No Other God

Then God gave the people all these instructions:

“I am the Lord your God, who rescued you from the land of Egypt, the place of your slavery.

“You must not have any other god but me."

Exodus 20:1-3 

Have you ever played the game "4 Pics 1 Word"?  Well, here's your chance.  Here are a few pictures and you have to figure out what they all have in common (besides each picture including Alyssa).

 Lord, you are God.  I pray that Alyssa and Kyle have no other gods but you.  It's so easy in life to have other addictions, or things we put our hope, joy and trust in, but I pray that you alone are God in their lives.  May they always put their trust only in you. 

 

Thankful Thursday

"Be cheerful no matter what; 
pray all the time; 
thank God no matter what happens. 
This is the way God wants you who belong to Christ Jesus to live." 
1 Thessalonians 5:18 (The Message)

Lord, teach Alyssa and Kyle to be thankful individuals, giving you praise no matter what happens in their lives.  Being cheerful no matter what is hard and is a hard discipline, but is how you want us to be.  So, whatever today holds, I pray that Alyssa and Kyle can give you praise and thanks!

(Alyssa and friend, 1995)

 

Wordless Wednesday

photo credit

 

Like the Wise Men

When they saw the star, they were overjoyed. 
On coming to the house, 
they saw the child with his mother Mary,
and they bowed down and worshiped him. 
Then they opened their treasures and 
presented him with gifts of gold and of incense and of myrrh.  
(Matthew 2:10-11)

There's just something I love about this season and pondering the stories of Mary and Joseph, the Shepherds, Angels, Wise Men, and baby Jesus, singing the old Christmas hymns, and lighting the advent candles.  Celebrating Christmas with our church family just helps to fix my eyes on Christ and the true reason of this season.

Some pretty awesome pastor preached a great Christmas sermon yesterday, I must say.  I appreciated one of the points about the Wise Men and how following their example can lead me into the presence of Christ:

The wise men first gave Jesus themselves
And then they gave Him their treasures.

"So here’s what I want you to do, God helping you: Take your everyday, ordinary life—your sleeping, eating, going-to-work, and walking-around life—and place it before God as an offering. Embracing what God does for you is the best thing you can do for him. Don’t become so well-adjusted to your culture that you fit into it without even thinking. Instead, fix your attention on God. You’ll be changed from the inside out. Readily recognize what he wants from you, and quickly respond to it. Unlike the culture around you, always dragging you down to its level of immaturity, God brings the best out of you, develops well-formed maturity in you."  Romans 12:1-2 (The Message)

Today, as I ponder and pray for my dear children, I'm pleading that they become like the Wise Men.  If God gives them a star to follow that they will go obediently, no matter how far, long, or hard and that they will give Him their entire heart, soul, and mind.

Lord, I pray that Alyssa and Kyle always give you themselves and their treasure.  I pray that they take their everyday, ordinary life, and place it before you as a gift.  It's so easy to be distracted, selfish, and prideful and life lives only to please our own needs, wants and desires.  Instead, dear Jesus, I pray that Alyssa and Kyle serve you wholeheartedly and obediently, giving you all that they are. 

 

Bronco Fans!

"But I have raised you up for this very purpose, that I might show you my power and that my name might be proclaimed in all the earth."  Exodus 9:16

Kyle's a Boise State Bronco fan too! (2006)

My boys are die-hard Denver Bronco fans.  Which is a good thing when they are on a winning streak.  Kyle pulls out his Champ Bailey jersey (even now that its too small) and Ken is decked out in a snazzy new sweatshirt.  It would be hard to miss who they are rooting for and cheering on.

Since games are often on a Sunday, there is discussion about who is going to record them game, when and where they will watch it, and what what needs to happen to make sure they get to see their beloved team.  Being a follower of the Broncos takes intention and planning!

And oh does it get loud around here when the game is on! 

As our children grow up, my hope is that they make their faith their own and will declare in loud praise that "Jesus is Lord" so that it is clear Who's "team" they belong to.

Every knee will bow,
and every tongue confess,
Jesus is Lord!

