This is a poem
MOM, I'm Sorry by Jacqueline Nishihira (November 14, 2011)
Mom, I'm sorry sincerely
I love you so dearly
You're really important to me.
My bad attitude
and my sour-face mood
just got the best you see.
I really am trying
to change, I'm not lying
A good person I'll be
Just for you.
Mom, you're the best
and you know the rest
I just really really
Love you.
Tuesday, November 15, 2011
Thursday, October 20, 2011
LAUGHTER
Laughter has always been a part of my life so I guess I took it for granted that laughter was a given in everybody's life - its like breathing. But the past few years have caused me to ponder that perhaps the world population is not naturally jovial. I use to work in a place where everyone loved to laugh - it made the rough work week go a lot faster - and everyone enjoyed coming to work. (It should be noted that the only reason why I needed to quit my job was so that I can devote more time to my kids.) It amazed me that this kind of mentality is not normal in all work places. This is probably why its become a rarity to receive great customer service.
A few years back, a good friend of mine once told me that he liked me because I laughed a lot. I thought it was a strange compliment but a compliment is a compliment - so I simply said, "thank you". I grew up in a home that was always filled with people - I have seven brothers and sisters - so laughter was a given. We never had to put any thought into it - whether the day was good or bad - there was always something to chuckle about.
I visited a school campus once and found their main office to be immaculate and quiet - there was an absence of chatter and laughter. The obsessive compulsive nature in me enjoyed the peace for about fifteen minutes. Then the Christian educator in me started to wonder how this can be good for ministering to our youth who lead troubled lives in very disruptive homes. I spoke to the administrator at the time about the work place, trying to carefully make it sound like a compliment that his campus is quiet and tidy and mine was noisy and filled with commotion (I didn't use laughter and joy but that's what I meant when I said commotion.) He nodded but then he noted how laughter was important which was why he and his wife made it a point to purposefully laugh every morning. Hmmmm. Purposefully???? - Really???? That was pretty interesting to me because I never had to purposely laugh for anything. But I'm beginning to learn that some people do.
Someone once asked how we could laugh when a loved one dies. I simply stated, "how could we not?" If we know Jesus as our Lord and Savior, then we know He is in control - so our joy should abound. If we know Jesus is the only Way, Truth, and Life, then we know that this world is temporary and the life hereafter is the one we look forward to - and our loved one is now in a better place for all eternity.
Last week, my brothers, sisters, and my dad's wife buried my dad. The last few weeks of my dad's life was hard - he was in a lot of pain - but he never failed to laugh and crack jokes. He wasn't perfect - during many of his painful episodes, he yelled and grumbled and got angry. But during those times, we would laugh and tease him and this helped to redirect his attention from his discomfort and he would start joking around again. This was the legacy my dad left to all his kids and grandkids - the legacy of laughter. The last few months of my dad's life - we were constantly by his side and he was always surrounded with laughter. Laughing was not a show of coldness or carelessness but rather it was a sign of strength and knowledge that only comes with having a sense of security in knowing who you are and who you belong to - and we belong to God.
I've come to realize that there are many who go through several days without laughing. I can't imagine going through a single day without laughter... Back track a little... not to go give away the identity of anyone I will be vague and not list them in any particular order in regards to the three who thought that my natural habit of laughing was an unusual pleasantry. Well one lost his job, the other went into depression, and the other is currently facing marital difficulties.
Proverbs 17:22 says, "A cheerful heart is good medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones."
A few years back, a good friend of mine once told me that he liked me because I laughed a lot. I thought it was a strange compliment but a compliment is a compliment - so I simply said, "thank you". I grew up in a home that was always filled with people - I have seven brothers and sisters - so laughter was a given. We never had to put any thought into it - whether the day was good or bad - there was always something to chuckle about.
I visited a school campus once and found their main office to be immaculate and quiet - there was an absence of chatter and laughter. The obsessive compulsive nature in me enjoyed the peace for about fifteen minutes. Then the Christian educator in me started to wonder how this can be good for ministering to our youth who lead troubled lives in very disruptive homes. I spoke to the administrator at the time about the work place, trying to carefully make it sound like a compliment that his campus is quiet and tidy and mine was noisy and filled with commotion (I didn't use laughter and joy but that's what I meant when I said commotion.) He nodded but then he noted how laughter was important which was why he and his wife made it a point to purposefully laugh every morning. Hmmmm. Purposefully???? - Really???? That was pretty interesting to me because I never had to purposely laugh for anything. But I'm beginning to learn that some people do.
Someone once asked how we could laugh when a loved one dies. I simply stated, "how could we not?" If we know Jesus as our Lord and Savior, then we know He is in control - so our joy should abound. If we know Jesus is the only Way, Truth, and Life, then we know that this world is temporary and the life hereafter is the one we look forward to - and our loved one is now in a better place for all eternity.
Last week, my brothers, sisters, and my dad's wife buried my dad. The last few weeks of my dad's life was hard - he was in a lot of pain - but he never failed to laugh and crack jokes. He wasn't perfect - during many of his painful episodes, he yelled and grumbled and got angry. But during those times, we would laugh and tease him and this helped to redirect his attention from his discomfort and he would start joking around again. This was the legacy my dad left to all his kids and grandkids - the legacy of laughter. The last few months of my dad's life - we were constantly by his side and he was always surrounded with laughter. Laughing was not a show of coldness or carelessness but rather it was a sign of strength and knowledge that only comes with having a sense of security in knowing who you are and who you belong to - and we belong to God.
I've come to realize that there are many who go through several days without laughing. I can't imagine going through a single day without laughter... Back track a little... not to go give away the identity of anyone I will be vague and not list them in any particular order in regards to the three who thought that my natural habit of laughing was an unusual pleasantry. Well one lost his job, the other went into depression, and the other is currently facing marital difficulties.
Proverbs 17:22 says, "A cheerful heart is good medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones."
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| My dad and his grandkids. |
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| My kids love playing with my "iphoto" on my Mac. |
Wednesday, August 31, 2011
Its been awhile
The last time I blogged was in June of this year. The summer went by so quickly that I could scarcely find time to write about it. Things haven't slowed down much but I figure its time to put some thoughts into writing.
When I started blogging, I named my page two steps forward because I wanted to put a positive outlook in life. We've all gone through phases in our lives when it just seemed like every step we take we'd find ourselves taking two steps back. I've seen this in my quest to losing weight, to saving money, to spending more time seeking God. The blog was a tool - that maybe if I said it, put it in writing, and everyone's read it - then maybe I would follow through with what I set out to do.
