tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-55478115821231600992024-02-02T08:30:36.961-06:00Leaving a markLyshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01319655652407958008noreply@blogger.comBlogger74125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5547811582123160099.post-56388777836955055492015-04-03T00:01:00.000-05:002015-04-03T00:08:10.988-05:00Lost<span style="background-color: white;">I don't know about you but some days I feel lost...</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;"> lost: as <span style="font-family: inherit;">in <span class="oneClick-link oneClick-available" style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 15px; line-height: 22px;">having</span><span style="font-size: 15px; line-height: 22px;"> </span><span class="oneClick-link oneClick-available" style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 15px; line-height: 22px;">gone</span><span style="font-size: 15px; line-height: 22px;"> </span><span class="oneClick-link oneClick-available" style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 15px; line-height: 22px;">astray</span><span style="font-size: 15px; line-height: 22px;"> </span><span class="oneClick-link" style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 15px; line-height: 22px;">or</span><span style="font-size: 15px; line-height: 22px;"> </span><span class="oneClick-link oneClick-available" style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 15px; line-height: 22px;">missed</span><span style="font-size: 15px; line-height: 22px;"> </span><span class="oneClick-link" style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 15px; line-height: 22px;">the</span><span style="font-size: 15px; line-height: 22px;"> </span><span class="oneClick-link" style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 15px; line-height: 22px;">way;</span><span style="font-size: 15px; line-height: 22px;"> </span><span class="oneClick-link" style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 15px; line-height: 22px;">bewildered</span><span style="font-size: 15px; line-height: 22px;"> </span><span class="oneClick-link" style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 15px; line-height: 22px;">as</span><span style="font-size: 15px; line-height: 22px;"> </span><span class="oneClick-link" style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 15px; line-height: 22px;">to</span><span style="font-size: 15px; line-height: 22px;"> </span><span class="oneClick-link" style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 15px; line-height: 22px;">place,</span><span style="font-size: 15px; line-height: 22px;"></span><span class="oneClick-link" style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 15px; line-height: 22px;">direction,</span><span style="font-size: 15px; line-height: 22px;"> </span><span class="oneClick-link oneClick-available" style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 15px; line-height: 22px;">etc. </span><span class="oneClick-link oneClick-available" style="box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 22px;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">(dictionary.com)</span></span></span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; line-height: 22px;">Lost in the sense of not belonging. I know we are just sojourners here. But we have purpose. To live like Jesus, love like Jesus. But what does that look like day to day.</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="line-height: 22px;"><br /></span>
<span style="line-height: 22px;">In my job, you quickly find yourself feeling tossed around like a ping pong ball, boosting egos here, giving meds there, fluffing pillows along the way; you know you are a vital part of the picture, but no one seems to see that. I watch the selfless people that I work with hold their bladders for 12+ hours, with only eating candy that one of our coworkers blesses us with more days than not, giving all of themselves to each patient. Bouncing from code brown to code 99 to a stroke- taking care of family, friends, and patients alike. Staying late for your family, while missing family dinners, holidays, and the ups and downs of their own family's lives. And when they walk out that door at the end of the day- the emotions come, praying for you and your family in this hard time. They are my heroes.</span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="line-height: 22px;"><br /></span>
<span style="line-height: 22px;">I want to give selflessly for these people I work with and all those who come through the doors needing help. Giving attention to some who are lonely, pain relief to the hurting, stress relief for family, and all the physical care needed. But to go beyond that: to be kind always, to hug, encourage, make someone smile, be the vessel to carry that extra caring touch. </span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="line-height: 22px;"><br /></span>
<span style="line-height: 22px;">Outside of work though- I want purpose and direction. I see all these lovely people my age getting married, having children, awaiting their child's arrival, traveling with their significant other. It's so beautiful. And one day I think I'd like that too, but right now- I'm not there. I want to love selflessly (even though I'm an extremely selfish person), I want to be lost in the service of others. I want every encounter to reflect Christ (which I am far from that). I want to crawl out of this shell of shyness, out of my comfort zone, and pursue these goals. </span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="line-height: 22px;"><br /></span>
<span style="line-height: 22px;">In small steps- one day at a time.</span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; line-height: 22px;">For God is moving, I am not lost- He is my purpose.</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; line-height: 22px;">As Cinderella's mother so eloquently put it "Be kind and have courage."</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; line-height: 22px;">In love always</span>Lyshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01319655652407958008noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5547811582123160099.post-76122619690081658072014-02-01T14:07:00.001-06:002014-02-01T14:07:13.457-06:00IntentionalHave you ever looked at someone and seen such great potential? Something they can't see and think they are not capable of making an impact like that. <br />
As I watch those around me I tend to look at all their good qualities and potential. That's how I see them, how I truly believe they are, just something is holding them back or covering up their potential. It broke my heart thinking and hearing the things that hold us back from fully living out who Christ has called us to be, created us to be. From fear of what our fellow man will say about us, that which we might lose, to the lies we believe, how we as humans can be so critical of each other in harsh and unloving ways. <br />
What would happen if instead of judging our fellow man, tearing each other down, and confirming the lies we each struggle with, we built each other up, helped one another overcome the lies and challenges before us, spoke truth and life? What if just once a week, a day we intentionally encouraged someone and spoke life? Death and life are in the power of the tongue... <br />
I'm challenged to do this, and I want to challenge you to the same. <br />
After all, Christ said the world would know us by our love for one another... so let's allow Christ to shine through.<br />
<br />
With love....<br />
LysLyshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01319655652407958008noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5547811582123160099.post-90160288864640761482014-01-26T15:27:00.000-06:002014-01-26T15:27:31.405-06:00HereThe other day in class I was trying to distract myself from the topic of the week, just a simple escape from reality. I found myself daydreaming of flying to Florida, Idaho, and Colorado to see my best friends. I saw Rachel walking along the white sandy beach hand in hand with Nathan as their precious daughter slept upon her daddy's shoulder. Rachel's laugh was so warm and voluptuous, you felt drawn in to this moment to be treasured. Then I saw Casey curled up in Phillip's arms, up on this mountain that looks upon Boise. Tears were streaming down her face and at first I wanted to run to her and comfort her, but I was held back- then I realized, they were tears of joy. Joy that God is faithful, that He provides, that His plan is greater and more wonderful than ours. Then I saw Brandon standing on this rock that overlooks the Springs, his eyes filled with hope and wonder- just in awe. You see, these dear friends that I've known for years, have gone through so much heartache as well as joy. They love deeply- but it's not their own love, but rather Christ Jesus in them. While they each have their own struggles, as do we all, they are following a God who makes the impossible possible for his glory. That's when I found my self doodling this in my notes...<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
The beautiful journey of life begins when the fairytale ends. </div>
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The fairytale is not the best part of the story... it's what happens afterwards. The journey of life... that's what's important. </div>
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You see, in class we've been discussing death and the care of a dying patient (I'm in nursing school). Not my favorite topic especially after losing so many loved ones, but it's not anyone's favorite topic is it? But it is one that needs to be faced.</div>
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How do we live? </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
What is the legacy that you are leaving? </div>
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Is it about how good or bad of a person you are?</div>
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One of strength and dignity? </div>
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One of generosity or selfish greed? </div>
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Is it one of long held grudges and revenge or of great forgiveness of the unthinkable? </div>
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One of a victim or survivor? </div>
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Or is it one of selflessness? </div>
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One that shouts Gods glory? </div>
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A faithful life spent loving? </div>
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Who is glorified in your life?<br />
<br />
So here we are, on the Earth in places near and far. What is important to you? <br />
Time is short and we must invest it wisely in what's important. May our hearts be turned to Abba. May we walk in love with hearts of flesh. And when we fail, may we choose to pick one another up rather than kick dirt each other. <br />
<br />
Love always....<br />
<br />
lysLyshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01319655652407958008noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5547811582123160099.post-42069182265432554442012-08-09T18:32:00.001-05:002012-08-09T18:32:21.244-05:007 months laterI can't believe it's been so long since my last post. Life has been full. But as I sit here, taking a moment to think back upon all that has happend in the past seven months, I'm continually astounded by God. I have a deep love for the Lord my God. Because of Him, there is life, love, joy, hope, healing, goodness, righteousness, humility, meekness, passion, empathy, sincerity, connection, longing, satisfaction, servanthood and so much more. Ever since He awakened me when I was a teenager, I've longed to live my whole life for him. I went to an internship that really spurred that on and helped me grow closer to my King and learn so much more of him. Since then I've been refined, challenged, broken, healed and grown closer to my Love, than I ever thought possible. But looking back over these past seven months, they've been filled with growth, but in a way I never imagined happening. To be honest, I had put up a front for several months, trying to disguise the break I wanted from God, not really from God but church and talking about God all the time and just being selfish, I wanted a break from all I had been expected of me, especially in the area of religion. I noticed that it had become religious, routine, no heart, just motions. And I hated myself for that. But I had to live up to the expectations of close friends and family, so I hid within myself. I closed myself off, from everyone, including me. And this was not healthy, good, nor godly. And for that I am deeply sorry. And thankfully, Abba was NOT going to let those walls remain. So here I am still coming out of it. And honestly, I've found myself back in the arms of my Savior, leaning against his chest, quietly listening for his heart beat and the peace it brings through all circumstances. <br />
So for those of you out there, feeling like your stuck in a routine, religious motions with no heart, please seek God first and foremost, ask him to help you through, to bring you to a place of just you and him, not trying to please people. Afterall, it's not by pleasing them that we've coming to rest in the assurance of our salvations, but by Christ's perfect sacrifice and ressurection from the dead. So don't you think that if God can defeat death, that he can also rescue you right where you are at. The Holy Spirit is with you, you need not fear, for God is with you. And if God is with you, who can be against you?! <br />
I remember coming into this year, with great expectation from God, and while we are already in August and it's been nothing like I expected, it's been what was needed. My best friend always tells me, that God doesn't give us what we want, but rather what we need. And I'm finding this to be ever so true, and looking back, I'm so grateful that He gives us what we need. I'm not sure I'm completely ready for what I want. All in His perfect timing. I'm in a place of being completely captivated each and every day by my King, I've given Him my heart and I'm taking each day as a new adventure between the two of us. I find myself completely blessed to be called a daughter of the Living God! And I'm in awe of how many times he takes my breath away, by God just being God. He is moving and living and changing lives. It's not by us his people that anything is accomplished, but only by him. <br />
I pray that you find yourself completely in awe, breathless at His righteousness!! <br />
<br />
In love always... lysLyshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01319655652407958008noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5547811582123160099.post-15586638917820457422011-12-05T01:00:00.002-06:002011-12-05T01:16:03.704-06:00Secret placeA young women, seeking that which reaches the depths of who she is and satisfies every longing, every desire is found kneeling at the base of a tree. She is in clothes that are tattered and torn from all of life's messes, she's dirty from the things people have thrown at her, her heart if hurt and in need of holding. You see she's been walking through life, trying to carry the pieces of her life on her own. Little did she know that they weren't her's to carry alone. Till one day she was introduced to someone who quickly became her friend, her help in time of need and the one who showed her a love worth living for. Soon she became busy trying to impress her friend and bless her friend and stopped spending as much time with together. And she found herself longing once again and unfulfilled. Until one day her friend took her to a secret place in the middle of the pasture where a single tree grew strong and big. He friend soon told her of a life worth