Be Strong and Courageous!

...Well, my last post ended with "...Emmanuel, God with us." Certainly He IS with us.

Chuck and I teach (our daughter's class) a second grade Bible Fellowship class at church, 2 Sundays a month. The Bible verse this week was:

"Be strong and courageous and do the work." 1 Chronicles 28:20

Our lesson came from Judges 4; the story of the Prophet Deborah and Barak. I won't tell the story as you can look it up yourself. However, the gist of the story is Deborah encourages Barak to proceed with what God has instructed him to do. Barak had been instructed by God to take his army and fight Sisera, and God promised that Barak would win. However, Barack was afraid. Barack's response to Deborah was that he would go if she would go with him...so, Deborah went, the battle was fought, and Barack and his army won...just as God had promised!

The last 2 weeks have been a spiritual challenge for me. I've shared in previous postings that I have been "instructed" to go to Uganda, Africa and will be going in May for orphan care.

My challenge come into the picture when I began conversing with my physician about the particular immunizations I would need for the trip. One particular immunization that is recommended is for Yellow Fever. The CDC now reports that several people with the particular Neuromuscular disease I have, has had ill effects and/ or died due to the immunization. So, it is not recommended that I receive it. Furthermore, while there's only a small chance of me getting yellow fever, I have a 40% chance of death should I get bitten by the mosquito carrying Yellow Fever.

Initially, this news brought this "call" to a halt. I couldn't believe nor did I understand how God could have been so specific with this call to Uganda, simply to then "pull the rug"...

The following is an exurb from an e-mail I sent to a few friends:

Chuck and I both feel the information my physician gave me was information to prepare me for Africa. We know that God has certainly called me there. We discussed our “call” to be steadfast in our faith and to be anxious for nothing. God has provided both Chuck and I a peace with a decision to continue to move forward at this point, trusting in the faithfulness of God.

However, while driving forward, we also pray that if it is God’s desire for me to be a “Moses” and simply lead “the people” to Africa and I NOT be given the opportunity to experience Africa, we pray He will prevent my stepping on the plane with a kidney stone (I currently have 2 kidneys filled with stones!) or some type of obvious movement of the hand of God at the last moment.

So, at this time, we will continue to move forward confident of His “calling” and confident of His sovereignty. I refuse to bow to the “element of fear”. These children (the orphans in Uganda) have no hope for their physical future nor their spiritual future. They must come to know HIM...and if I should die serving there, I can’t think of a better thing to be doing than serving Him on my "way out". I simply have to trust that He will be faithful to my family and that His grace is sufficient, especially for our girls.

God has blessed us as a family to be able to adopt 2 of the “fatherless”. Furthermore, we have been blessed to see one of them accept Christ as her Lord and Savior. Hope’s eternity (our middle daughter) is secure...and Lord willing, Chloe (our youngest) will follow in a few years. While I can’t adopt the world and present Jesus to them all, there still remains work I can do to offer “hope” to those who remain “fatherless”. I’m not sure why God has burdened and passioned my heart so much for these children, but I’m thankful for it. Serving them is where I find Him...He IS the hope to the hopeless. How tragic to live this life without that “hope”. With “hope” we can endure all things...and these children are faced to endure things our minds can’t even fathom and flat refuse to think on. I think of my children, and then try to imagine them living one day in the life of “the least of these”, and it’s enough to break my heart.

So...I covet your prayers as we continue to pursue what we feel God has asked our family to do. As Christians, we're called to be ready, willing and able...May we be found laying it ALL on the line for Him!

My friend, be found "strong and courageous and do the work." that He has called you to!

Blessings!

Blessings...

It's Christmas Eve. The kids are all snug in their beds. The house is quiet as I'm the only one who remains awake. As I sit behind the computer I'm thinking of the evening I've spent with my grandmother, my mom & dad, my brother & his family and my sister & her family. This year seemed a little different...there was one person missing, Melyn. (Melyn is the 3 year old who my brother and his wife are adopting from China.) We all thought she be with us by now. However, she sits on the other side of the world, completely unaware of a family of 17+, is thinking of her on this evening.

While she sits in her orphanage in China, I think of all the other children around the world without a family...children living every day without the safety and security of a family.

I think about my children, 2 of which spent a Christmas in a cold orphanage...I think of them now...the laughter, wonder and excitement we've shared on this day. I'm so thankful for the way God put our family together. Their lives have opened my eyes up to a much larger world.

Tonight while celebrating Christmas with all of my family, the focus continued to be on others. It's a blessing for me to see how the focus has shifted. We propped up and 8 x 10 photo of Melyn in the den while we were opening gifts as we so wanted her there...plus she had gifts there too! So, while we were missing her physical presence, she was certainly present in our hearts.

I experienced a very cool thing this year that demonstrated just how much focus was on "others". Rather than my parents giving my siblings and I gifts, they gave a monetary gift in honor of us to The North Carolina Baptist Children's Home. How GREAT was that! Two sibling groups were sponsored for Christmas.

That spoke to the very core of my heart. It also showed me the growth that's taking place in my family. The heart of my family has really begun to focus outwardly, specifically on children. It's been my hearts desire that others would feel the burden and responsibility I feel for the "fatherless"...it's happening one person at a time. I feel so blessed to see the hand of God at work.

Don't misunderstand as my family has always had a heart for other people and the "less fortunate". However, often there seems to be a portion of the worlds population I feel is often over looked.

This evening I've also been reflecting on how God poured out a tremendous blessing for me this last week. The tickets for my upcoming trip to Uganda were increasing a great deal and I was beginning to stress about the financial impact this was going to have on my family. One morning I went running. Running seems to be the time when I can clear my mind and spill my heart to the Lord. Well, I "spilled it" by crying out to the Lord, asking for someone who He had financially blessed, to recognize God's call for me to go to Africa and simply step forward to pay for my airfare.

Can I say that within 9 hours, the cost of the tickets increased AGAIN! By evening, I was rather discouraged. However, 90 minutes after noticing the price increase I received a telephone call from an individual. This individual said they knew God wanted me to go to Africa and that it would be their honor to pay for my airfare! Can I say I "fell on my face"! I was completely humbled by the way God had moved and affirmed this trip.

