Gratefulness & Guatemala

I don’t want for a thing. Not a single item.

I’ve been known to spout lectures to my kids about how they need to be grateful and appreciate what we have – every single last thing.

But gratefulness isn’t just about things. Gratefulness is an attitude, a perspective. Yes, all the things are part of it because that’s the kind of world in which we live.

Gratefulness goes far beyond the things and takes root in our hearts. {Tweet that.}

My husband, oldest daughter, and I went to Guatemala last year. {Read more about that here.} We spent a week there, helped build some houses, and distributed wheelchairs, clothing, and food. And that one week spent in a foreign land almost eight months ago has rocked my own world.

While building houses there, the beginning was a concrete slab. The middle involved metal walls, a roof, and a couple windows. The end result was a sturdy, blue-painted house that far surpassed these families’ previous housing.

Yes, the houses were blessings that I’m sure spurred gratefulness in these Guatemalan families. How could they not? But I’m not sure the houses were necessarily the intended result. The hearts of the people – the ones who call Guatemala home and those of us serving – are what ultimately matters.

Sure, those families are better cared for because they have a roof over their heads, but I pray they know the love of Jesus in a new way too. We gave them food, but did they realize we really wanted to give them love that truly nourishes. Absolutely, God cares for our physical needs, but he yearns for our souls. {Tweet that.}

I’m still feeling the effects of that one week. That trip spurred on a couple new friendships and offered a new perspective. In any given moment, I appreciate my life and my things while longing for a simpler, less cluttered lifestyle.

And I understand gratefulness in a new way that I’m praying overflows onto my kids.

“The very thing most parents long to give their kids – a grateful heart – is destroyed in our attempt to simultaneously give them the world. It’s hard to have both because true thankfulness is experienced when we first understand we are missing something. And that’s hard to teach when we are trying to give them everything. When we have everything, we are thankful for nothing. When we have nothing, we are thankful for everything.”

(Kristen Welch in “Raising Grateful Kids in an Entitled World”)

It’s nearly impossible to live the American dream and long for God’s Kingdom at the same time. But the everlasting kingdom is better than any fleeting dream, so that’s what I want to hold onto here in the middle of it all.
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I’m excited to join Britta Lafont for her Meet Me in the Middle Project during Lent, when I’m going to slow down and notice the pieces of life I bypass in a rush. Find all the details about the Meet Me in the Middle Project here or reference Britta's introductory post.

#ThreeWordWednesday friends, I'd love for you join in Meet Me in the Middle by linking up there and here, but the weekly #ThreeWordWednesday link up is open as usual even if you're not participating in this Lenten project. I'm always so glad y'all are here.

An InLinkz Link-up

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"Peace in the Process: How Adoption Built My Faith & My Family" is available on Amazon. Like me on Facebook, follow me on Twitter, peek into my life on Instagram, or follow 152 Insights at Bloglovin'.

No performance required

My third-grade girl was nervous about a poem she had to recite at school. She knew every word to “Animal Crackers.” Sure, they came out too quickly and she could have spoken louder when she practiced in our kitchen. But she knew what she was doing.

Yet fear sneaked in. Tears came. Nerves abounded.

As I comforted her, I remembered every night before I had a school presentation when I was growing up, I would get irritable and nervous. Tears weren’t strangers to my preparations either.

But I don’t want that for her. I want her to stand in a confidence I never knew. I want her to realize she may mess up when she’s standing in front of her class, but life is okay anyway. I want her to realize her performance – with this poem or anything else – doesn’t define her.

I told her all these things. And then we opened up her bible to 1 John 4:17-18:

“This is how love is made complete among us so that we will have confidence on the day of judgment: In this world we are like Jesus. There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear, because fear has to do with punishment. ...”

She is loved perfectly by the one who made her. She doesn’t have to score well or speak perfectly to earn God’s affection. Sure, as her mom, I want her to do her best, but she’s already loved.

The same can be said for you and me.

Join me at God-sized Dreams, where I'm sharing the rest of this post. 
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An InLinkz Link-up

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Trust without borders

“Spirit lead me where my trust is without borders

Let me walk upon the waters

Wherever You would call me

Take me deeper than my feet could ever wander

And my faith will be made stronger

In the presence of my Savior”

{From “Oceans” by Hillsong UNITED}

We sang this song in church on Sunday and I can’t get the phrase “trust without borders” out of my head. Admittedly, I used to turn the station when this song came on the radio. Its popularity got on my nerves. But then our worship leader at church sang it and I heard it in a fresh way.

I love when God does that. I love knowing he can take words we’ve heard hundreds of times before and make them fall fresh on our lives.

Trust without borders.

That’s what I want – in all areas of my life.

Specifically, I’ve been thinking about my relationship with Rachel’s birth mom. Like our others before, the adoption process was open. But the post-birth interaction with Stacy has been different than our other experiences. It’s not what I expected but I believe it’s exactly what God knows is needed. My emotions about the grief intertwined with joy in adoption spill over easily this time. I want to mother my baby’s birth mom. I want to help her find a job. I want to buy her groceries.

But I know at this point that’s not what I’m supposed to do. For months, I didn’t know what that meant for our relationship. Then she reached out to me via text. She confided in me and trusted me the details of her life. We got together for about an hour at a local coffee shop before Thanksgiving and have texted again since. Our latest text conversations stirred my emotions again – for her, for the birth dad, and for this sweet little life that bonds us.

I realize God is answering the prayers I prayed for Stacy. Giving her money or groceries or ride somewhere is easy compared to navigating an actual relationship. I’m open to having a relationship with her even though I have absolutely no idea what that will look like.

I believe this is where God is calling me, so I need to go there. {Tweet that.}

And I can only go there with God. My human self wants a plan and details for the future. But when I trust the One who orchestrated this relationship, my faith becomes stronger and deeper – and going into the unknown becomes possible.

