is this place of seeing God, here and now.
Charis. Grace.
Eucharisteo. Thanksgiving.
Chara. Joy.
Sozo means salvation. It means true wellness, complete wholeness. To live sozo is to live the full life. Jesus came that we might live life to the full; He came to give us sozo. And when did the leper receive sozo - the saving to the full, whole life? When he returned and gave thanks.
Our very saving is associated with our gratitude. If our fall was the non-eucharisteo, the ingratitude, then salvation must be intimately related to eucharisteo, the giving of thanks. Jesus counts thanksgiving as integral in a faith that saves.
We only enter into the full life if our faith gives thanks. Because how else do we accept His free gift of salvation if not with thanksgiving?
Thanksgiving is the manifestation of our Yes! to His grace. Thanksgiving - giving thanks in everything - prepares the way that God might show us His fullest salvation in Christ.
She quotes from Alexander Schememan:
"Now, in the Bible a name...reveals the very essence of a thing, or rather its essence as God's gift...To name a thing is to manifest the meaning and value God gave it, to know it as coming from God and to know its place and function within the cosmos created by God. To name a thing, in other words, is to bless God for it and in it."
And then she writes her own thoughts:
In naming that which is right before me, that which I'd otherwise miss, the invisible becomes visible. I name. And I know the face I face. God's! God is in the details; God is in the moment. God is in all that blurs by in a life - even hurts in a life.
This act of naming grace moments...moves beyond the shopping list variety of prayer and into the other side. And I see it now for what this really is, this dare to write down one thousand things I love. It really is a dare to name all the ways that God loves me. The true Love Dare. To move into His presence and listen to His love unending and know the grace uncontainable. This is the vault of the miracles.
Jesus embraces the not enough...He gives thanks...and there is more than enough! Eucharisteo always precedes the miracle. And who doesn't need a miracle like that every day? The real problem in life is never a lack of time. The real problem of life - in my life - is lack of thanksgiving. Thanksgiving creates abundance; and the miracle of multiplying happens when I give thanks - take the just one loaf, say it is enough, and give thanks - and He miraculously makes it more than enough.
Thank You, Lord, for Your blessings on me!!!
Saturday, October 8, 2011
MY GOOD, HIS GLORY
On Wednesday, September 28th, I was finally ready to embark on my cross-country journey...
The car was packed, and I had shared many wonderful times with friends before I left my home in Thunder Bay. I had no idea what awaited me that day, or how the particular Scripture I read and meditated on that morning would be just exactly what I needed.
I had filled up with gas and then begun driving out of the city...it had only been about 20-25 minutes, when at the intersection of Hwy 102 and Mapleward Road my car died! There was a gas station on the right hand side, so I pulled off and stopped. After trying unsuccessfully to start the car, I called my mechanic (who was at his shop) and he said that he would take a look at it if I could get it there. I then called the tow truck and my friends with whom I had stayed the last few nights -- all these phone calls were courtesy of the kind man who operates the gas station -- and within 1 hour the car was at my mechanic's auto shop.
It wasn't long before we discovered that it would be a costly repair to fix the car, which was already leaking oil pretty badly. I called my dad and he recommended that I rent a vehicle to make the trip out west, since I wasn't planning on keeping the car once I arrived in BC anyway. This turned out to be quite a bit more expensive than I desired, but really my only option, since I really needed to get on the road. And God even provided a surprise monetary gift to help with the expense -- He is SO good!!
The trip went very well...I drove from Thunder Bay, Ontario to Elm Creek, Manitoba in 9 hours and didn't encounter any wildlife, nor did I sense exhaustion until I reached my destination - PRAISE THE LORD! On Friday, Sept. 30 my mom arrived in Winnipeg by plane and then we drove for the next 3 days together, arriving in Ashcroft, BC on Monday around 4:30 pm. The rental vehicle was very nice, except that the seats were not comfortable on our backs.
After getting settled in my new "temporary" home, on Thursday I opened up my devotional journal and read what I had written down on the morning I left Thunder Bay as I meditated on Psalm 73...
It is NOT a coincidence that I was reflecting on God's goodness in the midst of circumstances we cannot understand on the day where my travel plans would need to be adjusted...and it didn't take long for me to see just how good God was in all that transpired that day --
- my car died (literally) in front of a gas station, not on the highway in the middle of nowhere
- my mechanic was at his shop early that morning and was able to tell me what was wrong
- the car rental company went the extra mile to help me out with the unexpected expense
- God provided some extra funds to help with the trip
- I had safe travel the entire time and a reliable car to drive
As children of our loving Heavenly Father, we know that all of the things we experience are for our good and His glory, because He has promised to "never leave or forsake us" and that "He will complete the work that He started in us."
The car was packed, and I had shared many wonderful times with friends before I left my home in Thunder Bay. I had no idea what awaited me that day, or how the particular Scripture I read and meditated on that morning would be just exactly what I needed.
I had filled up with gas and then begun driving out of the city...it had only been about 20-25 minutes, when at the intersection of Hwy 102 and Mapleward Road my car died! There was a gas station on the right hand side, so I pulled off and stopped. After trying unsuccessfully to start the car, I called my mechanic (who was at his shop) and he said that he would take a look at it if I could get it there. I then called the tow truck and my friends with whom I had stayed the last few nights -- all these phone calls were courtesy of the kind man who operates the gas station -- and within 1 hour the car was at my mechanic's auto shop.
It wasn't long before we discovered that it would be a costly repair to fix the car, which was already leaking oil pretty badly. I called my dad and he recommended that I rent a vehicle to make the trip out west, since I wasn't planning on keeping the car once I arrived in BC anyway. This turned out to be quite a bit more expensive than I desired, but really my only option, since I really needed to get on the road. And God even provided a surprise monetary gift to help with the expense -- He is SO good!!
Here I am with the 1997 Chrysler Intrepid all packed full the night before I left:
Here is the 2011 Ford EDGE that I rented from Enterprise for the trip to BC:
The trip went very well...I drove from Thunder Bay, Ontario to Elm Creek, Manitoba in 9 hours and didn't encounter any wildlife, nor did I sense exhaustion until I reached my destination - PRAISE THE LORD! On Friday, Sept. 30 my mom arrived in Winnipeg by plane and then we drove for the next 3 days together, arriving in Ashcroft, BC on Monday around 4:30 pm. The rental vehicle was very nice, except that the seats were not comfortable on our backs.
After getting settled in my new "temporary" home, on Thursday I opened up my devotional journal and read what I had written down on the morning I left Thunder Bay as I meditated on Psalm 73...
I love how Asaph ends this psalm:
Whom have I in heaven but you? And there is none upon earth that I desire besides you. My flesh and my heart fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever...But it is good for me to draw near to God; I have put my trust in the Lord God, that I may declare all your works.
Sometimes we need to come to the end of ourselves to realize that God is our strength and our portion.
Lord, may it be true in my heart that I desire nothing on earth besides You.
I agree with Asaph that it is good to draw near to God - we see the short-sightedness of our vision and the goodness and faithfulness of the one in whom we've put our trust. And the reason why we've put our trust in Him is so that we can declare all of HIS works, not ours.
