Monday, October 29, 2007

My M&M Date...


It's been awhile since I've gone on a date...I think the last one was with Dad back at Father's Day weekend!

Well, there happens to be a certain friend of mine that I care a lot about...however, it seems like we haven't had a lot of time to talk or hang out for awhile! (I'm a big quality time person!) So a couple days ago I thought I'd do something about it! "MaryAnn? Do you think you'd have time in your schedule for us to go out on a M&M date together?" (If you haven't figured out yet, M&M stands for MaryAnn and Melody, and while we don't usually eat a lot of M&M's....they've kinda become our own little code name!) Well...thankfully, MaryAnn said she would have time....so once my day off came (today), I set to work!

MaryAnn had no idea what I had up my sleeve...as it turned out, it was actually a picnic in her living room! (I told her she had to use her imagination and pretend it was some exquisite restaurant somewhere!!) As to be expected, we had a wonderful time! While the food was great, I think the heart-to-heart talk was the best! Thanks MaryAnn!

And yes...we still had M&M's left over! So there will be more for another time...

Hmmmm....what exactly is a "M&M date?"


Well, for one it consist of good food, sparkling juice, candles and of course...M&M's!!


But most of all...it consist of time with a good friend named MaryAnn! :-)

Sunday, October 28, 2007

How to Achieve 101% in Life...



From a strictly mathematical viewpoint: What Equals 100%? What does it mean to give MORE than 100%? Ever wonder about those people who say they are giving more than 100%? We have all been in situations where someone wants you to GIVE OVER 100%. How about ACHIEVING 101%? What equals 100% in life?

Here's a little mathematical formula that might help answer these questions:

If: A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z

Is represented as: 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26.

If: H-A-R-D-W-O-R- K
8+1+18+4+23+15+18+11 = 98%

And: K-N-O-W-L-E-D-G-E
11+14+15+23+12+5+4+7+5 = 96%

But: A-T-T-I-T-U-D-E
1+20+20+9+20+21+4+5 = 100%

THEN, look how far the love of God will take you:

L-O-V-E-O-F-G-O-D
12+15+22+5+15+6+7+15+4 = 101%

Therefore, one can conclude with mathematical certainty that: While Hard Work and Knowledge will get you close, and Attitude will get you there, It's the Love of God that will put you over the top!

*Now how many of you took my word on this being correct addition, or did you go and try it yourself??? I have to admit, I had to try it myself to believe it! But it all adds up perfectly!! ;-) Isn't that incredible! Thanks Mom M. for passing on this unique e-mail forward!

Thursday, October 25, 2007

The Refiner's Fire burns hotter...


A bar of steel worth five dollars, when wrought into horseshoes, is worth ten dollars. If made into needles, it is worth three hundred and fifty dollars; if into penknife blades, it is worth thirty-two thousand dollars; if into springs for watches it is worth two hundred and fifty thousand dollars. What a drilling the poor bar must undergo to be worth this! But the more it is manipulated, the more it is hammered, and passed through the fire, and beaten and pounded and polished, the greater the value. May this parable help us to be silent, still and long-suffering. Those who suffer most are capable of yielding most; and it is through pain that God is getting the most out of us, for His glory and the blessing of others.

"I will make thee a new sharp threshing instrument..." Isaiah 41:15

Yes, it's amazing the value that can come to an object through the tools of a master workman, and through the process of refinement. And what more can God do with our human hearts yielded to His hands and to His will?

"But who may abide the day of his coming? and who shall stand when he appeareth? for he [is] like a refiner's fire, and like fullers' soap: And he shall sit [as] a refiner and purifier of silver: and he shall purify the sons of Levi, and purge them as gold and silver, that they may offer unto the LORD an offering in righteousness." Malachi 3:2-3

Here is encaptured the whole essence and beauty of the refining process...an OFFERING OF RIGHTEOUSNESS!!! No, it's not pleasant to be "in the fire." It is not pleasant to have the impurities beat out of ones heart and life...but it's for a grander purpose and end.

When struggling over different circumstances that God has allowed into my life, I love this quote in Ministry of Healing:

"The fact that we are called upon to endure trial shows that the Lord Jesus sees in us something precious which He desires to develop. If He saw in us nothing whereby He might glorify His name, He would not spend time in refining us. He does not cast worthless stones into His furnace. It is only valuable ore that He refines." MH pg 471

So if God is working some great refining process in your life, if you have some great testing trial or pain, remember that it is because He considers you to be VALUABLE and WORTH the process and you will have a beautiful offering of righteousness to give as a result.

Tuesday, October 23, 2007

Developing Characteristics for life eternal?

I guess I always loved LISTS...visual comparisons...charts and graphics that help me more clearly see WHAT it is I need to remember. As I've been doing my own personal Bible study on the Great Controversary (looking up key verses and points etc), I have also been formulating a list of characteristics that we're told in scripture will differentiate the SAVED from the LOST. This is by no means an exhaustive list (I'm still developing it as I study), but I thought I'd share it none the less by way of more inspiration.