Well, it didn't work. But hey, that's not to say I'm throwing in the towel. I'm gonna get right back up and start again. Two steps forward. So here we go again. "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me."
When I started blogging, I named my page two steps forward because I wanted to put a positive outlook in life. We've all gone through phases in our lives when it just seemed like every step we take we'd find ourselves taking two steps back. I've seen this in my quest to losing weight, to saving money, to spending more time seeking God. The blog was a tool - that maybe if I said it, put it in writing, and everyone's read it - then maybe I would follow through with what I set out to do.
Well, it didn't work. But hey, that's not to say I'm throwing in the towel. I'm gonna get right back up and start again. Two steps forward. So here we go again. "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me."
Thursday, June 9, 2011
Enoch WALKED with GOD
The past few weeks, I've been chewing on this piece of tidbit... Enoch walked with God. Our small group has been going through the old Testament - studying the lives and times of the people. But Enoch was different in that he was taken up to heaven with no record of his death. He was just taken. What made Enoch different from anyone else? God was pleased with David. God called Moses His friend. Daniel stood apart from the rest of the people in Babylon. So why was Enoch's experience different from the others. The key is in the word WALK.
Genesis 5:21-24 MSG
21-23 When Enoch was sixty-five years old, he had Methuselah. Enoch walked steadily with God. After he had Methuselah, he lived another 300 years, having more sons and daughters. Enoch lived a total of 365 years. 24 Enoch walked steadily with God. And then one day he was simply gone: God took him.
(New Living Translation) 21 When Enoch was 65 years old, he became the father of Methuselah. 22After the birth of Methuselah, Enoch lived in close fellowship with God for another 300 years, and he had other sons and daughters. 23 Enoch lived 365 years, 24 walking in close fellowship with God. Then one day he disappeared, because God took him.
I remember when I first came to know Jesus as my Lord and Savior. There was such a passion there that, sad to say, isn't present in my life today. I loved reading my Bible. I had difficulty putting my Bible down because every time I read it it was as if I could hear the sweet voice of the Holy Spirit speaking every word on the page. When I woke in the morning, I would greet God with great expectation. I would dialogue with Him about what my day would look like and at the end of the day we would talk about what had happened. While walking down the corridors of my high school, I would be conscious of Him beside me - so much so that we would often be talking to each other while on the way to the next class. While I was doing my chores at home, I would be singing praise songs to Him or asking Him questions about what I read or telling Him about a family member who needed to get "saved." That was my relationship with the Lord. There was passion - the relationship was special. He was my Savior, my Creator, my Redeemer, and Friend. I walked with HIM. Psalms 42 was real to me - "As the deer pants for the water, so my soul longs after you, oh God."
I allowed time to distance me from my Best Friend - priority changed I guess. He still stands ever so near - waiting for my meetings with Him. And don't get me wrong - I meet with Him often - in the morning, at church, just before a meal, at bible study, before bedtime, and whenever I say a prayer. Yes - I've gotten things a little mixed up the past few years. I've settled with meeting with God and allowing that to be the extent of our relationship. But... its no longer satisfactory for me. I want to once again WALK with God - just as Enoch walked with God.
So here's a challenge - for me - and maybe for some of you who are reading this today... instead of meeting with God, lets walk with God. Let's see how that will change our day, our week, our family, our community. In just the few days that God has allowed me to come to this realization, I already can feel a change in me. So this is what it means to be plugged into "The Vine" - my God, my Source... I forgot but now I'm remembering it all and it is good... Two Steps Forward.
Genesis 5:21-24 MSG
21-23 When Enoch was sixty-five years old, he had Methuselah. Enoch walked steadily with God. After he had Methuselah, he lived another 300 years, having more sons and daughters. Enoch lived a total of 365 years. 24 Enoch walked steadily with God. And then one day he was simply gone: God took him.
(New Living Translation) 21 When Enoch was 65 years old, he became the father of Methuselah. 22After the birth of Methuselah, Enoch lived in close fellowship with God for another 300 years, and he had other sons and daughters. 23 Enoch lived 365 years, 24 walking in close fellowship with God. Then one day he disappeared, because God took him.
I remember when I first came to know Jesus as my Lord and Savior. There was such a passion there that, sad to say, isn't present in my life today. I loved reading my Bible. I had difficulty putting my Bible down because every time I read it it was as if I could hear the sweet voice of the Holy Spirit speaking every word on the page. When I woke in the morning, I would greet God with great expectation. I would dialogue with Him about what my day would look like and at the end of the day we would talk about what had happened. While walking down the corridors of my high school, I would be conscious of Him beside me - so much so that we would often be talking to each other while on the way to the next class. While I was doing my chores at home, I would be singing praise songs to Him or asking Him questions about what I read or telling Him about a family member who needed to get "saved." That was my relationship with the Lord. There was passion - the relationship was special. He was my Savior, my Creator, my Redeemer, and Friend. I walked with HIM. Psalms 42 was real to me - "As the deer pants for the water, so my soul longs after you, oh God."
I allowed time to distance me from my Best Friend - priority changed I guess. He still stands ever so near - waiting for my meetings with Him. And don't get me wrong - I meet with Him often - in the morning, at church, just before a meal, at bible study, before bedtime, and whenever I say a prayer. Yes - I've gotten things a little mixed up the past few years. I've settled with meeting with God and allowing that to be the extent of our relationship. But... its no longer satisfactory for me. I want to once again WALK with God - just as Enoch walked with God.
So here's a challenge - for me - and maybe for some of you who are reading this today... instead of meeting with God, lets walk with God. Let's see how that will change our day, our week, our family, our community. In just the few days that God has allowed me to come to this realization, I already can feel a change in me. So this is what it means to be plugged into "The Vine" - my God, my Source... I forgot but now I'm remembering it all and it is good... Two Steps Forward.
Friday, May 27, 2011
Perseverance: A deeper understanding
(IN THE SECRET by Mercy Me)
...I am reaching for the highest goals
That I might receive the prize
Pressing onward
Pushing every hindrance aside
Out of my way
Cause I want to know you more...
Every time I hear this song, I remember the time Guam experienced an 8.2 earthquake (1993). It was a Sunday evening, and I was at church. The worship portion of the service had ended and a young lady made her way up to the podium to sing a special number. A few seconds into her lovely song, I felt a very gentle shake - I looked at my friend and with a very calm smile I whispered, "oooh, is that an earthquake?" But my smile change to concern when the gentle shake continued for a few seconds more. I then whispered, "should we be getting up - evacuating or something?" As my friend tried to give her reply, the gently nudge became a terrifying shake that seemed to go on forever. She didn't need to give me an answer. Everybody in the church started to scream as they made their way to the door.