Lord, help me to see Your hand in everything, and to declare Your works even when it doesn't make sense to me. Thank You that You do not forsake Your own and that You care about all that concerns us. May I trust You more and more each day.
It is NOT a coincidence that I was reflecting on God's goodness in the midst of circumstances we cannot understand on the day where my travel plans would need to be adjusted...and it didn't take long for me to see just how good God was in all that transpired that day --
- my car died (literally) in front of a gas station, not on the highway in the middle of nowhere
- my mechanic was at his shop early that morning and was able to tell me what was wrong
- the car rental company went the extra mile to help me out with the unexpected expense
- God provided some extra funds to help with the trip
- I had safe travel the entire time and a reliable car to drive
As children of our loving Heavenly Father, we know that all of the things we experience are for our good and His glory, because He has promised to "never leave or forsake us" and that "He will complete the work that He started in us."
IN FAITH AND TRUST...
I love many of the old sacred hymns, and the words of one particular hymn came to mind as I was pondering on how God has been changing my heart recently...
Simply trusting every day; Trusting through a stormy way;
Even when my faith is small, trusting Jesus, that is all.
Even when my faith is small, trusting Jesus, that is all.
Thursday, August 18, 2011
IN THE SILENCE...
When August rolled around, I was feeling drained emotionally, physically and mentally, and I needed to get away for some quiet time. The weather this summer has been very nice for outdoor activities, so I decided to go camping on the August long weekend.
I booked a nice little campsite online at the Kakabeka Falls Provincial Park from Sunday, July 31 to Monday, August 1 -- see picture below:
I borrowed the tent from a friend and set up for a nice quiet weekend away.
I took along my Bible and a couple of books and a journal, but really spent very little time doing any of those activities while I was there.
On Sunday afternoon, I went for a walk (well, actually more like a hike) down the Little Falls Hiking Trail. As I was beginning the hike, I discovered a perfect photo opportunity - a butterfly on some thistle-flowers - and I got some really great pictures -- like the one below:
These kind of moments happened all along the way, which was really neat, because I was so very aware of God's presence with me and appreciative of the opportunity I had to experience the beauty of His creation.
The Little Falls trail was pretty steep (both up and down) in some parts, but after awhile I reached the place where it gets its name...a little waterfall and stream that feeds into the Kaministiquia River -- see below:
I chose this picture because of the light streaming down through the trees...the waterfall is not quite so visible, but the light in this picture made me think of God shining His light into our lives. The waterfall flows into a stream that runs downward and connects with the river, and so I took a lot of pictures as I went. This next photo is one of the little pools along the way, and it made me feel so quiet and serene -- see below:
I went looking for a retreat and I definitely found one. There was no one else on the trail (at least not when I was hiking) and most of the time I didn't even feel the need to talk aloud...I just reveled in the tranquility and the beautiful silence of knowing that I was communing with God as I enjoyed His wonderful creation.
The trail meandered along the Kaministiquia River for awhile, where I took a lot more pictures, and the one below is one of my favourites:
In the silence, God spoke to my heart and gave me the refreshment and encouragement that I had been seeking. Sometimes we fill our lives with so many things that we don't have time to just "be still and know that He is God," and I think that was what my spirit needed at that time.
I spent a little bit of time at the swimming area on Sunday afternoon and then returned to the campsite. I tried to read a little bit, but I was so tired (possibly from the fresh air and swimming) and I could finally just rest, that I crawled into bed really early and fell asleep.
The next morning, I awoke just after sunrise and spent some time doing devotions. Then I went for a little walk down the Mountain Portage trail and also took a few pictures of the falls -- see below:
All in all, it really was a retreat, and in the silence I was revived in body, mind and spirit.
I think this is eloquently expressed in many of the Psalms, but especially in Psalm 23, where David says:
"The Lord is my Shepherd, I shall not be in want. He makes me lie down in green pastures, He leads me beside quiet waters, He restores my soul."
I booked a nice little campsite online at the Kakabeka Falls Provincial Park from Sunday, July 31 to Monday, August 1 -- see picture below:
I borrowed the tent from a friend and set up for a nice quiet weekend away.
I took along my Bible and a couple of books and a journal, but really spent very little time doing any of those activities while I was there.
On Sunday afternoon, I went for a walk (well, actually more like a hike) down the Little Falls Hiking Trail. As I was beginning the hike, I discovered a perfect photo opportunity - a butterfly on some thistle-flowers - and I got some really great pictures -- like the one below:
These kind of moments happened all along the way, which was really neat, because I was so very aware of God's presence with me and appreciative of the opportunity I had to experience the beauty of His creation.
The Little Falls trail was pretty steep (both up and down) in some parts, but after awhile I reached the place where it gets its name...a little waterfall and stream that feeds into the Kaministiquia River -- see below:
I chose this picture because of the light streaming down through the trees...the waterfall is not quite so visible, but the light in this picture made me think of God shining His light into our lives. The waterfall flows into a stream that runs downward and connects with the river, and so I took a lot of pictures as I went. This next photo is one of the little pools along the way, and it made me feel so quiet and serene -- see below:
I went looking for a retreat and I definitely found one. There was no one else on the trail (at least not when I was hiking) and most of the time I didn't even feel the need to talk aloud...I just reveled in the tranquility and the beautiful silence of knowing that I was communing with God as I enjoyed His wonderful creation.
The trail meandered along the Kaministiquia River for awhile, where I took a lot more pictures, and the one below is one of my favourites:
In the silence, God spoke to my heart and gave me the refreshment and encouragement that I had been seeking. Sometimes we fill our lives with so many things that we don't have time to just "be still and know that He is God," and I think that was what my spirit needed at that time.
I spent a little bit of time at the swimming area on Sunday afternoon and then returned to the campsite. I tried to read a little bit, but I was so tired (possibly from the fresh air and swimming) and I could finally just rest, that I crawled into bed really early and fell asleep.
The next morning, I awoke just after sunrise and spent some time doing devotions. Then I went for a little walk down the Mountain Portage trail and also took a few pictures of the falls -- see below:
All in all, it really was a retreat, and in the silence I was revived in body, mind and spirit.
I think this is eloquently expressed in many of the Psalms, but especially in Psalm 23, where David says:
"The Lord is my Shepherd, I shall not be in want. He makes me lie down in green pastures, He leads me beside quiet waters, He restores my soul."
Saturday, July 23, 2011
LORD, I NEED REVIVAL
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| July 22, 2011 - Sunset on East Loon Lake, ON |
This beautiful sunset was a reminder to me of the way that God revives His world as he brings each day to a close and brings a new beginning in the morning.
This weekend I had the privilege of spending some time with friends at their camp on the lake, and it was refreshing to body, mind and spirit in a number of ways. Work has been trying at times this week, and I was exhausted from the heat and the busyness of life, so the time at the lake was a welcome reprieve.
Yet I am reminded, especially as I think on the words of Ephesians 5, that we as believers in Jesus Christ are called to live not by the ways of this world or solely influenced by our circumstances, but in a way that brings glory to God.