As we sang in church on Sunday, I realized I too often try to tie my faith up in a box with a pretty bow. My relationship with Stacy is just one example. I’ve been there, hesitating, in a million other ways in marriage, motherhood, my daily life, our mission trip to Guatemala this past summer, and so many moments between.

Faith isn’t always tidy. {Tweet that.} Sometimes it spills all over the place, bringing us to God in a new way. Our faith takes us places that are messy, but God goes with us, bringing beauty from those ashes.
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An InLinkz Link-up

Want more insights? "Peace in the Process: How Adoption Built My Faith & My Family" is available on Amazon. Like me on Facebook, follow me on Twitter, peek into my life on Instagram, follow 152 Insights at Bloglovin', or subscribe to receive "Insights in Your Inbox."

Happy Thanksgiving, friends!

"My counsel for you is simple and straightforward: Just go ahead with what you’ve been given. You received Christ Jesus, the Master; now live him. You’re deeply rooted in him. You’re well constructed upon him. You know your way around the faith. Now do what you’ve been taught. School’s out; quit studying the subject and start living it! And let your living spill over into thanksgiving."

{Colossians 2:6-7 in The Message}

I had multiple ideas for a post this week, but, honestly, all the thoughts aren't coming out into words. But these verses? They're speaking right to me and I hope they do you too.

Happy Thanksgiving, friends!
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An InLinkz Link-up

Want more insights? "Peace in the Process: How Adoption Built My Faith & My Family" is available on Amazon. Like me on Facebook, follow me on Twitter, peek into my life on Instagram, follow 152 Insights at Bloglovin', or subscribe to receive "Insights in Your Inbox."

Faith, Works & Love

“The Bible constantly elevated love over knowledge, mercy over sacrifice. Knowledge is a tricky bedfellow, because it can sometimes shield us from the gospel. Doctrine is tidier terrain than flesh and blood. … Could the highest level of ‘right theology’ involve loving God and people like Jesus suggested?”

{Jen Hatmaker in “For The Love”}

We can give our money and time to so many causes. Those refugees in Syria need help. There are orphans all over the world. Children need sponsored and adopted and fostered and mentored. Wells need to be funded and built. Third-world villages need medical care and access to education. Single moms could benefit from sustainable solutions to their problems. Our neighbors need to be invited in so they can meet Jesus.

We spend so much time acquiring knowledge, waiting for circumstances to be perfectly tidy before we actually do something with what we know. Learning is important. Understanding God’s ways is paramount. But sitting around becoming smarter isn’t worth much if we aren’t out there loving and serving. {Tweet that.}

James reminds us faith without works is dead. Those works don't save us, but they may save someone else. Those works don't determine our identity in God's kingdom, but they can grow God's kingdom.

I can do good work in Jesus' name, but I can't do all the good work. And neither can you.

Facebook is full of good causes. Our friends all promote whatever it is that moves their souls. Hunger. Homelessness. Orphan care. Adoption. Medical aid. Sustainable business opportunities. Life skills. Short-term missions. Long-term missions.

Every single one of those things and so many other causes are important. And we should tell people about them. But they aren't all going to be my things. And my things aren't necessarily going to be yours things.

But when I do my things and you do your things, when we come together with each other, when we open our doors and give our resources, then our small things add up to big things. We make ripples and bring light. We do good works not to save us but to let them see God wants to save them. {Tweet that.}

And we’re going to learn more about God and ourselves in the process, anyway.
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An InLinkz Link-up

I'm linking up with the weekly Soli Deo Gloria Sisterhood Gathering. 

Want more insights? "Peace in the Process: How Adoption Built My Faith & My Family" is available on Amazon. Like me on Facebook, follow me on Twitter, peek into my life on Instagram, follow 152 Insights at Bloglovin', or subscribe to receive "Insights in Your Inbox."

Rejoice, mourn, show up for #ThreeWordWednesday

Adoption creates a community like no other. I’ve talked before about how my relationships with birth moms are unlike any other relationships I’ve experienced – and more specifically what that looked like this time. And then, hopefully, there is the larger community that comes alongside and embraces the process.

Since Rachel was born Sept. 19, people have showed up at our house, on Facebook, at the bus stop, and in the mail box with kind words, gifts and meals. They’ve wanted to hold Rachel and hear more of our story – how we are doing, how the hospital stay was, what Rachel is like, how Cate and Ben are adjusting.

They have embraced us as a family of five and the process of adoption. They have offered prayers for Rachel’s birth mom, understanding our celebration is just one side of the story.

I’m reminded about when my father-in-law Gary unexpectedly died in April 2010 and our people took care of us. Yes, we were surprised by his death, but we were also pleasantly surprised by how people held us together. Talk about bittersweet.

Greg and I have always believed in doing life with our friends, but those days leading up to the funeral and the ones after, people showed up with their words, meals, help and love.

Birth and death really do rally a community and remind me of Romans 12:15 :: “Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn.”

And now, as I sit here with a newborn baby, I’m reminded about how we shouldn’t limit our showing up to birth and death. {Tweet that.} We should show up on the hard days that don’t make sense, the confusing ones that we can’t solve, the happy ones that leave our belly hurting from all the laughter – and all of the days between.
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Speaking of adoption and community, I’ve started an adoption community online. It’s a private Facebook group, where those of us who have adopted or are in the process of doing so gather together to share resources, prayer requests, and adoption happenings.

I’ve long prayed God would use our story to encourage other families and it’s exciting to see that happening. If you or someone you know could benefit from such an adoption group, let me know and I’ll be happy to send an invite to you.
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An InLinkz Link-up

I'm linking up with the weekly Soli Deo Gloria Sisterhood Gathering. 

Want more insights? "Peace in the Process: How Adoption Built My Faith & My Family" is available on Amazon. Like me on Facebook, follow me on Twitter, peek into my life on Instagram, follow 152 Insights at Bloglovin', or subscribe to receive "Insights in Your Inbox."

