Life is an Adventure!

I must confess, I adore a good office supply store.  The shelves of neatly arranged paper, journals and writing instruments call out to me.  Whether by word or sketch I long to touch and savour the experience of pouring out my thoughts and hopes and dreams on them.  A fresh, white piece of paper offers me a new tablet on which to create.  Each week, I eagerly approach each new day: a Sunday for refreshing, a Monday with new zeal, a new month welcomes the turn of a calendar page, a new season: a change of scenery and yes, a new year a time to resolve.

I love how the new year comes after spending time intentionally pursuing Mary's pondering heart and how my Martha tendencies and lifetime enrollment in the School of Proverbs 6 creeps in, and  my perspective is renewed by my obedience.

Yes, I need to take better care of this bodily temple He has given me.  I need to feed my Spirit even more than any other thing and I need to dream bigger than I can dare so He has room to move; because, He IS a big God!  So, I want to encourage you to join me this year in a continued pursuit to believe and act on that which He is stirring up in you - boldly!  Confidently!  Intentionally!  Taking captive thoughts, choices and actions. 

If you don't know what your dream is - that's ok.  Walk in faith toward our God - He will deliver!  Avoid the discouragement and defeat of getting bogged down by circumstance and let's walk together.  May our choices include to react with hope rather than dread, peace rather than distress and prayer rather than agenda.  Let's resolve together to loosen our grip on the things that hold us back - believing that God WILL move a mountain and CAN be trusted with provision for all our needs.

Looking back, I can think of countless times in the past, when God has shown me mercy and His answers to my prayers have exceeded anything I could imagine because I was willing to embrace the adventure of living for Him - no holding back!

I pray this coming year you would discover again how wide and deep His love is as you walk along the way.  I pray you love Him with all your heart and soul and strength inspite of your situation, and in committing to His commands and sharing all you are and have, walk whatever path He puts you on while responding with love, joy and thanksgiving. 

Life is precious.  God is good.  His blessings await.

I am about to do something new. See, I have already begun!

from Isaiah 43

Happy new year beautiful women of God!

Press in and press on,

Giselle 

Guest Post by Arlene

I love celebrating the birth of Christ and the hope he brings to the world. I enjoy time spent with loved ones, shared meals with family and friends, and gifts given as a token of gratitude for treasured relationships. It is a very special time of year, but it can also be a challenge to avoid getting caught up in the busy pace of the Christmas season. During this season more than ever, we have to make a conscious choice to be still. We are inundated with so much “noise”, constantly on the move, and surrounded by enough distractions to keep us preoccupied with everything but God… even in the season where Jesus’ birth is the object of our celebration!

I must admit, I always breathe a sigh of relief when life settles back into a bit more quiet after the holidays. I lose perspective when I am out of balance, when I spend too much time being busy, and not enough time being still and at rest. I am reminded that times of celebration are good, but time spent in stillness with God is just as vital to my health as getting enough sleep, getting proper nutrition and exercise. It is in the quiet when I best hear God’s voice, when I gain perspective on the things I am struggling with, when I am most able to be grateful and reflective. It is in quiet meditation and prayer that God fills me with the peace and energy to meet the demands of my daily life! It is absolutely essential.

I’m encouraged and challenged by Scripture that emphasizes our need for stillness and quiet:

Psalm 46:10 – “Be still and know that I am God…”

Isaiah 30:15 – “In quietness and confidence shall be your strength…”

Matthew 11:28 – “Come unto me, all who are weary and heavy laden, and I will give you rest.”

Psalm 4:4 – “Meditate in your heart upon your bed, and be still.”

Psalm 37:7 – “Be still before the Lord and wait patiently for him.”

Luke 5:16 – “[Jesus] would withdraw to quiet places and pray.”

Stillness is a spiritual discipline! When I am still before God, I am giving God my undivided attention. And when I am open to him, and walking in tune with his voice, he gives the gift of peace and rest in that quiet place. This is our promise.

He lets me rest in green meadows; he leads me beside peaceful streams. –Psalm 23:2 (NLT)

Arlene is a married woman who works as a counsellor with individuals and families.  She believes in investing in families on a local and global level, and she does that through volunteer work with the North End Family Centre in Winnipeg and Watoto's Living Hope program in Uganda.

Celebrating in a nutshell

Re reading Jo-Ann's post below I have again been so encouraged and challenged. I am so blessed to have women of  God in my life who not only care for me personally, but are not afraid to speak truth into my life. My Mother is another such woman. Just yesterday she was sharing wisdom with me....encouragement with a touch of reality...idealism in vision with the truth of experience.

It's December 22 with much going on for all of us...and perhaps if you're not like me you have everything cooked, wrapped and ready;) I am discovering though that who I am with all of my disorganization and last minute changes is constantly being blessed as the busy moments of prep have become conversational grounds with those I love most. Even though I haven’t gotten everything prepared on time, I have made many treasured memories and have enjoyed the season through the reality of being grateful for the blessings I am so richly enjoying. Understanding that we go through seasons in life and with the Lord, its in these precious times that I know God is calling us as woman to not ever be content with staying in the moments of these times....but staying rooted in HIM.