"Therefore be imitators of God, as beloved children; and walk in love, just as Christ also loved you and gave Himself up for us, an offering and a sacrifice to God as a fragrant aroma...Therefore do not be partakers with them; for you were formerly darkness, but now you are Light in the Lord; walk as children of Light (for the fruit of the Light consists in all goodness and righteousness and truth), trying to learn what is pleasing to the Lord."
Pastor Kevin spoke on Sunday about how change in our lives and in our relationships begins in our own hearts, not with others. I know this to be true, but we need the transforming power of the Holy Spirit and His grace in order to change this. And I was reminded this week how much I need His revival in my heart so that I live daily setting my "mind on things above, not on earthly things," doing all things "in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks through Him to God the Father" (Colossians 3) and not living "for myself, but for Him who loved me and gave Himself for me" (Galatians 2)
I wrote the following poem on May 2, 2005 after a Sunday morning sermon, and I think it is a very important and appropriate reminder of the perspective I need to have as I seek to grow in my Christian walk. I hope this is an encouragement to you as well.
"REVIVAL" (By Darlene Joy Koop
The tears begin to flow as I survey my world,
A place of forgotten beauty and hope.
People are searching for fulfilment and purpose,
While their lives fall apart and they cannot cope.
Disaster, death and fear prevail,
There seems to be no escape from the pain.
"Why can't they see?" my heart cries out,
"There is life and peace if they'll call on Your Name."
We need a revival right across this land;
Freedom from corruption and sin.
How long will it take for the truth to break through?
Then I realize it starts from within.
My own life, I know, often seems darkened
And from struggles I long to be freed.
But when I listen, God speaks to my heart;
For revival to come, it must start with me.
I need to choose daily to serve my God
And allow His work in my life.
I must seek, above all, His ways and His will
And let Him take away the sorrow and strife.
I cannot change the world in which I live,
But I have an opportunity each day
To let Christ's love shine through me -
"Lord, send a revival," I pray.
Sunday, July 17, 2011
A HAPPY HEART
Because a thankful heart is a happy heart!
I'm glad for what I have, that's an easy way to start!
For a God that really cares.
I'm glad for what I have, that's an easy way to start!
For a God that really cares.
'Cause He listens to my prayers, that's why I say thanks every day!(VeggieTales, The Thankfulness Song)
This song reminds me of just how blessed I am and how much I have to be thankful for. So I've decided to share with you just a few of the blessings for which I am thankful...
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| My mom and dad |
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| Sunrises and sunsets |
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| Flowers |
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| The gift of music |
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| The cross |
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| Children |
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| Creativity |
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| Little creatures |
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| Yummy food |
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| Friends and laughter |
I hope that this little post has caused a seed of thankfulness and happiness to grow in your heart as well.
Saturday, July 16, 2011
YOUR WILL, NOT MINE
As Jesus prayed in the Garden of Gethsemane, "yet not my will, but yours be done." This is to be our declaration if we confess that Jesus Christ is Lord of our lives, but it's easier to say than to actually let go of the control we want to have over our choices.
A short while ago, when I returned to Canada from Ukraine, as I prayed about my future, I made a tentative decision based on what I had seen and experienced and what I thought was best for my future. For a couple of days, it seemed that I had made a wise choice, but then God began to challenge me in my spirit.
My pastor spoke that Sunday about surrendering control of our lives to God and he asked a pointed question: How stubbornly determined are we to live our lives the way we want to?
I had no rest in my spirit for several days as I wrestled with the possibility that I had allowed my will, my desires, my thoughts about what was best for me overrule what God wanted to do in and through my life.
I picked up a devotional book on July 9th and it was a devotional on John 7:17 which was exactly what I needed to hear...
To those who say they want to believe but can't, to the Christian who hesitates to launch out in full dependence on the promise of Christ, it offers an experiment. Reduced to its simplest terms that experiment amounts to this: Submit your will to God and you will know. Just as surely as it is impossible for God to lie, so everyone who honestly says to God, "I will do Thy will," will know whether the Lord Jesus spoke divine truth or only a human word. In light of this, it is the unsurrendered will that keeps men from knowing the Lord Jesus Christ. No man can hold full title to his own will and at the same time really know God. Nor can a Christian hold partial title to his own will and realize to the full what God can do in his life.
That night, amid many tears, I confessed my stubbornness and desire for what I wanted my life and ministry to be and surrendered it to God, asking Him to lead me in His plans for me. I had immediate peace and release from the struggle I had been feeling in my spirit all week.
I do not claim to know yet where exactly God is leading me in ministry, but I DO know this: as long as I do not allow my desires, plans, hopes, etc. to take precedence in my thoughts and prayers, and as long as I truly listen for God's voice, I will know what He wants me to do. And that has brought me the peace I sought.
A short while ago, when I returned to Canada from Ukraine, as I prayed about my future, I made a tentative decision based on what I had seen and experienced and what I thought was best for my future. For a couple of days, it seemed that I had made a wise choice, but then God began to challenge me in my spirit.
My pastor spoke that Sunday about surrendering control of our lives to God and he asked a pointed question: How stubbornly determined are we to live our lives the way we want to?
I had no rest in my spirit for several days as I wrestled with the possibility that I had allowed my will, my desires, my thoughts about what was best for me overrule what God wanted to do in and through my life.
I picked up a devotional book on July 9th and it was a devotional on John 7:17 which was exactly what I needed to hear...
To those who say they want to believe but can't, to the Christian who hesitates to launch out in full dependence on the promise of Christ, it offers an experiment. Reduced to its simplest terms that experiment amounts to this: Submit your will to God and you will know. Just as surely as it is impossible for God to lie, so everyone who honestly says to God, "I will do Thy will," will know whether the Lord Jesus spoke divine truth or only a human word. In light of this, it is the unsurrendered will that keeps men from knowing the Lord Jesus Christ. No man can hold full title to his own will and at the same time really know God. Nor can a Christian hold partial title to his own will and realize to the full what God can do in his life.
That night, amid many tears, I confessed my stubbornness and desire for what I wanted my life and ministry to be and surrendered it to God, asking Him to lead me in His plans for me. I had immediate peace and release from the struggle I had been feeling in my spirit all week.
I do not claim to know yet where exactly God is leading me in ministry, but I DO know this: as long as I do not allow my desires, plans, hopes, etc. to take precedence in my thoughts and prayers, and as long as I truly listen for God's voice, I will know what He wants me to do. And that has brought me the peace I sought.
Tuesday, July 5, 2011
SO THANKFUL...
There is SO much to be thankful for as I reflect on the time I spent in Ukraine...
Here are some of the faces of the kids we were privileged to meet.
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THANK YOU, GOD, for giving me this opportunity!!
Here are some of the faces of the kids we were privileged to meet.
God was very faithful to us as a team – we had safe travel during the entire trip, not only in getting to Ukraine, but also while we were there, and no one was seriously sick or injured. We had approximately 24 hours of actual travel there and back and crossed several time zones, as Ukraine is 7 hours ahead of Ontario.
