Mustard Seed Faith

2011-03-18T09:38:00.000-06:00

3rd Japan Prayer Update

2011-03-18T09:34:00.001-06:00

“Thanks for Pray for Japan. I think that this is the first time

that people of all over the world pray for Japan. I believe that God is going do something special through this worst of the situation.” – Mamoru G

- CMA JAPAN PRAYER UPDATE -

“You intended to harm me,

but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done,

the saving of many lives.” - Genesis 50:20

“Today marks one week that their lives were completely turned up-side-down, in one short moment. We need you to help us reach out to them with the love of Jesus–that people who have never heard of His love and power might experience it right now. Let’s join together to show these precious people that they are not forgotten–God loves them and answers prayer.” - Christine and Tim

Thank you again to our CMA family for continuing to lift Japan up in Prayer!

I am hearing that many missionaries are being asked and pressured to leave Japan and come “home” because of the dangers.

Here are a few responses from missionary's, there are many more like this:

“Just a note to those who keep asking. We aren't going anywhere! We are totally safe in the will of our Lord Jesus Christ. There is no other place I'd rather be. Besides we wouldn't leave Rocky's parents or our church family. This is home and we are staying put unless the Lord tell us to do otherwise.” – Marla
“No, no, we won't go!!!!” – Tom C

“Please pray for a missionary friend, Barb who is flying back to Osaka today. MANY do not understand why she would go back this week. But when you've got that Spirit fire burning about where you're supposed to be--how could you possibly hold back? ” - Cherilyn A

“In this situation, I begin to notice a different between the missionaries and people who are here for working/study. Our missions make us want to be here more than ever, so that we can be with the Japanese people that we love, with Japan, the land that we adore in this difficult time. But people who adore this land and her people because of her beauty and success would leave once it turns ugly.” – Roseline

I am hearing many Christians say, “We are here, for such a time as this!”

PRAYER REQUESTS AND COMMENTS

“Many pastors and missionaries are still sending things up to the affected areas, ignoring the shortage of power, and persistent strong aftershocks, also the risk of exposure of radioactive component. A team with Sugaya Sensei (Kiyose Grace Chapel) is in Sendai now. We trust God for all His arrangement! Please pray with us, for our praise and prayers are fragrance aroma to our loving Father! – Roseline

‎"285,000 people in 2,200 shelters, some still not getting adequate supplies!”

“The Tokyo governor said he believed that the Tsunami was a punishment from God, and that resulted a huge anger in the nation. He apologized today for his words, for he was not sensitive to the emotions of the people who are effected in this disaster. I don't know what religion that he professed. But there are many religions in Japan that warn people about End Time, and God's punishment.” – Roseline

“Yesterday one governor in Tokyo made a speech and said that this is "gods" punishment for the Japanese being so materialistic and corrupt” – Marla

Lord please show the Japanese that you are a God of Love, Mercy and Forgiveness!

“The huge amount of victims that reached Tokyo and North West Chiba, and other places raised a NEED for mental care. The victims are in fear, fearing the uncertainties lie in tomorrow, traumatized by the earthquake and tsunami and nuclear plant explosion, in great bereavement for the loss and dead.”

- Roseline

Prayer requests and comments from Marla Ayatsuka in Kitakyushu Japan:

Gasoline is still in very short supply. Other fuels as well, including kerosene which is needed for heat.
People in Tokyo are overstocking on food and gasoline, leaving supplies low. Even the shelves down here in Kyushu are emptied of toilet paper and gas canisters for small burning stoves, etc. People here are buying out these things and shipping it to their relatives in the Tokyo area, because everything up there is sold out.
This morning helicopters were dropping sea water on top of reactor #3 trying to cool it down because steam was coming from the structure. They were able to make several drops this morning but this evening were unable to get close enough due to radiation levels. However, the radiation level is not changing when measured around 100 meters away from the reactor, indicating this is not changing the situation. All planning for attempts to cool the reactors down requires consideration of the safety of the workers carrying out the attempt. This poses a large problem for many of the possible ways to accomplish the cooling of the reactors. Also there are concerns about what affects the salt in sea water is going to have on the structure, but that is unknown at this time. As I was writing this Japans Self Defense Force began to spray water into the #3 reactor with fire trucks.
Those in the surrounding area of the reactors are facing many challenges, the biggest of which is that no one will deliver supplies to them out of fear of the radiation levels. Trucks which could deliver fuel and food are refusing to go in, especially to an area that is not under evacuation but us under a warning to stay inside and take precautions from being exposed to outside air for long periods of time. Because of lack of fuel many who want to leave, although it is voluntary for them at the moment, are unable to get out.
The weather is cold and snow is falling in the hardest hit areas although tomorrow, Friday, the precipitation is supposed to clear up and it will begin to warm up on Saturday. Some still haven't received adequate supplies of food, water and fuel. Praying that all of them can be reached. Reports yesterday were that two elderly people in shelters passed away as a result of health complications due to the cold temperatures. I have not heard any reports of today but I am sure many people are struggling with health complications due to the cold.
Praise! Blackouts today in and around Tokyo have been avoided because everyone is doing their part to conserve enough power.
Aftershocks continued pretty much hourly through most of today. No tsunami warnings, however. While I was putting together this update there was a strong aftershock of almost a M 6! Those aftershocks are really unnerving for everyone, having faced these tremors now for SIX straight days.

(There have been 535 earthquakes since last Friday!!!!)

So the news is consumed by reports of the nuclear power plant, empty stores and closed gasoline stations. I really long for more news of the victims of the earthquake and tsunami. I want to get a better grasp of how they are faring, how many are still waiting for supplies, how many have been rescued (if any). Missionaries in organizations we know of are finally making their way into the hardest hit areas so assess the situation. It is good to know that relief efforts will finally be underway very soon. My heart is just so heavy for those living in shelters and places without utilities and basic necessities. I want to go and just be beside them as they go through it. I know that Jesus is there with them.

Thank you all for prayers!!!

Thank you doesn't seem like enough to express how thankful we are

for the outpouring of your love and support!

An email from missionary friends (name removed for privacy)....

“Alison took some food to her friend Y-san today who reiterated that her husband (who works in the nuclear division of Tokyo Electric Power Company) is convinced that the risk is local to Fukushima. He is apparently working around the clock, coming home occasionally for a couple of hours of sleep and a shower. He is devastated, having been totally convinced that this could never happen. His colleagues in Fukushima are placing their lives in daily danger as they desperately try to bring the situation under control, without decent food and water as provisions naturally aren’t getting there. Y-san said they try to reassure their colleagues (who are smokers) that they’ll die of lung cancer before the radiation gets them. She said that there is a chance her husband may have to go there too but he is still working in Tokyo at the moment. Please pray for God’s peace on this precious family, and for the many workers under excessive stress.... We received a call from a Japanese friend, saying that two of her relatives had made decisions for Christ today. The earthquake was certainly a catalyst for this, so may this be merely the beginning of a massive harvest.”

All the people I know in Japan are talking highly of the organization, CRASH. They say it is a great place to give if you want to volunteer or help financially.

* “CRASH”(Christian Relief, Assistance, Support and Hope) is a network supporting Christians to do relief work in Japan and around the world. CRASH equips and prepares churches and missions to be there to help their communities when disasters strike and coordinates Christian volunteers to work with local ministries in the event of a disaster. For updates on how part of the Body is responding to the crises, as well as how to give to rescue and relief needs, please see their site: http://www.crashjapan.com.