living, one that is fulfilling, that satisfies and gives a purpose. But most importantly that you'll never be alone. You see this young women more often times than not felt as if she didn't belong, as if she were an outsider not worthy of love or companionship. Her friend had shown her that there is LIFE in the midst of all this darkness. Told her stories of His love for her, danced with her and sung over her. Wiped all her tears and picked her up when she fell... and ever since then she comes, humbled to be able to be in the presence of her Savior, Friend and Father... God. <div><br /></div><div>May we never forget that we are so blessed to be able to enter his courts, to enter the holy of hollies without ever leaving our house. For Jesus Christ came to save once and for all. For sin entered the world through one man, and MANY are saved from their sin by ONE man, Jesus Christ. He longs to spend time with us. He is everything we need. We are BLESSED to live in a time when WE ourselves can enter into his presence and not be struck dead because of our sin. When Jesus died and rose again the veil was torn and there is no longer a need for us to go to the high priest so he can enter the Lord's presence. WE GET TO!!!! What a beautiful thing!!! We can walk everyday in HIS presence. So let's have a Mary heart and sit in his presence worshiping and learning all he has for us!!!! </div>Lyshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01319655652407958008noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5547811582123160099.post-56754016375909037972011-12-05T00:38:00.002-06:002011-12-05T00:56:47.392-06:00Beautiful things... when you least expect itSo many scenes come to mind when I hear the word beautiful, such as a thunderstorm in the middle of the night when your on a balcony with close friends in a different country, snow falling gently through the night as you worship the living God or stargazing on a dock in the middle of nowhere. Such beauty that God has created for us to enjoy. These moments tend to happen when we least expect them... and his creation... WORSHIPS HIM!!!! WOW<div><br /></div><div>But what about the people in your life?</div><div><br /></div><div>A best friend who at one point you weren't sure if you were going to make it another day... a moment when you realize you let each other down and the hurt that comes from it... yet grace is shown and God reunites you even stronger than before. To watch a broken girl turn into a beautiful woman of God who is now a mentor to so many and she doesn't even know it yet. A friend who when you first met was a broken and hurt mess, longing for real love, unconditional, life changing love. Through the years you SEE God transform her into a woman who is so BEAUTIFUL you sometimes have to look twice to believe what you see. A girl who was once so shy and insecure she wouldn't even speak when a stranger sat on her and introduced herself... so broken and hurt she didn't even trust herself and now... she's seeing her dreams come true and is walking in a relationship with God that she could never have dreamed of all those years ago. These three women... all in need of Jesus. All like the Samaritan women and the women who doesn't have much strength left, but uses everything she has left to reach the edge of the Christ's cloak, for if she can just touch the hem surely her life will change. A girl who has the potential of Esther, Ruth, Diane, Rachel and Mary. To see what Christ the Lord has done in renewing these women's lives, molding them and healing them is a miracle, a gift that can never be forgotten or taken away. You see these women are you and me, they are every women... they had women who mentored them and showed them Jesus... now it's our turn... so here we go... we are weak and in need of more of HIM... but by HIM and through HIM all things are possible.</div><div><br /></div><div>So lets seek out the beauty in people, lets chase God and love him with all we are. Lets run this race strong to the end... let us seek justice, love mercy and walk humbly with our God... let us never forget from that which we came and that it's by grace through faith that we've gotten this for... lets never forget it's not about us... let us press on to know that we are running a race to win the prize! </div><div><br /></div><div>Beauty from ashes... </div><div>we've all been there...</div>Lyshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01319655652407958008noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5547811582123160099.post-61334267508187146652011-10-17T23:58:00.002-05:002011-10-18T00:20:06.291-05:00Cold Weather<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span>Tonight the weather changes, the cold air rushes in and as I step outside my breath is almost taken away. O how I enjoy this weather, it quite and peaceful and reminds me of how much I need Jesus. I love to sit and have deep conversations over a hot tea with close friends at times like these. If only they all lived a little closer. But, I do want to change this. I miss having lots of good friends nearby. I've recently gotten over being sick, but while confined to the bed, 20 hours of sleep a day and a few too many Law and Order: SVU episodes, I can't help but be thankful. We are so blessed.<div><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span>School keeps me busy and work is alright. But when I just stop, turn off the music and listen I find much joy. And also a longing for so much more of who God is. I want to know him and for him to know me. I think of all the kids here in Amarillo and Canyon who are orphans and just want a family. How if I could I'd buy a house big enough for us all and adopt them, but I can't for many reasons, so instead I ask God to do his work and to find these children families, but most of all that they'd know him, for he is a father to the fatherless, and o how wonderful of a Father he is!!! </div><div><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span>My oldest brother and his wife are having a child and I can't hardly contain myself. He's coming to meet us in February, Callen Adonias Duncan. Meaning: Strong warrior, The Lord is my God. What joy a child brings to a family. I remember when Logan and Benjamin were born, o the sweet joys they have been and I hope our family just continues to grow.</div><div><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span>Thinking of this, it makes me long for a family of my own, it's a longing that goes to the core of who I am, and in a way it scares me. I doubt sometimes if this will ever occur or if it's just a far away dream that will never come true. But one thing I do know is the Lord is good!!! And He is holy and righteous and so in Him I place my trust. And hopefully one day a dream will come true.</div><div><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span>Hosea 6:1-3</div><div><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span>-this verse always remains in my heart. </div><div><br /></div><div>Ephesians 3:19-21</div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Charis SIL', charis, Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); "><p><sup class="versenum" id="en-NASB-29271" style="font-size: 0.65em; line-height: normal; font-weight: bold; vertical-align: text-top; ">19</sup> and to know <sup class="xref" value="(<a href="#cen-NASB-29271A" title="See cross-reference A">A</a>)" style="font-size: 0.65em; line-height: 0.5em; font-weight: bold; vertical-align: text-top; ">(<a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Ephesians+3:19-21&version=NASB#cen-NASB-29271A" title="See cross-reference A" style="color: rgb(101, 19, 0); text-decoration: none; ">A</a>)</sup>the love of Christ which <sup class="xref" value="(<a href="#cen-NASB-29271B" title="See cross-reference B">B</a>)" style="font-size: 0.65em; line-height: 0.5em; font-weight: bold; vertical-align: text-top; ">(<a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Ephesians+3:19-21&version=NASB#cen-NASB-29271B" title="See cross-reference B" style="color: rgb(101, 19, 0); text-decoration: none; ">B</a>)</sup>surpasses knowledge, that you may be <sup class="xref" value="(<a href="#cen-NASB-29271C" title="See cross-reference C">C</a>)" style="font-size: 0.65em; line-height: 0.5em; font-weight: bold; vertical-align: text-top; ">(<a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Ephesians+3:19-21&version=NASB#cen-NASB-29271C" title="See cross-reference C" style="color: rgb(101, 19, 0); text-decoration: none; ">C</a>)</sup>filled up to all the <sup class="xref" value="(<a href="#cen-NASB-29271D" title="See cross-reference D">D</a>)" style="font-size: 0.65em; line-height: 0.5em; font-weight: bold; vertical-align: text-top; ">(<a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Ephesians+3:19-21&version=NASB#cen-NASB-29271D" title="See cross-reference D" style="color: rgb(101, 19, 0); text-decoration: none; ">D</a>)</sup>fullness of God.