Friday, March 19, 2010

From "Jesus Calling."

From the book "Jesus Calling"...

March 19th.
"I speak to you from the depths of your being. Hear me saying soothing words of Peace, assuring you of My Love. Do not listen to voices of accusation, for they are not from Me. I speak to you in love-tones, lifting you up. My spirit convicts cleanly, without crushing words of shame. Let the Spirit take charge of your mind, combing out tangles of deception. Be transformed by the truth that I live within you.
The Light of My Presence is shining upon you, in beneditions of Peace. Let My Light shine in you; don't dim it with worries or fears. Holiness is letting me live through you. Since I dwell in you, you are fully equiped to be holy. Pause before responding to people or situations, giving My Spirit space to act through you. Hasty words and actions leave no room for Me; this is atheistic living. I want to inhabit all your moments - gracing your thoughts, words, and behavior."
Romans 8:1-2; Colossions 1:27; 1 Corithians 6:19
I needed this.

Tuesday, February 16, 2010

Biola Worship Community



This past Friday I went on a retreat with the rest of the Biola Chapel Worship community. It was a lot of fun; we went down to Laguna, had a photo scavenger hunt, ate pizza overlooking the beach, and then had some training and teaching at the Little Church by the Sea.
Overall, the retreat was a success in every way, and I want to share a few thoughts on the wisdom we received that day.
The worship team at the church is great. They LOVE old gospel and folk music, so their regular instruments include: Banjo, accordian, mandolin, acoustic guitar and organ. Their reason behind this (apart from being in a small room where larger electric instruments could be overwhelming) is found in the roots of folk music. Its is true that folk/acoustic music was born out of communities, large and small, in living rooms, coffee shops, and parks. Its all about hearing those around you sing whether or not they have the perfect pipes to go with it. In a few words, leading musical worship in this style prompts people to sing more. I know it sounds kinda crazy, but i've seen it happen. There is an overwhelming sense of joy and rejoicing that comes with this music. Also, it allows you to hear those around you, which makes worship so much more community based.

Secondly, the pastor who led the evening began talking to us about our perceptions of the role of congregational worship. We all agreed that it prepares our hearts, and allows us to focus and communicate with God. But, then he brought up a whole new aspect. He went on to remind us that worship (offering ourselves as a sacrifice) is life-transforming. When we engage in music and worship we are soaking in an attitude that changes us. Its not a one time act of praise, but it continues on. What God does in our hearts at that moment should carry on. We are sitting in God's presence and learning more of his attributes that he wants us to display.

I hope that made sense. I kinda just wanted to write it out and get it down so I could start to grasp it more. Hope you find it helpful :)

Monday, February 15, 2010

so good.

I know its been a while. I am sorry :(

But listen to this new-ish song from Eisley. It was released late last year, but I didnt know it was out! I have been missing out.

Friday, December 25, 2009

The Christmas Food :)

I had SUCH GOOD FOOD for Christmas... it was amazing... And now I will share it with you.

So starting with various cheeses...
+ some noodles


+ some yummy marinara with italian sausage

= My mom's homemade lasagna that is the BOMB!








Then we have dessert. Mmmmmm.....

Butter cookies I made with Orange frosting


Snow man coconut cupcakes



and the final coffee and cupcake :)



All this to say... I am really full!

Christmas Eve with the Eder family

Thursday, December 24, 2009

Christmas Eve

So I went out with my mom to get some last minute groceries for tonight and I could not believe how many people are still out frantically shopping till the last minute. As I sat in the car waiting for my mom I just watched to faces passing by, few of them having any joy...

And as I watched the people, I heard playing over the speakers, "Joy to the World, the Lord has come. Let earth receive her King."

If only earth would receive Him, they would know that all the last minute strife isnt worth it. Thats not what this is about.

Merry Christmas everyone.

Friday, December 11, 2009