The goal to get to safety wasn't easy to achieve. The folding chairs we sat on became one huge entangled mess - blocking the passage to the door. With my friend was an elderly lady who we were assisting to get to safety, but she just could not get past the chairs that kept getting in the way. So like a good Christian girl that I am, I let go of my dear friend's hand (the elderly lady I was trying to help), and pretty much gave her my "see you later" look, hurdled over the chairs and darted for the door. I figure if the building were to collapse, I'd have to be outside if she wanted any hope for a rescue. I need to be outside to help with the recovery - what use would I be if I were stuck under this potential rubble. Right? Fortunately, the building did not fall, and my elderly friend lived to see 17 more years.
But going back to that song, I think about how if I set my sights on the prize, I would push every hindrances aside. In the song, that prize is knowing our Savior more. What would happen if I just focus my eyes on Jesus? What would that look like?
See, lately I've been evaluating my walk with God - it doesn't look so good. Just a few days ago, I was lecturing my kids about receiving B Honor Roll when they have the ability to obtain the A Honor Roll. Granted their B meant they had only one B amongst the many A's - but still. They weren't hungry for it - they were satisfied with what they got - because "more" would mean they would have to let go of the distractions. They didn't press onward for the prize. And I shared my displeasure for this attitude.
However, I think I have that same attitude when it comes to my walk with God. I don't think I've been doing much "pressing forward" lately. I have become complacent and satisfied with the amount of time I spend and give HIM. I have not hungered for HIM like King David did in Psalm 42:1 - "As the deer pants for streams of water, so my soul pants for you, my God." Or like Moses did when he asked God to "show me your glory (Exodus 33:18)." I need to get to that place again - that place where my eyes are once again on the prize - where I will push all hindrances aside to get there.
I end with this story. Up until June 2010 I worked as an administrator at a Christian school. At the end of each year, I made sure I made it a point to speak to all the high school students to discuss their academic status - to encourage them to keep pressing on or to encourage them to do better. At the end of school year 2009, this scrawny sophomore asked me if he had a chance at first place. He didn't do so well his freshman year but wanted to make changes to turn things around. He set his eyes to making the top ten. End of sophomore year, he accomplished just that and found himself within reach of the top five. So he pushed further and decided he was gonna do everything it takes to make it to first. Every semester he would ask me if he had a chance. In my head I thought "no" but out loud I said, "it's hard but possible - anything can happen." At the end of his junior year, he made his way to second place and the gap between first and second was pretty close. He asked again if he had a chance - in my head I thought "no" but out loud I said, "it's close to impossible to displace the #1 guy this late in the ball game but it doesn't hurt to keep trying. After all we should live by the school motto; Whatsoever you do, do it all for the glory of God. Right?" Well, the end of his Senior year came and the current administrator had to run the tabulation for class ranking several times - after she did so, she called me to verify that she ran the tabulation correctly. She had to do this because the outcome came as a huge surprise to every one.
After the graduation ceremony, I sought out the student, gave him the biggest hug and told him that I was really proud of him. He proved me wrong and I was humbled by his attitude, his diligence, his determination. In spite of the impossibilities, he decided to set aside all obstacles and pressed forward for the prize. As this Valedictorian towered over me, he just smiled and said, "thank you Mrs. Nish" as if I had anything to do with it.
If I could strive for my God the way he strived for that top honor, what would my walk with God look like. If I don't look to the left or the right; if I desperately press towards the prize; if I pushed all hindrances aside; if if if...
...I want to know you
I want to hear your voice
I want to know you more
I want to touch you
I want to see your face
I want to know you more...
Lord, this is a new day. Forgive me for my complacency - I want to know you more. Help me to strive to win this race because I know you are waiting for me at the finish line. I would so love to hear you say, "well done my faithful one."
...I am reaching for the highest goals
That I might receive the prize
Pressing onward
Pushing every hindrance aside
Out of my way
Cause I want to know you more...
Every time I hear this song, I remember the time Guam experienced an 8.2 earthquake (1993). It was a Sunday evening, and I was at church. The worship portion of the service had ended and a young lady made her way up to the podium to sing a special number. A few seconds into her lovely song, I felt a very gentle shake - I looked at my friend and with a very calm smile I whispered, "oooh, is that an earthquake?" But my smile change to concern when the gentle shake continued for a few seconds more. I then whispered, "should we be getting up - evacuating or something?" As my friend tried to give her reply, the gently nudge became a terrifying shake that seemed to go on forever. She didn't need to give me an answer. Everybody in the church started to scream as they made their way to the door.
The goal to get to safety wasn't easy to achieve. The folding chairs we sat on became one huge entangled mess - blocking the passage to the door. With my friend was an elderly lady who we were assisting to get to safety, but she just could not get past the chairs that kept getting in the way. So like a good Christian girl that I am, I let go of my dear friend's hand (the elderly lady I was trying to help), and pretty much gave her my "see you later" look, hurdled over the chairs and darted for the door. I figure if the building were to collapse, I'd have to be outside if she wanted any hope for a rescue. I need to be outside to help with the recovery - what use would I be if I were stuck under this potential rubble. Right? Fortunately, the building did not fall, and my elderly friend lived to see 17 more years.
But going back to that song, I think about how if I set my sights on the prize, I would push every hindrances aside. In the song, that prize is knowing our Savior more. What would happen if I just focus my eyes on Jesus? What would that look like?
See, lately I've been evaluating my walk with God - it doesn't look so good. Just a few days ago, I was lecturing my kids about receiving B Honor Roll when they have the ability to obtain the A Honor Roll. Granted their B meant they had only one B amongst the many A's - but still. They weren't hungry for it - they were satisfied with what they got - because "more" would mean they would have to let go of the distractions. They didn't press onward for the prize. And I shared my displeasure for this attitude.
However, I think I have that same attitude when it comes to my walk with God. I don't think I've been doing much "pressing forward" lately. I have become complacent and satisfied with the amount of time I spend and give HIM. I have not hungered for HIM like King David did in Psalm 42:1 - "As the deer pants for streams of water, so my soul pants for you, my God." Or like Moses did when he asked God to "show me your glory (Exodus 33:18)." I need to get to that place again - that place where my eyes are once again on the prize - where I will push all hindrances aside to get there.