Three Word Wednesday :: God is detailed

Looking back on what God has done in my life is always good for my soul. Lately, I've had lots of conversations with other women in the midst of their own adoption processes. Some are there for the first time, others have been there before. Regardless, I know how God works in the hearts of mommas preparing to open their homes to babies in this way.

A writer friend of mine recently posted on Facebook Psalm 116:7 :: "Return to your rest, my soul, for the Lord has been good to you." She also talked about how this verse is where God had brought her after a long season of miscarriages and the more recent birth of her third child. 

I get it. I haven't had miscarriages, but I know the heartache of not understanding God's plan to grow my family. I know how waiting is hard. But I've learned God is faithful and hears the desires of our hearts. In his time, we get to understand more of the plan.

With that in mind, I thought I'd share an excerpt from my ebook, "Peace in the Process." Honestly, I just didn't have many new words for #ThreeWordWednesday and I needed this reminder myself. I hope it encourages you, whether or not you're in the midst of adoption. 
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At the time we were preparing for our second adoption, I studied “A Woman’s Heart” by Beth Moore with some ladies at church, learning about the Israelites’ experience building the Tabernacle and drawing parallels to the ways God dwells in his believers. God wanted the earthly Tabernacle to be a replica of a heavenly plan, so much so he instructed the Israelites how to build things, where to put them, and how to decorate them. Yes, our God is someone who appreciates and notices details. {Tweet that.}

Even knowing what God had done for us through Cate’s adoption, I clung to Beth Moore’s words:

“God is detailed. He is not a God of generalities. He is a God of individuality. Do not let Satan convince you that God is not actively involved in the intricate design of your life. God has not missed a single stitch or left a stone unturned on your behalf; furthermore, His activity in the details of your life most often displays His glory and beauty.”

The same God builds families. He has different ways of doing so, but He’s the master planner of them all. And God has been in the business of making families for many generations. Beth Moore commented in one of the Bible study videos that every time God makes childlessness an issue in the Bible as he did with Elizabeth, Hannah and Sarah, he is preparing his people for a miracle.

Every time.

Pregnancy comes easily to so many people – some of whom take the life inside of them for granted. But Beth Moore gave me new perspective on this: This thing that comes so naturally to some came supernaturally to Greg and me. I was chosen to become a mom this way and in the process witnessed God’s glory in a unique way.

Like Elizabeth said in Luke 1:25, “The Lord has done this for me.” I wonder how I will see God’s glory the next time.
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An InLinkz Link-up
   
I'm linking up this post with Works for Me Wednesday because looking back on what God has done in my life definitely works for me! Kayse Pratt is hosting WFMW for Mary Carver. They're two of my favorite bloggers on the whole internet, so go meet them, if you haven't already. And then later I linked up with Soli Deo Gloria Sisterhood, one of my other favorite places on the internet. 

Want more insights? "Peace in the Process: How Adoption Built My Faith & My Family" is available on Amazon. Like me on Facebook, follow me on Twitter, peek into my life on Instagram, follow 152 Insights at Bloglovin', or subscribe to receive "Insights in Your Inbox."

The Biggest Story {Review & Giveaway}

At first glance, “The Biggest Story: How the Snake Crusher Brings Us Back to the Garden” reminded me of “The Jesus Storybook Bible,” another family favorite. Both books have beautiful illustrations and share how the Bible is one continuous, true story.

“The Biggest Story” targets children ages 5-11 years old. Younger kids will probably want someone older to read the book with them. At least that’s what happened at my house. My 8-year-old daughter read this book to my 5-year-old son and then Cate read it more on her own. I asked her what the book taught her about the Bible and she said, “It showed me how all the stories go together.”

That’s exactly right.

We tend to teach children about Bible stories as if they’re individual characters. Adam and Eve started with this. Moses led some people. God asked Jonah to go somewhere else. And then there are these disciples. And Paul has a dramatic conversion. But the people and places of the Bible are intertwined in what truly is The Biggest Story. It’s a story with a beginning, an ending, and so much hope.

“The Snake Crusher is coming back again to wipe away all the bad guys and wipe away every tear. He’s coming to make a new beginning and to finish what he started. He’s coming to give us the home we once had and might have forgotten that we lost. So keep waiting for him. Keep believing in him. Keep trusting that the story isn’t over yet. God’s promises never fail and the Promised One never disappoints.”

{From “The Biggest Story,” page 123}

This book is beautiful and true. It tells the most important story I want my kids to understand. I’ve read it without my kids around and I’m guessing I will many more times – which speaks volumes for a children’s book.

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ABOUT THE BOOK :: In “The Biggest Story,” Kevin DeYoung – a best-selling author and father of six – leads kids and parents alike on an exciting journey through the Bible, connecting the dots from the garden of Eden to Christ's death on the cross to the new heave and new earth. With powerful illustrations by award-winning artist Don Clark, this imaginative retelling of the Bible's core message – how the Snake Crusher brings us back to the garden – will draw children into the biblical story, teaching them that God's promises are even bigger and better than we think. Hardcover; 132 pages; published by Crossway on Aug. 31, 2015. Learn more about it at the book’s official website or buy it at Amazon.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR :: Kevin DeYoung is senior pastor at University Reformed Church in East Lansing, Michigan. He blogs at the Gospel Coalition and has authored or coauthored numerous well-known books, including “Just Do Something,” “The Hole in Our Holiness,” “Crazy Busy,” and “Taking God At His Word.” He lives with his wife and their six children in Central Michigan.

ABOUT THE ILLUSTRATOR :: Don Clark is an artist and the cofounder of Invisible Creature, a widely respected and award-winning design studio in Seattle that has worked with clients such as Target, Nike, LEGO, and WIRED magazine. He lives with his wife and their three children, four goats, 12 chickens, and one crazy dog on a farm just outside the city limits.