One thing I know for sure is that those SAVED when Jesus comes back, will not be saved by accident...but because DECIDED EFFORT was made to KNOW GOD and to be RIGHT WITH GOD. Those that don't make effort can't expect to end up on the right side! Hmmm.....serious things to think about. (For more inspiring and enlightening study...I highly recommend readers to look up the references I've included after each characteristic!)

Those that are SAVED have the following characteristics
1. Have repented of sins and Confess Jesus as Lord with no other gods before Him. (Ex 20:3, I John 1:9, Rom 10:9)

2. Are poor in Spirit/destitute of self (Mt 5:3, Job 42:6 - Greek 4434)

3. Meek, Thirst after righteousness, Pure in Heart, Peacemakers (Matt 5:5-9)

4. Are overcomers and believe God and His Word at all cost and thru all circumstances (Rev 12:11, Rev 21:7, Rom 8:35-39, Mark 13:13)

5. Love and serve others, especially the least of these! (Matt 25:40, John 15:12,13)

6. Crucify the lust of the flesh, lust of the eyes and the pride of life! (Gal 5:16)

7. Lay up treasures in Heaven (Matt 6:19,20)

8. Fear God and keep His commandments, faithful in little things. (Matt 7:21 & Ecl 12:13, Matt 25:21)

9. Rely on the Blood of the Lamb and Christ righteousness, knowing they are not saved by anything of themselves. (Eph 2:8-9, Rev 12:11)

10. KNOW GOD and have an intimate relationship with Him. (Jer 24:7 God will give us a heart to know Him if we ask!! Jer 31:34, Titus 1:16)

Those that will be LOST have the following characteristics

1. Delight in sin and deny that Jesus Christ is Lord. (Isa 66:3-4, Mic 3:2-4 & I John 2:22) Or Profess to know God, but whose life and works deny God (Titus 1:16)

2. Proud, lofty, high minded and full of SELF, blinded from truth (II Cor 4:4, Isa 2:12,17)

3. Those that are vile, love darkness rather than light, whoremongers, sorcerers, idolaters, liars, false witness, those that sow discord among others and are quick to get into mischief and strife, those that shed innocent blood, those who have sold their lives, hearts and soul to the "false belief system of the world" and have become drunk with the blood of error and apostasy!
(Prov 6:16-19, II Thes 2:10-11, John 3:19, Rev 14:8, & 21:8)

4. Fearful and of little faith -They have no backbone for right, and give way under tribulation. (Matt 13:20,21 Rev 6:15-17)

5. Ignore the hungry cries of humanity, despise the thirsty, shun the stranger, mock the naked, turn away from the sick, forget those in prison. In other words, only look out for their own self interest. (Matt 25:41-46)

6. Walk after the flesh and gratify the lust of the flesh, lust of the eyes, and the pride of life. (Gen 3:6, I John 2:16)

7. Preoccupied and consumed by the cares of this life and laying up treasures on Earth. (Matt 13:22 & James 5:3, Rev 3:17)

8. Transgress the law of God with no regret, not faithful in little things. (I John 3:4, Matt 25:24-30)

9. Negate Christ’s sacrifice and seek to gain salvation by their own good works. Wearing their own righteousness (wedding garment) rather than Christ’s. (Matt 22:11-13)

10. Do not KNOW GOD personally...and He does not know them! (Matt 7:23, Matt 25:12

Can you imagine living your whole life in comfortable Christianity, avoiding the evil crowds, and going to church...being who you thought was a good person....basically. And then Jesus coming back to take His people home...and you are LEFT BEHIND! "But wait, wait Jesus! Did you forget me? Aren't I going too?" you cry. And Jesus sadly answers... "I don't know you...you may have done many good things and avoided many bad things...but you never studied to REALLY KNOW ME!"

What heartbreaking anguish that would be! But it's nothing to take lightly, for we are told that this WILL BE the story of many professed Christians at the end of time.

"Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven. Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works? And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity." Matt 7:21-23

Monday, October 22, 2007

California is smoking!


See the smoke in the air around our housing division! The sky has been kinda yellow ashy all afternoon. Besides seeing the news at work yesterday, this was the first evidence I had that fires were burning...

Fires from a distance...



This picture I took this evening about 8pm right outside my doorstep with my 300mm zoom. I'm guessing that this is the fire that started up near Lake Arrowhead that has already destroyed over a hundred homes. This is only one of the blazes that we can see on the mountain ridge to our North...probably 20-30 miles away.

Watching the fire line



This photo I took just now (about 10:15pm) before going to bed! You can tell the intensity has increased. The dark leaves in foreground are right outside my window!

Hmmm...it's getting a little too warm around here!



Taken 10:15 with 300mm lense on tripod! (Dare I go to sleep?)

The Refiner's Fire...

As I type this post, I can smell the thick scent of smoke in the air. Yes, as most of you probably know by the news reports...Southern California is smoking! And it's no joking matter. Over 200,000 people (some I even know) have already been evacuated from their homes...and some 90+ thousand acres have already gone up in smoke just in the last 2 days. In fact, as you saw in the picture above...when I step out my doorway, I can actually see the glow of fire up on the mountain across the valley from Loma Linda. Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger has already declared a number of counties to be in a "State of Emergency" and they say these fires are already worse than the fires of 2003. (Hmmmm.....I wasn't here then, but I guess that means these are pretty bad!)