The missionary team we worked with was great and we had a lot of fun together. In the area of Ukraine where we were, Russian is the language that is mainly spoken, so it was really interesting trying to learn a little bit of the language to communicate. Several of the Ukrainians we worked with spoke good English, so that was helpful. Some of the kids we interacted with spoke some English as well, so it was fun to help them and have them try to teach us some Russian.
It was amazing to witness the way the missionaries interact with the children and to see the immense difference that God has made there through this ministry. The first week we spent most of our time with kids and youth at a Rehab Centre, and most of these kids come from very difficult homes (abuse, crime, etc), but they were so sweet and open. It was easy to make friends with them and they were so happy to have us come, and we were privileged to share the gospel with them. The children at the camp for the #9 Orphanage (that we visited the second week) were much the same, and they just need people to be involved in their lives and show them that they are loved and cared for.
The weather was nice and warm for the most part (almost too warm for my liking), but we did have a couple of days where it rained. There were a few things to adjust to – the bathrooms, and the crowded public transit, to mention a couple – but it was a very worthwhile cultural experience.
On our last day there, we were privileged to have a tour of the surrounding area to learn about the Mennonite history since, for several members of the team, this is where our ancestors came from.THANK YOU, GOD, for giving me this opportunity!!
Thursday, June 2, 2011
UKRAINE 2011
Preevyet!
Sorry I haven't posted in more than 3 weeks - my life has been INCREDIBLY full with preparations for my 2-week mission trip to Ukraine!
This was something that I had discussed with the missions team of the EFCCM when I went for an orientation/interview in February. About mid-April, I was presented with the opportunity to join the team going to Ukraine in June. So I prayed about it and began tentatively making plans. Within the next few weeks, all of my financial support came in, flights were booked, and the onslaught of email communication ensued.
The other 6 team members are coming from points west (1 from Winnipeg, and the rest from Alberta), and we will meet for the first time in London on June 5th.
I have so much from the past couple of months to share with you, but I just have not had time with preparations and trying to fit in a bit of Russian language learning as well.
I am SO blessed to have this opportunity and I have a wonderfully supportive church family (as well as my own family)!!
The team will be ministering to young people in a rehab centre the first week, and at a summer camp for children from one of the many orphanages in Krivoy Rog during the second week. I am VERY excited and I am eagerly anticipating what God is going to do through our team and in us as well as we learn about another culture and about how to serve Him there.
I hope to have many pictures and stories to share when I return.
Spasiba - thanks - for the friendship and encouragement and support I have received from all of my friends.
See you later!
Sorry I haven't posted in more than 3 weeks - my life has been INCREDIBLY full with preparations for my 2-week mission trip to Ukraine!
This was something that I had discussed with the missions team of the EFCCM when I went for an orientation/interview in February. About mid-April, I was presented with the opportunity to join the team going to Ukraine in June. So I prayed about it and began tentatively making plans. Within the next few weeks, all of my financial support came in, flights were booked, and the onslaught of email communication ensued.
The other 6 team members are coming from points west (1 from Winnipeg, and the rest from Alberta), and we will meet for the first time in London on June 5th.
I have so much from the past couple of months to share with you, but I just have not had time with preparations and trying to fit in a bit of Russian language learning as well.
I am SO blessed to have this opportunity and I have a wonderfully supportive church family (as well as my own family)!!
The team will be ministering to young people in a rehab centre the first week, and at a summer camp for children from one of the many orphanages in Krivoy Rog during the second week. I am VERY excited and I am eagerly anticipating what God is going to do through our team and in us as well as we learn about another culture and about how to serve Him there.
I hope to have many pictures and stories to share when I return.
Spasiba - thanks - for the friendship and encouragement and support I have received from all of my friends.
See you later!
Sunday, May 8, 2011
SWEET HAPPINESS
I believe that true happiness only comes from giving freely of ourselves to others in love. I think this is partly what the Apostle Paul had in mind when he wrote in Philippians 2:
If you have any encouragement from being united with Christ, if any comfort from his love, if any fellowship with the Spirit, if any tenderness and compassion, then make my joy complete by being like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and purpose. Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humility consider others better than yourselves. Each of you should look not only to your own interests but also to the interests of others.
Jesus Himself also said, 'It is more blessed to give than to receive" (Acts 20:35).
Over the last few days, I have had the opportunity to give of my time, my energies and myself to others, and I have discovered that it has made me so happy to give just because I want them to know they are loved and cared for. I have been happier doing things for others than just pleasing myself, and so what began as a desire to bless someone else also became a blessing to me.
This reminds me of a passage from Hannah Hurnard's book 'Hinds' Feet on High Places:'
The Water Song
Come, oh come! Let us away –
Lower and lower every day.
From the heights we leap and flow
To the valleys down below.
Always answering to the call,
To the lowest place of all.
“I don’t understand,” said Much-Afraid after she had listened for awhile. “The water seems to be singing so gladly because it is hurrying to go down into the Valley, and yet You are calling me to the High Places. What does it mean?”
“The High Places,” answered the Shepherd, “are the starting place. It is only up on the High Places of Love that anyone can receive the power to pour himself out and give to others.”
Much-Afraid still didn’t really understand, but now as she listened she heard the wild flowers singing the same sort of song.
This is the law by which we live –
It is so sweet to give and give.
After that it seemed to Much-Afraid that all the little birds were singing the same kind of song.
This is the joy of all winged life above –
Happy it is to be able to love.
I also believe that it is because I have tasted the goodness of the Lord and been with Him that I have been enabled to give and give joyfully and happily, and I pray that this desire and passion continues to grow. How much our world would be transformed if the family of God lived this out day by day!
Saturday, May 7, 2011
TRIBUTE TO MOTHERS
I did not write this poem, but it is beautiful and true in its expression of love and gratitude to the women who have given so much to all of us.
A Tribute to Mothers
Mothers come in all sizes and descriptions it's true,
But please know we're thankful for each one of you.
Some have many children, some have only one,
But each mother gave life to a daughter or son.
You may feel neglected and you may be, it's true,
But at least for today we want to thank you.
You not only gave birth but you guided and led,
And you saw that your children were clothed and were fed.
You taught us each night to kneel down and pray,
And things that you told us we remember today.
You may not always be "with it" or dressed all in style,
But my, you are lovely when at us you smile.
Some of you mothers are grandmothers too,
So your days for teaching children are certainly not through.
Grandchildren love grandmothers and need them you see,
To love them and teach them and their friend to be.
Thank God you're a mother and enjoy today,
And know that we mean all the good things we say.
We love you and need you every day of the year,
And we're glad to express it when Mother's Day is here.
We tell God we're thankful for each one of you,
But so often we're neglectful and forget to tell you.
So as children or grandchildren or as husbands too,
We say and we mean, "MOTHERS, WE LOVE YOU."
But please know we're thankful for each one of you.
Some have many children, some have only one,
But each mother gave life to a daughter or son.
You may feel neglected and you may be, it's true,
But at least for today we want to thank you.
You not only gave birth but you guided and led,
And you saw that your children were clothed and were fed.
You taught us each night to kneel down and pray,
And things that you told us we remember today.
You may not always be "with it" or dressed all in style,
But my, you are lovely when at us you smile.