GIVEAWAY :: Open to U.S. and Canadian residents, just leave a comment below – tell me why you want to win, share with whom you’d like to read this book, or just say hi. I’m also always accepting book suggestions for my kids and myself, so feel free to toss some of those my way. A winner will be randomly chosen Tuesday, Sept 15.

Update! Congratulations to the winner of this giveaway - Wendy Wilson! Whoo-hoo! The book is coming your way, friend!
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Propeller Consulting/FlyBy Promotions gave me a free copy of this book in exchange for a review and is providing the winner of the giveaway with a copy as well. If you have won a prize from Propeller/FlyBy in the last 30 days or won the same prize on another blog, you are not eligible to win. 

Want more insights? "Peace in the Process: How Adoption Built My Faith & My Family" is available on Amazon. Like me on Facebook, follow me on Twitter, peek into my life on Instagram, follow 152 Insights at Bloglovin', or subscribe to receive "Insights in Your Inbox."

Three Word Wednesday :: Eyes on Guatemala

“Don’t excuse yourself by saying, ‘Look, we didn’t know.’

For God understands all hearts, and he sees you.

He who guards your soul knows you knew.

He will repay all people as their actions deserve.”

{Proverbs 24:12}

I ran into Kim at the pediatrician’s office one day last week and then at the soccer fields this week. She’s my down-the-street-around-the-corner neighbor who organized our Guatemala team. We had texted some but I hadn’t seen her since we came home from the mission trip. I hugged her and told her how I was surprised how much I already want to go back. And then we made plans to lunch together.

The next day I talked about the mission trip to my endocrinologist during my regular diabetes check up. He’s actually from Guatemala and has been in the U.S. for eight years. We talked about poverty and government corruption in his homeland.

I’ve been thinking about our Compassion girl Roselyn. She lives near Guatemala City. Logistics didn’t work out for us to meet her when we were in country, but we hope to some time.

While shopping at a consignment sale, I found a children’s book in both English and Spanish. It took my mind back to Guatemala, where I watched my daughter read the English words while Angelica read the Spanish words of several books. I bought “If I Had a Dragon” (aka “Si Yo Tuviera un Dragon”) and I figure I’ll get it into the hands of a Guatemalan kid one day, somehow.

All these moments collided in my mind last week. Driving to and from my endocrinology appointment, which is an hour a half away, I had “Keep Your Eyes Open” by Needtobreathe on repeat. {This is also the song I used for the video I made about our trip.}

“… Cause if you never leave home, never let go

You’ll never make it to the great unknown til you

Keep your eyes open, my love”

{From “Keep Your Eyes Open” by Needtobreathe}

I want to keep my eyes open. I want to remember what I saw and experienced in Guatemala. Talking to Kim and then Dr. Figueroa and thinking about our week in Guatemala and how we were so close to Roselyn makes me want to go back – and take that book.

We’ve been home 6 ½ weeks and I’m seeing things – most every little and big thing, really – differently. My life is being filtered by my experience in Guatemala. Yes, the poverty I saw makes me thankful for my life and all the many opportunities here. But it also reminds me people here have needs.

I saw God in a new way there. And I want to keep seeing him that way here.

“Don’t let the night become the day

Don’t take the darkness to the grave

I know pain is just a place

The will has been broken …”

{From “Keep Your Eyes Open” by Needtobreathe}

I am notorious for complicating things and holding on too tightly to people and reactions and plans. But, really, the people and places God has used to change me the most weren’t ever part of my own plan. That’s how Guatemala was. That’s how adoption has been. That’s how life in God’s kingdom should be.

And now that I’ve seen God in a new way, there’s no turning back. {Tweet that.}
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Read my other Guatemala-related posts here :: 

Mission to Guatemala

God said GO

Building a foundation & threading love

God makes us new

What, why, how?

What I learned in Guatemala 

With Faith Like a Child

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An InLinkz Link-up
   
Want more insights? "Peace in the Process: How Adoption Built My Faith & My Family" is available on Amazon. Like me on Facebook, follow me on Twitter, peek into my life on Instagram, follow 152 Insights at Bloglovin', or subscribe to receive "Insights in Your Inbox."

{Review} This Is Not A Test by TobyMac

When I got an email about reviewing TobyMac’s new album, I said yes for my kids, especially my son. I like TobyMac well enough, although I admit I sometimes long for the days of dc Talk. But I love watching my kids dance while buckled in the car when TobyMac comes on the radio. I want my kids to like music that speaks truth into their lives. So, if that’s what TobyMac can do for my family, yes, send me some TobyMac.

We’ve been listening to “This Is Not a Test” while driving around town. Like with any new album, we had our instant favorites. My 8-year-old Cate loved “Lift You Up,” a song that features Ryan Stevenson. She said she likes the beat and lyrics: “We’ll lift you up ‘cause you ain’t never going to let us down.”

(We’ll be having a conversation about how ain’t isn’t a word soon, so no worries there.)

My 5-year-old Ben has a personality that TobyMac’s music fits, if you know what I mean. He’s high energy and always moving. He had trouble choosing a favorite but landed on “Backseat Driver,” which features artists Hollyn and Tru.

I really liked “Love Broke Thru” and “Fall.” They each affirmed truth God had already been teaching me. I like when songs do that. And, of course, we were happy to recognize “Beyond Me” from the radio.

“It was just another summer night. It had to be the last thing on my mind when love broke through. You found me in the darkness, wandering through the desert. I was a hopeless fool, now I’m hopefully devoted, my chains are broken – and it all began with you, when love broke through.”

{TobyMac in “Love Broke Thru”}

Okay, so, admittedly, I like that “Love Feels Like” features dc Talk. And you’d know this if you saw our car dancing as my kids and I listened to TobyMac’s new music.
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ABOUT THE ALBUM :: TobyMac’s sixth solo album, “This Is Not a Test” officially releases tomorrow (Aug. 7).