I end with this story. Up until June 2010 I worked as an administrator at a Christian school. At the end of each year, I made sure I made it a point to speak to all the high school students to discuss their academic status - to encourage them to keep pressing on or to encourage them to do better. At the end of school year 2009, this scrawny sophomore asked me if he had a chance at first place. He didn't do so well his freshman year but wanted to make changes to turn things around. He set his eyes to making the top ten. End of sophomore year, he accomplished just that and found himself within reach of the top five. So he pushed further and decided he was gonna do everything it takes to make it to first. Every semester he would ask me if he had a chance. In my head I thought "no" but out loud I said, "it's hard but possible - anything can happen." At the end of his junior year, he made his way to second place and the gap between first and second was pretty close. He asked again if he had a chance - in my head I thought "no" but out loud I said, "it's close to impossible to displace the #1 guy this late in the ball game but it doesn't hurt to keep trying. After all we should live by the school motto; Whatsoever you do, do it all for the glory of God. Right?" Well, the end of his Senior year came and the current administrator had to run the tabulation for class ranking several times - after she did so, she called me to verify that she ran the tabulation correctly. She had to do this because the outcome came as a huge surprise to every one.
After the graduation ceremony, I sought out the student, gave him the biggest hug and told him that I was really proud of him. He proved me wrong and I was humbled by his attitude, his diligence, his determination. In spite of the impossibilities, he decided to set aside all obstacles and pressed forward for the prize. As this Valedictorian towered over me, he just smiled and said, "thank you Mrs. Nish" as if I had anything to do with it.
If I could strive for my God the way he strived for that top honor, what would my walk with God look like. If I don't look to the left or the right; if I desperately press towards the prize; if I pushed all hindrances aside; if if if...
...I want to know you
I want to hear your voice
I want to know you more
I want to touch you
I want to see your face
I want to know you more...
Lord, this is a new day. Forgive me for my complacency - I want to know you more. Help me to strive to win this race because I know you are waiting for me at the finish line. I would so love to hear you say, "well done my faithful one."
Thursday, May 26, 2011
Jacs' 5th grade speech
Jacqueline was awarded the best Writer in her 5th grade class. She had prepared a speech but was unable to read it during the 5th grade promotion - instead she attempted to do an impromptu speech - not bad for an 11 year old. But here was the one she wrote:
Good morning Rev. Dr. Jon and Eva Pineda, Rev. Dr. Paul Pineda, Mrs. Debbie Pineda, parents, fellow classmates, teachers, and other distinguished guests.
My name is Jacqueline Nishihira and I am the Vice President of the fifth grade class. I can still remember running up and down the elementary hallways like it was yesterday – oh wait that was yesterday. Well, I can remember the first time we ran up and down the hallways – for some of us - as little kindergarteners. Today we sit in this gym, as we have for many awesome elementary chapels given by Pastor Eva – but not as the little 5 year olds but as fifth graders.
Through the years we have drawn closer to each other. We have had to say good-bye to some of our friends as we welcomed some new faces. But we have been able to stay close – building great memories that we will take with us forever. We are not just wonderful friends – we’ve become a family. As we move on to the next chapter of our lives, entering into middle school, we will never forget these memories that we have shared.
A few days ago, someone asked me to describe my class in one word. I didn’t have to think hard because I knew what it was and that word was “LOVING.” I chose ‘LOVING” because all of you are kind, compassionate, loyal, and what better word to describe all of those characteristics.
While we drew closer to each other, we also drew closer to God. The funny thing is when I was in K5 I didn't know about God the way I do now. As a K5, I had a very simple, child-like understanding – God loved me and we are to read our bibles and pray everyday. Then I remember 1st grade, Mrs. Snively’s class, where she explained that Jesus died for me and that He is the only way, the truth, and the Life and no one goes to the father except through HIM – she explained to me how important HE was in my life and where I might be without HIM. It was the start of my grown up thinking of my Christian walk and has continued expand each school year through each teacher and it has continued to mold and shape my life and probably for several of us sitting here today.
I would like to thank all our parents for bringing us here to Saint Paul Christian School and for always believing in us. I would like to thank our teachers for never giving up on us no matter how difficult it was for you at times. And most especially, I would like to thank the LORD, because all we had to do was our best and HE did the rest – because all things are possible in JESUS – and because HE paid the price for us. We really appreciate you all. Thank you.
Friday, April 22, 2011
It was Indeed a GOOD FRIDAY
In the past two weeks it seemed like all I was receiving was one bad news after the other. A dear friend from college had requested prayer because her father was diagnosed with an aggressive cancer. A brother-in-Christ was struggling with major health issues and was admitted into the hospital. We received a call from my brother-in-law informing us that doctors could not find the heart beat of their baby girl (my sister-in-law was 8 months pregnant) and that they were in the process of inducing labor. While we were still making sense of the news of our niece, I received yet another email of a sister-in-Christ who had just been told she has non-hodgkin lymphoma.
The chain that linked the prayer warriors was definitely hot all week - a text here and a text there as news spread to step up prayers for one another. Throughout the week, as many of the saints bowed their hearts to pray, their heads remained lifted with eyes stayed on the One who gives us the victory. And as we entered the end of the Holy Week, we dusted ourselves off and went to the Good Friday service to worship the One who brings us the victory. In our respective churches, each heard the Good News that our tired spirit so longed to hear - Jesus loves us - He is the One who gives us the victory.
It may seem that the term Good Friday is an oxymoron because it seems like there was nothing good about that day over two thousand years ago. There is good in it. You see - the wages of sin is death (Romans 6:23) - and because of our sinful state, our destiny was eternal death - but it no longer has to be - Jesus stood in our place and all who accepts this gift of LIFE will not perish but have eternal life (John 3:16). As we are reminded of all that Jesus had suffered - we are also reminded of the warning that Jesus gave to his disciples in the wee hours before He faced his bogus trial that lead Him down the road to Calvary. The warning was to watch and pray so that we wont be tempted - so that we will be able to stand strong in the face of the enemy, in the trials of these last days for we are indeed in the last days.
The chain that linked the prayer warriors was definitely hot all week - a text here and a text there as news spread to step up prayers for one another. Throughout the week, as many of the saints bowed their hearts to pray, their heads remained lifted with eyes stayed on the One who gives us the victory. And as we entered the end of the Holy Week, we dusted ourselves off and went to the Good Friday service to worship the One who brings us the victory. In our respective churches, each heard the Good News that our tired spirit so longed to hear - Jesus loves us - He is the One who gives us the victory.