Thank you for standing with us in prayer,

Please continue to pray for Japan!

2011-03-16T09:02:00.001-06:00

This is an update e-mail I received from CMA. Please continue to pray for Japan!

“As far as I can see, We are headed for the bottom. The good news is that is where God usually meets us. I pray this nation will meet Jesus as we will have no where else to turn. We send all our love to you who are standing with us in this great time of need.” – David H

- CMA PRAYER JAPAN UPDATE!-

Thank you so much to everyone who responded to our last email!

Right now the best thing, the most powerful thing we can for those in Japan is pray. Because our God is BIGGER, GREATER and MORE POWERFUL than the greatest devastation we can imagine! God promises that if we cry out to Him, He will listen...He will answer!!

So please, let’s keep crying out on behalf of the Japanese

who are in desperate need of Jesus!

I have once again listed (below) prayer requests, praise reports and comments from missionaries, friends and pastors in Japan. I am sharing these so that you have some specific things to be praying for, from people who are living through this right now!

PLEASE pass this on to any and everyone who would be willing to pray for Japan!

"Over 440,000 people are living in over 2,000 shelters. Some shelters have little water and food, and are still waiting for the arrival of essential supplies. Let's pray for those supplies to arrive quickly!!!” – Marla Ayatsuka

‎"19,000 rescued between Friday and Tuesday. Number of dead and missing has exceeded 11,000.”

“The headline in the newspaper this morning estimated more than 20,000 have lost their lives.” – Marla Ayatsuka

“Overnight News: M 6 earthquake near Mt. Fuji 100 km W. of Tokyo. Unnerving but no serious damage. In the Tohoku the count of dead and missing has risen to 11,000. Hundreds of thousands are living in about 2000 different shelters. And a cold front has moved in, with snow. Please pray for warm weather, and for ...success in stabilizing nuclear reactors.” – Tim C

“Please pray for the believers and churches in the hard hit areas. Please pray for warm weather, and the restoration of transportation routes, so that relief supplies can reach remote areas. Please pray for CRASH Japan, as it coordinates the flow of volunteer workers, supplies, and donations. Please pray for Family Forum Japan as we try to minister at full capacity, during an extended period of time, without income from domestic sources. Please pray that God will provide the financial resources we need in order to print literature, and providing counseling services in needy places. Most of all, please pray that God will use this unprecedented disaster to bring the Japanese people to a knowledge of the Lord Jesus Christ. At present less than 1% of the population profess Christ. May He be glorified in this nation, and through His People in Japan. Thank you so much.” - Director, Family Forum Japan

“Gas supplies have run out, grocery shelves are bare, trains and public transportation are spotty, and power outages continue in Tokyo area. These things are terrible, but compared to the loss of life (confirmed 4200) and devastation up north....” - Missionary in Tokyo

“The same thing here in northern Japan.There is no gasoline, no kerosene for heat, and no trains. Food supplies are getting very low, but everyone's attitude is good. Compared to those suffering south of us these inconveniences are nothing. We praise God for what we have.” - Armand

“Things are getting worse at the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant. Now reactor #4 is on fire spewing smoke containing radioactive substance, and evacuation area spread to everyone within 30km radius. This fire isn't going out and the radiation level is too high to send workers in to try to extinguish it.” – Rocky and Marla

“More than 300 churches exist in the area of Japan affected by Friday's tsunami. The status of most of them is unknown.”

"310,000 (is what we're being told) people have lost their homes and right now are displaced. They're in community centers; we're aware of churches that have opened up and are housing people," "Some other churches have opened up and are supplying some long-term temporary housing. So we see the body of Christ working together." - Asian Access

“Store shelves in Tokyo are pretty bare, and some people are taking extra precautions but panic has not yet set in. Please pray that NO RUMORS will take root and spread causing people to panic and flee. Radiation levels in Tokyo were slightly higher for a short time today after the explosion but then they went back down. However, not long after that, even WE way down in Kitakyushu heard rumors that could cause some people to panic. If the people in Tokyo panic and try to get out all at once, with the diminished supplies of fuel and food, and the train systems running at less than 50%, it could be a mess. Please pray that everyone stays calm!

So as I said, store shelves are empty, gasoline is scarce and rolling blackouts are happening to conserve electricity. Normal life is quite disrupted for much of Japan. Not sure when things will return to some assemblance of normalcy. But these times of getting out of ones comfort zone can be used for great things!

Just as I am writing this, there was an earthquake of 6+ on the Japanese scale in Shizuoka. This is West of Tokyo, and closer to us, and a 6+ is pretty large.

So this brings me to my next prayer request. Large earthquakes are expected anywhere in Japan after such a large one as the Tohoku on the 11th. Aftershocks still continue in the Tohoku earthquake area as well. Please pray for MERCY! I was going to say that we have sort of breathed a sigh of relief today because of was the 3rd day on what was said to be a phase of time when we had a 70% of another large one hitting. *sigh* won't be relaxing just yet I guess. No tsunami warnings for this one and right now Japan is without any threat of tsunami anywhere.

One last prayer request for a friend in the military. He is station in Misawa where the quake was pretty strong on Friday and still experiencing aftershocks. He is scheduled to go to Greece for 18 months to 2 years this coming week and his Japanese wife and child will be staying behind in Japan. His wife is not a believer but is involved in their church in Misawa. Please pray that God will use all of this to bring her to faith in Him!” – Marla Ayatsuka

“Can the earth just take a break and stop shaking? Pray for the Comforter to speak to the people who have felt so many quakes and aftershocks in the previous days. I'm sure they are exhausted and in shock right now.” – Rohonda

“God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear, though the earth give way and the mountains fall into the heart of the sea.” Psalm 46:1,2

It's true I have fear.
It's true I have question "Why?"
...It's true God exist. I believe.
God, please save us from this situation!!!
This bible verse came to my mind. It's like our situation right now...I want to see the hope in our situation even though it's so bad. We need to pray for Japan more and more!! Also we need to love our country, Japan more and more...!!!” – Yuko

“Believe that God is also breaking His heart watching this disaster in Japan.

Because the Holy Spirit in me is groaning and crying watching the victims.

I know He is. Lord, have mercy on Japan, I know YOU love this country.” – Hide

- PRAISE REPORTS!! -

“Miracle... a 25-year-old man was rescued out of a tsunami-hit house 96 hours (four whole days!!!) after the tsunami. Praise God!!!” – Rocky

“God is faithful and so mighty to save ! All my family missing including my bedridden grandmother is safe !! They are exhausted but they are alive !! It's so good to be in HIS Kind arms !! But earthquake is still happening and it just happened. Nuclear plants is still in very dangerous condition. Many people out there still don't know Jesus. Let's keep praying !! We have unshakable God with us !!!” – Naomi

“I have been so touched and shedding many tears by seeing and feeling all the love that people around the world are sharing with Japan!! All the many Prayers as well as sending help. THANK YOU everybody!!!!!! We love you!!!!” – Christine H

“Please don't let the numbers overwhelm you. One precious life saved is cause for celebration. Very moved and thankful to see 2 lives saved.” – Riz

- Thank you again for lifting up the Japanese people who we love so much...but who God loves even more!

Pray for Japan!