O Lord, you are God and you have raised Alyssa and Kyle for the very purpose, that as you show them your power, they will proclaim  your name in all the earth.  I pray, dear Jesus, that they are your biggest followers and cheerleaders, praising your name to their friends, in public places, and in the quiet moments where it's just you and them.  May boldness characterize their faith and journey with you, always declaring your mightiness.  Jesus, you are Lord!


 

Wordless Wednesday

 

Wordless Wednesday

 

Display of Splendor

We're having a wonderful time at the beach.  Here's the little cabin we're staying in. 

It's a bit small, even for the four of us.  Luckily there is a lower level for the kids to sleep in.  It's still a blessing for our family. 

And the weather has been absolutely perfect.  We couldn't have asked for better!  Each night we have sat out on the beach to enjoy the sunset.  Oh the display of His splendor!

Skies are blazing with his splendor,
   his praises sounding through the earth,
His cloud-brightness like dawn, exploding, spreading,
   forked-lightning shooting from his hand—
   what power hidden in that fist!

--Habakkuk 3:4  (The Message)

You can't help but worship Him!

Lord, the skies are blazing with your splendor and your praises are sounding through the earth.  May our hearts be moved to worship as we revel in your creation.  I pray that praise is always on Alyssa and Kyle's lips as they gaze upon the beauty of your world.  It can be so easily taken for granted.  You, Lord, created something wondrous and beautiful for your children, and it calls us to worship you!  Thank you for such a gift!

 

I See A Generation

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

Part of our family is attending the annual conference of our church denomination.  There's a few things I love about this gathering, but I'll just share two.  It feels like a wonderful reunion of family and friends, and I love the worship times together.  I love seeing young and old alike standing and singing together in worship.  I love watching the generation of the future "rise up" and become leaders who will serve Him.  I pray that our kids are a part of those who will begin a revival, change lives, and follow God wherever He leads!

HOSANNA

by Brook Fraser, Hillsong United

I see the king of glory

Coming on the clouds with fire

The whole earth shakes

The whole earth shakes

I see his love and mercy

Washing over all our sin

The people sing

The people sing

Hosanna

Hosanna

Hosanna in the highest

I see a generation

Rising up to take their place

With selfless faith

With selfless faith

I see a near revival

Stirring as we pray and seek

We're on our knees

We're on our knees

Heal my heart and make it clean

Open up my eyes to the things unseen

Show me how to love like you have loved me

Break my heart from what breaks yours

Everything I am for your kingdoms cause

As I go from nothing to

Eternity

Hosanna

Hosanna

Hosanna in the highest

Lord, you are the King of glory, and I am on my knees in prayer to you this day.  Oh, how I want to see a generation, rising up to take their place in this community of believers...a generation with a faith so deep and wide, that nothing would stop them from taking on the calling of following Christ no matter where He leads.  I pray this for Alyssa and Kyle especially.  That people would not look down on them because they are young, but that they would be an example to others in speech, in life, in love, in faith and in purity.  I pray for a revival in our children's hearts, that their faith becomes their own, and they live out of the firm conviction that you, Lord, are their God!  Let their generation take up your banner, and follow you all the days of their lives!

 

Wordless Wednesday

 

Stand in Awe

"I stand in awe of your deeds, O Lord."  Habakkuk 3:2

Daria, Kyle, and Alyssa at the Oregon Coast (2005)

Sometimes, when you see evidence of God in your life, you just have to raise your hands in worship.  I'm not sure if that is what Daria was really doing in this picture, but I know that every time I see the power of the ocean, my heart just wants to cry out in worship.  What are the things in your life, that move you to stand in awe and adoration of our God?  

A beautiful sunset.

My children's laughter.

The sound of the river rushing by.

The smell of lilacs.

A child talking about God or singing their heart out to Him.

Crickets outside my window.

A rainbow.

There are a lot of things that aren't "cool", "sound interesting", or are "bo-rrring" in a teenager's life.  It's a common occurrence to hear those things around here.  Oh how I want my kids to recognize God in their every day lives, and find things that move them to worship Him.  There is nothing, and no one, more worthy of our awe.