These children (the fatherless), are the heartbeat of God...no matter if it's Melyn on the other side of the world in an orphanage in China, 2 groups of siblings in the NC Baptist Children's Home or the orphans in Uganda...He loves them all.

God, as we celebrate the birth of your son Jesus, may we pause in thanksgiving for the hope this child has brought to the world...

"...and His name shall be called Emmanuel; God with us..."

Merry CHRISTmas! <><

AFRICA...

God is on the move and I'm amazed AGAIN... I'm not really sure why His moving continues to amaze me but I guess it has to do with my limited ability to comprehend the mighty God we serve. I shared with a few people back in May when I returned from a Global Orphan conference, that I felt God was calling me to Africa. I didn't know exactly where, when or how but I knew He had something for me there.

After attending the Global Orphan Care conference I was asked by Lisa Holbrook (Co-founder) to serve on the board of Caroline's Promise (CP). CP is a local nonprofit ministry founded by David and Lisa Holbrook. CP gives $3,000 grants to Christian families in NC who are adopting but CP is also involved in global orphan care. To date, CP's focus has been in South America. CP has been wanting to "grow it's territories" to include Africa.

At a time when the economy is in recession, and the people of this nation are trying to "adjust" their lifestyles, this ministry is being asked to step out on faith! Caroline's Promise is interested in taking a "vision trip" to Uganda AND I'M GOING!!!! A "vision trip" means we will visit orphan ministries that are already established in that local area, return home, and discern where we feel Caroline's Promise could get involved.

My mind cannot fully grasp the concept of traveling to Africa but my heart is sooo ready. I know all that I will see, hear and experience, will forever change me. I have a feeling Africa will bless me more than I could ever bless Africa.

Please pray for me as I prepare physically, emotionally, spiritually and financially for all that God would have me experience on this trip. I will travel in May.

Please view the new video (in the left column), "I Need Africa". May you be blessed as you watch it!

"Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen." Ephesians 3:20-21

Blessings!

Who's Pleasing Who?

"Am I now trying to win the approval of men, or of God? Or am I trying to please men? If I were still trying to please men, I would not be a servant of Christ." Galatians 1:10

It's been an interesting week at the Ledford's. Although I've worked with teenagers half my life, I've decided there's nothing like trying to raise your own teenager...it's waaay more tough than anyone ever let's on to! :-) ...and being the "first time mom" of a "first time teenager" is even more challenging. Don't get me wrong, Chelsea's a great kid (teenager) BUT even the best of teenagers can be challenging at times.

I think for me the hardest part is that teenagers say they want one thing...but what they REALLY want is completely another.

Through some challenging times this week, Chelsea shared with me she struggles with being a "people pleaser" towards her friends. I had to laugh at myself...Don't we all!!???!?!?!?

You know what I'm talking about...that same peer pressure exist in adulthood...ladies, we all want to make sure we're wearing the latest fashion, checking that make-up just before meeting our girl friends, taking that second look in the mirror before walking out of the house.

...guys, you want to make sure our oversized, over priced homes are in the "right" neighborhoods, and that the sheen on that newest modeled vehicle remains...and you too take that last look in the mirror and flex those triceps one last time! That's right! We see ya! :-0

My words for Chelsea were short and simple...our purpose on this earth is NOT to please man...Christ couldn't please everyone He encountered...why should we think we could? God's purposes for our lives are much higher and greater than that. Our purpose is for the eternal not the temporal. We must seek Him to please Him...in seeking and pleasing, we discover abundant blessings.

Who do you seek to please?

Blessings!

Angel ?!?

After today, I have no doubt there are angels among us! Let me back up and share that our oldest daughter, Chelsea is 15 yrs old and in 10th grade. Not only is she in 10th grade but she attends an Early College which allows her to take high school and college classes. When she graduates from high school, she will actually be a 3rd year transfer student to any state supported school.

I share that because as many of you can imagine she is having to juggle the typical drama and highs and lows of being 15 and in high school. However, she is also having to demonstrate a certain maturity level as she participates in college as well. Being a teenager is difficult enough without having to live in 2 worlds at once... the youth and adult world.

One minute they want to be 10 again, sitting in their mama's lap and the next minute they're asking for the keys to the car to get in practice behind the wheel or asking if they can go to a Spring Formal with a young man who already has his driver's license! While it's confusing for them, I feel a little schizo myself, parenting my first teenage daughter!

In addition to dealing with living in these 2 worlds, Chelsea has struggled with her "sphere of influence"... her peers. Up until high school, she hasn't had or desired much of a "social life". She's fairly introverted and has always enjoyed "her time" and quite honestly we have all enjoyed just "hangin" as a family.

Chelsea's been fairly "sheltered" and her eyes have certainly been opened to the reality of what kids her age are "up to" these days. Needless to say, most of it goes completely against what she knows and feels to be moral and of value and is also contrary to God's word. While she feels this way, she has also longed to be accepted and "in" with the crowd, as most desire (adults included). The struggle of juggling this has been even greater than attempting to live in the "two worlds" as explained above.

OK...now to the events of today...

Our family went to church this morning. We attend early worship and then scatter to our respective Bible Fellowship groups. Following Bible Fellowship this morning, I retrieved Hope and Chuck retrieved Chloe. After picking Hope up I met Chelsea in front of the sanctuary and we headed out the front doors. After the 3 of us were about 20-30 feet out the door a man called from behind me. I had never seen this man before. He was probably in his later 40's early 50's. He approached me asking if Chelsea was my daughter. Following my response, he said, "If you don't mind I need to share something with her." I consented. This man proceeded to say that he couldn't help to notice her standing against the wall in the lobby of the church while she watched a small group of her peers huddled up chatting. He said he couldn't help but think Chelsea wanted to be a part of that group.