2011-03-14T10:06:00.009-06:00

This is an e-mail I received from the director of CMA
For the past six years the CMA company has gone to Japan to minister and spread the gospel with the Japanese.
Pleas pray for Japan!

“You simply can not fathom the devastation. This is miles and miles of the sea coast. Unbelievable.” ~ Friend in Japan

“Now Kanto area is undergoing rolling blackouts, and strong aftershocks keep occurring. Over 3,300 officially confirmed dead and missing as of now. The number expected to rise to over 10,000. I hold on to God's love and promise that He will never change. Isaiah 54:10.”

– Rocky Ayatuska

“Casualties expected to be in the tens of thousands”

This disaster has left us (CMA) broken hearted and in constant prayer for the people of Japan. Praying for those who know Jesus and those who have no hope. Many Christians and missionaries in Japan are feeling like this pastor’s wife from Yokohama:

“We are feeling the aftershocks many times a day. Tomorrow there will be a few hours of planned blackouts with no electricity, the shelves in the grocery stores are looking bare--supplies are not being delivered. What a privilege to be in Japan at this time--may God use all His people to reach out with His love to many who are without hope and living in fear. Thank you for your prayers!!”

Here are thoughts and prayers from our close friend and missionary in Kitakyushu Japan:

“...I just sat staring at a picture on the news of the tsunami hitting Sendai. In the foreground of the pictures sat calm and order. Nice rows of crops, cars parked in perfect lines in parking lots. Houses in their rightful place with yards and trees around them. And just inches away is the wall of the water bringing chaos and destruction. In just moments all that order and structure would be destroyed.

I can't help but feel that this reflects the internal condition of so many Japanese. On the outside by all appearances, they have it all together. Everything is orderly and calm. But on the inside, so often there is chaos and really broken hearts and shattered spirits rest on the inside, just inches away from that peaceful exterior.

Only God can heal a nation like this, both spiritually and physically. My deepest and loudest prayer is that this kind of tragedy will open up the Japanese spirit. That hearts would break and pour out. That many would stop hiding behind that hard, rigid exterior. That a flood of true emotion and repentance would break forth, and by God's power and grace, he would bring healing and put it all back together again!”

I am emailing to ask if you would stand with us in prayer for Japan.

Below are some specific prayer requests and thoughts from friends in Japan:

PRAYER REQUESTS:

Immediate Request: “Japan's meteorological agency has announced that in the next 3 days there is a 70% chance of a magnitude 7 earthquake somewhere in Japan due to the instability caused by the Tohoku earthquake. This could happen anywhere in Japan. Please pray for us!”

- “Prayer request!!!! It starts to stop electricity for about 3 hours everyday starting this morning. It affects us so much. The trains, traffic signals, and so many things can't move. We may not be able to use Internet during that period. Also we can't use water. Please pray for us to have peace.” – Yuko

- “It seems huge number of people died... We have had earthquake for every several days after the big one. We may have another big earthquake in next few days. We're so scared... So many people went to supermarket to get foods, emergency goods, and so on. A lot of stuff were sold out...Also gasoline tends to be sold out... It's like a bad dream...We need God's protection, guidance, salvation and peace!!” - Yuko

- “Many areas are still without electricity, water, basic needs. That area (up north) is still cold, some areas still have snow on the ground. Even in the Tokyo area where the quake was not as severe, gas stations are out of gas, stores are out of bread and other basic items including batteries. Rolling blackouts are planned for that area with electricity planned to be cut in various areas on a rotating basis for 3-8 hours a day at least until the end of April. Life will not return to normal, even in the less affected areas for a LONG time.” Marla Ayatsuka

- “Pray for us as we interact with Japanese people in the coming days, weeks and months. We know we are all here for this time. We believe God is going to work in this country.” – Missionary in Japan

- “The nuclear reactor situation seems to be deteriorating. One reactor is believed to have begun meltdown, and another one is not responding to last ditch efforts to cool it down. At least 100 people are believed to have been exposed to radiation with one person testing high enough levels to require decontamination treatment. This number is likely to rise. There are TWO nuclear power plants about 10 kilometers apart from each other. Both experiencing difficulty due to both the earthquake and the tsunami (they are located on the coast). A leak would have far reaching affects, including other countries, as the radiation will be spread by the environment.”

(As I send this email, there has just been an explosion at one of the nuclear plants) - Marla Ayatsuka

- “Speechless devastation... keep on praying!!!”

- “Pray for the pastors and leaders who have the difficult task of delivering a message of hope and comfort.

Pray that the Spirit of God would work in a powerful way in the hearts of believers and unbelievers alike.

Please pray as Christian missionaries are beginning to try to mobilize relief efforts.

Pray for survivors who may be cut off or trapped.

Pray that they will be found and rescued.

Pray that as they wait, God will minister to them and make himself known to them!

Pray that Christians IN the hardest hit areas will be physically and spiritually strengthened to provide help and comfort where possible.

PLEASE PLEASE pray that the threat of exposure to radiation can be minimized. Especially as weather will affect this. Wind or rain could carry the radiation with it. Pray it will be carried away from populated areas.

Pray for those in hardest hit areas still experiencing aftershocks. With each one fear and anxiety can increase, plus as time passes and the reality of what has happened sets in, post traumatic shock can set in. Compounded by the stress of a complete change in lifestyle, living in uncomfortable crowded conditions in shelters without basic needs, etc. The emotional and spiritual condition of many would be a big concern.

Pray for rescue workers and those in need of rescue!

Pray that loved ones trying to get word of their safety out and those outside trying to get word about them will be able to make contact.”

- Marla Ayatsuka

“The areas affected by the earthquake and tsunamis of Miyagi, Fukushima, and Ibaraki are some of the most spiritually needy places in Japan. With over 4.9 million people yet only about 9,000 active Christians (about 0.15%). Fukushima has the lowest average worship attendance with only 19 per church. There are one city and 44 towns with no church. There are 86 missionaries assigned to these prefectures. One town in Ibaraki has over 46,000 people with no church and several others have over 24,000 people with no churches. Average attendance for all the churches in Japan is the lowest in Fukushima prefecture. Ibaraki prefecture has the least number of people claiming to have any religious beliefs.”

- Sources: CIS News 12/2012, JEMA Directory 2010

Snow Pictures!!

2011-01-13T17:05:00.008-07:00

I went and played outside in the snow with the three littles this past week.
I love being outside when it is sunny and snowing!!
Gotta love Colorado!

I really wanted to go sledding, but unfortunately we don't live by any hills. So I decided to pull the little ones on a sled. I think they enjoyed it :)

No Distinctions, but Christ

2010-12-19T08:00:00.000-07:00

My brother posted about something I was going to post about, so to save me time I thought I would just post his blog post right here. I know it is pretty long but it has some really good stuff in it : )
I hope you can glean some helpful stuff from it!

"Here there is not Greek and Jew, circumcised and uncircumcised, barbarian, Scythian, slave, free; but Christ is all and in all"
~Colossians 3:11

I'm going to make an addition to this list:

There is neither old or young in Christ.

There I said it. Are you a young person who believes he/she can only relate to other young people? Why? Is Christ alive in you? Does that older person (whether it be pastor, parent, or other) not also have the living Spirit of Christ in him/her? Are you an older person who feels that the younger generation are "un-relatable"? May I ask why? If God is the same yesterday, today, tomorrow, and forever, then you can probably share some his unchangeable attributes to us kids.