</p><p> <sup class="versenum" id="en-NASB-29272" style="font-size: 0.65em; line-height: normal; font-weight: bold; vertical-align: text-top; ">20</sup> <sup class="xref" value="(<a href="#cen-NASB-29272E" title="See cross-reference E">E</a>)" style="font-size: 0.65em; line-height: 0.5em; font-weight: bold; vertical-align: text-top; ">(<a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Ephesians+3:19-21&version=NASB#cen-NASB-29272E" title="See cross-reference E" style="color: rgb(101, 19, 0); text-decoration: none; ">E</a>)</sup>Now to Him who is <sup class="xref" value="(<a href="#cen-NASB-29272F" title="See cross-reference F">F</a>)" style="font-size: 0.65em; line-height: 0.5em; font-weight: bold; vertical-align: text-top; ">(<a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Ephesians+3:19-21&version=NASB#cen-NASB-29272F" title="See cross-reference F" style="color: rgb(101, 19, 0); text-decoration: none; ">F</a>)</sup>able to do far more abundantly beyond all that we ask or think, <sup class="xref" value="(<a href="#cen-NASB-29272G" title="See cross-reference G">G</a>)" style="font-size: 0.65em; line-height: 0.5em; font-weight: bold; vertical-align: text-top; ">(<a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Ephesians+3:19-21&version=NASB#cen-NASB-29272G" title="See cross-reference G" style="color: rgb(101, 19, 0); text-decoration: none; ">G</a>)</sup>according to the power that works within us, <sup class="versenum" id="en-NASB-29273" style="font-size: 0.65em; line-height: normal; font-weight: bold; vertical-align: text-top; ">21</sup> <sup class="xref" value="(<a href="#cen-NASB-29273H" title="See cross-reference H">H</a>)" style="font-size: 0.65em; line-height: 0.5em; font-weight: bold; vertical-align: text-top; ">(<a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Ephesians+3:19-21&version=NASB#cen-NASB-29273H" title="See cross-reference H" style="color: rgb(101, 19, 0); text-decoration: none; ">H</a>)</sup>to Him <i>be</i> the glory in the church and in Christ Jesus to all generations <sup class="footnote" value="[<a href="#fen-NASB-29273a" title="See footnote a">a</a>]" style="font-size: 0.65em; line-height: 0.5em; font-weight: bold; vertical-align: text-top; ">[<a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Ephesians+3:19-21&version=NASB#fen-NASB-29273a" title="See footnote a" style="color: rgb(101, 19, 0); text-decoration: none; ">a</a>]</sup>forever and ever. Amen.</p><p><br /></p><p>How amazing it is to have God who knows no impossibility and has made us for relationship with him!!! And his heart for all the peoples of the earth is to know him and be known by him! And so... His will be done, not ours, but his! </p><p>I love you Jesus!! </p><p><br /></p><p>P.S. You all should check out the song Esther by Esterlyn.... it's a song thats been on my mind so much...it's very much what I want to see done in the lives of God's precious and sweet children...</p></span></div>Lyshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01319655652407958008noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5547811582123160099.post-33055613291687400632011-10-03T23:15:00.002-05:002011-10-03T23:35:31.804-05:00Welling thirst for Living waterThere is a church in town that displays witty sayings on there marquee, but this week, it's simple and o so truthful. <div>"Seasons change, God doesn't"</div><div>Through all of life, Abba has been the same. He's never wavered from any part of himself. He has always spoken truth, always loved, always been just, always been good and always unfathomable. This past week has been filled with it's own worries, and yet I rest in His peace. As Jesus states in John 16 <span class="Apple-style-span" >"I have spoken these things to you, that in Me you may have peace. In this world you will have tribulation, but take heart, for I have overcome the world." </span></div><div>Wow!!! </div><div>But overall these past couple weeks, I've learned and I've seen how disgusting I am. That this sin, which I fight with day in and day out, is muck. It's as filthy rags, even as used menstrual products. And who wants to be around that. Yet we all sin and all lay here in this state. What is it going to take for me to realize that no matter what Abba is here, with me? Jesus has taken this sin away and I am free from this. Well let me tell you...</div><div>There is a woman I feel like I can relate to in the Bible. She is by no means what we would consider a "wholesome" or "beautiful" woman. She is the topic of the gossip in town. She is the one who walks with shame, she avoids people, keeps her head down and would have the scarlet letter shining above her as a neon sign. She's made some mistakes and has even more regrets. Yet here she is in the presence of the Messiah, and she doesn't even know it. Jesus asks if he can have a drink of water from her cup... wow... there are just a few things wrong with this picture:</div><div>1. She is a Samaritan woman</div><div>2. Jesus is a Jewish man</div><div>3. Jesus asked to take a drink from her cup, which according to the law, would make him ceremoniously unclean</div><div>4. She has had 5 husbands and currently lives with a man who uses her</div><div>5. They are talking to one another in a public place</div><div><br /></div><div>Yet Jesus loves her. Confronts her and lets her know He is I Am. This is only one of two times Jesus ever takes on the name Messiah. What does she need more than anything... the Messiah. So here her life is changed forever. </div><div>May we all realize and come to this point in our lives. When we hunger for the living water, and not drink from the wells of this world to be satisfied. May we see our filth and thank God for his redemption of our lives. May your life and mine be changed by the conversation with Jesus. Though short, it pierces to the depths of who we are. </div><div>So here I'm trading these rags for riches. To live a life set a part. Looking forward to the day, that there are no more tears of sorrow, and to be in the very presence of the Messiah. Abba, friend and Lord. </div>Lyshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01319655652407958008noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5547811582123160099.post-5210193583586648622011-08-19T18:57:00.002-05:002011-08-19T19:06:09.973-05:00New BeginingsToday has been a wonderful day, though it's definitely had its refining moments. I am very glad to be in the place that I am today. It's a new begining in a very familiar place. Since moving back to West Texas life has been very different than in the city. Although I have enjoyed it very much so! Today is a day of change. A day of new beginings. Something I once dreaded with every fiber of my being. But am so thankful to be able to sit at the foot of the cross, where the ground is level.
<br />Self control and self discipline are big changes that have come in to store as well as just taking advantage of every breath that God has so graciously given.
<br />I am so very thankful for this place. I am humbled by His goodness.