Here’s a listing of all the tracks on the deluxe version –

1. Like a Match
2. Backseat Driver feat. Hollyn, Tru
3. This Is Not a Test feat. Capital Kings
4. Lights Shine Bright feat. Hollyn
5. Til The Day I Die feat. NF
6. Feel It feat. Mr. TalkBox
7. Move (Keep Walkin’)
8. Love Broke Thru
9. Beyond Me
10. Love Feels Like feat. dc Talk
11. Undeniable
12. Lift You Up feat. Ryan Stevenson
13. Fall
14. Beyond Me (Phenomenon Remix By Soul Glow Activatur)
15. Like a Match (Garcia’s Remix)

ABOUT TOBYMAC :: Toby McKeehan – known professionally as TobyMac – is a husband, father, performer, songwriter, producer, and businessman. Growing up in the northern Virginia suburbs adjacent to Washington D.C. helped instill his love for rap music. While attending Liberty University during the mid 80s, Toby met Michael Tait and Kevin Max Smith and these three friends formed the Grammy-winning, platinum-selling group dc Talk. Toby began his solo career in 1999 and released his first solo album in 2001. Between then and now, he’s released four other solo studio albums and a live album.

Starting with dc Talk, and then going solo when the group disbanded, Toby still clings to such notions as hard work, persistence, patience, and the power of music, which he insists is still what keeps him going. “It’s the truth,” he says. “I still believe that a song can penetrate a heart. I believe God can use a song to open someone's mind and heart.”

Learn more online at his website, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, iTunes, and YouTube.

GIVEAWAY :: Use the Rafflecopter widget below for multiple ways to enter this giveaway. A winner will be randomly chosen on Thursday, Aug. 13. This giveaway is open to U.S. and Canadian residents.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

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Thanks to Propeller Consulting/FlyBy Promotions and Capitol CMG Label Group/ForeFront Records for providing me with an early digital version of this album to review. The opinions here are mine – and, well, my kids. Propeller/FlyBy will also send the winner of this giveaway an actual CD. If you have won a prize from our sponsor Propeller/FlyBy in the last 30 days, you are not eligible to win. Or if you have won the same prize on another blog, you are not eligible to win it again. 

This post contains Amazon affiliate links. 

Want more insights? "Peace in the Process: How Adoption Built My Faith & My Family" is available on Amazon. Like me on Facebook, follow me on Twitter, peek into my life on Instagram, follow 152 Insights at Bloglovin', or subscribe to receive "Insights in Your Inbox."

Slugs & Bugs is singing more of the Bible!

While in Guatemala, someone from our team read Matthew 6:19-21 during an evening devotional:

“Don’t store up treasures here on earth, where moths eat them and rust destroys them, and where thieves break in and steal. Store your treasures in heaven, where moths and rust cannot destroy, and thieves do not break in and steal. Wherever your treasure is, there the desires of your heart will also be.”

As soon as the verse started, Cate leaned over to me and said, “That’s a song too.”

Honestly, my favorite kind of music speaks truth into our lives. And that’s why I love Slugs & Bugs’ Sing the Bible. The first album has helped my kids learn scriptures – includes those words from Matthew 6 – as the songs are straight from the Bible. You can see a list of verses being considered for the album here.

I’m obviously excited Randall Goodgame has a Kickstarter campaign underway for Sing the Bible Vol. 2 and was happy to throw in my support. Once this project is funded, there will be more good music that speaks truth right into my kids’ lives. Oh, who am I kidding, I like listening too.

The Kickstarter campaign aims to raise $40,000 by Aug. 17. Take a look at the Kickstarter rewards – there are some fabulous deals! You could stock up on Slugs & Bugs goodies. Hello, early Christmas shopping! Plus have plenty of good music for your own house … or minivan, because, hey, let’s be honest, that’s where most of my Slugs & Bugs listening occurs.
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Nobody asked me to write this post. I just wanted to because I didn't want other families to miss out on this goodness. And, really, I'd recommend all the Slugs & Bugs albums to people. Follow Slugs & Bugs on the web, Facebook and Twitter. You can read some of my previous Slugs & Bugs posts here :: 2011 concert in Murray. 2012 concert in Murray. Sing the Bible Vol. 1 review. 2014 concert in Murray.

Want more insights? "Peace in the Process: How Adoption Built My Faith & My Family" is available on Amazon. Like me on Facebook, follow me on Twitter, peek into my life on Instagram, follow 152 Insights at Bloglovin', or subscribe to receive "Insights in Your Inbox."

Three Word Wednesday :: Gift of Rest

Please welcoming my friend Katie Reid to #ThreeWordWednesday! We connected on the internet and both are part of the God-sized Dreams website writing team. We have a shared passion for adoption and are unwinding our tightly-wound selves as we learn about letting go of perfectionism. This week I'm in the mountains of Guatemala on a mission trip, so I'm thrilled to have Katie's encouragement to share with you today.

For more than a year I have been striving, driving and running out of gas. I see the speedometer near “E” yet insist on going just a little further — pushing the limits, but running on fumes.
I often don’t get enough sleep and foggy brain sets in from having too many tabs open on the home-screen. I struggle to be present. I feel overwhelmed by the house, the hurry and the hiccups —unexpected circumstances that interfere with endless to-do lists.

My husband and I have tried to be more intentional with resting on Sundays — you know, like God told us too. I try not to get online during the day but take a nap and read a book instead. And you know what? I’m starting to love Sundays — especially the ones when I actually unplug and rest. Foregoing the frantic and embracing simplicity is hard for this tightly wound woman, but it is freeing.

A few Sundays ago I declared, “I am going to read a book just for fun. I’m not going to read a how-to-improve book, but a light, make-me-feel-good fiction book.”

I grabbed a book and headed for the hammock. The sun was shining, the wind was blowing gently and peace was waiting.

As I kicked up my heels, I declared a trust in His ability to keep the world in tact — without me at the helm. I laid back and laid down my tendency of “doing.” I breathed deep.

