I was thinking about the whole "beauty comes from within" concept today. After reading this verse in I don't understand how that could happen.
Mark 7:21-23 (Amplified Bible)
For from within, [that is] out of the hearts of men, come base and wicked thoughts, sexual immorality, stealing, murder, adultery, coveting (a greedy desire to have more wealth), dangerous and destructive wickedness, deceit; unrestrained (indecent) conduct; an evil eye (envy), slander (evil speaking, malicious misrepresentation, abusiveness), pride (the sin of an uplifted heart against God and man), foolishness (folly, lack of sense, recklessness, thoughtlessness). All these evil [purposes and desires] come from within, and they make the man unclean and render him unhallowed.
Do we say that a flower is beautiful because of its "insides"? Or a sunset is beautiful because of what it means? No, these things are beautiful to the eye. Their beauty creates emotions in us. And when we see "beautiful people" they create emotions and feelings (not even saying that they are good emotions/feelings). I know the concept comes from how our view changes when we get to know people. So what is beauty? Maybe it is merely things that create those certain emotions and feelings in us. People see things differently. What is beautiful to me might not be beautiful to you. So is beauty in the eye of the beholder? Perhaps. We often hear men and women speak of their spouse as "the most beautiful man/woman". But they might not be the most beautiful to everyone else. But that doesn't mean they are not beautiful. So who are we to say who or what is or isn't beautiful? I can't, rightfully, say that someone is not beautiful.. because to someone they are beautiful. So I suppose what my point is (and not the point I was going to make at the start of this post) that everything and everyone is beautiful. We just need to shut up sometimes. But then we come to evil... what do we do about that? The only thing I can think is that we are made in the image of God... and He is beautiful. So to the eye, everything is beautiful. But sin covers us. Maybe that is where this "internal beauty" comes from. And everything that God makes is beautiful. Every storm, every insect, every organ, every creature, every hot Texas afternoon, EVERYTHING God makes is beautiful.
Monday, March 9, 2009
Monday, February 2, 2009
It's over...
January is the most insane month ever. The fast is finally over. I'm older. I'm in a new place. And lots more.
For some reason whenever I come here to update I forget what I want to write about. So how about the most random post ever? Let's see how that works out...
Dagger and I just got back from a long walk. There is always something about walking down by the lake that is so calming. My new apartment is along the same walking route as my old one. I'm just glad it's not icy. We both took a few spills last week. I'm going to try and get him nice and worn out for the car ride tomorrow.
I had to endure the doctor this morning. I finally just told her that she needed to do something about this heartburn. So I have an appointment to have an ultrasound on my gallbladder. Then we are going to do another kind of scan if there are no stones. Then if there is nothing wrong I will go see a GI doctor. Hopefully we will figure out what the heck is going on.
I need another vacation. I know we are going to the beach in July. and I'm heading to Birmingham tomorrow for two weeks. When I get back I am started the small group. Which is the first step to the church plant. Yikes.
I want to start doing water aerobics. I know it's very old lady (but what about me ISN'T old lady?)... I think it would be good. I'm trying to convince someone else to do it with me.
I'm really digging my new apartment. It's small. So everything is more accessible. Plus I have the luxury of a washer and dryer. Seriously the best thing ever.
It is sad that I can't even think of anything else to write. That is so sad. But I have to go meet Cameo for lunch and do some laundry. I need to get this house in order before I head out tomorrow. I'm excited about the 10 hour drive. I need to put my podcasts on my ipod. wahoo!
For some reason whenever I come here to update I forget what I want to write about. So how about the most random post ever? Let's see how that works out...
Dagger and I just got back from a long walk. There is always something about walking down by the lake that is so calming. My new apartment is along the same walking route as my old one. I'm just glad it's not icy. We both took a few spills last week. I'm going to try and get him nice and worn out for the car ride tomorrow.
I had to endure the doctor this morning. I finally just told her that she needed to do something about this heartburn. So I have an appointment to have an ultrasound on my gallbladder. Then we are going to do another kind of scan if there are no stones. Then if there is nothing wrong I will go see a GI doctor. Hopefully we will figure out what the heck is going on.
I need another vacation. I know we are going to the beach in July. and I'm heading to Birmingham tomorrow for two weeks. When I get back I am started the small group. Which is the first step to the church plant. Yikes.
I want to start doing water aerobics. I know it's very old lady (but what about me ISN'T old lady?)... I think it would be good. I'm trying to convince someone else to do it with me.
I'm really digging my new apartment. It's small. So everything is more accessible. Plus I have the luxury of a washer and dryer. Seriously the best thing ever.