Some of you mothers are grandmothers too,
So your days for teaching children are certainly not through.
Grandchildren love grandmothers and need them you see,
To love them and teach them and their friend to be.
Thank God you're a mother and enjoy today,
And know that we mean all the good things we say.
We love you and need you every day of the year,
And we're glad to express it when Mother's Day is here.
We tell God we're thankful for each one of you,
But so often we're neglectful and forget to tell you.
So as children or grandchildren or as husbands too,
We say and we mean, "MOTHERS, WE LOVE YOU."
Saturday, April 16, 2011
MEDITATIONS ON THE PSALMS - Psalm 20
The psalmist David is reminding the readers that Yahweh is the One in whom they trust for salvation.
Three times in this chapter, it references "the name of the Lord." This is significant, because we know that there is power in the name of God.
Psalm 124:8 says that "our help is in the name of the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth."
Proverbs 18:10 says that "the name of the Lord is a fortified tower; the righteous run to it and are safe."
John 3:18 says that "whoever does not believe stands condemned already because they have not believed in the name of God's one and only Son."
John 20:31 says: "But these things are written that you may believe that Jesus is the Messiah, the Son of God, and that by believing you may have life in His name."
In Acts 4:10, after the lame man was healed, Peter declared that "it is by the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, whom you crucified but whom God raised from the dead, that this man stands before you healed."
In Philippians 2:10-11 it says that "at the name of Jesus every knee will bow and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father."
God's name is so precious to us as believers because we know the strength and faithfulness of our God. The psalmist says 3 things about the name of the Lord in this chapter:
"May the name of the God of Jacob defend you" ~ God's name is a defense for us against evil and wickedness and trouble.
"In the name of our God we will set up our banners" ~ We should rejoice in the name of God and proclaim it to those around us.
"Remember the name of the Lord our God" ~ Our trust is in God and we need to remember this - AND remember who He is and what He has done for us, how He has proved Himself - especially when we are tempted to believe otherwise.
I will proclaim the name of the Lord. Oh praise the greatness of our God! ~ Deuteronomy 32:3
Three times in this chapter, it references "the name of the Lord." This is significant, because we know that there is power in the name of God.
Psalm 124:8 says that "our help is in the name of the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth."
Proverbs 18:10 says that "the name of the Lord is a fortified tower; the righteous run to it and are safe."
John 3:18 says that "whoever does not believe stands condemned already because they have not believed in the name of God's one and only Son."
John 20:31 says: "But these things are written that you may believe that Jesus is the Messiah, the Son of God, and that by believing you may have life in His name."
In Acts 4:10, after the lame man was healed, Peter declared that "it is by the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, whom you crucified but whom God raised from the dead, that this man stands before you healed."
In Philippians 2:10-11 it says that "at the name of Jesus every knee will bow and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father."
God's name is so precious to us as believers because we know the strength and faithfulness of our God. The psalmist says 3 things about the name of the Lord in this chapter:
"May the name of the God of Jacob defend you" ~ God's name is a defense for us against evil and wickedness and trouble.
"In the name of our God we will set up our banners" ~ We should rejoice in the name of God and proclaim it to those around us.
"Remember the name of the Lord our God" ~ Our trust is in God and we need to remember this - AND remember who He is and what He has done for us, how He has proved Himself - especially when we are tempted to believe otherwise.
I will proclaim the name of the Lord. Oh praise the greatness of our God! ~ Deuteronomy 32:3
Friday, April 15, 2011
MEDITATIONS ON THE PSALMS - Psalm 19
In my daily Bible reading, I have found such delight in meditating on the daily Psalm and discovering the treasures I sometimes fail to see when I simply read it through, especially if it is familiar to me. And since it is such a treasure, I want to share it with others.
PSALM 19
I have always loved this Psalm, but as I read it the other day, I began to appreciate it in a new way. This Psalm in particular clearly shows the connection between who God is and what our response to Him should be.
~ God's Majesty ~
"The heavens declare the glory of God; and the firmament shows His handiwork."
We should never cease to be amazed by what we see in the world around us and in the minute glimpses we get of the universe, because this is one very tangible way in which God shows us what He is like. Even verses 4-6 express a revelation of God; as the sun's "rising is from one end of heaven, and its circuit to the other end; and there is nothing hidden from its heat," so also God's realm encompasses all and nothing is hidden from His sight.
~ God's Righteousness ~
"The law of the Lord is perfect...the testimony of the Lord is sure...the statutes of the Lord are right...the commandment of the Lord is pure...the judgments of the Lord are true and righteous altogether..."
Six declarations are made in this section about the laws and statutes that God has given to His people and the psalmist proclaims that they "convert the soul, make wise the simple, bring rejoicing to the heart, enlighten the eyes," that they are to be desired "more than gold" and that "in keeping them there is great reward." Since we know that God has revealed Himself not only in creation but also through His laws, we should rejoice in that and respond in obedience.
~ My Response ~
"Who can understand his errors? Cleanse me from my hidden faults."
The appropriate response to a God of such majesty, holiness and righteousness is a response of humility and a willingness to let Him change my heart. As I recognize and admit that I am sinful and ask Him to cleanse me and reveal my sin, my prayer becomes this: that "the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in Your sight, O Lord, my strength and my Redeemer."
PSALM 19
I have always loved this Psalm, but as I read it the other day, I began to appreciate it in a new way. This Psalm in particular clearly shows the connection between who God is and what our response to Him should be.
~ God's Majesty ~
"The heavens declare the glory of God; and the firmament shows His handiwork."
We should never cease to be amazed by what we see in the world around us and in the minute glimpses we get of the universe, because this is one very tangible way in which God shows us what He is like. Even verses 4-6 express a revelation of God; as the sun's "rising is from one end of heaven, and its circuit to the other end; and there is nothing hidden from its heat," so also God's realm encompasses all and nothing is hidden from His sight.
~ God's Righteousness ~
"The law of the Lord is perfect...the testimony of the Lord is sure...the statutes of the Lord are right...the commandment of the Lord is pure...the judgments of the Lord are true and righteous altogether..."
Six declarations are made in this section about the laws and statutes that God has given to His people and the psalmist proclaims that they "convert the soul, make wise the simple, bring rejoicing to the heart, enlighten the eyes," that they are to be desired "more than gold" and that "in keeping them there is great reward." Since we know that God has revealed Himself not only in creation but also through His laws, we should rejoice in that and respond in obedience.
~ My Response ~
"Who can understand his errors? Cleanse me from my hidden faults."
The appropriate response to a God of such majesty, holiness and righteousness is a response of humility and a willingness to let Him change my heart. As I recognize and admit that I am sinful and ask Him to cleanse me and reveal my sin, my prayer becomes this: that "the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in Your sight, O Lord, my strength and my Redeemer."
Sunday, April 10, 2011
A Woman of Wise Speech
I spent this past Friday evening and Saturday at the Northwest Women of Grace mini-conference here in Thunder Bay, and it was a refreshing, encouraging and challenging time.
I was struck by the number of verses in Proverbs that address the way we speak and the areas in which we need to be changed to reflect the character and qualities that God wants to see in us and that will be of benefit to others around us.