Why had I waited so long to listen to God’s whispers of wisdom? Why had I ignored His invitation to rest?

Daughter,
My yoke is easy.
My burden is light.
And you will find rest for your soul (see Matthew 11:28-30). {Tweet that.}

As I breathed in His grace and breathed out His praise — finally letting God do His thing — I received a gift; the sweet gift of rest.

How foolish I have been, thinking I know better than God.

“God created the universe in 6 days; he rested on the 7th. His message? ‘If creation didn't crash when I rested, it won't crash when you do!’”

—Max Lucado

When we rest we communicate a posture of trust in the One who created the earth and holds it, and us, together. Let’s kick back a little more often and unwrap this gift from the One who knows just what we need.

“Are you tired? Worn out? Burned out on religion? Come to me. Get away with me and you’ll recover your life. I’ll show you how to take a real rest. Walk with me and work with me—watch how I do it. Learn the unforced rhythms of grace. I won’t lay anything heavy or ill-fitting on you. Keep company with me and you’ll learn to live freely and lightly.”  

—Matthew 11:28-30 {The Message}

With Grace,
Katie

Do you struggle to rest? When was the last time you laid down your load and breathed deep? {Tweet that.}
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Katie M. Reid is a tightly wound woman, of the recovering perfectionist variety, who fumbles to receive and extend grace in everyday moments. She delights in her hubby, four children and their life in ministry. Through her writing, singing, speaking and photography she encourages others to find grace in the unraveling of life.

Connect with Katie at katiemreid.com and on Twitter and Facebook.
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An InLinkz Link-up

Want more insights? "Peace in the Process: How Adoption Built My Faith & My Family" is available on Amazon. Like me on Facebook, follow me on Twitter, peek into my life on Instagram, follow 152 Insights at Bloglovin', or subscribe to receive "Insights in Your Inbox."

Three Word Wednesday :: Consider It Joy

As cliché as it sounds, I can’t believe we are well into May. This year has been the Year of Joy. And I don't mean everything has gone according to plan and fit in a box, tied up with a pretty bow.

But God has been teaching me about his joy and how it flows from letting go and laying down and waiting and watching and serving and giving and loving and forgiving. I’m noticing joy in a way I haven’t before. I know deep in my soul that joy doesn't equate to happiness, but it does leave us peace that passes all understanding.

Joy is a choice. {Tweet that.}

Philippians 4:4 :: “Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!” 

Joy doesn’t dictate our circumstances, but instead determines our attitude.

James 1:2-3 :: “Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance.”

Joy comes when we know and seek God.

Romans 15:13 :: “I pray that God, the source of hope, will fill you completely with joy and peace because you trust in him. Then you will overflow with confident hope through the power of the Holy Spirit.”

I don’t get it right all the time, that’s for sure. But I’m so grateful I have these truths to come back to again and again.

My #choosingJOY list on my phone is growing as I count the joys I notice in my everyday life. Some days I’m more in tune to my list – and the joys themselves. Regardless, joy abounds when I slow my mind and notice, even if there is chaos around me. Joy comes even on the hard days because God is there too. I hear about joy in songs and see it in my kids.

259. Multiple walks outside this week. ... 261. Stolen moments of quiet. 262. Winning a book I’ve been wanting to read. 263. Crystal Light Grape Drink! 264. A spring day in a stretch of days that felt like summer. ... 272. Walking and playing in the rain.

Joy is a tiny word but a mighty concept – and one I want more of in my life. {Tweet that.}
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An InLinkz Link-up

I'm linking up with Mary Carver's Works For Me Wednesday because choosing joy works for me!

Want more insights? "Peace in the Process: How Adoption Built My Faith & My Family" is available on Amazon. Like me on Facebook, follow me on Twitter, peek into my life on Instagram, follow 152 Insights at Bloglovin', or subscribe to receive "Insights in Your Inbox."

Three Word Wednesday :: Inside-Out Transformation

On Monday afternoon, I already knew my week wasn’t going to look anything like I expected. My daughter had strep throat, my mother-in-law was on call to pick up Ben from school if we didn’t get out of the pediatrician’s office in time (which we didn’t), one appointment was postponed 10 days, another appointment was rescheduled from the previous week, neither of my first two childcare options were available to help me during a meeting later in the week, my own head and throat were feeling the effects a normal Kentucky spring, my husband had an unusually busy week …

I’m sure you understand.

We have all have Mondays like that. And sometimes Wednesdays too. Really, it doesn’t matter what day it is.

There are chores and kids and families and jobs and projects and deadlines and field trips and birthday parties and appointments and fevers and sports and thunderstorms and whatever else fills our days.

Sometimes I find myself wanting information on the whens and wheres and hows and whys of life. So many times I start out the week thinking my calendar is offering an accurate picture of life. It never does. Real life doesn’t fit into tidy boxes and our pre-scheduled time. {Tweet that.}

On Monday, my phone was dinging with texts between phone calls and I was scribbling new things on my calendar. And then I remember what really matters: God wants to transform me. It’s an ongoing, everyday process. And it doesn’t always means the Creator of time lets me in on the information and plans I want.

Transformation is greater than information. {Tweet that.}

I love thinking about how God is the perfecter of our faith. We can’t be perfected – as in the maturing process – without submitting ourselves to God. Although that’s indeed such a relief for those of us who want to keep trying to be better and do more, it’s still hard. It still requires approaching the throne of grace over and over and over and over again.

Especially on Mondays that offer surprises for the week. Especially on Wednesdays that have us weary. Especially on the weekends when we embrace rest.

“Who we are in our identity has been made perfect by Jesus once and for all. But our behavior is in the process of being perfected in him day by day.”

{Holley Gerth in “You’re Loved No Matter What”}

And that’s the transformation that matters, the one that changes us from the inside out.

Romans 12:1-2 is about not being conformed to this world. I especially love it from The Message:

“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.”