It may seem that the term Good Friday is an oxymoron because it seems like there was nothing good about that day over two thousand years ago. There is good in it. You see - the wages of sin is death (Romans 6:23) - and because of our sinful state, our destiny was eternal death - but it no longer has to be - Jesus stood in our place and all who accepts this gift of LIFE will not perish but have eternal life (John 3:16). As we are reminded of all that Jesus had suffered - we are also reminded of the warning that Jesus gave to his disciples in the wee hours before He faced his bogus trial that lead Him down the road to Calvary. The warning was to watch and pray so that we wont be tempted - so that we will be able to stand strong in the face of the enemy, in the trials of these last days for we are indeed in the last days.
So be strong in the Lord, and in the power of His might
Put on all His armor and fight the good fight
In all of our weakness, He becomes so strong
And He gives us the power and the strength to carry onMore power to ya when you're standing on His Word
When you're trusting with your whole heart in the message you have heard
More power to ya when we're all in one accord
They that wait upon the Lord, they shall renew
They shall renew their strength (MORE POWER TO YA by PETRA)
That GOOD FRIDAY over two thousand years ago was bleak and dreary. The disciples who stood by and watched at ground zero felt the devastation to the very core of their being - they were confused, lost, scared, sad (if the word sad could ever satisfy what they must have felt). But what they didn't know then - we know now - that Sunday came - He rose from the dead.
He came, He saw, He conquered Death and HellHe came, He saw, He is alive and wellHe was, He is, And only He forgivesHe died, He rose, He livesHe came, He saw, He conquered (He Came He Saw He Conquered by PETRA)
The road is still long and hard (not comparable to the Via Dolorosa but hard none the less) - and it may seem that no message will take away the heartache of missing a love one or take away the despair one feels when your love one has just been diagnosed of a scary illness - But we hang on to the good news that He loves us and He lives. That is our hope, our comfort - that this place is all temporary - although we our living our GOOD FRIDAY - SUNDAY IS COMING and in a little while we'll be home with Jesus (the One who gives us the victory.)
This blog is dedicated to my mom - We will see each other again.
Have a blessed Easter
Friday, April 15, 2011
Count Down to the Royal Wedding
About thirty years ago (yikes... I didn't realize it was that long ago), there was this great buzz about the wedding of Prince Charles and Lady Diana Spencer. I was only twelve and had been waiting for the Love Boat special (okay those of you who are not from the 80s - this was a pretty popular show) - so I was irritated when it didn't come on - and that all three networks were covering the same thing - the Royal Wedding. I didn't get it until the carriage brought the beautiful princess-to-be - she gracefully disembarked the glass carriage drawn by white horses. She had a smile, a glow, and aura about her - and even this twelve year old could not take her eyes of the set. I was riveted and I watched until she kissed her prince on the balcony. Sigh... my imagination ran wild - it was like a fairy tale come true - so romantic.
I read every story, every article written on magazines. When she gave birth to the young Prince William, I cut up all the pictures and articles. My best friend and I even purchased stamps - we were fans. And then the fairy tale turned sour - and I lost interest - sort of. I still read the articles... hoping for that happy ending still.
I confess - I'm one of those who is looking forward to the wedding of Prince William and Kate Middleton. I have it marked on my calendar... hehehe... I still enjoy a good romantic tale from time to time. I think young and old alike still like the feel of a good fairy tale - when the princess meets her prince and they live happily ever after.
With Good Friday just a week away, its hard to imagine mentioning the Royal Wedding as the two events don't seem to go together. After all the final days of Jesus Christ here on Earth was far from being beautiful - He was betrayed by one of his close friend (Judas), He was condemned by the leaders of the church, One of his closest friend (Peter) denied he even knew Him, and the one who could of brought Him justice - didn't (Pilate) - no, nothing about it was glamorous. The throngs of people who lined the streets did not long for the prince to glance their way - they jeered Him and cursed Him. But all this had to happen so that the most incredible story ever in the history of man can unfold.... See it didn't end at the cross. That was just the setting for a grander stage. The grandest Royal Wedding Ever
- 6 Then I heard what sounded like a great multitude, like the roar of rushing waters and like loud peals of thunder, shouting:“Hallelujah! For our Lord God Almighty reigns. 7 Let us rejoice and be glad and give him glory! For the wedding of the Lamb has come, and his bride has made herself ready. 8 Fine linen, bright and clean, was given her to wear.”(Fine linen stands for the righteous acts of the saints.) 9 Then the angel said to me, “Write: ‘Blessed are those who are invited to the wedding supper of the Lamb!’” And he added, “These are the true words of God.”(Revelation 19:6-9).
Exciting isn't it - when you put things into a different perspective. When we celebrate Good Friday, we celebrate the preparation of THE Royal Wedding... the one we are invited to - invited by someone greater than the Queen of England - invited by the KING of KINGS. Sigh - I'm definitely looking forward to counting down the days to that.
I read every story, every article written on magazines. When she gave birth to the young Prince William, I cut up all the pictures and articles. My best friend and I even purchased stamps - we were fans. And then the fairy tale turned sour - and I lost interest - sort of. I still read the articles... hoping for that happy ending still.
I confess - I'm one of those who is looking forward to the wedding of Prince William and Kate Middleton. I have it marked on my calendar... hehehe... I still enjoy a good romantic tale from time to time. I think young and old alike still like the feel of a good fairy tale - when the princess meets her prince and they live happily ever after.
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| from the SPCS Elementary School Hallway |
- 6 Then I heard what sounded like a great multitude, like the roar of rushing waters and like loud peals of thunder, shouting:“Hallelujah! For our Lord God Almighty reigns. 7 Let us rejoice and be glad and give him glory! For the wedding of the Lamb has come, and his bride has made herself ready. 8 Fine linen, bright and clean, was given her to wear.”(Fine linen stands for the righteous acts of the saints.) 9 Then the angel said to me, “Write: ‘Blessed are those who are invited to the wedding supper of the Lamb!’” And he added, “These are the true words of God.”(Revelation 19:6-9).
Exciting isn't it - when you put things into a different perspective. When we celebrate Good Friday, we celebrate the preparation of THE Royal Wedding... the one we are invited to - invited by someone greater than the Queen of England - invited by the KING of KINGS. Sigh - I'm definitely looking forward to counting down the days to that.
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| Not a very good scan but couldn't help sharing |
Tuesday, April 12, 2011
In the Garden of Gethsemane
In a little over a week, we will be celebrating the most important day in the history of Christianity. As Christians, we should make everyday a celebration of Easter – walking in the knowledge that Christ died for our sins so that all who believe in Him would have eternal life. But even so, we mark Good Friday and Easter on our calendar to memorialize what Christ has done for us – it is a great time for us to reflect, to realign our walk with God, and to renew our commitment to Him. So I decided to commemorate this time in history with a study of the last days of Jesus Christ.