Let me tell you a story. It's a Bible story that you may or may not recall. The main character's name is Rehoboam. Sound familiar? He was the son of Solomon, the wisest man on earth.

Now there arose a situation during the beginning of his reign where Rehoboam didn't know what to do. So, naturally he looked to his counselors. First he goes to "the old men who had stood before Solomon his father while he was still alive." They give him their advice based on the wisdom that God has given to them through their years of experience. Now Rehoboam abandons their advice and turns to "the young men who had grown up with him and stood before him." Now these young gentlemen give him their advice based on their experience. Rehoboam listens to them, and the result: a kingdom lost. (Read the full story at 1 Kings 12).

Do you think this is an isolated incident? Read Judges 16, the story of Samson.

"But his father and mother said to him, "Is there not a woman among the daughters of your relatives, or among all our people that you must go to take a wife from the uncircumcised Philistines?" But Samson said to his father, "Get her for me, for she is right in my eyes."
~Judges 16:3

Why did Samson not listen to the counsel of his parents? Because.... well just 'cause. He wanted it: he got it. The end result his wife was a snare to him and he lost her. Now both these stories were within God's providence and he used it for good, but these men's choices had affects on the rest their lives.

If you are on a mountain hike through dangerous and treacherous passes, would you want the advice of beginners like you? Or, those who already have tread the path? I think I would go to the crazy, experienced, old coots over those who have no idea what they're doing and are just pooling their ignorance. Why do we forsake the companionship of those who are experienced and have already trod the paths we are going through? And do not tell me they can't relate to you. They were once teenagers in the exact spot you were with the same temptations you faced. Go ask them what they did and what they would have done differently with their life.

I'm not just talking about old people talking and investing in young people. I'm also telling you young people, to go to the even younger people. We will most likely always have someone older that we can go to and ask for advice, and someone younger that we will pass wisdom down to. If you are a Christian, find other Christians to talk to about Christ and his saving redeeming work in your life.

It took me until this past year to figure out this. It started when I heard someone at a conference talking about churches having many separate ministries to relate to very specific people, because they thought they could only relate to that person if they had similar interests and/or where in the same stage of life. He was talking about how even if he had no way he could relate to another Christian, they still had this in common: Christ had saved both of them. Are you a sinner? So, am I. Let's talk about grace.

"For I decided to know nothing among you except Christ and him crucified."
~1 Corinthians 2:2

Be Thankful!!

2010-09-30T08:39:00.001-06:00

Philippians 4:11
"...and I have learned in whatever situation I am [in], to be content."
Hebrews 13:5
"Keep your life free from love of money, and be content with what you have, for he has said, 'I will never leave you nor forsake you.'"

Being content is something everyone struggles with one time or another. It can be in what season of life we are in, the way we look, our family, not being able to do something, the list goes on! Whatever the situation, we still need to be content. The Lord knows what you need and when you need it and God's timing is the perfect timing. Being content can be very hard, and it is a long process to go through.
Being thankful for what you have is a good place to start being content. And that is because, if we aren't thankful with what we've got then we will never be satisfied with what we get. So start by thanking God for all of His wonderful gifts, and if you cannot think of one thing to thank Him for start by thanking Him for sending His Son to finish the work at Calvary.

Be thankful for He has always been faithful!

"Oh give thanks to the LORD!"
1 Chronicles 16:8

"Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly, teaching and admonishing one another in all wisdom, with thankfulness in your hearts to God."
Colossians 3:16

Now I am not saying that if you are suddenly thankful for everything you will be perfectly content and live a long and happy life. You will find it is easier to be content but you will not be completely satisfied, because we can never be fully satisfied if we aren't satisfied in the Lord. We need to be completely consumed with Christ if we really want to be happy. What a gift that we can know and have a relationship with our God and savior!

Family reunion

2010-07-14T18:25:00.027-06:00

My dad's side of the family has been here for the past two weeks. We had tons of fun seeing everyone! Here are some pictures of what we did. We did not get as many pictures as I thought but at least you can get a little sneak peak.

A little talking before we start and intense game of Progressive Rummy

Happy 4th of July!

We made it to the top of Mt. Evans. But not before everyone had altitude sickness. Everyone that is, except my aunt who is not even from Colorado.

We had to find a place to eat in the rain

One of the many playing sessionsSome of the cousins at Red Rocks

So what has everyone been doing this Summer?

Happy Mother's Day 2010!

2010-05-10T09:27:00.003-06:00

Prayer for Joe

2009-08-26T13:31:00.002-06:00

My cousin's Uncle Joe had a liver transplant last week and is not doing well. His kidneys are failing and he has a bad fever.
He has a wife and three daughters. If you could pray for him and his family that would be a blessing.

Thanks!

That's My King!

2009-08-24T19:18:00.002-06:00

My brother posted a video I thought was really neat. I tried to put it on; but decided it was easier if I put a link to his blog instead. :)
Here is his blog :)

The YMCA!!

2009-08-24T18:26:00.009-06:00

This past week we went on vacation to the YMCA. Loads of fun!
Here are some pics:

Yee-Haw Cowboy!!

At the fire place
In the gym
Miniature Golf!

Archery!
I love this picture
Outdoor chapel
Smile Ethan!

Jared making a walking stick.
Our cabin's name

Jared and Mama
Sunrise

Samuel and Levi

Some Random Pictures...

2009-05-23T18:05:00.010-06:00

The boys

Grandpa and Levi
Levi
A baby blanket I made for my ballet teacher

Our dryer was not working, and we could not figure out why... While spring cleaning behind the dryer my Mom found this....

Yes, there was a bird's nest in our dryer vent!

Before....

After....
Still pretty cute!

Happy Mother's Day!!

2009-05-08T12:35:00.010-06:00

I am doing my mother's day post now, because I will not have time on Sunday.
I think it is great to have a day that praises our mothers; they never stop working for us.

To my Mother-

Thank you for your ongoing love and care, thank you for being a faithful listener, thank you for always being there, thank you for schooling me at home, thank you for the yummy foods that you prepare, thank you for being my Mama.

Thank you for wanting your family to be physically and spiritually strong, thank you for having my six brothers and me, thank you for lovingly correcting me when I am wrong, thank you for being my Mama.

Thank you for wanting to know your family, thank you for being a godly woman, thank you for giving up yourself for your family so willingly, thank you for being my Mama

Most of all thank you for loving the Lord; thank you for telling and raising me in Jesus Christ.

I love you Mama!!

To all Mothers-

Thank you for willing to be a mother! What an amazing calling to be raising the next generation. Happy Mothers day! I hope you have a wonderful and restful day!!

Proverbs 31:28
"Her Children rise up and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praises her."

Naomi<><

BE Heard Project

2009-04-02T16:23:00.003-06:00

I stole this from my brother's blog, and agree with every word.

"I would like to draw your attention to the Be Heard Project. I heard of this through a forward and abortaware.com. Please take a moment (Seriously it only takes a minute) to go to www.beheardproject.com and sign the petition to protect healthcare providers from being forced to perform abortions. Please look into this soon, we only have until April 6th to voice our opinion about Oboma's wish to reverse Bush's "Conscience Clause" that allows physicians to NOT perform abortions. If President Obama removes this clause doctors, nurses, and other medical personnel will be forced to perform abortions."