It is sad that I can't even think of anything else to write. That is so sad. But I have to go meet Cameo for lunch and do some laundry. I need to get this house in order before I head out tomorrow. I'm excited about the 10 hour drive. I need to put my podcasts on my ipod. wahoo!
Sunday, January 11, 2009
Did you say steak?
We are in the middle (well, 11 days into it) of a month long fast. I have to say that I want steak...real bad. The first ten days were fruits, vegetables, and water. Now for the next 21 days we are straight liquid. If we can get it through a straw...we are eating it. Potato soup and milkshakes were on the menu tonight.
Today is also the one year anniversary of the house of prayer. Which is exciting. It is only by the Grace of God that we were able to sustain it. And by Grace we will go until Jesus comes back. My slot is at 5AM this month. I dig it. I love those night slots. Even if it means getting up early.
I know this sounds dramatic, but I'm really upset that so many people are going to hell. I think the part that upsets me is that I talk to so many people everyday that are still going to hell. I've never said a word to them. I talk to people very infrequently about their soul. But what if I am the person talking to them at the very moment the Lord wants to save them. What if I am the last person they see before they die. Just typing this upsets me to no end. I was talking to a guy at the Starbucks in Target today about his soul and it made me very sad. I finally understood the fact that Jesus absolutely loves him. He adores Him and longs to be in this amazing relationship with Him. But He also longs to save him so that on the day of judgement He can be with Him in paradise. It's a very beautiful thing. But it kills me that people I know and people I love are still going to hell.
During this month fast we are praying for one person in particular. And of course I my heart breaks for my brother. I don't love him more than anyone else. But I cry almost every day because I love him. I see his face in almost every bald white guy. No joke. I hear his voice and hear his jokes. Dramatic. I know. But I love him. and I hate that he is going to hell. And I hate it. But I know that it doesn't matter what he is doing now. It doesn't matter if he hates God and if He thinks He is some mean guy...God is totally faithful and WILLING to save him.
Anyways. I'm exhausted and I have to be up for 5AM prayer.
Is that enough of a sobering update for you, Rachel :)
Today is also the one year anniversary of the house of prayer. Which is exciting. It is only by the Grace of God that we were able to sustain it. And by Grace we will go until Jesus comes back. My slot is at 5AM this month. I dig it. I love those night slots. Even if it means getting up early.
I know this sounds dramatic, but I'm really upset that so many people are going to hell. I think the part that upsets me is that I talk to so many people everyday that are still going to hell. I've never said a word to them. I talk to people very infrequently about their soul. But what if I am the person talking to them at the very moment the Lord wants to save them. What if I am the last person they see before they die. Just typing this upsets me to no end. I was talking to a guy at the Starbucks in Target today about his soul and it made me very sad. I finally understood the fact that Jesus absolutely loves him. He adores Him and longs to be in this amazing relationship with Him. But He also longs to save him so that on the day of judgement He can be with Him in paradise. It's a very beautiful thing. But it kills me that people I know and people I love are still going to hell.
During this month fast we are praying for one person in particular. And of course I my heart breaks for my brother. I don't love him more than anyone else. But I cry almost every day because I love him. I see his face in almost every bald white guy. No joke. I hear his voice and hear his jokes. Dramatic. I know. But I love him. and I hate that he is going to hell. And I hate it. But I know that it doesn't matter what he is doing now. It doesn't matter if he hates God and if He thinks He is some mean guy...God is totally faithful and WILLING to save him.
Anyways. I'm exhausted and I have to be up for 5AM prayer.
Is that enough of a sobering update for you, Rachel :)
Thursday, August 21, 2008
I'm not a Christian, I'm a follower of Christ
1 Peter 4:16
However, if you suffer as a Christian, do not be ashamed, but praise God that you bear that name.
Basically, I just typed out this huge thing about one of my biggest pet peeves. People saying that they are a follower/believer/lover of Jesus, but do not claim to be a Christian. And I went on a big tangent and remembered this verse. This verse is in the very same Bible you claim to be living by. So why don't we live by it and cut out the pride? Who are you trying to not offend anyways? I might be wrong in my accusations.. but if you don't want to be called a Christian, please let me know why. And if it's because you don't like the church and what it has done..THE CHURCH IS THE BRIDE OF CHRIST and I'm pretty sure He will not stand for us to call her names and talk trash about her. Now, I'm not married...but if I ever do I believe my husband would not be pleased if someone was going around saying that I'm a liar and that I'm a theif. Now, I might be those things...but the amazing part is that we all are. And it is only by His grace that I've been redeemed. So it is only by GRACE that the church (aka HIS BRIDE) has been and is being redeemed.