Lord, you are so worthy of our praise. You deserve all of our honor, adoration, and awe.  You are so evident in the daily things our lives, yet often we miss it.  Lord, open my children's eyes so that they may see you clearly.  May they stand in awe of your power and majesty when they look at your creation.  Or sense your love when they read your Word, or see you in someone else's life, or recognize your blessings.  I pray that my children recognize your presence, and your work in their lives, moment by moment.  Lord, I want them to always stand in awe of your deeds, your presence, and your blessing.  God, you are so good!

 

"Tebowing"

My two boys are faithful, long-time Denver Bronco fans. Recently, their love for their team has grown to include a deep admiration for their quarterback, Tim Tebow. 

If you are anywhere near a television these days, you can hear commentary, discussions and debates about the outspoken, and strongly demonstrative believer on the Broncos.  This man is a wonderful example, in my mind, of how someone can be in the public eye, play sports, make lots of money, and still give a loud testimony of loving and living for Jesus Christ.

There has even been a new word added to the "Urban Dictionary" and an entire website to "Tebowing".  It's a phenomenon that is catching, and being copied by many.

"Tebowing"= (verb) to get down on a knee and start praying, even if everyone else around you is doing something completely different.

Now that is an athlete that I don't my kids following.

I am praying that Alyssa and Kyle have a faith so deep, wide, and strong, that they will never fear giving God all the glory for their accomplishments and blessings.  Maybe it will look like "tebowing", and maybe not.  Either way, may they always give God all the praise, honor and glory with their lives!

"Now to the King eternal, immortal, invisible, the only God, be honor and glory for ever and ever. Amen."  1 Timothy 1:17


Lord you are our strength and song; you are my salvation. Please become Alyssa and Kyle's God, and may they praise you exalt your name forever.  You alone are their rock and their salvation; you, Father are their fortress, they will never be shaken.  Alyssa and Kyle's salvation comes from you alone.  With every breath, I pray that they give you all the praise, honor and glory.  May their actions and their words always be a reflection and representation of you living in their hearts.  Lord, be their firm foundation.  God, your solid foundation stands firm, and is sealed with this inscription: “The Lord knows those who are his."  I pray that Alyssa and Kyle's lives are always marked by you, dear Jesus, and that they shout it from the mountaintop so that the whole world around them knows whom they believe in.  Lord, you are so good, so faithful, and so true.  May we abide with you forever!

In the Hustle and Bustle

“He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak. Even youths grow tired and weary, and young men stumble and fall; but those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength.” Isaiah 40:29-31



So much busyness. Not only am I praying that we can survive it all, I am praying that we can thrive as well. I’m praying that while we are dashing from here to there, running to this activity or that, on top of trying to get everything done, that we are still taking the time to enjoy this season and the presence of Christ. This is the season of His birth, and I don’t want to miss the celebration and worship because of all the hustle and bustle.

(At least school finals are coming to a close, and Christmas break is about to begin! I have to admit I'm ready for school to be out...and I'm not even in it!)

Lord, give rest to the weary, and may we find joy in the precious times of worshipping and celebrating you this season.

Lord, you are my strength and my song. You are my hope, my joy, and my reason for living. This season should be one marked by celebration, worship, and even rest. In the busyness of Christmas, may we not forget to fix our eyes on you, our Savior. Be with us as we dash here and there, and remind us of our purpose and calling to shine you in all that we do. Help us to be a light to everywhere we go. May we not forget to treasure you as the greatest gift of all. As we hope in you, renew our strength! Thank you, Lord, for this day and all that it holds.

Sing, Sing, Sing

 "Sing to the Lord a new song, 

his praise from the ends of the earth, 

you who go down to the sea,

and all that is in it, you islands, 

and all who live in them."   Isaiah 42:10

I had singing practice last night with a group of my girlfriends.  I have to admit that love to sing.  Even more, I love to worship.