Something else that stuck with me is a quote that was shared by our speaker, Janet Surette: "I am the master of the words I have not spoken and a slave to the words I should not have said."
As Psalm 139:23-24 says, I need to allow God to "search me and know my heart," to "test my and know my thoughts; to see if there is any offensive way in me and lead me in the way everlasting." If I daily am willing to allow God to change my heart, then what flows out of the abundance of my heart will be pleasing and good.
James 1:19a says that "everyone should be quick to listen and slow to speak." This is an area where I need continual growth since I like to talk, and another quote that was shared that impacted me was "Seek not to be interesting, but to be interested." If I am truly interested in the other person rather than what I can say, then I will be more prone to listen and talk less.
Proverbs 15:28a says, "The heart of the righteous ponders how to to answer..." I need to think about a) what I would say before I say it, b) how to say it, and c) when I should say it.
Colossians 4:6 says to "let your speech always be gracious, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how you ought to answer each person."
As Proverbs 22:17-18 says, I need to "incline [my] ear and hear the words of the wise, and apply [my] mind to [His] knowledge..." This will bring pleasing results in my interactions with others. I need to ask God for wisdom (James 1:5) and study and apply His Word to my life.
Ephesians 4:29 says "Let no unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up, according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen."
The theme was "Becoming a Woman of Wise Speech", which is always a timely and appropriate area to focus on, especially as women, since conversation is such a huge part of our lives. The key verse was Proverbs 25:11 "A word aptly spoken is like apples of gold in settings of silver."
I was struck by the number of verses in Proverbs that address the way we speak and the areas in which we need to be changed to reflect the character and qualities that God wants to see in us and that will be of benefit to others around us.
Something else that stuck with me is a quote that was shared by our speaker, Janet Surette: "I am the master of the words I have not spoken and a slave to the words I should not have said."
Lord, may I allow You to guide my words so that I need not be ashamed or burdened by words that I ought not to have said. There is so much in Your Word that teaches me in this area...
As Psalm 139:23-24 says, I need to allow God to "search me and know my heart," to "test my and know my thoughts; to see if there is any offensive way in me and lead me in the way everlasting." If I daily am willing to allow God to change my heart, then what flows out of the abundance of my heart will be pleasing and good.
James 1:19a says that "everyone should be quick to listen and slow to speak." This is an area where I need continual growth since I like to talk, and another quote that was shared that impacted me was "Seek not to be interesting, but to be interested." If I am truly interested in the other person rather than what I can say, then I will be more prone to listen and talk less.
Proverbs 15:28a says, "The heart of the righteous ponders how to to answer..." I need to think about a) what I would say before I say it, b) how to say it, and c) when I should say it.
Colossians 4:6 says to "let your speech always be gracious, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how you ought to answer each person."
As Proverbs 22:17-18 says, I need to "incline [my] ear and hear the words of the wise, and apply [my] mind to [His] knowledge..." This will bring pleasing results in my interactions with others. I need to ask God for wisdom (James 1:5) and study and apply His Word to my life.
Ephesians 4:29 says "Let no unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up, according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen."
Lord, please help me to choose to characterize people by the good in them rather than the negative; to praise them to others; to focus on the good and to verbally encourage others.
Tuesday, March 22, 2011
BY HIS GRACE
It's been almost a month since I wrote on my blog, and I'm a little disappointed in that, truthfully. But, as someone once wisely said, "You can't go back, but you can go forward." And that's exactly what I'm going to do.
I'm a writer, and poetry comes quite easily to me, so here's a new poem that's been cogitating in my mind for a little while now - I just didn't quite know how to begin it until today.
"By His Grace"
Written by Darlene Joy Koop, March 22/2011
My Lord is so faithful, so merciful and kind,
He has given new sight to me, who once was blind.
He speaks to my heart so tenderly
And, by His grace, enables me to believe.
When I stumble and feel oh, so weak,
By His grace He gives strength as I kneel at His feet.
I'm learning to rely on my Lord day by day,
In Him I'm protected and cared for always.
Sometimes this life seems so weary and long,
And I feel like I have lost the song.
Then God reaches out by His grace to me,
And breaks the chains, setting my heart free.
My future is uncertain and fog oft obscures my way,
Yet by His grace the Lord teaches me to trust and obey.
And though I still have such a long way to go,
Each day I can see how He helps me to grow.
Jesus has promised to never leave us alone,
And He loves us like no other could ever have shown.
He called me and chose me to bear His Name,
And by His grace, I will never be the same.
I'm a writer, and poetry comes quite easily to me, so here's a new poem that's been cogitating in my mind for a little while now - I just didn't quite know how to begin it until today.
"By His Grace"
Written by Darlene Joy Koop, March 22/2011
My Lord is so faithful, so merciful and kind,
He has given new sight to me, who once was blind.
He speaks to my heart so tenderly
And, by His grace, enables me to believe.
When I stumble and feel oh, so weak,
By His grace He gives strength as I kneel at His feet.
I'm learning to rely on my Lord day by day,
In Him I'm protected and cared for always.
Sometimes this life seems so weary and long,
And I feel like I have lost the song.
Then God reaches out by His grace to me,
And breaks the chains, setting my heart free.
My future is uncertain and fog oft obscures my way,
Yet by His grace the Lord teaches me to trust and obey.
And though I still have such a long way to go,
Each day I can see how He helps me to grow.
Jesus has promised to never leave us alone,
And He loves us like no other could ever have shown.
He called me and chose me to bear His Name,
And by His grace, I will never be the same.
Thursday, February 24, 2011
A SEEKING HEART
I was reminded of a familiar Scripture today as I was reflecting on the past few days and I realized its truth in a new way: "But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well (Matthew 6:33)."
Of late I've been praying: "Lord, give me wisdom/guide me/show me Your will for my life." This is good, but it can be so easy to focus just on me and on what I think is needed in my life, rather than truly seeking Him. He promised in Jeremiah 29:13 that "you will seek Me and you will find Me when you seek Me with all your heart."
What does this mean for me? A few things, I believe:
1) As I go to work, I pray that God will help me to look at the people around me with love and to seek ways to be a blessing to them, not just to make it through the day without complaints/frustration.
2) As I seek where God would lead me in ministry, I pray that I would pour myself into my current ministry, trusting Him to enable and equip me for today and for the future.
3) Seeking His kingdom and His righteousness means turning my focus outward and being more faithful in praying for others in their ministries.
I'll close simply with a few stanzas from a poem written by Olga J. Weiss:
Give me a burden, O Lord, for the lost,
A burden for souls gone astray,
So that many now lost in the darkness of sin
May find Thee, the Truth and the Way.
Give me a burden, O Lord, till Thy love
Shall fill me with power divine:
Then emptied of self and lost in Thy love
The light through the darkness shall shine.
Give me a burden till my heart shall bleed:
Give me a vision to see the great need;
Stir me, oh stir, till my heart e'er shall be
Burning for souls, all ablaze, Lord for Thee.