<br />
<br />Lyshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01319655652407958008noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5547811582123160099.post-20092520777128245012011-06-10T17:30:00.000-05:002011-06-10T17:31:22.806-05:00One step at a time<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(42, 42, 42); font-family: 'Segoe UI', Tahoma, Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px; "><p class="ecxMsoNormal" style="line-height: 19px; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; margin-left: 0px; font-size: 11pt; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; ">Love is real. It is not just some fairytale that we girls dream of our whole lives only to be left disappointed and broken. Love is a reality that captures hearts, draws people together and changes lives. Love does not leave you out in the cold only to be the pray of the enemy. Love protects, defends, fights for and cherishes those he loves. True love of a man comes from God the Father. Love is unconditional. Love has no limits or boundaries, it can stretch across oceans and reach down to the core of who you are.</p><p class="ecxMsoNormal" style="line-height: 19px; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; margin-left: 0px; font-size: 11pt; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; ">Love is patient and kind. It is not envious, boastful or proud. It seeks to lift up one another. Love does not tear down, hurt or destroy. Love builds up, lifts up and heals wounds.</p><p class="ecxMsoNormal" style="line-height: 19px; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; margin-left: 0px; font-size: 11pt; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; ">For a man to truly love a woman, he must first be with God.</p><p class="ecxMsoNormal" style="line-height: 19px; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; margin-left: 0px; font-size: 11pt; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; ">For God is love.</p><p class="ecxMsoNormal" style="line-height: 19px; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; margin-left: 0px; font-size: 11pt; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; ">He gives love to us and then love pours out to others.</p><p class="ecxMsoNormal" style="line-height: 19px; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; margin-left: 0px; font-size: 11pt; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; ">Love is beautiful!</p><p class="ecxMsoNormal" style="line-height: 19px; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; margin-left: 0px; font-size: 11pt; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; ">This is a wonderful thing to experience.</p><p class="ecxMsoNormal" style="line-height: 19px; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; margin-left: 0px; font-size: 11pt; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; ">I’m currently learning a lot about how Christ loves the church.</p><p class="ecxMsoNormal" style="line-height: 19px; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; margin-left: 0px; font-size: 11pt; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; ">Simply because someone is showing me this kind of love.</p><p class="ecxMsoNormal" style="line-height: 19px; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; margin-left: 0px; font-size: 11pt; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; ">Thank you Jesus for this great love you give!!!</p><p class="ecxMsoNormal" style="line-height: 19px; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; margin-left: 0px; font-size: 11pt; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; "> </p><p class="ecxMsoNormal" style="line-height: 19px; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; margin-left: 0px; font-size: 11pt; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; ">Thank you mentors and friends who have always told me about this and yet I was unsure. Well, I’m not anymore. :D</p><p class="ecxMsoNormal" style="line-height: 19px; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; margin-left: 0px; font-size: 11pt; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; ">Love is not just a fairytale or far away dream, it’s real and it’s happening before my very eyes!</p></span>Lyshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01319655652407958008noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5547811582123160099.post-68370841929960468982011-06-05T22:11:00.004-05:002011-06-05T22:42:55.774-05:00A love that's unending<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXmXVDY8jZhqnacnvfLALwdX0wBWUCGmxnR4iVIE39FKIquOKIyFrYk4lbVbt0Vbt-HHDlu7C2wH0J87MBNePM12CKbjVNkvwB_6mtbYXAA1f9_Ila2QCJoxu9yc1ILIZi_hXOIQUmlYU/s320/H.JPG" style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5614945329544175490" /><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivzUwvrIIt8GHsic-_pKwKOwNYEPzIscDz2qwcsjrnQuawa6Zf4KK0wCMImzgaGJnxVZ4MyMwTJ_V55ZLxV-0n2h7_JDYKN5C5Gy-FUhr2-Y7C_Gz6pyNFJUkaQwwaIcalfzwkNoLcRhE/s320/Laura+H+109.JPG" style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5614945332376443746" /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNVgeW26OK6OGY31SvPuTcgngt1PtIsR8wvAPA83BCPexNrbaNUfZT1Su2VoSOcEB96JwV3V1T2h2zwq2nn91F37GConsXiOW4DNAE0_NUhPPNXabblTY_bkUKQ4TbMUVS5sJoRaMFOYA/s1600/DSCN0416.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNVgeW26OK6OGY31SvPuTcgngt1PtIsR8wvAPA83BCPexNrbaNUfZT1Su2VoSOcEB96JwV3V1T2h2zwq2nn91F37GConsXiOW4DNAE0_NUhPPNXabblTY_bkUKQ4TbMUVS5sJoRaMFOYA/s320/DSCN0416.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5614947002172096082" /></a><br /><div>As I looked into their eyes, the hopelessness broke in to the core of my very being. Their efforts spent striving to simply survive. They wanted something more, but knew of nothing that truly lasts. Many of </div><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhicL1-_FRjpAOhO3gwx-iU1vUgO_x3Adhf_SwnRvgL3tV5fYWtC2nOMGXfnm1j3kpWwRMbRnsSZ6joyo-TNf6VE4MAowlXZdoHiPqlRn41ZZY9ekgOjoq3OZucA1jMz676vt2a8Kxmi8I/s320/Laura+H+030.JPG" style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5614945340505748818" />them had been abandoned or their family simply died ad they were the only ones left. Where had the hope gone? Where was God when this happened? How could so many people, so many children live in such extreme poverty? God, why haven't they heard of you? Why don't they know your love like we do?<div>So many questions, and so few answers. The children laughed and played with us and the adults cried and laughed with us, and taught us all so much! Throughout my time in Ethiopia I saw everything from complete hopelessness to complete joy in extreme poverty and among the fortunate. The faces, the names their longing to be loved is forever etched in my mind. </div><div>I wish you could have been with me at the soup kitchen as I laughed and hugged and received hugs from the street beggars, of all ages, mostly older men. Most of them were crippled and hungry and needing of life everlasting, of Jesus our Savior. What a blessing it was to be with them, and serve them. My life is forever changed because of what God is doing in Ethiopia. </div><div>I'm back here at home, and striving to keep the same passion alive and to love just as much and whole heartedly. It's nice to be with family, but honestly I see why God has called us to the ends of the earth, even if it means leaving my family behind and just obeying. </div><div>So for now, I'm simply going to obey. One day at a time. With pleasure and joy. I'll pick up my cross and follow Christ daily. What does that look like here? What is it supposed to look like? Well I guess I'll find out one day at a time. </div><div>I am going back in December for over a month to Ethiopia. And for that trip I am beyond excited, and seeking Jesus whole-heartedly. For I know it won't be easy living thier for those almost 6 weeks, but I know that everyday my God will move, and that he will equip us. And every night when we lay down our heads we will thank God for what he is doing and for bringing us to Ethiopia. </div><div>I never thought I would fall in love with a people so quickly, but honestly, I can't get them off my mind or stop praying for them. I love them!!!!!</div><div>Our drivers, translators, and staff of the guest home are wonderful and so encouraging! I look forward to working with them again soon! </div><div>Please pray for Ethiopia, as most of the people have not heard the true gospel, especially outside of Addis. They are a beautiful people!!! </div><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dw6_3bhG5gzX1lSWR7PaeCKxQzlG1wNYCpJn8SwmETIS8uaAF65yPC7XlZRogP_kKqsOEVYuNQHa0YBzGr6wA' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe>Lyshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01319655652407958008noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5547811582123160099.post-32859511775187360022011-04-25T21:32:00.002-05:002011-04-25T21:53:44.826-05:00Gospel, prayer, storms and PerseverenceGospel: God the Father knew that we needed a Savior. So he sent us his son, Christ Jesus. Jesus, teacher, taught us, showed us and revealed to us the mystery, TRUTH was laid out for all to understand. Christ, innocent and pure, was drenched in our sin and paid our price. Beaten, bruised, broken, torn, pierced... for you and me. BUT the cross isn't the end.... HE ROSE FROM THE GRAVE!!! Death could not defeat him and Satan couldn't hold him!!! Praise the Lord... Thank you Jesus for your sacrifice so we could have life!!!!