"But Peter and John answered them, 'Wether it is right in the sight of God listen to you rather than to God, you must judge, for we cannot but speak of what we have seen and heard"

Acts 4:19,20

PLEASE SIGN THE PETITION!!!

An amazing book!

2009-03-03T14:29:00.007-07:00

Sorry I have not posted in awhile. I could list a bunch of reasons why I have not posted, but I will just leave it at: my blog is not my first priority in life.

What book am I talking about that is so amazing? Well, the Bible. My family has been reading, in our personal devotions, in this reading plan by John Macarthur. What you do is read the same book (in your Bible) over and over again for 1 month. What I found that was surprising is how many new things stuck out to me in one book. (We started in 1 John) I would read 1 John one day and then the next day read it again and find a whole new prospective of the book. There is so much knowledge and comfort packed into the Bible. The Bible is a gift from God. There are so many places in the world where people die for God's word. I really encourage you to take time in the morning, every morning and spend time with God.

My mom has been reading this book out loud to us called Ten Peas in a Pod. The family has eight children, and are traveling missionaries in America. For their devotions with God, they not only spend time with God in the morning, but after every meal of the day. They had a chart in the book that I thought was very interesting. Here it is:

"Here is a break down of our schedule and the amount of hours spent from birth to 21 years old"

One-half hour of private Bible reading

from 6-11 yrs.......................................................913 hrs.

One-hour of private Bible reading

from 11-21 yrs...................................................3,650 hrs.

Thirty min. of family devotions

after each meal from 1-21 yrs. old.................11,497 hrs.

Miscellaneous Bible study, prayer time

and church attendance.....................................6,000 hrs.

Total time..........................................................22,060 hrs.

Well, I do not know about you but that list of hours convicted me that I should read my Bible more than in my own devotions and at our family devotions. Think about it for a second. Do you spend more hours on the computer and TV then in God's word? We are here for only a short while, but while we are here we need to do our best to honor and serve God. Yes, I like watching movies, and Yes I do like spending a little time on the computer; but if these things are getting in the way of God then we need to back away.

Here is a list of reasons we should read our Bible(I got it out of the Ten Peas in a Pod book as well) I did not write down the scriptures, but I am putting the references down, so please look them up! They will not make as much sense if you do not look them up.

1. The Lord Commands it. 1 Timothy 4:15,16

2. I want to be fruitful. John 15:4,5

3. I want to know true doctrine. John 8:31,32

4. I want to be clean. John 15:3

5. I want my prayers answered. John 15:7

6. I want to be prosperous and successful. Joshua 1:8

7. I do not want to backslide. Psalm 37:31

8. I want my soul fed. Deuteronomy 8:3

9. I want to grow. 1 Peter 2:2

10. I want understanding. Pslam 119:99

11. I want real life. John 6:63

12. I want to be thoroughly furnished to every good work. 2 Timothy 3:16,17

I hope this encouraged you to want to spend more time with God, in God's word.

Your Sister In Christ,

Naomi <><

Tagged!

2009-01-24T18:04:00.004-07:00

Mrs. Walsh has tagged my mom. The tag is to post her 5th picture in her 4th folder.

Here is the picture:

This picture from about 5 years ago. It is two of my brothers and our friend from church, Christopher. I think you can tell what they are doing:)

Frugal Fridays

2009-01-05T14:47:00.013-07:00

So, Frugal Fridays...I am sorry I have not done one in awhile. I usually post whenever I have spare time. My spare time just has not been landing on a Friday. I guess it is not Friday, is it? I actually do not think I have ever done one on a Friday. :)

Anyway.................

My Frugal Friday tip is... drum role please...

MAKE YOUR OWN LAUNDRY SOAP!!

When I have told most people this lovely tip they usually pop their eyes out and say "What? Does not that take hours and hours and hours to make. And are not all the supplies really expensive? That cannot be cheaper than buying it at the store." Well it is. It is very simple, and cheap. It is a fifteen minute or less process. It has also helped my family because we have sensitive skin. We usually would break out in a rash and have to buy expensive soap, and it is not fun. With this soap we have not had any skin problems.

Instructions:

You need:

1 cup of Borax

1 cup of Washing Soda

1 bar of unscented Ivory soap

Water

A big cleaning bucket

Boil 6 cups of water

Grate or cut up a whole bar of soap while

your water is boiling

Dump the grated soap into the water

(it does not have to have boiled yet)

Put 1 cup of Borax and 1 cup of

washing soda in a bowl

When the soap has all dissolved

pour the Borax washing soda mix

into the pot with your soap water mix

Put 4 cups of hot water in whatever you are

going to store your soap in(We store

ours in a 5 gal. cleaning bucket)
Pour the soapy water mix into your bucket.

Then fill the bucket up with coldish water.

Mix while you put the water in.

And bing bada boom you have homemade laundry soap.

Put a half cup or less, of this soap in a load of laundry and you will

have clean clothes. The soap should gel a little bit,

it takes a couple hours for it to gel.

FYI: This costs about 3 cents a load.

Your Sister In Christ,

Naomi<><

Merry Christmas!!

2008-12-21T19:58:00.006-07:00

I think these songs describe Christmas perfectly. Please read these lyrics! They are very comforting and humbling. These are not your normal Christmas songs but they do describe Christmas.

Here I am to Worship

Verse 1

Light of the world

You stepped down into darkness

Opened my eyes, let me see

Beauty that made this heart adore you

Hope of a life spent with you

Chorus

Here I am to worship

Here I am to bow down

Here I am to say that you’re my God

You’re altogether lovely

Altogether worthy

Altogether wonderful to me

Verse 2

King of all days, oh, so highly exalted

Glorious in Heaven above

Humbly you came to the earth you created

All for love’s sake became poor

Bridge

I’ll never know how much it cost

To see my sin upon that cross

Jesus Messiah

Verse 1

He became sin, who knew no sin

That we might become his righteousness

He humbled himself and carried the cross

Love so amazing, love so amazing

Chorus

Jesus Messiah, name above all names

Blessed redeemer, Emmanuel

The rescue for sinners

The ransom from Heaven

Jesus Messiah, Lord of all

Verse 2

His body the bread, his blood the wine

Broken and poured out all for love

The whole earth trembled and the veil was torn

Love so amazing, love so amazing

Bridge

All our hope is in you

All the glory to you, God

The Light of the world

I wish you all a verry merry Christmas! What are you doing for Christmas? What are some of your traditions you have at Christmas?

Your Sister In Christ,

Naomi<><

Tea

2008-12-08T07:49:00.005-07:00

What a fun week end! I went to two teas this week end! On Saturday was our Care Group's ladies' tea. It was beautiful. Can you believe it, I forgot my camera!!! The event was at Miss Nerene's house, she did an outstanding job decorating. From what I gather Miss Tammy was very involved and helped. Here is a picture of the table settings. Each lady, there were six of us, had one of these at our table settings. Then we brought them home. (I love roses.) Miss Kim had us do a lovely craft. We made cards with our prayer requests inside and later were to exchange them with one of the ladies. She would then pray for whoever gave her the card for the next several months. I'm afraid we protested about having to be creative and how uncreative we are, etc. Once the the glue sticks got flying and the scissors whizzing, oh and the stickers chosen, it was such fun!! I must say all of the cards turned out beautifully!! Oh my, I haven't even mentioned the food. Let's just say, delicious! We exchanged gifts with each other, and Miss Kim gave me this wonderful mug, and some yummy teas.