This man then continued to say he had a "word" he needed to pass along to Chelsea. He said, "God has tremendous plans for you. He wants to use you to influence many for Him. Unfortunately, many times, in order to have an influence, you can't be a part of a group. Just like we are reminded in the word, God wants you to know,

"You are who I say, who I say, that you are." "

The man concluded with reminding Chelsea of God's love for her and encouraging her to stand firm against a lot of what her peers tend to busy themselves with, ie...gossiping, lying, secrets and "drama", and how God had something much differently planned for her.

As the man finished talking to Chelsea, we (Chelsea and I) were both in tears. I thanked him for his words and asked for his name. He responded, "Mark". I introduced myself as "Sarah". He quickly asked Chelsea what her name was. We then turned and parted ways.

Chelsea and I walked down the sidewalk holding hands and crying. In that brief moment and through those short but powerful words from a total stranger, God moved in a mighty way. The magnitude of what just transpired began to hit Chelsea more deeply. As she began to cry harder, we stopped walking and embraced each other. I glanced back to see the man, but he was gone. He left as quickly as he came.

I must say, it has taken a 4 mile run and the rest of the day for me to begin processing what took place on that sidewalk today. How could that man have possibly known what Chelsea has been struggling with? How could he have known those to be the exact words she needed to hear? It was as if my daughter exchanged words with Jesus in the flesh!

"For it is written: " 'He will command his angels concerning you to guard you carefully;" Luke 4:10


Was that a man?? I'm more inclined to believe it was not...


"Do not forget to entertain strangers, for by so doing some people have entertained angels without knowing it." Hebrews 13:2

How open are you to entertaining "strangers"?

Blessings!

Sonlight

You know... it's funny the way God shows Himself sometimes. Yesterday, I was driving to pick up Hope from the local elementary school. Chloe and I were listening to a children's CD when she decided she wanted to hear a specific tune on the CD.

That may seem like an easy request, however, the light on my clock / radio / CD player in my vehicle has a mind of it's own. More times than not, the light isn't illuminating the faceplate which is suppose to show the time on the clock, the radio station's number and the song number on the CD.

When I arrived at the elementary school to line up in the car-rider line, I noticed the sun shining directly on the faceplate of the radio / CD player. I could actually see the song number of the CD that was playing! GREAT!

I took that opportunity to preset my favorite radio stations and then found the song on the CD Chloe had requested earlier. My ability to read the faceplate of the radio was short-lived as the car-rider line began moving and the sun was no longer shining directly on the faceplate.

It was at that moment I felt God prick my heart revealing the life of many people. Many walk around in life, aimlessly wondering with no clear direction, plans, or goals... basically in the dark. It is only when the Son shines through us that we illuminate and are able to "walk with clarity of purpose".

"In the same way, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven." Matthew 5:16

Are you standing in the Sonlight? Is it illuminating your "faceplate"? Do you know what your radio frequency is? If not, step out of the darkness and experience the Son.

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

Blessings!

Freeze!

Did I say things at the Ledford house are busy??!!??? Chuck asked me this morning if I slept well last night. I laughed and my response went something like, "Slept well?... Who knows...lately I just fall into bed and am grateful for a few hours to just be still!".

Last month the Fair was "in town" and like every year, we spent a few hours walking around through a "sea of humanity" trying to make our way from one little kiddie ride to another. When we first arrived at the fair we needed to stand in line to purchase the ride tickets. The crowd was growing in size at the ticket booth so Chuck took the girls and stood a few feet away from me while I stood in line.

After glancing over to make sure the girls remained with Chuck, I began to feel inundated with people beckoning for my attention. There was an increasing volume of excited voices all around. It was as if for a brief moment I was in a fog and everything around me was happening in slow motion.

I looked to my right; there was a middle-aged guy with a head mic set requesting an opportunity to guess birth dates, ages or weight.

To my left, there stood a weathered faced woman who's appearance spoke of her struggles of life. She was calling for passers-by to come purchase fair memorabilia.

Behind me was a Merry-Go-Round with it's loud tunes playing and the ride attendant calling for tickets from it's riders.

My eyes continued to circle around from the man with the microphone, to the weathered looking woman, to the Merry-Go-Round attendant... on and on my head swam to the rhythm of all the busyness that surrounded me. When all of a sudden I heard this small voice standing at my pants leg calling "mommy...mommy". I looked down to see my 3 year old (Chloe) with a big grin plastered across her face.

This experience has run through my mind several times since that afternoon at the fair. God knows the "love language" of all His children and He speaks in that unique way to each of us.

God very clearly, yet quietly reminded me that in the busyness of all that goes on in my life on a day to day basis, if I don't learn to "tune out" the "unimportant noise" of life, I will miss the most important voice of all...HIS! I was also reminded of the importance of spending time with Him. For if we, His children, don't make it a priority to know Him, how will we recognize His voice?

Had I not known Chloe, I wouldn't have recognized her voice as she called out to me that day at the fair while I stood in a crowd of hundreds. Her voice would have simply blended in with the hum of hundreds of other voices in the crowd.

In the busy rhythm of your days can you distinguish His voice? Are you "tuned in" OR will His voice just get lost in the crowd?

"Be still and know that I am God;"
Psalms 46:10

Blessings!

Living Hope

Times are rather busy at our house, as I'm sure they are at yours. Last weekend we were very excited to celebrate Hope's (our middle daughter)baptism. She accepted Christ in her heart when she was 5 but due to fear of being in front of people, had not followed up in "believers baptism" until now.


Last weekend I did a lot of thinking and reflecting...thinking about Hope's origins in China, a communist nation. I thought a lot about all the things God has/ and continues to teach me through her life...I thought a lot about Hope's eternal salvation...wondering if salvation would have come to her there in China.

I'm humbled to think of her meager beginnings and now to look at her...she is a "Princess" because she is the daughter of the King! Nothing brings me greater joy than seeing children recognize and accept who they are in Him. It's at that point where the impossible becomes the possible!

"I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength."
-Philippians 4:13

Given all that Hope has had to overcome, her life verse resonated within me all weekend:

"For God did not give us a spirit of timidity, but a spirit of power, of love and of self-discipline."
-2 Timothy 1:7

My prayer is that Hope will live a life boldly unto Him. Hope's name came from a particular scripture God led us to just hours after "baby Ruth" died.

"Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! In his great mercy he has given us new birth into a living Hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead,..."
-1 Peter 1:3

What are you feeling "timid" about today? Claim that "spirit of power"...step out there in faith like Hope has...

Blessings!

Home of the "brave"???

I've got a lot rolling around in this head and heart of mine, so I hope I'm able to articulate without offending anyone...

Last week I went to visit a friend who has just returned from Uganda. She and her husband traveled to adopt 2 children. While visiting my friend, I was able to meet her 2 new additions and view many pictures from their trip. One picture specifically spoke to the core of my heart. My friend pointed out in the picture a one room, dirt floor hut / house and then pointed out a husband and wife, their 1 infant daughter who lived in that hut... along with about 8 other children whom they had taken in as a result of these 8 children being orphans. As I continued to look at pictures and listen to my friend describe the conditions in Uganda, I couldn't help but reminded of the many things we take for granted here in America..."land of the free and the home of the brave".... If that sounds a little sarcastic, forgive me...exactly who are the "brave"?...I would venture to say it is these orphans, NOT us!

The faces of these little orphan children are etched in my mind...they are without a mother, a father, no material "things", nothing! It is only through the compassion of another they have shelter and food..2 basic essentials needed for survival...food they receive once a day (or twice a day if they're lucky!).

However, we on the other side of a vast body of water, move about with cellphones glued to our heads while cruising around in 1 of our 2 (or 3) vehicles, live in homes WAY larger than we need, with closets bursting with several dozens of outfits, 20-30 pairs of shoes and matching purses. We live in a nation where the majority of us must have gym memberships to attempt to work off the extra weight we put on from eating too much food at the local fair, and any other place we choose to recreate.

SO..."Compassion"...how deep does your compassion tank run? Bigger question...does your "compassion" move you to action?

"...for in you the fatherless find compassion." Hosea 14:3

Bless them!

What do you want?

Well, hello! Thanks for checking out my blog. It's been a few weeks but I've found a little time to "post"...

I gotta tell ya...I had the GREATEST time this morning with my nephew, Carter. He's just the sweetest 2 year old. He has the most contagious laugh, brightest smile, that accompanies the absolute, most tender heart. His heart is so big, I can't figure out how it fits into his little body! :-) LOVE HIM!!!

It's rainy today and I had promised my 3 year old, Chloe, we'd walk the aisles of Toys R Us. Carter was spending some time with us this morning and he was ALL about joining us on our "adventure" to the toy store. What kid wouldn't be, right!?!!

We arrived to the entrance of the toy store with MUCH anticipation of finding a Motorcycle for Carter to just "sit on". He couldn't wait to bust through the doors!

We roamed the isles taking turns, checking out items that peaked Carter's interests as well as the interests of Chloe. They both did so good taking turns and waiting on each other. And then....there it was...THE isle!
The isle with the MOTORCYCLE!! Can I tell you the look on Carter's face was sheer elation! He squealed with glee and took off running for the "cycle" as fast as his two year old legs could take him. The look of satisfaction on that kids face once he hoisted himself upon that "cycle" was completely gratifing. He enjoyed every moment of sitting on it, getting himself off and putting himself back on. It was GREAT!

After a few minutes, it was time to move on. Chloe had "bigger" things to check out...like a pony..."My Pony".

While we were leaving the store and I was getting the kids safely buckled into their respective car seats, Carter looked up at me with a swelling smile. He said, "Aunt Sarah, I had so much fun sitting on that motorcycle!".

Carter...the motorcycle...it got me thinking...How satisfied are are we? Is it enough to "see it"; to "sit on it"? OR are we always in a perpetual state of "wanting"...

"I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want." Philippians 4:12

Thanks Carter! Thanks for reminding me that often, it's just as much fun to "sit"!

Blessings!

Fireproof

In the words of my 3 year old... "Oh My Word!" I was fortunate enough to win tickets off our local Christian Radio Station (WBFJ 89.3) to attend the preview of the movie Fireproof. It is an amazing movie that will be released to theaters September 26. Every married couple, engaged couple or anyone who ever desires to get married in the future, needs to see this movie. To be honest, I'm not a huge moviegoer. I guess my attention span is short or something but I've never been one to see a lot of movies. HOWEVER, this movie is a "must see". This movie is a reminder of the lengths Christ goes to share a relationship with us... to love us.

The movie reminds us that we can't give what we don't have... if we don't have a true understanding of Love, we are unable to love wholly and completely. God so lovingly and patiently pursues us despite the rejections and disrespect we dole out. I'm so thankful for His pursuance of me and for His persistent love.

I won't spoil the movie for you...just go see it! :-)

Blessings!

"Grounded Bird?"

I finished reading the most "interesting" book...a book that has left me pondering a lot. Perhaps you've heard of it..."The Shack", by William P. Young. (You can visit http://www.theshackbook.com/ for more details.) The thing I "took" from reading this book was a greater understanding of the relationship Christ desires to share with us. This relationship is to be the essence of intimacy. I often felt misunderstood in relation to "others" and my relationship with Christ. I'm comforted to know that I've been right on target! Not that I get it right all the time... because I don't! I fail miserably. However, my understanding of the relationship has been on target.

I have a friend who is going through some REALLY difficult days. As she has shared her struggles with me, I've been reminded in reading The Shack, of God's love for us. Did you know we were created to be loved!

William P. Young used an analogy in his book about a bird. He says that it is the nature of a bird to fly. If a bird was to choose not to fly and be grounded... it's still a bird! By the bird grounding itself, refusing to fly, it significantly alters it's life experiences.

Young continues to explain that for us to live as though we are unloved, much like the bird, we're imposing limitations. He says doing so would be similar to "clipping the wings of a bird and removing its ability to fly".