The Catholic Church has marked the last days of Jesus Christ into fourteen highlighted moments and they call this the Stations of the Cross. I’m not Catholic but I figure the Stations of the Cross is Biblical so why not take a closer view. So I started my study at the first station, which is The Garden of Gethsemane. But as I read Matthew 26, I decided to back track a little further to Matthew 24-25. Here Jesus speaks of the End of the Age.
In Matthew 24:4-8, 4 Jesus says, “WATCH OUT that no one deceives you. 5 For many will come in my name, claiming, ‘I am the Christ,’ and will deceive many. 6 You will hear of wars and rumors of wars, but see to it that you are not alarmed. Such things must happen, but the end is still to come. 7 Nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. There will be famines and earthquakes in various places. 8 All these are the beginning of birth pains. ~ The rest of Matthew 24 describes what the beginning of the end is to look like – wars and rumors of war. But He reminds us To Be READY, To Be WATCHFUL, for we don’t know when the day will be. But we can recognize its nearness by the signs of the time. In verse 34, He also says that when these things start happening, that generation will not pass away until all of it has been completed.
So now I find myself once again in the Garden of Gethsemane (Matthew 26). It starts out with Jesus completing His message on the "end of days." In verse two He clearly states that He “will be handed over to be crucified.” Then in verse 36, Jesus goes to Gethsemane with His disciples. He tells them He’s going to pray but He takes Peter, John, and James further with Him and He was clearly troubled and filled with sorrow ~ His disciples knew this without a doubt. He even tells them, “My soul is overwhelmed with sorrow to the point of death. Stay here and keep WATCH with me.” After praying, Jesus returns to His disciples and found them sleeping. In Jesus’ desperate time, the ones who claim to love Him were found sleeping. But Jesus in great concern for them says, “WATCH and PRAY so that you will not fall into temptation. The spirit is willing, but the body is weak.”
As we turn the corner into the Holy Week, I am reminded that the signs of the time is clear – we are near the end of days. This generation may very well be the generation that will not pass away. But the great message that Jesus gave just prior to Gethsemane and at Gethsemane is to WATCH and PRAY – our Master will be returning soon. I don’t want to be found sleeping.
Check out these sleeping positions. |
UPDATE:
Half way through week 6 into my running experience. I've been taking small steps - but the main thing is that I'm still taking the steps. I have set a goal - to be able to go on runs with my friends who have inspired me in the first place. Right now I am walk/running 45 minutes. Going average 2.58 miles. In the 45 minutes, I'm able to job 8 minutes straight without stopping and have been able to do two other 6 minute steady jogs before ending the workout. Goal for next week is to sustain a 10 minute jog. Once I get here, I will work on running the entire 45 minutes.
Weight loss - 5lbs. Not much but I am toning and so my clothes are fitting better.
Monday, April 11, 2011
TOMATOES TOMATOES
I've always loved tomatoes - and now we grow them. The farm project started out as a means to cut cooling cost - by growing plants on the rooftop, it provides shade and thus lessen the impact the sun places on the roof. But then the crop was plentiful and what we couldn't eat - we sold. Needless to say, we've been eating a lot of tomatoes.
Tomatoes have been notarized for its source of lycopene - an antioxidant that protects cells from damage, prevents several types of cancer, and reduces the risk of heart diseases. So I figure its cool that we are eating so much. But I've also grown curious to its ability to slow the hands of time.
A few weeks ago, my sister asked me to check if she had white hair and to pull it out if I see any. I was expecting to see about 7-8 white hair (she's a lot younger than me) as that has been the number I have been pulling for the past year - and she usually asks me to check every month. I found none this time around - none at all. The last time I checked her hair was in January - and although I usually check it once a month, we were unusually busy this year. But the thing is I found none. She said the only thing she could think of is that she ate tomatoes every night with her dinner. Hmmmmm.
She continued to share that she loved the tomatoes but that it was making her eat more - she would be so full at dinner time. Interesting thing though - she looks thinner now than she did in December. Her skin looked healthier. Double hmmmmm. I'm not making any claims but I figure I've been growing the fruit - and I haven't been eating it as much as my brothers and sisters have been because I tend to eat out more than they do. But after this curiosity though, I think its time to eat more of what I grow. So I started keeping a baggy of tomatoes in my purse so that I can eat it with my dinner wherever I find myself. Last night, I was at Denny's - I had fried rice, longaneesa, and eggs over easy. I popped out my bag of tomatoes. I ate only a fourth of my order - I shared my meal with my three girls - but felt like I eat three servings. I was full - no - I was satisfied.
I don't know if I will find less white hair on my head - cuz I have tons. I don't know if it will improve the health and complexion of my skin. I don't know if I will drop the weight. But studies have shown that there are many other health benefits to eating tomatoes.... and so if you see me pull out my baggy in a restaurant.... you know its just my tomatoes.
We must have eaten and sold over 100 lbs of tomatoes since we started harvesting. Now all of it turned out fit for eating. Below are pictures of me and my brothers & sisters poking fun of tomatoes - check it out.
Tomatoes have been notarized for its source of lycopene - an antioxidant that protects cells from damage, prevents several types of cancer, and reduces the risk of heart diseases. So I figure its cool that we are eating so much. But I've also grown curious to its ability to slow the hands of time.
A few weeks ago, my sister asked me to check if she had white hair and to pull it out if I see any. I was expecting to see about 7-8 white hair (she's a lot younger than me) as that has been the number I have been pulling for the past year - and she usually asks me to check every month. I found none this time around - none at all. The last time I checked her hair was in January - and although I usually check it once a month, we were unusually busy this year. But the thing is I found none. She said the only thing she could think of is that she ate tomatoes every night with her dinner. Hmmmmm.
She continued to share that she loved the tomatoes but that it was making her eat more - she would be so full at dinner time. Interesting thing though - she looks thinner now than she did in December. Her skin looked healthier. Double hmmmmm. I'm not making any claims but I figure I've been growing the fruit - and I haven't been eating it as much as my brothers and sisters have been because I tend to eat out more than they do. But after this curiosity though, I think its time to eat more of what I grow. So I started keeping a baggy of tomatoes in my purse so that I can eat it with my dinner wherever I find myself. Last night, I was at Denny's - I had fried rice, longaneesa, and eggs over easy. I popped out my bag of tomatoes. I ate only a fourth of my order - I shared my meal with my three girls - but felt like I eat three servings. I was full - no - I was satisfied.