I periodically try to grab my daughter to join me in singing at church, but she's a little timid about getting front of people.  I know she can do it.  I love hearing her sing, but have little opportunity to do so.  Sometimes I can hear her in her bedroom as she's hangin', and sometimes while she's working on homework.  I love it best when she's singing with a heart that resounds of worship.

I hope both of our kids fall in love with worship, just as much as their mother loves it.  They may never get as loud as me (ha!), but their voices can shout with praise to the Lord, and their hearts pound in complete adoration of Him!

Sing to the Lord, dear ones!

Lord, you are so worthy of our deep praise and adoration.  I pray that Alyssa and Kyle worship you with gladness; and come before you with joyful songs (Psalm 100:2)  Every day, may they enter your gates with thanksgiving; and go into your courts with praise.  Lord,  move Alyssa and Kyle's hearts to give thanks to you, Lord, and praise your name (Psalm 100:4)  For you Lord are good. Your unfailing love continues forever, and your faithfulness continues to each generation (Psalm 100:5)

Wordless Wednesday

Please Remember and Rejoice!

"I will remember the deeds of the Lord; yes, I will remember your miracles of long ago."  Psalm 77:11

Tis the season to remember  

and rejoice!

It's time to put up the decorations,

buy a few gifts,

make some delightful goodies,

and above all 

prepare our hearts 

to worship our Savior!

 

Let the fun begin!

 Lyssa and Kyle helping with the tree...2005

 

Oh wait...

The kids are now teenagers.

For some reason, 

they don't think that all this is "fun" this year. 

Sure it's a bit of work,

but I pray that in all the hustle and bustle

they don't forget...

It's the season to remember  

and rejoice!

A Savior has been born!

Lord, I pray that Alyssa and Kyle will remember your deeds; yes, remember your miracles of long ago.  For unto us a Savior is born.  Oh, how we rejoice!  I pray that our children remember the reason we celebrate, and go to all this energy and work, during the holidays.  It's all about you.  May they find joy in you, dear Jesus, and celebrating your birth.  Move their hearts to give of their time, energy and resources this season to bless others, and to reflect you to those around them.  Remind each of them, Lord, the joy of your living presence in their lives, and that you alone are who and why we celebrate this Christmas season.  Thank you, Lord, for the gift of your Son.

Sing, Sing, Sing

"Sing to the Lord a new song, his praise from the ends of the earth, you who go down to the sea, and all that is in it, you islands, and all who live in them."   Isaiah 42:10

I had worship team practice last night.  I love to sing, but I love to worship even more.  I tried to grab my daughter to join me, but she's a little timid about getting front of people.  I know she can do it.  I love hearing her sing, but have little opportunity to do so.  Sometimes I can hear her in her bedroom as she's hangin', and sometimes while she's working on homework.  I love it best when she's singing with a heart that resounds of worship.

I hope our kids fall in love with worship, as much as their mother loves worship.  They may never get as loud as me (ha!), but their voices can shout with praise to the Lord, and their hearts pound in complete adoration of Him!

Sing to the Lord, dear ones!

Lord, you are so worthy of our deep praise and adoration.  I pray that Alyssa and Kyle worship you with gladness; and come before you with joyful songs (Psalm 100:2)  Every day, may they enter your gates with thanksgiving; and go into your courts with praise.  Lord,  move Alyssa and Kyle's hearts to give thanks to you, Lord, and praise your name (Psalm 100:4)  For you Lord are good. Your unfailing love continues forever, and your faithfulness continues to each generation (Psalm 100:5)

I See A Generation

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

 Our family is attending the annual conference of our church.  There's a few things I love about this gathering, but I'll just share two.  It feels like a wonderful reunion of family and friends, and I love the worship times together.  A song from one of our worship times struck me as a beautiful prayer.  I've put in bold the particular part that made me think of my prayers for our kids.