That got me thinking about the fact that we were created to be loved. It also stirred me to thinking about all the things that happen in life that we view as "bad" things that happen to us / or someone we know. If we truly understand the essence of God's love for us, we can then understand that as a child of His, there is never ANYTHING "bad" that ever touches our life. If He REALLY has our best interest at heart (which I believe He does) we're covered! He's got our back! It's ALL good!

God doesn't leave one thing unused in our life. He uses it all! So no matter what we encounter on this "journey", God is right there. He may be walking beside us or at times, carrying us... but He's there.

"And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose."
Romans 8:28

So, be of good cheer my friend. There may be something "uncomfortable" but there's never a "bad" thing that comes your way!

Do you know who you are... and WHO'S you are? Do you know you REALLY were created to be loved? Do you accept that love? Let's choose to fly and not ground ourselves. We don't really want to alter the experience God desires for us in this life. We're going to live it, so let's live it through Him!

Blessings as you "fly"!

Knock, knock...

The coolest thing happened the other night. Our family was slowing down at the end of a day. Evening had set in; our younger 2 daughters were bathed, sitting comfy in our laps as we had finished reading a story from the Bible. We were going around, each sharing about the events of our day, things we needed prayer about, and others in our community who we knew needed to be lifted to the Father.

Just as we were wrapping up our time of sharing and end with a time of prayer, someone lightly knocked on our front door. Our oldest, Chelsea, greated the individual at the door, quietly exchanging a few words. Chelsea returned from the door informing us that the person at the door was a little girl who lives down the street. This little girl shared with Chelsea that her younger brother had just fallen out of a treehouse. The little girl asked Chelsea if our family would pray for her brother, as he and the mother were on their way to the emergency room.

We all got up, dashing to the door calling the little girl by name as she was making her way down our driveway. We motioned for her to come back. She turned her bike around and approached our porch. The poor soul...her lip was quivering and she looked as through the tears in her eyes were about to breakforth at any moment.

I put my arms around her and gave her a big hug. We then explained we were just getting ready to have prayer time, and that we would love to pray with her right then, for her brother and her family. At that moment, all six of us joined hands bathing that family in prayer.

As I later reflected on that sweet time of prayer. What a priviledge it was to be able to do that...to have the freedom to pray openly on the frontporch of our home in a suburban neighborhood in America. Another thing that struck me was, we really don't know this little girl or her family very well.

We never know who is watching us...and what an amazingly strong thing for a little girl to do for her brother...to seek out people she barely knows to plead for her brother.

Wow far would you go for your "brother"? What would you do for your "brother"?

"Listen to my cry for help, my King and my God, for to you I pray."
Psalms 5:2

Blessings!

Please unwrap the gift...

I woke up this morning having no idea the sheer joy I would experience. I received a telephone call this morning and was reminded of God's faithfulness and became very aware of a grander plan God is working on.

I shared earlier in my blog that my twin brother and his wife (Beth and Terry) are in the adoption process from China. They've been waiting for their "referral" which in the world of international adoption, is the paperwork from the country you're adopting from, specifying that you've been given permission to adopt a specific child.

Well, that day finally arrived. They got "the call"...they have been cleared to adopt "Melyn"! As I spent time with Beth this morning, looking at the pictures of "Melyn" they received, I felt her growing closer and closer to me. I was so in awe at the hand of God and the way He has worked to get her adopted...and into my family!


There was one particular picture that just grabbed at my heart. "Melyn" had to receive heart surgery last year. One of the pictures of her bore that scar from the surgery. For reasons I will not got into at this time, I, too, bear that same scar. The look on "Melyn's" face in this particular picture was a sense of displeasure that anyone would be taking a picture of her and her scar. Odd as it may sound, I understood that look...the scar sympbolizes a painful time in her young life... a time when there was way too much going on for her little mind to understand. I thought of just how vulnerable this little one has been until now.

However, that scar represents life! For without that scar... there would be no life. This led my thoughts to the scars of Christ... for without His scars there would be no "life"... only mere existance. We've all been given the gift of life, just like "Melyn" has in a "physical sense". We have a responsibility to unwrap that gift... to put that "gift to use".

Have you unwrapped that "gift"... what will you do with your gift?

"For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord." Romans 6:23

" For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send His Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through Him. Whoever believes in Him is not condemned, but whoever does not believe stands condemned already because he has not believed in the name of God's one and only Son."
John 3:16-18

"Melyn" became "vulnerable" to unwrap her gift of life... Will you submit to this vulnerability and unwrap your "gift of life"?

Blessings!

Chew on this...

You know...it's amazing how God can speak, through our children, directly to us. I had just finished working out at the YMCA yesterday when Chloe (our 3 year old) and I were on our way home to get some lunch. I adjusted my rear view mirror to look at Chloe and I noticed she had something in her mouth. I asked her if she had anything in her mouth. She replied, "Yes!" With the biggest grin and a very "confident" and "satisfied" look on her face, she continued to inform me that she had a piece of gum. I looked down in the passenger seat where my purse sat. Sure enough, I saw the gum wrapper sitting there. I took another glance at her in the mirror as she proudly said, ..."and I didn't even get your commission!" (Chloe meant to say "permission".)

However, immediately, that spoke to my heart...I thought to myself, "How many times do we set out to do something we believe is great and do it without His "commission"?

I don't mind Chloe enjoying the Trident Bubblegum she loves so much. However, as a parent, I enjoy giving it to her. I enjoy giving it to her when she asks, but I enjoy it even more when I give it to her before she asks for it. The element of surprise she exhibits in those times is priceless. In those times, the offer of the bubblegum is an unexpected gift, bringing her unexpected joy.

When Chloe takes the gum without asking, it robs me of the joy of giving her the gum.

I became keenly aware of how I often I must "rob" God of that joy. What about you?

"The Lord longs to be gracious to you; He rises to show you compassion. For the Lord is a God of justice. Blessed are all who wait on Him!" Isaiah 30:18

Blessings!

"Sacred Ground"...cafe??

Well, it's been a few days since I last posted. It's been a little busy around the Ledford house as I'm sure it has been at yours, if you have school-age children. School started today! It's been a "reflective" kind of day...but, that's something I may post about later.

