something I have been pondering....

On Sunday, a man jumped up in church feeling the need to share what he has been learning. It was quite good and really hit home. I have been pondering it ever since. He talked about God's forgiveness and how often we chose to accept punishment than the forgiveness He extends us. We think we deserve the punishment, or "hard road" and turn our backs against His forgiving hand. We make things a lot harder than it is supposed to be. We walk around getting wrapped up in the petty things of life and things that don't matter. We don't seize opportunites to be loved by God and to extend His love to others. He also talked about "can a dead man continue to sin." If we are truely dead to this world...do we continue to sin? The answer was if we continue to...we aren't dead enough. Hmmm...
Amy, your last blog hit home. I want that too. I don't know why I can't stop myself to just spend time with my Abba. That's what I want. I really do... I just get so wrapped up in what's around me. The pettiness...the uselessness. I have been thinking about getting away by myself as well. I just want to be with my Creator and let Him love me and lead me. Why can't I cave in to that?? That's why Duane's message hit home so. I often take on a robe of punishment or self-pity than God's robe of righteousness. I want to rejoice in Him, not feel rejected by Him. But it is my choice. I so often choose the punishment, that is not from Him, instead of His joy and love. Why? Maybe because I am scared of what He will ask of me...or how my life will be changed...or how people might think that I am different. But why be so scared? Has He ever failed me yet? NO...He has promised to love me. Hmmm....
My prayer especially these past few days has been "more of you Lord...less of me. I don't know how to be less of me...so please teach me."
Ironically, I have enjoyed Tuscaloosa and my church more this week than I have in MONTHS. Weird. Oh, I also heard a little more about Ecuador in December today!!! YEAH! I really pray that works out.
Well that's what has been on my mind lately...just thought I would share.

Danny, what beach are we going too???
Yes, if you were wondering, I still have ring worm! GROSS!
Well, I need to go write some letters for visiting youth. Hope you are all well.
Love and prayers!