On to my second tea, but first a very special tea with a spunky, sweet, very active, lovable three-year old. This time I have pictures. Sunday I didn't make it to church. Before everyone came home Samuel and I had a little cup of tea. It was so precious. I think it was the first time that just he and I have had tea. He was so excited jumping up and down saying "teatime, teatime!!" We shared a piece of chocolate cake (thanks Auntie!!) and a cup of delicious English Breakfast. While we were sitting Samuel suddenly jumped up and came over to me and said "I have to kiss you!" What a sweet boy.

On Sunday my sweet sil took Naomi, myself, my mil, and my niece to their church's Christmas Tea. It was lovely!! The tables were hosted by different lady's and decorated with their own Christmas decor and tea things. The room looked beautiful. The food was scrumptious. On the tables was real devonshire cream---I love that!! The tea was hot and strong---I love that!! Our most gracious server was my darling, little (o.k. so he's not little he can actually drive and stuff, but I still like to remember him as little) nephew. I had fun meeting Auntie's friends and meeting her pastor's wife and seeing where they have church. After we had tea, we went into the sanctuary of the church and the ladies presented a little play for us. Then the pastor's wife gave a word of exhortation to remember Jesus is our comfort and joy. Good reminder. A young gal with a phenomenal voice and obvious desire to lead us in worship of the King, did just that. Thank you so much Becca we had a wonderful time!!

I am so thankful for friends and family. The Lord has given us so much and of course our relationship with Him and redemption are at the top of the list. This time of year is so amazing to me. God came down as a tiny baby with the goal, the purpose to die a criminal's death and then to rise again, all to set us free from sin and death. As a result of His actions we can have a relationship with Him now, and forever. What an amazing plan... God is amazingly awesome.

Mrs. Rivera

Thanksgiving!!

2008-12-05T14:33:00.008-07:00

Sorry, I didn't post sooner; things have been kind of busy: papers to write, school to do, a house to clean, watching little people, the list goes on! Anyway, I hope y'all had a great Thanksgiving! Ours was really fun! We went to our cousins house on Thanksgiving. We had the traditional Thanksgiving dinner, had some worship, and just hung out. What did y'all do for Thanksgiving? Do you have any fun traditions you do at Thanksgiving?

Here are some pictures of our Thanksgiving:

"Can we eat yet; we got each others food" :)

Worship time!!

Just out of curiosity, what is the temperature where you live? It was 10 degrees when I woke up this morning, and now it is already 4o degrees out!

Your Sister In Christ,

Naomi<><

Yogurt Drinks Just Knock Me Out!

2008-11-26T10:36:00.006-07:00

Samuel was drinking this yogurt, smoothie, kind of thingy that I made him....and...well...I guess he was a little tired!

I'm Jealous...

2008-11-20T09:25:00.005-07:00

Yes, I am jealous. Of what or who? Well, of any one who can draw good looking stick figures! Specifically my dad. He painted a picture this week in about five hours, and it looked good! I do not say that because I do not think he can draw well, but because if I had five hours I probably wouldn't even have figured out what I want to paint!

Here are some pictures of the picture he painted:

I personally think he did a great job!

Your Sister In Christ,

Naomi<><

One more Heart Stopped

2008-11-11T16:47:00.001-07:00

I got this from cj at meek not week.

"Month One
Mommy I am only 8 inches long but I have all my organs. I love the sound of your voice. Every time I hear it I wave my arms and legs. The sound of your heart beat is my favorite lullaby.

Month Two
Mommy today I learned how to suck my thumb. If you could see me you could definitely tell that I am a baby. I'm not big enough to survive outside my home though. It is so nice and warm in here.

Month Three
You know what Mommy I'm a boy!! I hope that makes you happy. I always want you to be happy. I don't like it when you cry. You sound so sad. It makes me sad too and I cry with you even though you can't hear me.

Month Four
Mommy my hair is starting to grow. It is very short and fine but I will have a lot of it. I spend a lot of my time exercising. I can turn my head and curl my fingers and toes and stretch my arms and legs. I am becoming quite good at it too.

Month Five
You went to the doctor today. Mommy, he lied to you. He said that I'm not a baby. I am a baby Mommy, your baby. I think and feel. Mommy, what's abortion?

Month Six
I can hear that doctor again. I don't like him. He seems cold and heartless. Something is intruding my home. The doctor called it a needle. Mommy what is it? It burns! Please make him stop! I can't get away from it! Mommy! HELP me!

Month Seven
Mommy I am okay. I am in Jesus's arms. He is holding me. . . He told me about abortion. . . Why didn't you want me Mommy?

Every abortion is just . . . One more heart that was stopped.
Two more eyes that will never see.
Two more hands that will never touch.
Two more legs that will never run.
One more mouth that will never speak.

It is a baby and abortion is murder. We must end abortion. Defend those who can not speak for themselves yet."

Your Sister In Christ

Naomi<><

The Day After

2008-11-05T08:26:00.003-07:00

I have to admit I am grieved. I guess I'm naive. I just didn't think Americans would elect a man for the highest office who is going to raise taxes, a lot, who is pushing Marxism and who is against life. Oh and has ties to a religion that views America as the "Great Satan". Then if that's not enough my state adds two democrats to the mix in Congress. Oh, yeah, and my state voted down an amendment that states personhood begins at fertilization. Good news is in short supply today.

I remember the last time taxes were high and interest rates for a home were about 17%. Jimmy Carter was president. At the beginning of Carter's term I was living in Iran. Shortly after my family left Iran the American hostages were taken. The "student" behind the plot to take the hostages is the current president of Iran. Back in the states money was tight. My father was an engineer but with high taxes, high interest rates, guess what? There's not a whole lot of money left for things like gas, clothing and food. I remember the day the hostages were released. I was sitting in my high school typing class. The bell rang in 5 short blasts when the hostages were free. It was shortly after Reagan took office. Reagan cut taxes and then amazingly our ecomomy recovered and was up and running. History can be revealing.

Because of all this, I will direct my gaze to my Heavenly Father. He is in control and He has put me in this particular time in history. I will seek the Lord, I will make my petitions known to Him. I will trust Him. He is a good Father. Even in trusting my King I can't escape being grieved. I see my country going from a place where freedom and responsibility are the order of the day, to a place where our decisions and lives are dictated by government. It's not new, and it's always, always dehumanizing. I know this is not my ultimate home and I am going to "a city that is to come". For that I am grateful.

As we see history unfolding and contemplate what the Lord is doing, let us not lose hope. Hope not in a man, a country, or a system of government, but hope in a loving God Who sent His Son to die so that we might live. I intend to be more diligent in instructing my children in God's Word. We need more of Him! I am praying my actions, my thoughts and my desires would honor Him. I am praying for His church. The Bride of Christ to be all that He has made her to be. I will continue to pray for my country, its leaders and its people. I will thank Jesus for the freedom I do have and use that freedom to further His Kingdom. There is always hope in Christ.

Mrs. Rivera

"May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope."

Romans 15:13

"...that through endurance and through the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope."

Romans 15:4

"For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, declares the Lord. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts."

Isaiah 55:8-9

Keep Praying!