Whatever the case...we know as time gets closer to the END, that more and more trials and calamities are going to fall upon the earth.

Is it any coincidence...our Church lesson study this quarter is titled, "The Refiner's Fire"? My housemate Susy was just watching the Hope Channel while she ate supper this evening, and the speaker was talking about the "fires of tribulation" that are going to strengthen us for God's coming. (This sermon was filmed last week...so no pun planned regarding California!) I also just started reading the booklet by Denis Smith, "Holy Spirit Baptism and Deliverance." The picture on the cover is of a dove flying out of a fire...hmmmm....fire, Fire, and more FIRE...seems like there seems to be a theme here!

This last week's lesson that we studied in Sabbath school was based on the text in 1 Pet 1:6 that says, "In this greatly rejoice, though now for a little while, if need be, you have been grieved by various trials." Then there was an illustration about the "Birdcage." I have to share this quote because it's been such a blessing to me over the recent years. It goes like this:

"In the full light of day, and in hearing of the music of other voices, the caged bird will not sing the song that his master seeks to teach him. He learns a snatch of this, a trill of that, but never a separate and entire melody. But the master covers the cage, and places it where the bird will listen to the one song he is to sing. In the dark, he tries and tries again to sing that song until it is learned, and he breaks forth in perfect melody. Then the bird is brought forth, and ever after he can sing that song in the light. Thus God deals with His children. He has a song to teach us, and when we have learned it amid the shadows of affliction we can sing it ever afterward." Ministry of Healing pg 472

Yes, often it seems that we are all alone, trying our hardest to sing the song God has for us...all is dark around us. Yet, as this story illustrates, it's all for a reason. But until we can learn the song and sing it both in darkness and light...it seems that God will keep allowing us to be tested and built. I find it interesting to note that when the children of Israel failed the test of faith at the crossing of the red sea, while God delivered them...He continued to give them tests involving water for many more years. (Either the water was bitter, or they had none...or something else along the line!)

I love what Moses said to these people of little faith though...as they stood with the Egyptian army fast approaching from their front and the red sea at their back.

"Fear not, stand still, and see the salvation of the Lord, which he will shew to you today: for the Egyptians whom ye have seen today, ye shall see them again no more forever. The Lord shall fight for you, and ye shall hold your peace." Ex 14:13,14

How often when faced with discouragement, looming defeat, and overwhelming obstacles, I too give way to complaining and tears. "Why God, why? Why did you bring me this far just to let me die...why did you allow such and such to come about?" But then God's gentle voice chides me... "Melody, do you see me not? I am here with you even in the fire? And all this has been brought upon your path for a purpose...and some day, you'll thank me for it. Don't try to fight your way out in your own strength. You'll just be wasting your time. Just be still...hold my hand...and trust me..."

"In the future life, the mysteries that have annoyed and disappointed us will be made plain. We shall see that our seemingly unanswered prayers and dissapoiunted hopes have been among our greatest blessings." Ministry of Healing pg 474

It is my prayer that God will give each of us strength to stand still and trust Him...even in the fires of life...and to be determined that whether or not we be delivered (it matters not), we will obey the Lord our God! (Dan 3:17,18)

Sunday, October 21, 2007

A Day of Prayer and Fasting


This past Sabbath was spent as a SPECIAL DAY of Prayer and Fasting! "What for?" You might ask. Well, it was for three things specifically. One: Praying to have greater Surrender to God in every area of our lives. Two: Praying to be cleansed from all sin in our lives. And Three: Praying to be more effective witnesses for God. What a powerful combo!!

After church a group of us young adults and believers from Sabbath school (Advent Hope) met at the beautiful home of Hany and Grace. There we had four hours for prayer, praise and inspiration followed by a sundown Agape Supper to break the day long fast. As you will see by the following pictures, we did a lot of singing. (I got to help organize this aspect of the program which was a real delight. I was also blessed to have a great group to work with and sing with!) Then we did a lot of praying...and we were blessed by some wonderful words of inspiration and challenge - given by Tim (pictured below), as well as Mike and Dave. I'm estimating that we had between 30-40 people altogether. While it was a great group, I was kinda disappointed that we didn't have more in attendance. But God knows our needs...

As a recent speaker raised the question..."How many of us are praying/pleading on our knees with God to be right with Him, and begging Him to hurry up and come back? Not as many as should be? Why? Because...frankly we don't want him to come back. Too many of us are just way to comfortable with the life He's given us and the way things are...We have no reason to rush things..."

I have to admit I have too often been that way as well! (And maybe still am!) One thing I'm realizing more and more though is my Great Lack and my Great Need...to not only "Have a broken heart for Jesus and the needs of those around me...but a broken heart that can think ONLY of hastening His return!" And I can't make that happen of my own self and determination...for all my strivings only count for loss. (Just filthy rags!) It's only He that can enable me to have that heart...And I praise Him that He will!!!

Yes, the "Day of Prayer and Fasting" as a group was a real blessing in more ways than one. I'm thankful to be around young adults my age that really care about making their lives right with God and are really praying for His return. I don't know how long I'll be here...but while I am here, I will be thankful!