I believe I closed my last posting with the words "Sacred Ground"...I did that for a reason. I wanted to tie that posting in with this one as this will be my last posting about my trip to Oregon. I had another interesting experience in Oregon I wanted to share.

If you ever have a reason to travel to Portland you must stay at the Quality Inn & Suites Airport Convention Center off of Sandy Blvd. Not only was the service great and the rooms clean, but honest...my mom and I experienced God there! REALLY! It started from the moment we checked in, until the morning we checked out.

As we checked into the hotel I noticed a professional poster on an easel standing beside the front counter. The information contained on the poster was about a ministry called My Father's House. This ministry is directed towards the homeless families in that area. They advertise that this ministry works with an entire family with a holistic approach in mind, to include not only housing but training and education as well. I pointed it out to my mom, thinking it a bit unique that a ministry ad would be in the lobby of the Quality Inn.

As I continued reading the poster, I heard faint music in the background. Again, I got my mom's attention as I listened more carefully to the music...much to my surprise, it was Contemporary Christian music! I just nodded to the clerk in agreement/ recognition to what I was hearing.

I then walked over to a display like most hotels have. It was the display of local attractions, restaurants, etc...While standing there cruising through the pamphlets, something caught the corner of my eye. I looked up and you could have knocked me over! There was scripture on the wall! "Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud...Love never fails."
1 Corinthians 13:4!

Then there was a quote:
" Let us be silent that we may hear the whisper of God."
-Henry Davis Thoreau-

I was so caught off guard, I laughed...I then walked back up to the counter to grab a hotel business card. Thoughts were going through my head like..."no one would believe this!", and "I need to get home and google this hotel!" . Something very strange is going on for the Quality Inn to be a billboard for God! As I reached up to grab the hotel business card, there was also
a business card there for a church called
Eastside Foursquare Church.
AAAHHHHHHHH! A church...a church, "What?"...
Did a church pay big bucks to advertise at this hotel? Do members of this church work at this hotel?? Does a church OWN this hotel???...I was REALLY puzzled!

About this time, my mom asked about breakfast for the next morning. The receptionist informed us there was a Cafe across the parking lot and all we needed to do was to show up in the morning and someone there would give us additional instructions for breakfast. Cool!

As we headed out the door, I looked up to see the Cafe across the parking lot where the receptionist said we'd find breakfast in the morning...NO WAY!
"Sacred Ground Cafe"! That's when I finally said to my mom..."There is something going on here! God is all over this place."

It was close to 2pm and we hadn't had lunch yet. We agreed to toss our luggage in the room and head on over to check out "Sacred Ground". I just didn't think I could wait til morning to get the "scoop" on this one.

While running in the room to drop off our bags, I notice a very attractive book on the bedside table. I picked it up and opened the front cover. Yep! You guessed it! It was a Bible that had been inscribed for the reader. The inscription said something like... "We hope you have a peaceful stay here at the Quality Inn. If you should find yourself reading this book and desiring a copy, please feel free to take this with you as you leave." Again...I was amazed!

When we entered into the Cafe, just like the receptionist, we were greeted with much warmth. There was Contemporary Music playing, autographed pictures and guitars hanging all about the place from folks like Third Day, Jennifer Knapp, Micheal W. Smith, etc...

We placed our order and the young lady said she'd bring it out to us. As I waited, I walked around looking at all the autographed pictures and picked up some literature on this Eastside Foursquare Church. The young lady came out juggling our plates as I joined my mom at the table where she was sitting. I said, "Maam...forgive me for asking, but does a church run this hotel or what's going on? There seems to be a "God theme" and I just can't seem to figure it out."

Needless to say, the young lady laughed and began explaining. It seems that Eastside Foursquare purchased this hotel. They paid it off about a year ago and the profits from the hotel are going to ministries in over 100 countries around the world!

How's that for "out of the box" ministry! I LOVE it! Our time here was so very nice. Interestingly enough, my dad had made these reservations for us after I found the hotel, last-minute, on the internet. We had wanted something close to the airport since our flight was early the next morning. We hadn't wanted to deal with heavy traffic before our flight. While making the reservations, my dad went so far as to inquire if the hotel was a "safe" place for 2 women to stay. I laugh at that now because of the way we experienced God there. It wasn't just in the decor or the title of the Cafe, we genuinely experienced God's presence there.

SO...anywho...that'll do! I just wanted to let you know of a great place to stay in Portland should you ever have reason to travel there. :-)


"...and those who seek me find me." Proverbs 8:17

Blessings!

Bittersweet Departure...

You know how it is when you set out to do something you just know is going to be great BUT you don't realize the vastness of that greatness until it's over...

Well, my feet are on the East Coast Southern soil again as our flight touched down at midnight last night from Oregon.

My mom and I set out on a journey to Oregon 6 days ago to travel to the West coast to meet the illustrator of the Brown-Eyed Girl series (BEG series). In the 4 years or so that I've worked "long distance" with Trude, I knew God had woven us together to complete that book project.

















"...being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus." Philippians 1:6

Just when I didn't think my life could get any more rich, God blesses. Much like Trude brought the words in my children's books to life adding color, she has colored my world the 3 days I was there in Astoria, Oregon. Trude has such a vibrant spirit about her and Floyd, her husband, was simply "icing on the cake"!




Have you ever been in the presence of sheer greatness and simply felt a sense of gratitude to be amongst that greatness?

Trude and Floyd are like peanut better and jelly! (A main staple in my diet!) They simply belong together. Their love for each other is the epitome of Christ and His bride. They are an extension of the other. After 48 years of marriage, they finish each others sentences and when one forgets their "train of thought", the other gets them right back on track. Their deep, rich love for each other brought me to tears the last night we shared together. I was keenly aware of the fact that this is probably the only time I will ever see them. During our entire trip, I attempted to be open and aware of God's purposes for my being there in the midst of their life. Floyd isn't in the best of health and the reality of this 3 day stay with them was but a quick glimpse into their life and there were lessons God wanted me to "get"...I didn't want to miss one thing He had for me there.