HOSANNA

by Brook Fraser, Hillsong United

I see the king of glory

Coming on the clouds with fire

The whole earth shakes

The whole earth shakes

I see his love and mercy

Washing over all our sin

The people sing

The people sing

[Chorus]

Hosanna

Hosanna

Hosanna in the highest [x2]

I see a generation

Rising up to take their place

With selfless faith

With selfless faith

I see a near revival

Stirring as we pray and seek

We're on our knees

We're on our knees

[Chorus]

Heal my heart and make it clean

Open up my eyes to the things unseen

Show me how to love like you have loved me

Break my heart from what breaks yours

Everything I am for your kingdoms cause

As I go from nothing to

Eternity

Hosanna

Hosanna

Hosanna in the highest [x2]

Lord, you are the King of glory, and I am on my knees in prayer to you this day.  Oh, how I want to see a generation, rising up to take their place in this community of believers...a generation with a faith so deep and wide, that nothing would stop them from taking on the calling of following Christ no matter where He leads.  I pray this for Alyssa and Kyle especially.  That people would not look down on them because they are young, but that they would be an example to others in speech, in life, in love, in faith and in purity.  I pray for a revival in our children's hearts, that their faith becomes their own, and they live out of the firm conviction that you, Lord, are their God!  Let their generation take up your banner, and follow you all the days of their lives!

Stand in Awe

"I stand in awe of your deeds, O Lord."  Habakkuk 3:2

Daria, Kyle, and Alyssa...Oregon Coast...2005

Sometimes, when you see evidence of God in your life, you just have to raise your hands in worship.  I'm not sure if that is what Daria was really doing in this picture, but I know that every time I see the power of the ocean, my heart just wants to cry out in worship.  What are the things in your life, that move you to stand in awe and adoration of our God?  

A beautiful sunset.

My children's laughter.

The sound of the river rushing by.

The smell of lilacs.

A child talking about God, or singing their heart out to Him.

Crickets outside my window.

A rainbow.

There are a lot of things that aren't "cool", "sound interesting", or are "bo-rrring" in a teenager's life.  It's a common occurence to hear those things around here.  Oh how I want my kids to recognize God in their every day lives, and find things that move them to worship Him.  There is nothing, and no one, more worthy of our awe.

Lord, you are so worthy of our praise. You deserve all of our honor, adoration, and awe.  You are so evident in the daily things our lives, yet often we miss it.  Lord, open my children's eyes so that they may see you clearly.  May they stand in awe of your power and majesty when they look at your creation.  Or sense your love when they read your Word, or see you in someone else's life, or recognize your blessings.  I pray that my children recognize your presence, and your work in their lives, moment by moment.  Lord, I want them to always stand in awe of your deeds, your presence, and your blessing.  God, you are so good!

Facebook Praise

"Many, O Lord my God, are the wonders you have done. The things you planned for us no one can recount to you; were I to speak and tell of them, they would be too many to declare."  Psalm 40:5

I loved seeing this on my daughter's Facebook status yesterday...

And this...

Not only did I love seeing that my daughter truly recognizes God's love for her, and that He blesses her with wonderful things, but she was also willing to share that with 360 of her "closest" friends.  Some of those friends may not even know Christ in a personal way, but they got to see an inside picture of His love and blessing in someone else's life.  She was not ashamed to give credit, honor, and praise, where praise was due! 

I pray that my children's eyes are always open to the many ways God is trying to get their attention, and remind them of His love for them.  For some it may be a rain shower, for others it may finding the perfect parking spot, but He wants to speak to each one of us individually and intentionally.  What an amazing thing to ponder and hold onto. 

Oh how He loves you and me!
Let's shout it for the whole world to hear!

Lord, I pray that we become people who continually offer to you a sacrifice of praise, so that the whole world will know you in a personal and precious way.  May our praise always be on the forefront of our minds, and on the tip of our tongues.  Open our children's eyes, dear Jesus, that they may see all the wondrous ways you show them your love.  Help them to recognize the blessings you shower them with, and the treasures you place in their lives as a reminder that they are your children.  In turn, may they always be faithful to declare your praise, and give you thanks.  God you are so good, and I can hardly comprehend your abundant blessing in our lives.  Thank you for the blessing of rain, in my daughter's life.  Lord, you give good gifts, and I give you praise.