Songs of Praise and Consecration


Melodious thoughts...


Sharing insights and inspirations as we introduce songs!

Season and Vanessa


These two gals have become real "brights spots" in my life recently! What a blessing to keep meeting more and more godly Christ-centered friends!

Moses playing Violin



Our Music Team


Aren't we a great looking group? We even all MATCH! ;-)

Tim Speaks on the topic of "Unconditional Surrender"



What a blessing Tim! Thanks for the challenge and for sharing!!

People divide into small groups to pray



"Satan's host trembles at the sound of fervent prayer..."



Closing Group prayer around the "Sea of Glass"


Or actually...the pool! As we pray to be re-uinted one day around the "Sea of glass"!

Reflections to carry on...


The "Law of God"...so simple and yet so profound!

"Wherewithal shall a young man cleanse His way? By taking heed thereto according to thy word! Thy Word have I hid in mine heart that I might not sin against thee." Ps 119:9,11

"But be ye doers of the Word and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves!" James 1:22

Thursday, October 18, 2007

Broken Chains!!


"And God's love shines in!"

Just came home from work and wanted to give an update on the girl I talked about in previous post:

Wasn't taking care of her originally today, although it ended up that way in the end. (Again that is another long story!) But I still had the Bible and Bible studies (as well as a promise book, and book by Batchelor "Broken Chains - Finding peace for the Raging Soul") that I had promised to bring for her. When I was finally able to get into her room about mid-morning...her whole face lit up! "You came back! I was looking for you, and since you weren't my nurse today, I was afraid you hadn't come!" It was so sweet. But I was rushed with duties, so couldn't talk long then.

However, later on, when her family was gone for a bit, I went in and we talked some more. I brought her the goodies and showed her how to use the Bible and how to start the studies. We also talked more about the Great Controversary that we are in and what God longs to do for and through us. Her whole face was radiant. Finally, I asked if she wanted me to pray for her again. She nodded eagerly. Then I added (as inspiration hit me), "I always pray....Would you like to pray?" She nodded again. "Yes, but I don't know how." So we talked about prayer more in depth and how God wants us to pour out our hearts to Him as a friend.. With no further prompting...she began to pray as tears coursed down her cheeks and she clutched my hand tightly.

"Dear Lord Jesus, please come into my heart and change my life...I want to know you and love you...and I want to know that you love me...I want you to walk beside me and hold my hand! Please save me Jesus! I need you!"

What's so amazing about God is....although He is the KING of the Universe...and He is our CREATOR, our JUDGE, and our LAWGIVER...He is also our FRIEND...and He doesn't demand eloquent words or great speeches, He just looooongs for us to pour out our hearts in simple trust and surrender to Him!!!!!! (Why, oh why....don't we do this more.....?)

Yes, it was exciting to stand with her, as she cried out to God those simple words. And I know it brought even more joy to God's heart! (We are told that when ONE SOUL comes to Jesus, all Heaven rejoices!) I'm just in awe in gratitude and praise...and to think that God honors each of us with such a sacred task of spreading His love. It brings goose bumps to my spine...and humbles my heart. Although I've touched and tasted the love of God, I'm humbled that God would use me, for I still have sooo far to go in learning to really pass it on! While one soul is closer to the Kingdom, there are still thousands...millions more to reach...

WHAT AM I DOING WITH MY LIFE TO REACH THE OTHERS?? What are you doing with yours???

"The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance." II Pet 3:9

"Search me oh God...and know my heart...try me and know me thoughts...and see if there be any wicked way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting..." Ps 139

Tuesday, October 16, 2007

Another God ordained appointment...



Today at the hospital, started out like most others. I arrived just on time, put my lunch in the staff fridge, stashed my water bottles up on the shelf in the lounge, got out my notebook and clipboard, put my nurses kit (of alcohol swabs, scissors, tape and pens) in my pocket, and threw my stethoscope around my neck. Then I headed to the nurses station to get report. However, things were not to go as I planned. When I went to look at the assignment sheet I realized that I had been "floated" to another floor. It happens so rarely, that I hadn't even bothered to check before I put all my stuff away. So, back to the lounge I went to gather things up as I hurried for the "float floor." Now I was running late.

When I got to the "float floor" I found that I was working as a "team" (which means I work with an LVN and have the possibility of 10 patients instead of 5!) I actually had 7 to start with, several discharges planned, and the possibility of 5 admits. So I knew it would be a hectic day. Things went well though, and I was several hours into my full swing routine (changing bandages, hanging antibiotics, nursing wounds, and comforting fears) when I got a call from the charge nurse that they were going to have to pull me back to my main floor. I'm a contract nurse, not permanent staff (even though I have been working at this place basically since February!), and there was also another contract nurse working on the floor today...and I guess it is policy that two contract nurses can't work on the floor at the same time. (Horrors...one of us might not know what to do if there's an emergency or something!) Well, I wasn't really excited about being moved, since I'd already gotten oriented to my patients, and was well into my day, but what was I to do. "God," I prayed. "There must be some reason you are moving me, so I wont complain! You always know best."