In other words, focus on God and he’ll perfect you — perfect as the verb, not the adjective.
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An InLinkz Link-up

Want more insights? "Peace in the Process: How Adoption Built My Faith & My Family" is available on Amazon. Like me on Facebook, follow me on Twitter, peek into my life on Instagram, follow 152 Insights at Bloglovin', or subscribe to receive "Insights in Your Inbox." 

This post contains affiliate links.

On dragons and dirt and changing the world {a review}

When I finished reading “Dragons and Dirt” by Dalene Reyburn, I immediately began flipping back through, re-reading the parts I had marked. And when I saw marked, I mean entire paragraphs with notes jotted in the margins.

That’s how good it is.

The subtitle is “The truth about changing the world – and the courage it requires.” I wouldn’t have always thought I could be a world-changer. When I was a kid, I would have told you I wanted to be a teacher. Then I outgrew that and realized I loved to write. So I wanted to be a newspaper reporter. And that’s what I was before I became a momma. Before I decided I wanted to be Mom, I didn’t dream of becoming a mom.

But now I am – and it’s the most life-changing thing I’ve ever done. I’m still a writer. I write press releases for organizations I care about. I help causes I believe in by stringing some words together. I wrote an ebook that tells my favorite story – ironically, the one about becoming a momma and how that built my faith – and have other ideas for other books. I share my story here and in conversations around tables in my community.

But I’ve never set out to change the world.

Dalene’s words make me realize that’s what we’re called to do. Maybe we do by being a wife, mom, sister, daughter, aunt, friend, neighbor, housekeeper, writer, lawyer, realtor, fashion designer, farmer, banker, chef … or any other endless combination of roles. Maybe we do it in one role for one season before God calls us to something else.

Regardless, we can change the world, starting in our own souls, spilling over into our homes and offices and neighborhoods and churches and social media channels.

Of course we all have dragons – things like change, especially the unpredictable, unanticipated kind; desires for pleasures, prestige and possessions, and the distorted believe we need those things; and all sorts of misconceptions. We chase all sorts of things and people and places that aren’t grounded in truth.

“Jesus knew this would be hard. That’s why he said, ‘Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and live righteously, and he will give you everything you need’ (Matthew 6:33). Which means it’s not wrong to get excited about doing a PhD or walking the Inca Trail or dishing up seconds. Relish the good things God gives – the daily bread and the dessert – for his glory. But be aware that like all good things, they’ll enslave you if you let them. Check your intentions before tucking into whatever is on your plate. God has set you free. He wants to keep you that way. I pray that you won’t let this dragon seize you.”

{Dalene Reyburn in “Dragons and Dirt,” page 44}

To be free, Dalene reminds us we have to declutter our hearts, really forgive, stop comparing, give thanks, be brave one decision at a time, and rid our lives of pride. Like she writes in the book, “Comparison forgets that, as someone has said, the Kingdom is a co-op, not a competition” (page 75).

Celebrating with our people matters. Giving things for all things – our things and their things – matters. Community and relationships matter.

“I flung my joy, not my spite. I reminded myself that God didn’t love them more than he loved me. I reminded myself that he has promised his best for me, too, and that I wouldn’t want anything other than that. … God has different Kingdom plans for different people. He has shaped each of us for his purposes. That’s cause for celebration – and relief. I let the truth wash clean over me: you don’t have to be anyone but you. That’s why God made you you.”

{Dalene Reyburn in “Dragons and Dirt,” page 77}

This book made me think and encouraged me where I am. It’s packed with stories and truth that are written beautifully. And it reminded me whose I am and that where he has me matters – and behaving as if I really believe that could change the world.
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I was provided a free copy of "Dragons and Dirt" from Kate Motaung on behalf of the author in exchange for a review. I'm linking this post with the Soli Deo Gloria Sisterhood and Circles of Faith. This post also contains Amazon affiliate links. 

Read some other reviews of this book :: Katie Reid. Ashley Hales. Jen Daugherty. Kate Motaung.


Want more insights? "Peace in the Process: How Adoption Built My Faith & My Family" is available on Amazon. Like me on Facebook, follow me on Twitter, peek into my life on Instagram, follow 152 Insights at Bloglovin', or subscribe to receive "Insights in Your Inbox."

Three Word Wednesday :: Peace & Pace

“But if my hope is in a sovereign God who never changes – if my peace and my pace come from him and if I believe he is who he says he is and if I trust him to shepherd and shape my calling and the conditions of my life – then I’m less likely to get rattled. God speaks light and flings stars and multiples cells and sets the fetal heart beating. He’s way ahead of online cultures that morph and mushroom overnight. He’s bigger than politics, bigger than physical safety or danger, bigger than what’s trending today and forgotten tomorrow, bigger than both the landscape and the velocity of change. He’s bigger than fear.”

{From “Dragons and Dirt” by Dalene Reyburn}

I can get rattled and lose perspective. Sometimes I rush my kids to bed because I’m tired. I’ve been known to hurry people out the door or into a store because I want to tackle a to-do list of tasks cluttering my mind. Unexpected detours can make me frazzled and I don’t like to be late.

But I know God has me on a journey toward peace.

The journey has been long. And while I don’t think it actually has a starting point, I can pinpoint first noticing it in my soul when we were trying to conceive a baby and couldn’t. There are landmark moments, where I’ve posted signs in my mind as I look back.

Peace came when I let go of trying to have a baby and turned my attention to adoption. Peace was present when I made schooling decisions for my kids, finished writing projects, and talked with friends about real life. Peace comes in the presence of God.

My life hasn’t lacked peace entirely, but I’ve been rattled more often than I care to admit. God is teaching me more about what living with peace as my perspective means. I want to mark more moments on this journey with evidence of peace and joy.

For me, peace is so often related to my pace. 

I like to be on the go. I like trips and celebrations. I like being with my people. And I like dreaming of what’s next. But I can’t be like that every day. I need that part of the journey to have some pit stops included so I can catch my breath, re-establish my perspective, and process the action.