Of late I've been praying: "Lord, give me wisdom/guide me/show me Your will for my life." This is good, but it can be so easy to focus just on me and on what I think is needed in my life, rather than truly seeking Him. He promised in Jeremiah 29:13 that "you will seek Me and you will find Me when you seek Me with all your heart."
What does this mean for me? A few things, I believe:
1) As I go to work, I pray that God will help me to look at the people around me with love and to seek ways to be a blessing to them, not just to make it through the day without complaints/frustration.
2) As I seek where God would lead me in ministry, I pray that I would pour myself into my current ministry, trusting Him to enable and equip me for today and for the future.
3) Seeking His kingdom and His righteousness means turning my focus outward and being more faithful in praying for others in their ministries.
I'll close simply with a few stanzas from a poem written by Olga J. Weiss:
Give me a burden, O Lord, for the lost,
A burden for souls gone astray,
So that many now lost in the darkness of sin
May find Thee, the Truth and the Way.
Give me a burden, O Lord, till Thy love
Shall fill me with power divine:
Then emptied of self and lost in Thy love
The light through the darkness shall shine.
Give me a burden till my heart shall bleed:
Give me a vision to see the great need;
Stir me, oh stir, till my heart e'er shall be
Burning for souls, all ablaze, Lord for Thee.
Tuesday, February 15, 2011
ALL ABOUT HIM
I've been a little slack in my blog-writing, so today while I have a few quiet moments, I decided to amend that. Sometimes coming up with an accurate title for what I want to share is a challenge, so I decided for this note to follow the theme of the last one. (Not About Me...All About Him)
I'm overwhelmed (in a good way) by God's love and care for me and the way that He guides my steps - I hope I never lose the joy and wonderment of that realization.
I've been so encouraged the last few weeks by the children in my Sunday School class. They have risen to the challenge of learning their memory verses and it's exciting to see that they are remembering what has been taught them about God's promises! It's been a challenge for me as well, to adapt my style of teaching to a more active group of children, but I am a creative person, so I've begun to enjoy the challenge of finding new ways to make the lesson more interactive for the children.
This last week's memory verse was 2 Corinthians 12:9a - "...My grace is sufficient for you, for My power is made perfect in weakness." How timely this was - considering that I would succumb to a throat infection on Friday and find myself physically weak and needing to literally rely on His strength! I claimed this promise and held to His hand and He provided in His grace just what I needed.
Ahead of me this week are some meetings and discussions about my future, and although the details are still uncertain to me and I don't really know what to expect, I know that I can trust God to work out His perfect plan. The chorus of a gospel song says it like this: "Many things about tomorrow I don't seem to understand; but I know who holds tomorrow, and I know who holds my hand."
Here a few verses that speak to my heart - there's nothing better than meditating on the wonderful truths in God's Word.
I'll close this note with the powerful words of a worship song that echo the declaration of Isaiah 46:9 - "Remember the former things, those of long ago; I am God and there is no other; I am God and there is none like me."
I'm overwhelmed (in a good way) by God's love and care for me and the way that He guides my steps - I hope I never lose the joy and wonderment of that realization.
I've been so encouraged the last few weeks by the children in my Sunday School class. They have risen to the challenge of learning their memory verses and it's exciting to see that they are remembering what has been taught them about God's promises! It's been a challenge for me as well, to adapt my style of teaching to a more active group of children, but I am a creative person, so I've begun to enjoy the challenge of finding new ways to make the lesson more interactive for the children.
This last week's memory verse was 2 Corinthians 12:9a - "...My grace is sufficient for you, for My power is made perfect in weakness." How timely this was - considering that I would succumb to a throat infection on Friday and find myself physically weak and needing to literally rely on His strength! I claimed this promise and held to His hand and He provided in His grace just what I needed.
Ahead of me this week are some meetings and discussions about my future, and although the details are still uncertain to me and I don't really know what to expect, I know that I can trust God to work out His perfect plan. The chorus of a gospel song says it like this: "Many things about tomorrow I don't seem to understand; but I know who holds tomorrow, and I know who holds my hand."
Here a few verses that speak to my heart - there's nothing better than meditating on the wonderful truths in God's Word.
Job 23: 10
"But He knows the way that I take; when He has tested me I shall come forth as gold."
Isaiah 26:3
"You will keep in perfect peace him whose mind is steadfast, because he trusts in You."
Psalm 46:10
"Be still and know that I am God...I will be exalted in all the earth."
I'll close this note with the powerful words of a worship song that echo the declaration of Isaiah 46:9 - "Remember the former things, those of long ago; I am God and there is no other; I am God and there is none like me."
There is no rock, there is no god like our God, no other name worthy of all our praise.
The rock of salvation that cannot be moved, He's proven Himself to be faithful and true; there is no rock, there is no god like ours.
Rock of Ages, Jesus is the Rock. Rock of Ages, Jesus is the Rock. Rock of Ages, Jesus is the Rock. There is no rock, there is no god like ours!
Sunday, January 23, 2011
NOT ABOUT ME
On Friday, at the start of the weekend for me, I was feeling a bit low...the challenges of this past week seemed to point out my inadequacy in certain areas and I struggled with that...until I remembered that this is an opportunity for me to be strengthened in my faith. At the moment, I'm still not fully ready to go back to work on Monday, but I - like Peter - need to keep my eyes fixed on Jesus and His grace and that will enable me to keep pressing on when I don't want to or when I feel the strength isn't there.
I was reminded on Friday that when the circumstances press in and I am feeling overwhelmed, that I need to take a step back and remember who my God is and that He is Lord of my life and is always with me, working in my life for good. And ultimately, it's not about me...not about what I can do or can't do...but it's about Him. This reminded me of a poem I wrote back in 2005, which is still so true today:
NOT ABOUT ME
Written by Darlene Joy Koop
I struggled today, Lord,
When my weakness was made evident
And my pride was exposed.
I forgot that I am unable
To do it all on my own,
And I was angry when I failed.
I'm trying to learn
Not to place my value and worth
In how others see me.
I'm trying to let go of my pride
So that Your Holy Spirit
Can work at changing my heart.
It hurts when I fail and
When I don't meet the expectations
I've set for myself.
I dislike criticism and I wish
That I didn't have to face trials in life,
But I need to grow.
Remind me, Lord, today,
That You've bought me with a price
And that I am Your own.
Speak to my spirit and strengthen me
When I fall down and
When I'm feeling discouraged.
I know that my worth is not in what I do
But rather in who I am -
Because of Jesus Christ.
Teach me, Lord, how to grow
In perseverance...
The patient endurance through discouragement.
Help me again to realize
That it's not about me and
To come humbly to the foot of the cross.
Each day in my life is one more step
On the journey to Christlikeness,
And it is not easy.
But I know You're with me
And Your strength is made perfect
In my weakness.
May I know the fulfilment
Of living for the purpose of loving
And serving only You each day.
Thank You, Father, that You're faithful,
That Your love never changes,
And that it's not about me.