Floyd is so proud of Trude, her talents and the ways she shares herself with so many. He is a man who truly understands the call to "spend yourself"...to "give yourself away", and he supports Trude in her endeavors.

On our last day there we had planned to do some additional sightseeing. When Trude and Floyd picked us up from the hotel, Floyd announced there had been a change in plans. He said he understood that we came to visit to get to know Trude better and he felt he should take us to a place where Trude was really "famous". As he said this, he spoke with such pride and love for his bride.

We drove about 50 miles, crossed the Columbia River on a ferry and arrived at "Hotel Cathlament". As I got out of the car, I looked around...the hotel appeared like hotels in the old western movies...you know...the kind where a cowboy rides into town needing a place to lay his head...

ANYWAY, we entered into the "Hotel Cathlament" where I found elderly people shuffling about, pushing their walkers. This hotel was no ordinary hotel; it was an Assisted Living facility.

Trude passed out lots of hugs, making introductions and announcing her posse. The look on the faces of these residents were priceless. With their first glance of Trude, they all lit up like a Christmas tree.

Trude is amazing, calling them all by name. Trude started a ministry of writing to the residents of the "hotel" and painting the envelopes she mails the letters in. Every week these residents look forward to receiving Trude's letter and painted envelope.

I walked down a hall of the hotel where the walls display 6-8 huge framings of Trude's envelopes; each of them painted with different scenes of Oregon, characters (some resembling the residents), holiday reflections, etc. AMAZING!! Each frame contained 30 or more pieces of her art. Trude has poured herself into these folks at "Hotel Cathlament" expecting nothing in return...Trude is investing; making heavenly deposits in the lives of folks who were once strangers.






Sharing these days with Trude and Floyd has been like "dropping in on family". In spending this time with them, I have gotten to know the heart of 2 amazing souls God created...my heart was overflowing!

While spending this time with them filled my heart, completing more of who God is growing me to be, leaving them nearly broke my heart.

I was reminded how short life is; of just how brief our time is on this earth. I was reminded of the importance of not missing the miracle of the moment.

...our time in this life is a "short stint"...may we spend those moments giving our self away by making deposits in the lives of others...

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

God was certainly in our midst. I felt I was constantly walking on Sacred Ground...

Blessings...

A "Sweet" Reunion on the Horizon...

Well, I've been running around like a "chicken" today, scurrying about with much to do. Remember in my posting about The Brown-Eyed Girl books...remember I mentioned I needed some artwork?!! Well,I'd like to say that as soon as I finished the manuscript, artwork dropped in my lap like manna from the Old Testament, but that's not exactly how it happened. Days and months went by and my frustration heightened as I knew God had led me to write these books...I mean, SURELY He knew I needed artwork to accompany this
project and FOR SURE He wasn't calling me to do that!

One day in the midst of my frustration, (as God just didn't seem to be on the same time schedule I was on) I was at work sharing about the book project with a co-worker, Tracey. Tracey shared with me that several years back when she lived on the west coast she had an extremely talented neighbor, Trude, who painted. Tracey said I should give her a call. I then explained to Tracey that there is absolutely NO $ to be had in participating in this book project as all the monies were already appropriated to orphan care. To make a long story a little shorter, I had Tracey call her friend because "ye of little faith" knew no one in their right mind would just donate artwork.

A couple days later I ran into Tracey at work again. She informed me that she had spoken with Trude and that the book project seemed to be one Trude was genuinely interested to participating in. I couldn't believe it! God really was just laying it all out before me; knocking down every barrier. Once again, Christ was "refining" this ole girl.

"Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge him and he will make your path straight."
Proverbs 3:5-6

So...back to a "sweet" reunion on the horizon...well, after about 3 1/2 to 4 years, Trude and I will meet each other for the first time tomorrow as I fly out to Oregon!

Trude is about 32 years older than I and while she now has e-mail, the entire time we were working together on this project, we did everything through the US Postal Service and over the telephone. Given this day and age...that's unheard of! Her work on this project was not just a matter of sitting down at a drawing table. Trude completed hours of research as she wasn't familiar with the country of China, international adoptions, etc...However, I must say God truely blessed her willingness and efforts! Although we've never met, I can honestly say Trude has a servants heart. Her committment to this book project was amazing.

God blessed my life with Trude in so many ways as she mentored and encouraged me all the way through, to see this project to completion. Thank you Trude from the bottom of my heart. We both recognized early on in our friendship that Christ was certainly the common bond that bound us together and together we set out to have an impact on the lives of some vulnerable children. I love you Trude and can't wait to land in Oregon and get my arms around you!

"I thank my God every time I remember you." Philippians 1:3

Blessings!

...Rear View Mirror...take 3

"Alrighty then!"...I know that last posting may have been a little heavy. I hope it didn't burden you too much...well...ok, you're right...I hope it did. :-) I know days are gonna be rough when I wake up with heavy thoughts such as that on my heart.

Well, let's take another glance in the "rear view mirror"...want to??!!??

I believe I mentioned there would be something that would blow you away...well, sit back and hold on.

It's Fall of 2007. The Brown-Eyed Girl books (a.k.a."BEG books") are doing ok. They're selling a little and proceeds are being sent to Love Without Boundaries, as planned, to pay for medically necessary surgeries for orphans in China, in hopes of them one day being adopted. Several children have now had their surgeries and are recovering/ recovered well, and some have even been adopted and now residing with their "forever families". God is blessing and I didn't think life could get any better.

This particular day I received a few updates on 2 of the recipients of the funds who were being prepared for their much needed heart surgeries. I felt God nudging me to forward their pictures to my twin brother, Terry and his wife, Beth. They have 3 beautiful children and as far as they were concerned, they were happy, feeling "complete" with their family and had no plans for any other children in their life. (A little history with this---I had known in my heart for several years that God had tremendous plans for them in the arena of adoption but they had always remained so completely closed to the notion. Terry had often shared with me that adoption is a wonderful thing, but just not intended for their family!) ----YOU KNOW WHERE I'M GOING WITH THIS DON'T YOU!??