<div><br /></div><div>Prayer: Amazing things happen when we pray! I'm still amazed by this!! Prayer is way more powerful than we (at least i) give it. Prayer moves God to take action... isn't this amazing... that we can move on God's heart... if you don't believe it look in the old Testament, it's everywhere! From Esther, Abram, Noah to Jeremiah, Boaz, Isaiah, Micah.... and so many more... look in the New Testament.... Jesus prays for you!!! For you to be one with Him and that we, as the body of Christ would be one. How amazing!!!!</div><div><br /></div><div>Storms: Physical storms, I love for their majesty that God displays, just watch as they form, the lightening sparks, thunder rolls and the rain pours!!! Hosea 6:1-3 is what I think of everytime!!! Spiritual storms, are hard, not fun and sometimes discouraging. "...But take heart for I have overcome the world"-John 16:33. While we may not see the purpose then, God is with us, and hindsight is 20/20. Praise the Lord in times of tribulation!!!! This I am learning, and I must say, it not only changes your attitude, but you are strengthened, just like the Psalmist David says, "The joy of the Lord is my strength..."</div><div><br /></div><div>Perseverence:</div><div>1. A guy I work with was in a terrible accident, but God brought him through. Now he encourages everyone ALL the time! He is a joy to be around and such a huge blessing! Even though everyday he suffers in great pain due to his accident, he is always thankful to the Lord and tells everyone how much God loves them! He always puts a smile on everyone's face! I pray that one day I will be like that! </div><div>2. A man lost his wife in a car accident back around Christmas. Although I did not know him before, I did know his wife from a few encounters I had with her. She was loving and shone the light of Christ, her very presence brought God's love. He is not bitter, but thankful for his children that have lived, including his then unborn son. I was fundraising for a mission trip that I go on in May... he brought his kids and bought cupcakes for them... my brief encounter with him and his donation spoke more to me of God's love and provision and peace than anything else that happened that day. Thank you sir for seeking God, even when it seem impossible to continue on. Your love for your family and God have impacted me deeply!!! </div><div><br /></div><div>I want to be have the prayer life of Esther, the faith of Noah, the heart like David and Paul's devotion and Peter's zeal.... all pieces that show different attributes of our risen Savior...</div><div><br /></div><div>till next time....</div><div>I love you all more than you know!!!</div><div><br /></div>Lyshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01319655652407958008noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5547811582123160099.post-79633026075479310162011-04-17T12:50:00.002-05:002011-04-17T13:06:24.311-05:00A journey of FAITH... a whole new meaningFor this semester I've been raising funds to go to Ethiopia for a missions trip. Trip cost: ~2800. A few days ago I had no idea how any of this was going to come together. I knew that God would supply and that the hard work would pay off in the end. I've been praying fervently for this trip as well as that the finances would come in. So I gave the rest to God.<div>You see for the past few months (probably more like year) God has been teaching me what faith is and what it looks like, while this is an answer to prayer, I can't say it's what I expected by any means. To have full faith is not easy, it is not always fun, nor is it comfortable. A picture of faith that I can't seem to get out of my head is of Noah building an arc, on dry land, loading tons of animals in it two by two and never having seen rain before. But know that God does what he says he will do. Soon enough (hundreds of years later) the boat is loaded and down come the rains... forty whole day and nights... over a month (do you realize how much time that is for us?) And then the rains cease and a rainbow comes out, the promise, God will never destroy the earth by a flood again. Amazing how obedient and faithful Noah was. How hard it must have been to do what he did! But Noah had faith, knowing that God does what he says he will, so it's better to be obedient, even if you don't understand what is going to happen, even if you DON'T KNOW AT ALL. </div><div>This is what I've been learning so much of recently. You see, be faithful and obedient, trust God. He keeps his word. Even when we mess up, he's there to pick us back up again...</div><div>So on for the amazing news of provisions that God has been doing over the past 3 days...</div><div>1> Friday night, my family and I went to the car club cookout in town, where my Dad(stepdad) talked to a guy about donating money to the mission trip... so I talked to the guys and told them what was going on... I honestly expected no more than 100 dollars... well God blew me away using these guys... they've donated $500 for my missions trip! AMAZING!!!!</div><div>2> One of the guys there is also going to write a personal check for me on Tuesday... for an amount I do not know yet, but I know that God is providing!!!</div><div>3>Today at church we had a bake sale and an amazing group of men, women and children donated 675.25 for the trip. How amazing is that!!!</div><div>GOD is faithful... He does what he says he is going to do... trust him!!!</div><div>I'm learning to for sure!!!</div><div>Love always, simply love</div><div>Lys</div>Lyshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01319655652407958008noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5547811582123160099.post-57891161688109803632011-04-13T20:51:00.002-05:002011-04-13T21:02:51.043-05:00What does love really mean?JJ Heller sings this song... the chorus goes like this<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span><div style="text-align: center;"><i><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre">W</span>ho will love me for me</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Not for what I have done or for what I will become</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Who will love me for me</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Cause nobody has shown me</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>What love really means</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>What love really means</i></div><div style="text-align: left;">I really like this song because it reminds me of a place that I once was at, and a place that so many people are at now. It inspires me to run hard after God, and pray that people experience His love through me. Not by my own doing, but by Christ in me. </div><div style="text-align: left;">I wonder sometimes if there is someone who is just waiting to hear that they are loved unconditionally, without holding back and long to know this love. Then I'm reminded that this is something we all seek and all long for. Only Christ Jesus can give us this beautiful gift! Himself. But o how my heart breaks for those who don't know his love, and see why God uses us to show people his love. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>It is by our love for one another that others will know Christ.</i> </div><div style="text-align: center;">I pray to know the full understanding of that verse and to live it out everyday!</div><div style="text-align: left;">I've also been processing a lot about different things in my life and I can't help but sing and shout for what God is doing! For what he has done, but most of all for who he is! </div><div style="text-align: left;">God is mighty to save, Christ Jesus our savior, Holy Spirit dwells within us, completely undeserving, yet God lives with us. I am so very thankful for this. Though Christ is not walking this earth with us right now like he once did, the Holy Spirit is always with us. How comforting this is!! </div><div style="text-align: left;">Love always!</div><div style="text-align: left;">Lys</div>Lyshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01319655652407958008noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5547811582123160099.post-20597483239093696432011-04-08T10:18:00.002-05:002011-04-08T10:20:32.557-05:00Hosanna in the Highest<span class="Apple-style-span" >I just got off the phone not too long ago with TMM GE and I have been ticketed for Ethiopia. </span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" >I can't help but sing his praises! </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" >HOSANNA IN THE HIGHEST!</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" >A little girl gets a dream come true... but it's not for me, it's for God's glory!!!!</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" >Love always...