Tuesday, August 12, 2008

Stagnant. adj.

Stagnant. adj. 1. not moving or flowing; motionless. 2. foul or stale from standing. 3a. showing little or no sign of activity or advancement; not developing or progressing; inactive. 3b. lacking vitality or briskness; sluggish or dull.

I wrote this post once already this evening - about how I feel spiritually stagnant at this current point in my life. Then I realized how much like a pity party it sounded. I don't want this to be that kind of blog. I've had those before. Instead, I want to thank God for putting such amazing people in my life who will pray for me at times like this. People who encourage me, suggest scriptures, ask me how I'm doing, and hold me accountable. Thanks. And please keep praying for me as I wrestle with selfishness and lack of discipline.

Friday, August 1, 2008

seeking Glory

I've only had this blog for a few days now, but I've already changed the name and location. This is due to a number of conversations I've had lately with friends and the inspiration of Thursday night prayer group.

Apparently, I'm a "glory seeker."

I have a tendency to make comments that give praise and glory to myself and my abilities. But I hope to change that.

I no longer want to be a glory seeker.

I want to seek God's Glory.

Cliche. I know. I'm okay with that. But seriously, I want to live my life in a way that exalts my Father and no one else. Not even myself.

Especially not myself.

Tuesday, July 29, 2008

nobody told me there'd be days like these

Wow. I'm exhausted. I'm sitting in the hospital's heart center waiting room while my mother is lying in the cardiac ICU bored and in a bit of pain. She had surgery to repair her mitral valve yesterday. After 2 hours of surgery prep, 5 hours of surgery, 2 hours of solitary recovery, and another 4 hours with a breathing tube shoved down her throat, she was feeling the effects of a long day. We all were. Surgery went just as planned, no complications, no concerns. Her recovery is right on track, and perhaps a little ahead of schedule. She's doing great. She is, of course, in pain and pretty uncomfortable (and claims this was worse than childbirth), but overall she is doing pretty good. I'm so proud of her bravery and her confidence through the whole process. It was amazing to see her completely covered by God's peace.

One of the most amazing things for me, was the huge amount of support we have seen this week. I couldn't believe how many people drove 2-3 hours to sit and wait with us during what became an extremely long day. We have had people open up their homes to us, and others offer to stay with mom while she's out of work. We have received (and hopefully returned) countless phone calls, text messages, and emails. I personally have had more people tell me they were praying than I even knew were aware of the surgery. I am continually blessed by the Godly servants that have been placed in my life. These have been 2 of the longest days of my life, and I'm so glad for God's grace, peace, and comfort, given not only directly but through all of you.

"Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid." John 14:27 (NIV)

Monday, July 28, 2008

another sinner saved

I have been inspired lately by many of my friends who have blogs and regularly update them. I love hearing updates from them, however extensive or minimal they may be. So, I've decided to give it a try. No promises that I'll be a regular blogger, though I'll do my best to keep people informed of what's going on in my life.

Sidenote: My blog is called 'another sinner saved by grace' because that's what I am. Nothing special about me, except I have been saved from eternal damnation by the sacrifice of Christ and His wonderful gift of grace.