I don't know if I will find less white hair on my head - cuz I have tons. I don't know if it will improve the health and complexion of my skin. I don't know if I will drop the weight. But studies have shown that there are many other health benefits to eating tomatoes.... and so if you see me pull out my baggy in a restaurant.... you know its just my tomatoes.
We must have eaten and sold over 100 lbs of tomatoes since we started harvesting. Now all of it turned out fit for eating. Below are pictures of me and my brothers & sisters poking fun of tomatoes - check it out.
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| Hmm - double cheek tomato |
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| Holy tomatoes!!! |
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| Earthquake tomato |
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| Wanna-be Roma - super small size. |
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| Nike swoosh Tomato |
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| Easter Egg tomatoes |
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| The Marching Band Tomatoes |
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| Chili not-hot-at-all tomatoes |
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| The ornamental tomatoes - fit for prom night |
Wednesday, April 6, 2011
I Wanna Be Like Moses
A few years back, a Gatorade commercial made the phrase "I wanna be like Mike" pretty popular. The Mike they spoke of was Michael Jordan - the world re-known NBA basketball player who revolutionize the sport. He was extraordinary - a giant of his time. Well, I have my heroes too. For me, I wanna be like Moses.
In Exodus 33, God spells out His relationship with Moses. Verse 11 says, The LORD would speak to Moses face to face, as a man speaks with his friend. But at this time, God was displeased with Israel and He had instructed Moses to bring the people to the promise land but that He (God) was not gonna go with them. And this is where the depth of Moses' relationship with God shines... check it out:
(12) Moses said to the LORD, “You have been telling me, ‘Lead these people,’ but you have not let me know whom you will send with me. (Here Moses is reacting to God saying He was just going to send an angel. God was no longer going to escort them into the promise land.)
You have said, ‘I know you by name and you have found favor with me. If you are pleased with me, teach me your ways so I may know you and continue to find favor with you. Remember that this nation is your people.” (In the earlier passage, Moses relationship with God is described as a friend - yet here, Moses desires more - he desired a deeper walk.)
The LORD replied, “My Presence will go with you, and I will give you rest.”
Then Moses said to him, “If your Presence does not go with us, do not send us up from here. How will anyone know that you are pleased with me and with your people unless you go with us? What else will distinguish me and your people from all the other people on the face of the earth?” (Moses knew that nothing had worth apart from God - John 15:5)
And the LORD said to Moses, “I will do the very thing you have asked, because I am pleased with you and I know you by name.”
Then Moses said, “Now show me your glory.” (Moses wasn't satisfied with his relationship with God - he wanted more - he desired God - he panteth after God as a deep panteth for the waters. Psalm 42:1)
And the LORD said, “I will cause all my goodness to pass in front of you, and I will proclaim my name, the LORD, in your presence. I will have mercy on whom I will have mercy, and I will have compassion on whom I will have compassion. But,” he said, “you cannot see my face, for no one may see me and live.”
In Exodus 33, God spells out His relationship with Moses. Verse 11 says, The LORD would speak to Moses face to face, as a man speaks with his friend. But at this time, God was displeased with Israel and He had instructed Moses to bring the people to the promise land but that He (God) was not gonna go with them. And this is where the depth of Moses' relationship with God shines... check it out:
(12) Moses said to the LORD, “You have been telling me, ‘Lead these people,’ but you have not let me know whom you will send with me. (Here Moses is reacting to God saying He was just going to send an angel. God was no longer going to escort them into the promise land.)
You have said, ‘I know you by name and you have found favor with me. If you are pleased with me, teach me your ways so I may know you and continue to find favor with you. Remember that this nation is your people.” (In the earlier passage, Moses relationship with God is described as a friend - yet here, Moses desires more - he desired a deeper walk.)
The LORD replied, “My Presence will go with you, and I will give you rest.”
Then Moses said to him, “If your Presence does not go with us, do not send us up from here. How will anyone know that you are pleased with me and with your people unless you go with us? What else will distinguish me and your people from all the other people on the face of the earth?” (Moses knew that nothing had worth apart from God - John 15:5)
And the LORD said to Moses, “I will do the very thing you have asked, because I am pleased with you and I know you by name.”
Then Moses said, “Now show me your glory.” (Moses wasn't satisfied with his relationship with God - he wanted more - he desired God - he panteth after God as a deep panteth for the waters. Psalm 42:1)And the LORD said, “I will cause all my goodness to pass in front of you, and I will proclaim my name, the LORD, in your presence. I will have mercy on whom I will have mercy, and I will have compassion on whom I will have compassion. But,” he said, “you cannot see my face, for no one may see me and live.”
Then the LORD said, “There is a place near me where you may stand on a rock. When my glory passes by, I will put you in a cleft in the rock and cover you with my hand until I have passed by. Then I will remove my hand and you will see my back; but my face must not be seen.” (And God grants Moses' request)
Moses was an extraordinary man. He knew his God; he loved his God; he desired his God. And I... well, I wanna be like Moses. Kind of lofty huh. Well
I will keep my eyes on the prize and continue to take two steps forward.
I wanna walk with God and hear Him say "I am pleased with you." With the world in crisis mode, wars and rumors of wars - a lot of unrest. It's very easy to see the sign plainly, that we are near the end of time. But we don't know when the day will be - so in the mean time - I will strive to obtain the relationship Jesus paved for me when He died on the cross for my sins. What better way to finish strong than to strive to be like Moses.
Friday, March 25, 2011
Pulled Pork Recipe
I DID IT! I've been craving a good Pulled Pork Sandwich (some would call this Kalua Pig Sandwich). It's a real simple recipe inspired by my friend Merle Gutierrez and internet research.
I started with two pounds of pork butt. Rub Hawaiian Rock Salt and Hickory Seasoning Liquid Smoke on to the meat. I stuff the meat into a nice medium sized crock pot - set on high - and let it do its work. Keep the crock pot on high for about six to seven hours then place heat on low. Oh, I placed two unpeeled bananas into the pot while cooking. The purpose of the unpeeled bananas is to try to reduce the saltiness of the pork. It takes approximately 12 hours for the meat to completely cook and it will sit in salt the whole time - so the unpeeled banana is necessary.
Warning - three to four hours into this slow cook process your kitchen will start to fill with the scrumptious odor of smoked meat. If you plan on eating any meal while this scent fills your senses - well, expect your meal to fall short of satisfaction because your taste buds will be longing for the tempting flavor of smoked pork.