I was reminded on Friday that when the circumstances press in and I am feeling overwhelmed, that I need to take a step back and remember who my God is and that He is Lord of my life and is always with me, working in my life for good. And ultimately, it's not about me...not about what I can do or can't do...but it's about Him. This reminded me of a poem I wrote back in 2005, which is still so true today:
NOT ABOUT ME
Written by Darlene Joy Koop
I struggled today, Lord,
When my weakness was made evident
And my pride was exposed.
I forgot that I am unable
To do it all on my own,
And I was angry when I failed.
I'm trying to learn
Not to place my value and worth
In how others see me.
I'm trying to let go of my pride
So that Your Holy Spirit
Can work at changing my heart.
It hurts when I fail and
When I don't meet the expectations
I've set for myself.
I dislike criticism and I wish
That I didn't have to face trials in life,
But I need to grow.
Remind me, Lord, today,
That You've bought me with a price
And that I am Your own.
Speak to my spirit and strengthen me
When I fall down and
When I'm feeling discouraged.
I know that my worth is not in what I do
But rather in who I am -
Because of Jesus Christ.
Teach me, Lord, how to grow
In perseverance...
The patient endurance through discouragement.
Help me again to realize
That it's not about me and
To come humbly to the foot of the cross.
Each day in my life is one more step
On the journey to Christlikeness,
And it is not easy.
But I know You're with me
And Your strength is made perfect
In my weakness.
May I know the fulfilment
Of living for the purpose of loving
And serving only You each day.
Thank You, Father, that You're faithful,
That Your love never changes,
And that it's not about me.
Thursday, January 20, 2011
ENCOURAGEMENT & GRATITUDE
"Therefore, if you have any encouragement from being united with Christ, if any comfort from His love, if any common sharing in the Spirit, if any tenderness and compassion, then make my joy complete by being like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and of one mind."
PHILIPPIANS 2:1-2
This past Sunday's message was - and consequently, our small-group Bible study theme was as well - focusing on the aspect of encouraging one another in the Lord. Encouragement is so necessary and yet so often neglected in our daily lives. Just today, one of my colleagues at work was expressing to me how it would make her job so much more enjoyable and rewarding if she occasionally heard a "thank you" or a kind word about what she has been working so hard to accomplish.
The really neat thing about godly encouragement is that one doesn't need to be a "super-Christian" or extremely talented in a certain area - just the fact that we are all part of the family of Christ is reason enough to encourage one another and express our thankfulness for each other.
And when we do, it's fascinating to see how the flower of encouragement blossoms and spreads throughout many other relationships! When we recognize that we are all equally loved and valued and when we desire to build up the unity among our Christian family, just hearing what God has been doing in someone else's life and how they have been encouraged is an encouragement to us!
I had a wonderful experience of this the other day with my dear sister in Christ. She shared with me what God had been speaking to her heart and that in turn encouraged me in the situation I was in. And when we encourage one another, it doesn't need to be about achievements or what the world would term "worthy of praise" - we should encourage one another simply because we are family.
Encouragement and gratitude go hand-in-hand. You will find that the more you practice encouraging others, the more thankful you are for what we sometimes consider "the small things," as well as the people whom you live and work with. The other day, my employer gave me a huge compliment, which naturally encouraged me, but my response was simply to say "thank you". And then I found that I was so much more eager to encourage others and thank them for their contributions - it's a circle of life-giving nourishment.
As I was meditating on this the other morning, I was inspired to write a poem:
I cannot say I've got it all together;
And I'm not always happy with the weather.
I do not always look ahead with hope -
Sometimes I just seek for the easiest way to cope.
When there seems to be no other way
To deal with the issues, I bow my head to pray.
And it's then God gently helps me to see
The blessings that are all around me.
The Word of God is full of wisdom for all the ages,
And if I heed it, it will work in me miraculous changes;
And give me opportunity to encourage my friends,
To let them know their struggles - and mine - are not the end.
True peace comes from giving my burdens to the Lord,
And a happy smile when I share a few kind words.
If I always see the bad and not the good,
I will not act in the way that I really should.
And if I will, in true humility,
Allow God to make me what I ought to be;
Then those around me will clearly see
That trusting in God brings joy and sets me free.
"May our Lord Jesus Christ Himself and God our Father, who loved us and by His grace gave us eternal encouragement and good hope, encourage your hearts and strengthen you in every good deed and word."
2 THESSALONIANS 2:16-17
Sunday, January 16, 2011
NEW BEGINNINGS - 2010
Well, we're officially halfway through the month of January and this is my first post...
I am committed to posting regularly - it's just taken me awhile to get back into a consistent, regular routine.
On my first day back at work on January 4th, I literally had a new, "fresh" beginning - I had been able to get caught up on the workload at the end of December and it was delightful to have a clean desk. Of course, this only lasted for a day before it returned to normalcy.
Thankfully, I have a new perspective on my job as well - over the last few months God has, by His grace, been giving me a new outlook, particularly in regard to my job. I am so thankful for the freedom and peace that comes from doing just what is given to me each day and not worrying about things I can't control. I pray that this continues even as the workload and pressure continues to grow.
On the home front, since last summer I have gradually neglected to consistently put things away in my little house, which has developed into a cluttered space (not dirty, but definitely a far cry from my neatly organized desk at work). So at the beginning of this year, I looked at this space in which I live and I decided that something needed to be done.
Have you ever realized that you need to do something but you've been procrastinating for so long that it seems almost insurmountable to begin the good habit? Well, I knew that I needed some kind of motivation, so I bought myself 2 new books with a Christmas gift certificate and I resolved that I would not open or begin reading them until I get a decent part of my house in order. This is a big discipline for me, because I absolutely love reading!!
However, I am making progress...and now will come the discipline of developing the good habit of putting things away instead of letting things pile up.
That's just a glimpse - I'm sure there will be more new beginnings this year and I look forward to sharing them with you, and I hope your new year is beginning with promise as well.
I am committed to posting regularly - it's just taken me awhile to get back into a consistent, regular routine.
On my first day back at work on January 4th, I literally had a new, "fresh" beginning - I had been able to get caught up on the workload at the end of December and it was delightful to have a clean desk. Of course, this only lasted for a day before it returned to normalcy.
Thankfully, I have a new perspective on my job as well - over the last few months God has, by His grace, been giving me a new outlook, particularly in regard to my job. I am so thankful for the freedom and peace that comes from doing just what is given to me each day and not worrying about things I can't control. I pray that this continues even as the workload and pressure continues to grow.
On the home front, since last summer I have gradually neglected to consistently put things away in my little house, which has developed into a cluttered space (not dirty, but definitely a far cry from my neatly organized desk at work). So at the beginning of this year, I looked at this space in which I live and I decided that something needed to be done.
Have you ever realized that you need to do something but you've been procrastinating for so long that it seems almost insurmountable to begin the good habit? Well, I knew that I needed some kind of motivation, so I bought myself 2 new books with a Christmas gift certificate and I resolved that I would not open or begin reading them until I get a decent part of my house in order. This is a big discipline for me, because I absolutely love reading!!
However, I am making progress...and now will come the discipline of developing the good habit of putting things away instead of letting things pile up.
That's just a glimpse - I'm sure there will be more new beginnings this year and I look forward to sharing them with you, and I hope your new year is beginning with promise as well.
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