And if your reasoning is because you don't want to be "offensive" then you should really seek the Lord and find out what name He wants you to bear and what it means to "count the cost"....and read these scriptures.
Matthew 5:10
Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
Matthew 5:11
"Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me.
Matthew 5:12
Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you.
John 15:20
Remember the words I spoke to you: 'No servant is greater than his master.' If they persecuted me, they will persecute you also. If they obeyed my teaching, they will obey yours also.
2 Timothy 3:12
In fact, everyone who wants to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted,
Don't take my word for it... as I said before. SEEK THE LORD and READ YOUR WORD.
If I am wrong, please correct me. I would love to find out that I am wrong and I actually shouldn't be persecuted. Honestly, we don't even know persecution. And saying you are a Christian in this country doesn't mean anything. It is the preaching of the Gospel and not being ashamed of the very thing that will save your soul that will get you made fun of..... I mean persecuted. They might even call you names. They might call you a Christian, which is apparently the worst of them all. I'd rather be called every name in the book by a man than be called a coward by God...what about you?
-pr
P.S. When I stated above that we are all liars and thieves I meant it. But I also believe strongly in accountability and seeking after righteousness. I do not think it is right or okay to do those things, by any means.
However, if you suffer as a Christian, do not be ashamed, but praise God that you bear that name.
Basically, I just typed out this huge thing about one of my biggest pet peeves. People saying that they are a follower/believer/lover of Jesus, but do not claim to be a Christian. And I went on a big tangent and remembered this verse. This verse is in the very same Bible you claim to be living by. So why don't we live by it and cut out the pride? Who are you trying to not offend anyways? I might be wrong in my accusations.. but if you don't want to be called a Christian, please let me know why. And if it's because you don't like the church and what it has done..THE CHURCH IS THE BRIDE OF CHRIST and I'm pretty sure He will not stand for us to call her names and talk trash about her. Now, I'm not married...but if I ever do I believe my husband would not be pleased if someone was going around saying that I'm a liar and that I'm a theif. Now, I might be those things...but the amazing part is that we all are. And it is only by His grace that I've been redeemed. So it is only by GRACE that the church (aka HIS BRIDE) has been and is being redeemed.
And if your reasoning is because you don't want to be "offensive" then you should really seek the Lord and find out what name He wants you to bear and what it means to "count the cost"....and read these scriptures.
Matthew 5:10
Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
Matthew 5:11
"Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me.
Matthew 5:12
Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you.
John 15:20
Remember the words I spoke to you: 'No servant is greater than his master.' If they persecuted me, they will persecute you also. If they obeyed my teaching, they will obey yours also.
2 Timothy 3:12
In fact, everyone who wants to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted,
Don't take my word for it... as I said before. SEEK THE LORD and READ YOUR WORD.
If I am wrong, please correct me. I would love to find out that I am wrong and I actually shouldn't be persecuted. Honestly, we don't even know persecution. And saying you are a Christian in this country doesn't mean anything. It is the preaching of the Gospel and not being ashamed of the very thing that will save your soul that will get you made fun of..... I mean persecuted. They might even call you names. They might call you a Christian, which is apparently the worst of them all. I'd rather be called every name in the book by a man than be called a coward by God...what about you?
-pr
P.S. When I stated above that we are all liars and thieves I meant it. But I also believe strongly in accountability and seeking after righteousness. I do not think it is right or okay to do those things, by any means.
Tuesday, August 19, 2008
ALASKA
I'll admit that I'm a little sad to be home. I loved Alaska. I'd move there in a heartbeat. I uploaded some of the best pictures onto Flickr for everyones enjoyment.
We went to Glacier Bay National Park, Juneau, Sitka, Ketchikan, & Victoria (BC).
My Alaska pictures on Flickr.
We went to Glacier Bay National Park, Juneau, Sitka, Ketchikan, & Victoria (BC).
My Alaska pictures on Flickr.
Sunday, July 20, 2008
Wednesday, April 2, 2008
no title..can't think of one.
I think I am about to loose it. If anyone knows my "about to freak out" face I am probably wearing it a lot these days.
I feel like I can't do anything right. Like I'm always dropping the ball. I don't know what my problem is. I just don't want anyone to ask me to do anything for a while.
I feel like I can't do anything right. Like I'm always dropping the ball. I don't know what my problem is. I just don't want anyone to ask me to do anything for a while.
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