So after I finished up a few tasks that I was in the middle of, I gathered up all my "things" once again, and headed back to the main floor. There the nurse, that I would be switching with, and I exchanged report. Partway through her report she told me, "I'm sorry, but I've got a really bad patient to give you. Please forgive me..." And she proceeded to give me the details. Mid 20's Caucasian female, domestic violence case (was run over by an SUV of an angry family member), bone fractures, positive drug test for meth and cocaine upon arrival in ER, needing pain meds every hour which Dr. had ordered (but doctor not willing to allow PCA), very difficult attitude and uncooperative etc etc etc.

As soon as she started telling me about this patient, I instantly knew..."That's why God brought me back to my main floor! He brought me to help save her!!" Well, I had barely gotten my new paperwork in order when this "trouble child" was on the light, demanding for her pain meds and to see "her nurse." I got the stuff together, took a deep breath and prayed, "God, if you open the way today, I'll talk to her. I'll tell her about YOU! But you've got to open the door!" In our initial interaction, she was defiant and demanding...although she seemed to soften a little as I tried to show her I cared and was interested in helping her. It was to be a tough day for her though...as Social services was on the case and due to the "domestic violence and drug tests" was talking about removing her kids from her home. After the Social worker left, she called for me. "Can I talk to you a minute?" she asked. (It was about mid-day at this point.) I asked her family if they would step out a few minutes and closed the doors. Then, praying for true compassion, and the right way to reach her, I gave her my full attention.

"What's going on?" I asked. "Tell me more what happened and why you are here...." She told me stuff, but I could tell it was a cover-up. Then the drug issue came up. "I don't do drugs very often, really. I'm a good mom! I don't want to loose my kids!" I let her talk as her tears flowed. "I wasn't doing meth...just marayana!" she insisted at one point...as if one drug might be better than another. "Drug tests don't lie...." I told her. "What's going on in your life? What pain are you trying to cover up?" More tears came as she just looked at me. Then she began to share more. Finally I whispered softly. "You're not really happy with your life, are you?" "Well, not right now!" she shrugged. "Well, of course, not right now!" I smiled. "Your in a cast in bed and in pain, and you've been told lots of bad news...you shouldn't be happy now. But what I want to know is overall, before all this happened, where you happy and at peace with life?" "I guess not, not really. The drugs just help numb the pain, when I don't know what else to do!" she replied softly. I nodded understandingly as I let her talk some more. Finally I whispered, "You know what? There is a better way! There is a way to have true peace!!" I let there be a pregnant pause. "Have you ever given God a chance?"

And so we began to really talk...God had opened the door! It was more than just a minute...and as her ears grasped the Words of truth...not my words...but the Words of the One who sent me, I could see hope coming to her eyes. Finally we prayed together.

The afternoon went on, but her attitude had changed. The only thing she kept asking me was, "How much longer are you my nurse? You'll tell me before you leave, wont you?" Finally with only about half an hour to go, she called me back to her room. There was family chatting all around, but in her eyes, I could see the unspoken words. "Would you like to talk again?" I whispered. She nodded her head, "yes!" I asked the family to leave and again closed the door. "So what can I do for you? What are you thinking?" I asked. "I want you to pray for me again!" she sniffed as the tears again returned to her eyes. "What did you think about what I shared with you today?" I probbed. "I want to know God...but I don't know where to start. Can you tell me how?" there was an earnestness in her voice and tone. (Oh how my heart does burst with joy at such a request!!) "I would love to tell you how!" I replied. And so we talked some more. Again I prayed with her, and promised I'd bring something for her when I return to work.

When I left, while there was still pain, and still trials and still trauma to work through, I saw a peace and a hope in her eyes...and I just breathed a prayer of thanks and gratitude to God! He orchestrated our meeting...If I'd stayed on the floor to begin with, I wouldn't have gotten to take care of her, because the nurse that I switched with had taken care of her for 2 days already...so...God had to send me away, before He brought me back!

So, while I didn't understand initially (Why all this switching...why can't the supervisors and staffing get their act together) I know there was a purpose for what happened today, and I just praise Him!!!!!! What a thrilling feeling to know, while some people don't seem to have their act together...God always does!!!!!

*Pray that this wont be the end of her story...but only the beginning!

Saturday, October 13, 2007

Climbing Mt San Gorgonio!

Mountain tops, Meetings and Toe trucks...

Well, I've a few things to catch everyone up on, don't I? Probably after the last post I have a few people in suspense. Suspense is fun though, right?! :-) To put it mildly, this week has been very interesting...but let me back up and re-cap the events in order.

Sunday: I worked Sunday...Sunday's are always quiet at the hospital it seems, as there are less staff, less procedures, and less activities in general. But not this Sunday. It was chaotic...the moment I had one emergency solved, I had another in the making. I'll spare everyone the details for sake of time. Over all though, this contract has been much more enjoyable than the last. I know all the doctor's by face and name now....and even signature (most of the time) and I'm well versed on the procedures and routines. (Being a traveler always makes things a little shaky in that area the first couple months!) So it's been good!