Once the meat is done - take a fork and gently pull - it shred easy. Mix with Best Food Mayonnaise and some shredded cabbage and you got an awesome pull pork sandwich.
Still - I think Merle's dish is better - but maybe with practice I may become just as good as my master chef. We'll see.
Note to my friend Maria Villa - did you notice my play on the angles and rules of thirds.... didn't get the rule of third down but still..... I'm playing with the angles.
UPDATE:
Had to scale down a little with the workout. I walked one mile a day everyday except Tuesday this past week. But any activity is better than inactivity and I do have my mind set on continuing a running regimen - after I get clearance from my doctor. The 1 mile a day has helped to curve my eating habit. Fred says I've been eating less. Didn't lose weight but I noticed my clothes are starting to fit better - toning up I guess.
I started with two pounds of pork butt. Rub Hawaiian Rock Salt and Hickory Seasoning Liquid Smoke on to the meat. I stuff the meat into a nice medium sized crock pot - set on high - and let it do its work. Keep the crock pot on high for about six to seven hours then place heat on low. Oh, I placed two unpeeled bananas into the pot while cooking. The purpose of the unpeeled bananas is to try to reduce the saltiness of the pork. It takes approximately 12 hours for the meat to completely cook and it will sit in salt the whole time - so the unpeeled banana is necessary.
Warning - three to four hours into this slow cook process your kitchen will start to fill with the scrumptious odor of smoked meat. If you plan on eating any meal while this scent fills your senses - well, expect your meal to fall short of satisfaction because your taste buds will be longing for the tempting flavor of smoked pork.Once the meat is done - take a fork and gently pull - it shred easy. Mix with Best Food Mayonnaise and some shredded cabbage and you got an awesome pull pork sandwich.
Still - I think Merle's dish is better - but maybe with practice I may become just as good as my master chef. We'll see.
Note to my friend Maria Villa - did you notice my play on the angles and rules of thirds.... didn't get the rule of third down but still..... I'm playing with the angles.
UPDATE:
Had to scale down a little with the workout. I walked one mile a day everyday except Tuesday this past week. But any activity is better than inactivity and I do have my mind set on continuing a running regimen - after I get clearance from my doctor. The 1 mile a day has helped to curve my eating habit. Fred says I've been eating less. Didn't lose weight but I noticed my clothes are starting to fit better - toning up I guess.
Monday, March 21, 2011
Learning from Tomatoes
I've been dabbling with farming. It's somewhat addicting. I just love watching the seed sprout only a week from planting them into a pod. It feels very productive. And when the plant starts to bear fruit - it is just exciting. I feel like they are my babies and they make me proud.
I learned a lot from the numerous failed attempts. In my attempt to learn more about plants - Home Depot has become the place to go - and I have discovered that I can learn anything from the Google. I learned that some plants don't like a lot of direct sunlight and some do. I learned that some like a lot of water and some don't. I learned that the right amount of fertilizer is necessary and that it should not touch the stem of the plant. I grow mostly tomatoes, and I've also learned that this plant need constant pruning from "suckers".
Suckers develop in the joint of a branch and the main vine. They don't bear any fruit but they do take up a lot of energy and nutrient from the rest of the plant. Some farmers believe that by removing the suckers - the branch will have better opportunity to bear a lot of big, healthy, sweet fruit.
Strangely enough, this lesson on farming reminded me of one of my favorite movies - Dead Poet Society. It's about a group of young men in an all-boys prep school. Their lives were scripted to follow in the footsteps of their father - lawyers, doctors, and accountants. But then came Mr. Keaton, a literature teacher played by Robin Williams. He challenged them to "seize the day" (Carpe Diem) and to make their lives extraordinary. He tells them to suck the marrow out of life - to live every moment and make it special. However, one of the heroes (Neil Perry played by Robert Sean Leonard) in the story struggled with this and could not find the courage to tell his father that he wanted to live his life as a writer. He eventually kills himself. With this tragic ending, the young men learned to see life in with a new perspective and in doing so, found the courage to become extraordinary.
What does this have to do with the tomatoes I started this blog with? Well, like the tomato plants, we need to prune the suckers that take up all our energy. Jesus said, "I am the true vine, and my Father is the gardener. He cuts off every branch in me that bears no fruit (the suckers), while every branch that does bear fruit he prunes so that it will be even more fruitful." These suckers can be anything that detracts us from really plugging ourselves into the Vine (Jesus Christ) - anything that prevents us from putting God first. This can be relationships, material things, bad habits, addictions, gossip, unforgiveness. These suckers will prevent us from experiencing the abundant life that is promised to us when we hang on to Jesus. Jesus also said, “I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing." Neil Perry had nothing to hang on to when his father took his dreams away. He felt stuck and life sucked the marrow out of him. But we have Jesus to hang on to - He is the true source of everything we need to be successful (or fruitful). All we have to do is plug ourselves into the True Vine - make sure nothing gets in our way - especially those Suckers.
UPDATE:
Helen's running status: 50 minutes - walking/running 3.5 miles. Have been able to run 6 minutes straight before going back to walking.
Have lost 3 pounds since starting my workout two weeks ago.
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| from my rooftop garden in Sinajana, Guam |
Suckers develop in the joint of a branch and the main vine. They don't bear any fruit but they do take up a lot of energy and nutrient from the rest of the plant. Some farmers believe that by removing the suckers - the branch will have better opportunity to bear a lot of big, healthy, sweet fruit.
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| From Buena Vista Entertainment |
What does this have to do with the tomatoes I started this blog with? Well, like the tomato plants, we need to prune the suckers that take up all our energy. Jesus said, "I am the true vine, and my Father is the gardener. He cuts off every branch in me that bears no fruit (the suckers), while every branch that does bear fruit he prunes so that it will be even more fruitful." These suckers can be anything that detracts us from really plugging ourselves into the Vine (Jesus Christ) - anything that prevents us from putting God first. This can be relationships, material things, bad habits, addictions, gossip, unforgiveness. These suckers will prevent us from experiencing the abundant life that is promised to us when we hang on to Jesus. Jesus also said, “I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing." Neil Perry had nothing to hang on to when his father took his dreams away. He felt stuck and life sucked the marrow out of him. But we have Jesus to hang on to - He is the true source of everything we need to be successful (or fruitful). All we have to do is plug ourselves into the True Vine - make sure nothing gets in our way - especially those Suckers.
UPDATE:
Helen's running status: 50 minutes - walking/running 3.5 miles. Have been able to run 6 minutes straight before going back to walking.
Have lost 3 pounds since starting my workout two weeks ago.
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