2008-11-05T07:30:00.012-07:00

With the latest news of our 44th president, I encourage all to keep praying. We prayed for the election, now I believe it is time to pray for the future of the United States of America. Pray that we would stay a free country. Not only what we do physically but what we are allowed to do spiritually. Our spiritual freedom is the most important freedom that we have. We are allowed to have Bibles, we are allowed to worship God in church. We can do these things without worry of being arrested, killed, tortured, and many other terrible things that happen to Christians in China or Iran. While praying we must remember Matthew 10:28: "And do not fear those who can kill the body but cannot kill the soul. Rather fear him who can destroy body and soul in hell."

Another thing I would be praying for is, that with God's help, abortion would be outlawed. Barack Obama is 100% pro-abortion.

Keep Praying!!!

Your Sister In Christ,

Naomi<><

Fearing God

2008-10-29T20:47:00.005-06:00

Fearing God, why is that hard to remember during the day? First of all what is the fear of God? A very simple definition is: The fear of God is fearing God more than men. Caring more what God thinks of you than man. He is the creator and has power over me, He can do whatever he wants with me. Revelation 14:7 says "Saying with a loud voice, Fear God, and give glory to him; for the hour of his judgement is come: and worship him that made heaven, and earth, and the sea, and the fountains of waters." Ecclesiastes 12:13 says "The end of the matter, all has been heard. Fear God and keep His commandments for this is the duty of all mankind." I have just heard that He is the creator of the heavens and the earth. That is more than any human can do. Should not I want to impress my creator rather than impress man? Again I ask why is it so hard to fear God? Simple, because I am a sinful person. I do not fear God as much as I need to. If I feared Him and not man, I might never sin. Because I would always be afraid of what God thought. I would always think before I spoke. Bitter with the sweet, God uses different things in life for us to rely on Him more. It is a daily test to fear God. I do want to please God, but I am not always successful in it, no one is, no one can be. We are sinful, but we are cleansed by Jesus Christ's blood. He will always forgive us when we do not fear Him, when we do not obey Him. We just need to ask.

Your Sister In Christ,

~Naomi<><

What You Do With 50 lbs. Of Apples!

2008-10-24T09:45:00.007-06:00

We recently ordered 50 lbs. of apples. What did we do with them? Well we ate a ton, but there was still two boxes of apples left. They were getting older by the second and we couldn't eat them fast enough. So we canned apple butter, apple sauce, and apple pie filling. It is amazing how much work you do to can them and then how little it makes. As we were canning I was thinking about how people used to have to rely on their canned goods for the winter. Not to mention how much work that would be!

Here are some pictures:

Cutting time

Time to push the apples through the strainer

The final tally: Apple butter 6 pints, Apple sauce 5 pints, Apple pie filling 2 1\2 qts.

Your Sister In Christ,

Naomi<><

Read Aloud

2008-10-24T09:15:00.002-06:00

Yesterday, we read "Martin Luther A Man Who Changed the World" by Paul Maier, for our read aloud. It was enjoyed by one and all. It was just enough information for the littles, and not boring for the olders. Caleb recently read "Here I Stand: A Life of Martin Luther", I perused it, but did not find the time to finish it. The "Here I Stand" book is worth the read and is very enjoyable. Martin Luther was not perfect and had his struggles. What I find encouraging is that he repented and kept seeking the truth. The children's book we read seemed to closely follow the "Here I Stand" book. It is wonderful to look back over history and see the Lord's hand and all He has done. It gives us hope for the future and assurance of our Heavenly Father's involvement in all that concerns us.

Psalm 118:23 "This is the Lord's doing; it is marvelous in our eyes."

Mrs. Rivera

Something to think about....

2008-10-23T09:48:00.002-06:00

"From all that I have read of history and government, of human life and manners, I have drawn this conclusion, that the manners of women were the most infallible barometer to ascertain the degree of morality and virtue of a nation. The Jews, the Greeks, the Romans, the Swiss, the Dutch, all of them lost their public spirit and their republican forms of government when they lost the modesty and domestic virtues of their women."

~ John Adams

Frugal Fridays

2008-10-19T16:14:00.008-06:00

Well I missed Friday again:( I really am trying to make it Frugal Fridays, but I have been pretty busy. Anyway, here we go.

My frugal tip for the day is: Make Christmas gifts.

Yes, Christmas time is already coming upon us. That is, if you make gifts. My Mom and I have to start now because we have alot of stuff to make. Last year my mom made pajama pants for all of her nieces and nephews. We went to the day after Thanksgiving sale at Jo-Anns, and got flannel that was on sale. The year before that we knitted hats, scarfs, and mittens. There are all kinds of different gifts you can make.

I hope you enjoyed!

TTFN!

Your Sister In Christ,

Naomi<><

Harvest Time

2008-10-15T09:48:00.007-06:00

We harvested our garden!! We had to save what we could before everything froze or got snowed on. We got about a million green tomatoes, and lots of zucchini, really big zucchini. We also got broccoli and one cabbage. Not that big of a garden but we sure got a lot of tomatoes!!! Here are some pictures:

This is just half of the tomatoes.

Caleb was really proud of the zucchini. He took care of the garden this year. The zucchini weighed about 8 lbs.

Your Sister In Christ,

Naomi<><

Music Builds Tour!

2008-10-13T11:30:00.009-06:00

My dad, Caleb, and I went to "The Music Builds Tour" last night. We went with my uncle, my aunt, and two of our cousins. The bands were Jars of Clay, Robert Randolf and the Family Band, Switchfoot, and my personal favorite Third Day. There are many reasons why Third Day is my favorite. For one their lyrics are so meaningful, I do not have to have translations to know what they mean. Their songs are like worship songs, and when they play you are worshipping God. Not the band. When Switchfoot plays "Dare You To Move" I really do not know what that means. And yet I am clapping my hands and yelling. I am motivated by the music, but have no idea what message they are trying to spread.

And Third Day was so... well... so homey. They interact with the crowd. I also liked how bold they were with the gospel, Mac Powell presented it, and I completely understand what he is saying. He did not try to maneuver his way around it, he was straight forward. They were also the only band to pray. Plus my family has been listening to Third Day since their first record. That also makes them feel homey to me. Now the other bands did do a great job and I really enjoyed them. I just really, really enjoyed Third Day.

I could spend all day posting all the pictures I took, but I do not have all day. Sorry some of the pictures are blurry. We had close seats, but our camera is not the best:D

This was the best first concert anyone could ask for!!!

Thank you Tio and Auntie for such a fun and generous gift!!!

Your Sister In Christ

Naomi<><

Frugal Fridays

2008-10-11T18:37:00.009-06:00

Yes, I know it is Saturday. But Friday seemed to have slipped away from me! From now on my mom and I are going to post some frugal tips on Fridays (or around Fridays :D). So here we go!!

My frugal tip for the day is: Use cloth napkins! My family would spend a lot of money for paper napkins. So my mom decided we should switch to cloth. Buying cloth napkins can add up pretty fast so my mom and I make them. You can use scrap pieces of material, cut it into whatever shape you want. (But generally we find that rectangles work the best, along with 100% cotton material)

Use a zig zag stitch around the edges (So it won't fray) and bing bottaboom you got yourself a napkin. Simple, yet frugal.

2008-10-09T14:37:00.004-06:00

Welcome to my favorite season of the year!

A few nights ago my sweet honey made pumpkin lattes, yes he has had experience. So the season for hot drinks all day long, pumpkin anything, pots of soup and loaves of homemade bread is here. I love it! I am so enjoying the cooler weather, it is a relief. (Contrary to popular belief it does get hot in Colorado, especially out on the prairie.)