Monday through Wednesday: I actually had 3 days off in a row! This is rare, so it was a real treat. Took some extra time for more in depth study and prayer (about CCBN's future), and also was able to get a few more loose ends of my life in order. Now if they'd only STAY in order!! ;-)

Wednesday: My dream came true once again...in that I got to climb another mountain! (If you can't tell, I love climbing mountains! I think it's at the TOP of my list of hobbies! (Pun intended!) And yes, Whitney is still HIGH on my agenda as well...hopefully for next summer!) Anyway, this time it was Mt. Gorgonio...the tallest in the area here, at 11,500 feet. It was a 17 mile round trip...and once again, my lovely hiking partner was Jen! We had a great time, and the scenery was beautiful. The only complicating factor was that we had an important Creator's Call appointment that evening (the one where we were talking about possibly buying a TV station) and so had to rush down. And thus we literally RAN down the mountain! (Thankfully I had hiking poles, or my knees would have been in real bad shape!) We started hiking at 6:30 am and we're off the mountain by 3:30...so you can tell we were rushing! When we got to the bottom, my feet were really hurting, and I figured I had a few good blisters. But as it turned out, I'd massively bruised my toe-nail beds...and a couple of my toe nails were turning purple! (Ahhhhh yaaa yaaa! What am I to do?!) I ignored the pain, and we took off for our important meeting.

The Big Meeting: Yes, I'm happy to report that the big meeting regarding CCBN expanding into actual Television broadcast went well!! Should I leave it at that...or would that be keeping everyone in suspense again? :-) Well...we didn't come to any conclusions...but we could definitely see God's hand in the meeting. We don't know if God will lead us to pursue buying this station or if He has other plans. However, one exciting thing is that the owners do want to work with us, and are willing to give us "air time" right now...whether we buy the station or not. So that's a huge start!! I also found it interesting that the owner confided in us, at the close of our meeting, that they don't think our meeting is just by chance...but God ordained, and THEY insisted that we meet again this next week to talk further! (Yes, sometimes I still wonder....Faith versus presumption....how do these two play out when it comes to pressing forward for big things for God? Have we done the best with what we have? Is God really leading us to take such a big step, or is it our own pride pushing the way? Whatever the case, I know He still has a lot to teach us, and I just pray that we stay surrendered to Him and seeking His will, not just our own! Please pray that God will direct us and make His plan clear!!!! And I'll keep everyone posted with what details I am free to share.)

I need a "Toe-truck"! Well, it's not the first time I've injured my feet and I'm sure it wont be the last! Back to those swollen toes...while a small matter to worry about, they become a big thing to worry about when you can't sleep because they are throbbing so badly! (Melody - what did you go and do to yourself this time?!!!) The pain was sooo bad, even with ice and Ibuprofen, I slept very little Wednesday night. Unfortunately, Thursday and Friday I was scheduled to work....so what was I to do but go to work and pray for strength to endure. It was a pretty tough day for me and by evening I was limping as the pressure and pain was so bad. Thankfully, I have a doctor friend here that was willing to help, so after work I went to see him. His treatment basically consisted of drilling holes in the top of four of my toe-nails to relieve the build-up of fluid and pressure! (It sounds scary, but it really wasn't bad...and if this ever happens again, I think I'll actually be brave enough to do the procedure myself!) We joked about taking pictures of the process so I could post them on my blog ;-) but I figured that might gross everyone out...so I didn't do that! My toes did feel much much better after that, and Thursday night I slept much better! However, I still had to work Friday. Since I was feeling so much better, I figured I'd be fine...but after being on my feet all day, my feet were throbbing again. And one big toe in particular was hot and inflamed and rebelling majorly! (So the saga continues! I've had it wrapped in a charcoal poultice most of the day, and that seems to have helped decrease the swelling some, but I have a feeling that this toe isn't done talking to me. So pray for it...and me, as well!)

Oh my...there is sooo much more I want to share...like some new exciting events that have been happening in our family lately...like some cool thoughts I got from reading "Saved to Serve" from Ministry of Healing for my devotions this morning...like things we talked about in the lesson study today...like new adventures we are planning...but, as usual there's never enough time. And once again, I am suppose to work tomorrow...so....I guess for now, I'll have to bring this to a close and keep everyone in suspense... ;-)

Until next time...Melodious thoughts to be carried on!

Monday, October 08, 2007

Blessings from a "cracked pot"



He only breaks us that He may better make us!

Does the greatest love flow from a cracked pot? It did at Calvary! And it can in our lives too!

Does the most beautiful promise come after the greatest storm? It did when God set His bow in the cloud after the great flood, and it did in Job's life...and it can in ours too!

Does the most beautiful perfume come from crushed petals? It did in the dying voice of the martyrs...and it can in our lives today too!

Thus I believe God allows us to be crushed, broken, and tempest tossed....so that our lives can exhibit the greatest fragrance for Him! Rather than looking at our flaws or failures, or the wounds we've had to endure, as things to resent...we can see them as tools to make us into stronger more radiant people, ready for His kingdom!

To bring this thought closer home, let me share an inspiring allegory that was recently brought to my in-box and attention. :-)

A water bearer in India had two large pots. Each pot hung on each end of a pole which he carried across his neck. One of the pots had a crack in it, and while the other pot was perfect and always delivered a full portion of water at the end of the long walk from the stream to the master's house, the cracked pot arrived only half full.