</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" >Lys</span></div>Lyshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01319655652407958008noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5547811582123160099.post-77053383953731902642011-04-07T22:42:00.002-05:002011-04-07T23:21:30.151-05:00All is well, with my soul<i><span class="Apple-style-span" >When peace like a river attendeth my way</span></i><div><i><span class="Apple-style-span" >When sorrows like sea billows roll</span></i></div><div><i><span class="Apple-style-span" >Whatever my lot </span></i></div><div><i><span class="Apple-style-span" >Thou hast me to say </span></i></div><div><i><span class="Apple-style-span" >IT IS WELL<br />IT IS WELL WITH MY SOUL</span></i></div><div><i><span class="Apple-style-span" ><br /></span></i></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" >This song has been on my mind all day. I couldn't help but to sing it. As I was at work today, I kept singing and pondering different things in my life right now. </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" >Over the year a lot has happened. I have had many emotional and spiritual lows, as well as numbness. Yet the Lord has kept me alive(spiritually) and my heart yearning for Him, even when I had no idea what to do in order to seek after Him. Through some rough situations, the Lord my God protected, provided and sustained me. I knew He was the one taking care of my every need, every time I looked at my bank account showed me and reminded me HE IS FAITHFUL, even when we are unfaithful(2 Timothy)</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" >My heart breaks for children without families, or in broken families. It breaks for women who have been enslaved and sold for a price so someone can be temporarily satisfied physically. It breaks for those who don't know Jesus, and don't know His amazing love. I long for justice and yet I long for people to know Christ more. Love saved us from ourselves, when we could not save us(and we still can't.) God's love showed me his tangibility when we can't tangibly touch him. O how so many are stuck in darkness and do not know. But JESUS lives! His truth is living and active. He is patient, so that all may have a chance to come to know him(John). By faith we stand in confidence of this(Hebrews 11) and take each step even when we don't know the outcome. </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" >Noah built the arc, out of holy fear of God. He probably never saw rain, but he knew God does what he promises. So came the flood and a new beginning(Hebrews 11)(Genesis). So why do so many times I want the answer before the step is taken? I think for me it is assuredness, fear that it won't work out. But God is God. And He is everything I need. </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" >So last year a sweet friend offered to buy me a plane ticket to Rome for a missions trip, I had gotten a few friends and we were preparing to buy the tickets. And a sudden almost shout shook my body(not a literal shout, more like God getting my attention hard core) and I knew it wasn't time yet. So the trip to Rome has been postponed till further notice. My heart longed so bad to go and minister to the gypsies and hopefully be used by God to plant seeds in lives, for Him to transform them. But all my dreams came crashing down, while it was really hard, I came through. I knew God had a purpose and I had to trust Him. </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" >Then most recently I knew, I just knew that Ethiopia was where I was supposed to go this May, especially since it was everything that my heart breaks for, so I started raising funds, but I am currently in limbo of whether I will be able to be ticketed, I won't know till tomorrow morning. I need $2,000 and we were supposed to meet the 50% deadline Wednesday to be ticketed. I hope that my rep is able to force my ticket through so I can finish raising the funds. But everything is up in the air right now. The longing is so strong and fierce to go. To go spread God's word. Share his love with people. </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" >I know this is selfish but I feel like a little girl whose dreams will never come true, no matter what. I have so many doubts coming up and so many questions. Yet peace I have for I know, I know God is faithful, and his plan is greater than anything I could ever imagine. It's not about me, or about what I want. It is about God. It is about God who is to be praised and glorified always. He is worthy of all praise and honor. So I sing </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" ><i>The more I seek you</i></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" ><i>The more I find you</i></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" ><i>The more I find you</i></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" ><i>The more I love you</i></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" ><i><br /></i></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" ><i>I want to sit at your feet</i></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" ><i>Drink from the cup in your hands</i></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" ><i>Lay back against you and breathe </i></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" ><i>Feel your heart beat</i></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" ><i>Your love is so deep</i></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" ><i>It's more than I can stand</i></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" ><i>I melt in your peace </i></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" ><i>It's overwhelming </i></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" ><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" >I know God is faithful. And so it is Him I seek. To see Him glorified. He is worthy of praise. I trust him. He is all I need. And with Jesus I have all I need. </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" >To God be the glory forever and ever, Amen.</span></div>Lyshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01319655652407958008noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5547811582123160099.post-58278470996511164072011-03-16T21:23:00.002-05:002011-03-16T21:33:04.880-05:00A wife and a mom...<span class="Apple-style-span" >Today was spent cleaning, cooking and visiting with an old friend. It was a beautiful day today and the sunrise was breathtaking. I am ever grateful for my family. My parents love me a lot, even though a lot of times I haven't deserved it and they bless me a lot as well. My family is tight knit and good at taking care of each other. For this I am extremely blessed. </span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" >While doing things around the house today I couldn't help but think how much I want a family of my own. To serve my husband, to spend the rest of my life with my best friend, through thick and thin. To be a part of raising children and teaching them in the way they should go... towards Jesus and whatever he has for them. To serve God with my husband forever. </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" >It's every girls dream to have the perfect life. But you know I don't want the perfect life, I want the life that God has for us. The life that may be filled with joy as well as hardship. But no matter what God is our strength. </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" ><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" >I am heading to Ethiopia here in a few months and I am stoked. You see I get to take the gospel to them and be a part of what God is doing there. That is what I've always wanted to do, and have been blessed to live out this dream thus far. In Ethiopia we get the opportunity to work with orphans, widows and former prostitutes. For this I am extremely blessed. Please pray for my team and myself and we prepare to go. :D</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" >May you see how blessed you are and how much the Father has taken care of you. He loves you. </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" >He is just and merciful. </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" >Love Always,</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" >Alyssa</span></div>Lyshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01319655652407958008noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5547811582123160099.post-84139025327320612702011-03-14T22:52:00.002-05:002011-03-14T23:00:21.969-05:00Even Jesus criedHello,<div>It's been so long. It's been an interesting journey these last few months. Through some different circumstances I allowed myself to become numb to all things around me because it was simply easier. Today I am not the same person I was even at Christmas. The Lord has done a great work in my heart. I often have so many emotions going through me that I just cry. And tears at first were very few and not very welcomed. After taking it to the Lord I've seen and realized it had been over a year since I had let a tear come down my face, even when one of my long time friends died, only in her twenties. </div><div>Today as I was processing a lot in my head and seeking the Lord. I've cried a good amount and as a sweet friend told me... "it's OK, even Jesus cried." Not only did he cry... he wept till blood came down. Why? He knew he had to pay the price of sin (which is death, a brutal death), one that we each should have had to pay, but thanks to Jesus, we didn't. He loved us so much. And he wept. He also wept when Lazarus died, not because he was dead necessarily but he knew what pain that Mary and Martha were going through and their pain panged him. How amazing that the God that created us is the same man who weeps when we weep. </div><div>I am thankful for tears this day! </div><div>God is faithful. And though I am nervous for this next season, I know He has a divine plan. So I trust Him. This day and every day. For my story he is writing. </div><div>Love always...