This is the time when we get out Stories of the Pilgrims and Squanto for our read alouds. This year I'm adding some books about Martin Luther, since on Oct. 31st he nailed up his world changing thesis in Wittenburg. We'll be adding to our "thankful tree", an idea I picked up from Crystal, at Homestead Happenings. She does it every Thanksgiving time. My children enjoy it so much we keep it up year round. It's been up in our school room for 4 years. We are looking forward to Thanksgiving and then celebrating the birth of our Savior--when God became man to save sinners, "of which I am chief".

There is something else about autumn. Everything dies, my flowers, my garden, my grass goes to sleep, my trees lose their leaves, things look brown (at least until it snows!). But I don't mind, because come spring new life will appear again. Seasons of the year, seasons in life, God is gracious to give them to us. He is a beautiful Savior Who draws us to Himself and reminds us that He is control. He gives new life physically and spiritually.

I'm in an interesting season of life right now. I have a nursling, and a new driver-in-training, and everything in between. One thing I can say, I never would have imagined the amount of work, or fun this would be. I love this life and this time with all of our children still with us. Having young adults is so exciting, and exhausting. Seriously. It is only because of Jesus that I have such fulfillment, joy, and any energy at all. (Big Smile) To be oohing and aahing over a baby learning to crawl and at the same time trying to discuss politics and predestination with young adults is, amazing and brain stretching. I am thankful for this season. I know it will not be long before this one fades and rises into the next. Knowing that my Savior will be there, I can and will embrace it.

The beans are done and it's time to get supper for my precious children and hard working man.

I love fall.

Mrs. Rivera

God's Creation

2008-10-05T17:41:00.011-06:00

My family and I went up to the Rocky Mountains on Saturday. It was so pretty!

Samuel sat in the back and when we opened the door this is what we found! :D

Patience

2008-10-04T11:00:00.008-06:00

Having patience is something I struggle with throughout my day. Especially with six brothers in the house. They do things I would never even imagine doing. Out of nowhere one of them will jump onto another one, next thing you know they are on the ground and whining because they got hurt. Or one will say "I bet you cannot pin me to the ground." (And naturally they take the challenge) Again, next thing you know they are crying because they got hurt. And each of them are asking me to vouch for them. It is kind of like "Wh.... what????, did you not learn from this morning's experience?"

It makes me want to yell sometimes. And most of the time I do yell at them!! I have told this to some people. And their response is, "Well of course you are going to yell at them, it is only natural." But that is the problem "it is only natural." It is so hard not to do the natural thing, the thing my sinful flesh wants to do. I have to fight day by day to not yell at my brothers, or get frustrated when I am helping them do school. It is not loving, 1 Corinthians 13:4 says: "Love is patient and kind, love does not envy or boast; it is not arrogant or rude." Yes, correction is sometimes needed, but I need to do it lovingly.

They follow my example, and if I am not patient with them why should they be patient with their younger brothers, or even their future children. Being an example is never easy, but it is a task God has given me. And I need to do it wisely.

Questions we should ask ourselves when correction is needed:

Does yelling really help this scene? (most of the time it is not helpful)

If I am not yelling, am I saying what needs to be said kindly?

And if so, is my heart in it?

If any of you think of any other questions, please let me know!!!

*Please let me know what y'all think*

Your Sister In Christ

Naomi<><

Miniature Golfing

2008-10-04T10:24:00.008-06:00

Last Sunday my family and I went to my dad's work party. The work party was at a miniature golf place. I have never seen so many courses for miniature golf. There were four courses, and eighteen holes each. They also had go carts that you could pay for, but we decided not to get any because it would be pretty expensive. But then my two younger brothers won two tickets each, and the guy in charge of the party gave my dad a ticket. So we were able to go on the go carts any way! It was really fun.

Here are some pictures:

Jared and Ethan were so concentrated while pulling out!

This thing went 0 to 60 in one second! It was funny to see their faces!

Prayer

2008-10-02T15:56:00.009-06:00

"I am thankful for prayer because without prayer we could not talk to God. I am thankful because we can pray to Him in a room or anywhere, he still hears us. God even tells us to pray, he tells us to pray in the Bible. Luke 18:1 says 'And he [Jesus] told them a parable to the effect that they ought to always pray and not loose heart'. Ephesians 6:18 'Praying at all times in the spirit with prayer and supplication. To that end keep alert with all perseverance making supplication for all the saints'. Prayer is a blessing".

I wrote that a couple of years ago for our family's thankful night. God always hears us. I sometimes think "God do you really hear this simple little prayer of 'Please give us pleasant dreams' when there are persecuted Christians praying for their lives?" Yes, God hears these simple little prayers. 1 Thessalonians 5:17 "Pray without ceasing." Pray without ceasing, pray through out your day pray everywhere you are, pray what is on your heart. A couple of years ago our pastor gave a sermon on prayer. He told of how he has reminders around the house to pray for people. He said he would walk out the door and get his keys and think "Keys starts with 'k' God please bless Kerrie (his daughter) today". Ever since that message I pray through out my day. It is so amazing that Jesus Christ would let us talk to Him, and even sometimes complain to Him. God does not always answer our prayers the way we wish, but he always knows what is best for us. When we pray we have to always remember to thank God. Sometimes I get caught up in just asking for things. Asking for things is not bad but we always need to stop and think how much he has already given me. Philippians 4:6 "Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be known to God". Thank you God for prayer!!!

*Please comment and let me know what you think about this*

Your Sister In Christ

Naomi<><

Pictures from Thankful Night

2008-10-01T20:31:00.007-06:00

Here are some pictures from our thankful night we had a couple of nights ago!!

Thankful night is tonight!

2008-10-01T20:28:00.002-06:00

A couple of years ago my mom thought of an idea to have a binder full of things we are thankful for. My family and I would write or draw about something we were thankful for. We play games, my dad leads us in worship, and we read the papers we had written. And we usually have some sort of special dessert. We try to do it about once a month. A few months ago we had a couple from church over and they did it with us(The more the merrier) There is so much to be thankful for. It is fun to look at past writings and see how good God is!! I would highly recommend doing this, it is a time that we, as a family, can reflect on God and be together!

"Have you never been helped in a time of need? I know you have. Go back, then, a little way to the choice mercies of yesterday, and though all may be dark now, light up the lamps of the past-they shall glitter through the darkness, and you shall trust in the Lord till the day break and the shadows flee away." Spurgeon

"But it is always possible to be thankful for what is given rather that to complain about what is not given. Accept, positively and actively, what is given. Let thanksgiving be the habit of your life." Elisabeth Elliot

Your Sister In Christ Naomi<><

Welcome!

2008-09-30T15:39:00.002-06:00

Welcome to our blog! And by "our" I mean my mom and I. I hope our blog will be encouraging to all who come to read. I look forward to reading your comments. I am a homeschooling young woman who wants to grow more in the wisdom of my Lord Jesus Christ! I am the second oldest of seven children. You will hear all sorts of things, from what I learned in my daily devotions with God, to the latest sewing\knitting project I have done. Our title "Mustard Seed Faith" comes from Mathew 17:20. He said to them "Because of your little faith. For truly, I say to you, if you have faith like a grain of mustard seed, you will say to this mountain, 'Move from here to there,' And it will move, and nothing will be impossible to you."

I hope you enjoy our blog!