For a full two years this went on daily, with the bearer delivering only one and half pots full of water to his master's house. Of course, the perfect pot was proud of its accomplishments, perfect to the end for which it was made. But the poor cracked pot was ashamed of its imperfection, and miserable that it was able to accomplish only half of what it had been made to do. After two years of what it perceived to be a bitter failure, it spoke to the water bearer one day by the stream.

"I am ashamed of myself, and I want to apologize to you."

"Why?" asked the bearer. "What are you ashamed of?"

"I have been able, for these past two years, to deliver only half my load because this crack in my side causes water to leak out all the way back to your master's house. Because of my flaws, you have to do all of this work, and you don't get the full value from your efforts," the pot said.

The water bearer felt sorry for the old cracked pot, and in his compassion he said, "As we return to the master's house, I want you to notice the beautiful flowers along the path."

Indeed, as they went up the hill, the old cracked pot took notice of the sun warming the beautiful wild flowers on the side of the path, and this cheered it some. But at the end of the trail, it still felt bad because it had leaked out half its load, and so again it apologized to the bearer for its failure.

The bearer then said to the pot, "Did you notice that there were flowers only on your side of the path, but not on the other pot's side?"

"That's because I have always known about your flaw, and I took advantage of it. I planted flower seeds on your side of the path, and every day while we walk back from the stream, you watered them. For two years now, I have been able to pick these beautiful flowers to decorate my master's table. Without you being just the way you are, he would not have this beauty to grace his house."

Moral of the story: Each of us has our own unique cracks and flaws. We're all cracked pots. But if we will allow it, the Lord will use our flaws to grace His father's table. What a profound and beautiful lesson. Thanks Julie for bringing this story/allegory back to my attention. I had it in my own e-mail files, but had not thought about it for awhile, so it was encouraging to remember.

Sunday, October 07, 2007

Arkansas girls turn Californian!


Well....not quite! ;-)

The good news and bad news about Valerie!

Well there's good news and there's bad news...are you in suspense yet? :-) I guess I am a little late on reporting it all!

The good news is that my friend Valerie got hired for her dream job as an ER nurse here at Loma Linda University! !! I knew God would answer our prayer, and we are both so excited about what the future holds. I also know that it will be great preparation for working in the mission field, which Val hopes to do in the future! (So, WAY TO GO VALERIE!)

The bad news, at least for me, is that Valerie is gone home for 3 weeks to be with her family and get more of her things to be out here...and so now Melody has no one to go climb her morning mountain with, share her meals with, or fight over the morning alarm with! ;-) Actually, we don't fight over anything....really! Having Valerie around has been like living with a sister that I love dearly, and she has been such a blessing and encouragement during the last month we've had together. And while I know she will be eventually looking for her own personal domain, we look forward to sharing the "turf" amongst our fearsome foursome (Sunny, Susy, Mel and now Val) for a few more months!

The cool thing is, having Valerie come out to live with us and do nursing out here was something I started praying about almost a year ago! Isn't it amazing the way God answers prayer??

(So Val, we miss you but are sooo excited about what God has in store! I'm also glad you can enjoy some vacation time with your family before you hit the working world again full force!)

Thursday, October 04, 2007

A new look at the Cross...


This morning as Val and I hiked up our "La MontaƱa de CorazĆ³n" the words to the song, "There is power in the Blood" came home to me with new significance.

Half-way up to our destination hilltop, at the top of one of the overlooks, someone had arranged a cross with wood and rocks. On the corners of the cross-beams and at the bottom, where Jesus feet would have been, was what looked like fresh blood. (I'm sure it was actually probably more like ketchup or red sauce. None the less, the semblance was sobering.) At the foot of the cross was a row of rocks spelling the word Jesus, in sacred rememberance.

I began to sing the words to the old favorite song...but instead of just reciting the memorized lines, I saw them in a new light...as questions and a simple answer...an answer that God gave to change our lives!

"Would you be free from the burden of sin?
There's power in the blood!

Would you o'er evil a victory to win?
There's power in the blood!

Would you be free from your passion and pride?
There's power in the blood!

Come for a cleansing to Calvary's tide?
There's power in the blood!

Would you do service for Jesus your King?
There's power in the blood!

Would you live daily His praises to sing?
There's power in the blood!

There is power, power, wonder working power...in the blood...of the Lamb!
There is power, power, wonder working power...in the precious blood of the Lamb!

I realized as I sang the words softly to myself, that this song sums up the desires and goals of my life. And yet, I also realized as tears came to my eyes...how often I still fall short. :-(

Yes, I know these answers, yet how often do I still in my own strength try overcome and obtain the victory against the flesh. How often do I still in my own strength try to be free of my "passion and pride." How often do I in my own strength try to love and reach out to those around me?! (No wonder my love supply often runs dry!) But the power...the answer...the strength...it is in the blood! His blood which He shed for me!

Eph 2:13 "But now in Christ Jesus ye who sometimes were far off are made nigh by the blood of Christ."

Of ourselves, we do not have the life, we do not have the strength...but He does! What good news!!! And it was exactly what I needed to be reminded of today!