</div><div>Lys</div>Lyshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01319655652407958008noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5547811582123160099.post-79741494043710965362010-06-12T14:02:00.003-05:002010-06-12T14:09:28.357-05:00Pain like no otherI have decided that there is no pain like that of a hurting heart. While physical pain whether broken bones, gashes, concussions, surgery and so on are really painful, it goes away relatively quick to be forgotten and only remembered on rare occasions. However the pain of a hurting heart leaves you with a lot of memories and lots of not so great experiences but you do come out of it eventually and you are often much stronger and better off, and I have seen and experienced the Father in those excruciating times and he has held me and been my strength through it all. So here I go again, and well, its Him that I seek and Him that I long for. It's him who heals this broken and hurting heart. :D If it weren't for him, I wouldn't have made it this far. So while my body still shakes and I can't seem to not be anxious it is Him who gives me peace and Him who carries me through. <div><br /></div><div>So to the cross I look and to the Saviour I cling... for in Him I find all that I need. </div>Lyshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01319655652407958008noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5547811582123160099.post-9757902407565960472010-06-11T00:43:00.001-05:002010-06-11T00:45:03.051-05:00Heart changesToday has been quite a day. But I am constantly reminded of His faithfulness. His enduring faithfulness. For in Him I can trust and I will not be let down. He holds my heart, no matter what state it is in He has it. His justice is so so beautiful. His mercy is SO great!!<div><br /></div>Lyshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01319655652407958008noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5547811582123160099.post-18073348474868859722010-06-03T09:37:00.002-05:002010-06-03T09:46:42.497-05:00Dear...Dear heart,<div>Thank you for letting me deal with some things you have held on to for a while. I know the hurt you have and I know it's not easy to face, but let's face it so that way a part of you doesn't die off. </div><div>You hold so much in you... let's not go this long again without examining your condition.</div><div><br /></div><div>Dear mind,</div><div>Thank you for finally slowing down a little. I know you had a bit more time than usual yesterday to process what has been going on recently. Let's continue to process on a continual basis I'm not too fond of doing it all at once.</div><div><br /></div><div>Dear body, </div><div>Thank you for enduring that 27 mile bike ride yesterday in 100 degree weather. And thank you for not sun burning!! Let's do it again on Friday!</div><div><br /></div><div>Dear City of Arlington,</div><div>As you continue road construction I would greatly appreciate it if you also continued sidewalk construction. You see the sidewalks randomly disappear at time and leave me stranded in a big whole. And also where you do have sidewalks please fix the huge gaps and bumps. My bike and my body do not appreciate crashing and crashing hard especially when you are thrown to the street and there is oncoming traffic. Thanks</div><div><br /></div><div>Dear today,</div><div>Let's have a wonderful day! Let's go on a few adventures and enjoy all that the Lord has given us this day!!!!</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div>Lyshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01319655652407958008noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5547811582123160099.post-19949624902291539452010-04-25T12:38:00.003-05:002010-04-25T12:49:29.725-05:00So muchWhy so often do we speak death over ourselves. We say things that in the end I think have more harm than saying nothing at all. Why so often do we pull each other down, even though so many times we aren't aware of yet affect so many people. I wish we could all just be more aware of these happenings. I know that these things happen, but why do you dwell there in your swimming pool of death. Why do you cling to the lies that have come to steal, kill and destroy? You know the truth, you know the Father, yet why oh why do you choose death over life? Do you not remember the promises of the Father?! YOU HAVE BEEN SET FREE!!!! You know that you have to choose truth over the lies. So many are praying for you, so many are fighting for you. Look around... the Lord has his hand over you, he is pursuing you so hard!!! I want to scream the truth at you, but I know I can't. I know there is still hope, so while there is still hope, I will pray for you. I will stay here and petition on your behalf. <div>O Jesus, be with us all! We need your grace and mercy, your justice and discipline. </div><div>COME DADDY COME PLEASE DADDY!!!!</div>Lyshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01319655652407958008noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5547811582123160099.post-49581946706512599862010-04-20T23:10:00.002-05:002010-04-20T23:15:38.940-05:00Letters...So many letters have been written. A heart poured out on so many pages. So many to friends now and friends to come and people from the past. I've thought so often of sending them, and yet here they lay in my lap. I guess I'll keep them a little longer. Who knows maybe there will be a day when someone will need these letters I've written to them. I have given them so much thought and so much went into these letters and yet here they lay. Sometimes I think they were more for me than for them. If it were for these letters being written I would still have so much held within. But not now. I have found a freedom in writing to so many people. <div>Yet there is still that pile of letters, purposely written for someone yet to be known. Well... back to reading and writing....even more letters...</div>Lyshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01319655652407958008noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5547811582123160099.post-52329625525172682122010-04-14T10:03:00.002-05:002010-04-14T10:17:41.339-05:00Another day at the Coffee Shop...Got to work and said the usual hellos and how are yous...<div>I'm standing at the register and well I take a deep breath and I stop breathing, my heart stops...</div><div>My mind races 90 to nothing... no it can't be...</div><div>I look up and my heart starts beating and I release the air I clinged so tightly to...</div><div>The sense of smell is strongly linked to memory...</div><div>The smell was that of my biological dad...</div><div>I am thankful it was not him.</div><div>I was then reading a book over my break concerning that Jabez and his prayer. I find it so intriguing how the writer of this book, specifically stopped to mention Jabez and his prayer. His name meant pain, it was a curse placed on his life from birth. But he completely changed it around. He was blessed by God. He was begging God to take away this curse and turn it completely around. So God did. He gave him what he asked for, because he believed in full faith that God would do it. </div><div><br /></div><div>I'm sure we all have had curses, words of death, spoken over us. Don't accept them. Ask for God to take them away. You see no curse or word of death can withstand the light of the Glorious One. </div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div>Lyshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01319655652407958008noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5547811582123160099.post-62363790882128650752010-04-07T19:10:00.002-05:002010-04-07T19:33:16.311-05:00SeasonsA season of change...<div>The Lord is leading me to give over everything. It's currently reached the point of friendships. I have been led to really focus on my friendships here. I've held myself back from being as vulnerable as I need to be with the people I live with and not pouring myself out and being a servant like I so long to be. This has been slowly changing over the past few weeks. But this time of really focusing on the Lord and what he is doing in my life right now. </div><div>I'm so looking forward to the end result of this, just have mixed feelings about the whole process. So many emotions have started to come up and so many things have come to the surface. This whole refinement thing is hard, but so so so so sweet! </div><div>My heart hurts, but this is good because the Lord is moving and refining!</div><div><br /></div>Lyshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01319655652407958008noreply@blogger.com0