Anywho...I forwarded the photos of these precious little children and requested that Terry and his family pray for their upcoming surgeries which were scheduled that particular week. Not only did I forward it to their home e-mail but I forwarded it to Terry's work e-mail. I wanted each of them to have the opportunity, independent of each other, to open and see the faces of these children. You see...we ALL KNOW there are children "out there" in need of a family. But for many of us, they are nameless and faceless...and quite frankly that's the way we'd prefer it stay. But don't fool yourself...they are NOT nameless and faceless to Christ. He loves them dearly just as He loves you and yours...I prayed the spirit of God would somehow break through their hearts and that Terry and Beth would be broken and submit to God's desire.

The Bible is clear in scripture informing Christians of their responsibility to care of orphans. It's not a matter of "do we or don't we"...we are commanded to care for them. Many of you may not be aware of the latest statistic but there are now 143 million orphans world wide! 143 MILLION! I can't even get my tiny brain wrapped around that number!

"Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world." James 1:27

Well...I received a phone call from my brother the next morning. All I can say is the power of God is an amazing thing! Terry and Beth certainly have an incredible testimony to tell the world! They are currently in the process of adopting one of those precious little children!! I can't get into the specifics just yet of who she is. (Soon her face will be all over this blog!) HOWEVER, I can share that her face is the sweet face of "obedience". When I look into her eyes, I see the face of an Almighty God. I look at her pictures and I shake my head at the very thought of being "stuck at the proverbial fork" I mentioned in "rear view mirror...take 2!". If fear, intimidation and my own trivial insecurities had kept me from writing and sharing The Brown-Eyed Girl books, my little niece may very well be dead or 'at best', I wouldn't have the blessing of having her in my life on a regular basis! Now, by the grace of God, I will share a life time of a relationship with her!

This was a HUGE lesson for me! From this I've learned that no matter what Christ calls us to do, our obedience may come down to a 'life or death' situation for someone else. The things we do and the things we decide NOT to do have a tremendous exponetial effect on others...and most times, we don't even realize it.

"Then I heard the voice of the Lord saying, 'Whom shall I send? And who will go for us?' And I said, 'Here am I. Send me!"
Isaiah 6:8

"Be the change that you want to see in the world."
-Mohandas Gandhi

Blessings!

"Neighbors"...

Before I share another glance at “the rear view mirror” I wanted to share about a dream I had early this morning. I can’t seem to get it off my mind…

DREAM: It was late in the evening. The sun had settled and fog had set in very heavily. There was tenseness in the air and in the distance war was all about us. My children were in our backyard playing and despite this war that was waging in the distance, I could only hear their chatter and laughter as they play.

I glanced out my window to check on the children in the midst of their play when all of a sudden I saw soldiers running through the yards of my neighbors’, on the right and left, shooting their weapons in hot pursuit of someone…or something. I quickly ran outside, gathering my children spreading my arms to protect them. Together, we ran for protection in the safety of our home.

Once inside, my children settled around our table to eat. They were inhaling food as if they had totally forgotten about the war raging outside our home. Again, I glance out a window, but this time I was peering through a window in front of my house. To my surprise I saw a woman dressed in filthy clothes sitting at a picnic table nestled on a berm, surrounded by several children. The children were dirty and the look on their faces reflected they had endured far too much stress for one their age. Soldiers continue to run firing their weapons all around these children.

I ran to my front door shouting and waving for them to come inside my home but they just sat there. I didn’t understand their situation and why they continued to sit there with the confusion of war all about them. So, I ran. I ran to the picnic table one by one to bring them to shelter. Upon bringing the last of them in for protection I looked around. My house was crowded. Children were packed in around my table with “standing room only”. There was much chatter as my children began to offer their food to the strangers. As food was offered to the visiting children, their look was one of confusion, surprise and guarded acceptance of the offering. They began to receive the food and eat it. As they ate, they grew less weary of accepting it.-END OF DREAM

Oddly enough, I woke up from my dream by the crying of our 3 year old. She was complaining of “starving”. As I’ve reflected on this dream, it’s led me to think about what was Jesus’ view of our “neighbor”. Who is our “neighbor”? And what is our role and responsibility to our “neighbor”?

I’ve found that the Bible says at least 9 times “to love your neighbor as yourself”. But you ask…”Who is my neighbor?” Ya know…you’re not the first to ask! There was an “expert in the law” who asked Jesus that same question. It’s found in the Parable of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:25). Our “neighbor” is anyone we have mercy on or who needs our mercy! Do you encounter anyone needing mercy? Do you know of groups of people who need a little mercy?

I looked up to see what Webster had to say on the word “poverty”. It said, “A state of one who lacks a usual or socially accepted amount of money or material possessions.” In regards to my dream…it’s not up to me to understand the situation of this mother as to why she couldn’t or didn’t seek protection for her children while war was all around her. This “war” can be literal war or it can be the war Satan wages against our families and children every day of our lives. In my dream I saw this mother and her children. I had “protection” / “shelter” from the war and I needed to share what I had. It didn’t matter if I had “extra”. This mother and her children were in need and I could provide that “need” at that time.

“One of the most astounding things about the affluent minority is that we honestly think we have barely enough to survive in modest comfort.”
-Ronald J. Sider,
Rich Christians in An Age of Hunger

Another question I found myself thinking about is, “Just how far will we go to help someone?” Are we willing to step out of our perceived walls of safety to dodge the bullets of the enemy in order to meet the need of another? Just how inconvenienced will we allow ourselves to be?

“’He defended the cause of the poor and needy…Is that not what it means to know me?’ declares the Lord.”
Jeremiah 22:16

“It is the greatest poverty to decide that a child must die so that you may live as you wish.”
-Mother Teresa

Who am I willing to carry to safety? Who will I protect?

“Trust in the Lord and do good…Delight yourself in the Lord and he will give you the desires of your heart. Commit your way to the Lord; trust in him and he will do this: He will make your righteousness shine like the dawn, the justice of your cause like the noonday sun.”
Psalm 37:3-6

Blessings!