I John 1:7 "But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship one with another, and the BLOOD of JESUS CHRIST his Son cleanseth us from all sin."

Tuesday, October 02, 2007

Oak Glen Apple Outing


This afternoon, Valerie and I joined a couple friends (Doug and Dave) for an outing up to Oak Glen. As you will see by the slide show, Oak Glen is well known for it's many apple orchards and "quaint" (my favorite word today) little shops and homey farms. We also got to walk on some beautiful trails and enjoy a little bit of peaceful nature scenery. It was a breath of fresh air! (Literally!) The afternoon ended with us sharing an apple pie together. (Although it was a little higher on the sugar content than I prefer, I'd only had a granola bar and some fruit since breakfast, so I was starved!) However, I got some apples to bring home so I can make my own pie! :-)

Seeing sooo many apples all in one place reminded me of the "apple season" at home that I usually share with my family. (Ahhhh....yes, I have to admit, I'm a weee bit homesick!) And then it also reminded me of what Grandma use to always say, "An apple a day keeps the doctor away!" (In other words...eat healthy, so you don't have to go see a doctor!) The funny thing is, my grandpa was a doctor! ;-)

All in all, it was a fun afternoon and wonderful to get out of the city for a bit. And I look forward to going back with our Advent Hope group in a few weeks.

Capistrano Beach



Here are a few pictures from Sabbath's adventures at Capistrano Beach. Valerie and I, along with Becca (who was visiting for the weekend), and Season and Vanessa took off for the beach not long after church. It was a gorgeous day to be out! Later in the afternoon, the Advent Hope Youth group joined us, and we had a beautiful sundown worship, as the photos will show!

Making shadows on the sand!



Season in contemplation


Friends are such treasures!



It was so great to have Rebecca with us for a few days! (I hope Beav takes some more trips away! Ha ha!)

Gemalli and Edwin



Gemalli hurt her foot, so couldn't walk very far! But thankfully she has Edwin to help carry her! Hmmmm, I don't think he minded too much! ;-)

My beautiful friend Rebecca, missing her "honey."



I think she's actually talking to him on her "blue-tooth" when I took this photo! ;-)

The ants descend upon us!



This is when the Advent Hope Group arrived. It was funny, because we kinda felt like we were being surrounded. But it was good to have them all there!

In the glow of the setting sun...


It got cold when the sun began to set, so we had to huddle!



Worship



Our two new Special friends, Vanessa and Season



The dawn of a new week!


My closing shot of the day...and what a fitting restful scene to end the Sabbath and begin a new week!

"Go wash and be clean..."



This past weekend, the story of Naaham, the leper in II Kings 5 was brought back to my mind in a new way by our AH speaker Adrian. The whole story is fascinating, but one little aspect really stuck out to Valerie and I, so I wanted to share that here.

First off, quick overview: Naaman was a prestigous and honored man, for he was captian of the host of the king of Syria. But there was one big thing against him. He had leprosy.

Well, it so happened that he had a little servant girl living in his home and working for his wife that, although she had been taken from her own home and people, still remembered and reverenced the God of Heaven. And she remembered that there was a prophet in Israel who could heal leprosy. So she shared that information with Naaman's wife who in turn shared it with Naaman.

Was there the slight possible hope that this could be true? Well, the King of Syria sent Naaman to Israel and on Naaman's behalf wrote the King of Israel and asked for Naaman's healing. Of course, the King of Israel was the wrong person to go to, and he rent his clothes in anguish as he felt that it was a set-up to make a quarrel between Israel and Syria. But thankfully, the prophet Elisha heard about the visit and asked to have Naaman come to see him. So Naaman went to see Prophet Elisha.

However, when Naaman arrived at the prophet's home with all his pomp and circumstance, the prophet did not even come out to see Naaman, but instead sent his servant out to greet him. The simple message was, "Go wash in the Jordan seven times and you will be clean!" Naaman was undoubtly furious. "How dare he? He doesn't even come out to see me, but instead sends me to wash in the river! Does he think I need a bath?"

But here is where the important part of the story comes in, and I'll let the verse speak for itself:

"And his servants came near, and spake unto him, and said, My father, [if] the prophet had bid thee [do some] great thing, wouldest thou not have done [it]? how much rather then, when he saith to thee, Wash, and be clean?" II Kings 5:13

How often do we tell God, "If you ask me to do some great thing....I'll do it! I'm willing!" But when He asks us to do the little things, we bawlk at obedience. Or we'll justify our lackness in the small areas as we rationalize, "But I do the important things! What's the big deal if I don't always obey in the little details. They are just little anyway...no one will notice!"

But God is a God of the small details and specifics...and He knows...if we can't honor him in the little areas of our lives, when we are really put to the test, we wont be able to stand for the big areas either. So, I see over and over again.....while there are big tests throughout our lives.....the majority of our tests are little ones.....day after day, when no one is looking, and when no one can get credit.

Thus an important question to be asking: "Are we willing to do the small things that He asks of us? Are we willing to be obedient in the little daily details and principles of His law?" If not, we can't expect Him to honor us with higher trusts or more responsibilities, can we? For, "He that is faithful in that which is least is faithful also in much: and he that is unjust in the least is unjust also in much." Luke 16:10