I know when my pace slows, God gives me a chance to understand peace – the peace that only he can give, the peace that passes my understanding. {Tweet that.}

Whether I’m moving or slowing or stopping, God’s there. He’s not surprised with my personality that sometimes seems it’s made up of contradictions. He’s not caught off guard when I need to regroup and refresh. He wants me to see him – how he’s prepared me, how he’s gone before me, and how he was with me in the past.

I wrote 24,049 words in my ebook and used “peace” in the title. And here I am still learning about this five-letter word and how really it’s the center of so much else for me.

God is using the foundation of where I’ve been to prepare me for what’s next, even if I don’t know what that looks like. {Tweet that.} But he is sovereign, never changes, gives light to the darkness, creates life, and promises to be with us.
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A few housekeeping notes :: I’m going to write more about “Dragons and Dirt: The Truth About Changing the World – and The Courage It Requires” by Dalene Reyburn soon. This book surprised me with how much it’s speaking into my life. I’m marking whole paragraphs that I want to remember and come back to. That quote above is one of them.

Also, I have a super fun announcement on Sunday {my 36th birthday!} so be sure to come back then. I hope you’ll be glad you did.
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An InLinkz Link-up

I'm also linking up with the Soli Deo Gloria Sisterhood Gathering. 

Want more insights? "Peace in the Process: How Adoption Built My Faith & My Family" is available on Amazon. Like me on Facebook, follow me on Twitter, peek into my life on Instagram, follow 152 Insights at Bloglovin', or subscribe to receive "Insights in Your Inbox."

Easter is for Dreamers

I know the Easter story. I try to comprehend the significance of Jesus' resurrection. But I've never thought about how Matthew 28:1-10 also has much to say about dreaming.

Two Marys were at the tomb, but they weren't there expecting a miracle. They went there because of obligation and tradition. Somebody needed to put oils on the deceased's body to prepare it for burial.

But God surprised them. A stone was moved not because Jesus needed it to exit the tomb but so these women could see inside. They witnessed the miracle.

"The women left the tomb quickly. They were afraid, but they were also very happy. They ran to tell Jesus’ followers what had happened" (Matt. 28:8). Of course, dreaming is scary, but it's also joy-filled beyond our imagination. And that makes us want to proclaim the good news – The Good News, especially – to others.

Jesus told the women they didn't need to be afraid. And he told them to go. "Then Jesus said to them, 'Don’t be afraid. Go and tell my followers to go on to Galilee, and they will see me there'" (Matt. 28:10).

Sometimes when we dream action is required. {Tweet that.}

Making the phone call. Sending the letter. Accepting the job. Booking the trip. Serving in another country or on your street. All of that can be scary, but God may have a surprise waiting when you least expect it.


Join me at God-sized Dreams today to read more about why Easter is for dreamers.
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I'm linking up with the Soli Deo Gloria Sisterhood Gathering, where encouragement happens. 

Want more insights? "Peace in the Process: How Adoption Built My Faith & My Family" is available on Amazon. Like me on Facebook, follow me on Twitter, peek into my life on Instagram, follow 152 Insights at Bloglovin', or subscribe to receive "Insights in Your Inbox."

Three Word Wednesday :: Dwell on God

I think about food often. Lately, I’ve been thinking about food in a different way.

I realize I need to make some better eating habits. As I’ve been reading and researching, talking to friends, and thinking about this, I realized I do a decent job with dinner plans, but breakfast and lunch get me because I am not intentional about what I’m going to eat those times of the day.

I’ve been reminded I eat too much sugar and don’t drink enough water. And I choose food according to my mood.

Sure, I can – and will – make new choices in this area of my life, but I have to remember my eating habits will never be perfect. And they don’t have to be for me to dive in and try. I have to start somewhere.

Even so, as I consider what’s best for me, I want to dwell on God more than I dwell on food.
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I’m a perfectionist my nature, but God is teaching me {yes, still …} about how life doesn’t have to be about holding on too tightly and wanting to control every detail around me. Yes, this person and that person contributed to my perfection. Yes, certain seasons make me hold on tighter.

But I want to see beyond the past. Everyone who has influenced me in a good and bad ways are imperfect and typically doing the best they can.

“Perfect love can be hard to understand and embrace because we don’t experience it from each other this side of heaven. Even those closest to us can hurt us or let us down sometimes. When we understand the different ways God perfectly love us like no human can, our hearts can finally be healed and free.”

{Holley Gerth in “You’re Loved No Matter What”}

I’ve gotten myself in a rut by dwelling on what he didn’t do or what she did. I want to dwell on God. {Tweet that.}
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I need my planner near me so I don’t forget things. I write down appointments and meetings. I jot down birthdays and friends’ surgeries. I make notes to myself about who I need to call and what I need to buy.

And there’s nothing wrong with that. But when I look at the calendar and waste too much energy thinking about a day three weeks away, I’m just borrowing trouble.

Sure, plans are fine. They’re even good because they help me be intentional with people I love. But I can’t let what’s not even happened – and may not happen – change my mood today.

Sometimes I dwell on future plans so much I miss the present. I want to dwell on what God has for me right now and know he’s going to be with me tomorrow too. {Tweet that.}
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Spring is here. The weather invites me outside. The sunshine warms my soul. In some ways, winter seemed long, but spring makes me forget about that.

I’m in a season of spring with God too. I see him taking my ordinary life – my marriage, motherhood, meal plans, my calendar – and doing a new thing through it. I don’t want to miss it. I want to be part of this new season for my soul. I want to dwell on God.
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An InLinkz Link-up

Want more insights? "Peace in the Process: How Adoption Built My Faith & My Family" is available on Amazon. Like me on Facebook, follow me on Twitter, peek into my life on Instagram, follow 152 Insights at Bloglovin', or subscribe to receive "Insights in Your Inbox."