I was just mentioning to someone today that in the midst of the love of this season I am feeling a quiet unrest.....perhaps the prodding of a new adventure with God. We never fully know what that means but when our hearts are rooted in Christ and The Word, it is always and only about Jesus. He does know what He's doing...especially when you don't see, hear or feel it. We don't most of the time understand until later.....but when we're rooted in Christ, even though our flesh might say "No, there’s no way Im doing that..." Christ in us steps into it.

 However and whomever you are spending Christmas with, I pray that His presence fills you with more revelation of Himself so you may know Him more. In the memories and laughter and joy may you also hear His voice speaking to your heart....as He is preparing you for yet, another life changing adventure.

Merry Christmas beautiful women!
Enjoy every moment, in HIM and for His glory may you step into God's fullness for this coming year*

With love,

Mary

Contentment

You might think blogging about contentment 6 days before Christmas is a little strange, but I've been thinking a lot about what that really means this time of year. Content with what I receive this Christmas (... I know I'm making an assumption here, but I think it's a safe assumption to make ~ lol), but I'm also challenged to be content with what I give as well. Contentment is defined as 'desiring no more than what one has; satisfied'. Hummm... gets one thinking doesn't it?

I've been taking inventory of my heart the past few days and wondering if I have true contentment in my heart. I've been asking myself the question, am I satisfied and really desiring no more than what I already have? I believe true contentment cannot be dependent on what's around me - a big house, a closet full of clothes or lots of friends. True contentment has an eternal component which cannot be replaced with anything this side of heaven.

Can we be content and treasure the time spent with friends and family; creating memories and investing in the lives of those who are important to us? Can we overlook the lack of perfection in our homes (and linen closets!) and spend time outside with the kids tobogganing and playing in the snow? Can we leave the jellied salad for some else to make and fill a hamper for someone less fortunate?

Are you content with what you have, who you are, with what's going on around you, and where you're going to be spending your Christmas? Perhaps our contentment needs to come from a settled heart, not from the circumstances around us. Perhaps contentment, desiring nothing but Jesus, is really what our heart is longing for. If that's the case, then the real meaning of the season is where our focus needs to rest... on Jesus. The baby in the manger who is the king of Kings and lord of Lords.

Are you content this Christmas? Whether your days are filled with hustle and bustle, or the quiet and silence of an empty house, may you spend quality time in the presence of the only One who can settle your heart - your Heavenly Father.

Is. 9:6 says, "For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace."

Jo-Ann

Come, they told me...

Some of my favorite quiet times this month have been quietly basking in my living room, snuggled on the sofa amidst my twinkling Christmas lights.  The lights adorn our trees and even trim the valence on the window.  It all casts such a pretty glow.  With a sip of my favorite tea, a gentle peace settles in as I open the familiar pages of my Bible.

My mind rushes with memories, as I turn my thoughts to thanksgiving and prayer...this has been a challenging time: two of our sons have moved away to study/work and pursue their sport dreams.  Two are still home and our daughter and son in law grew their family by another sweet blessing - a daughter!  I accepted part time work out of the home and we continue to homeschool.  So much to pray for, hope for and at times rearrange the dream in my heart for.  So much to trust for!  Praises ring and sometimes tears slip as I pour out my heart to the One, Who already knows it all and feeds my spirit and renews my conviction.

As I dip in His Word, I'm in awe each day as He feeds me.  How great Thou art!  Then I dive - here and there, concordance in hand as He triggers this and that for me...  Today, my ears catch the familiar tune of The Drummer Boy playing softly in the background and I ponder its words...  Come, see the King... YES!  I DO, I DO!  What have I to give, what gift?  This morning, the children and I were reading in Chronicles about the building of the tabernacle, about David giving thanks to God for the gifts of the people to finance the building of it.  We talked about being faithful servants.  All we have - our possessions and giftings are from God.  Are there ways I could be more faithful?  They say, "it takes a village to raise a child" - indeed - we do need each other.  We need to do what we do...well - giving our best effort in this race of life!  Yet, we need to remember that we know the rest of this birth story - Jesus - our Savior paid the price for us. 

So too, whatever, wherever this Christmas finds us - let us share the story...Go, Tell it on the mountain, over the hills and everywhere and invite others to come...come into relationship with Him, with you, with a community of believers who encourage the pursuit of holiness! 

But you have God-blessed eyes—eyes that see! And God-blessed ears—ears that hear! A lot of people, prophets and humble believers among them, would have given anything to see what you are seeing, to hear what you are hearing, but never had the chance.                                   Matthew 13:16&17 MSG

Who will you tell to come?  Merry Christmas everyone!
Press in, press on,
Giselle

Its all about Jesus

During this past weekend I had the wonderful chance to have lunch with my cousin, who is also one of my spiritual mentors. He’s an evangelist and his calling in life is to "Save souls, save souls, save souls." Through Christ in him he is living this out. As we were talking, our entire conversation was about Christ and how it’s not about us striving or trying to be obedient to the Word.....because we can't. To try to follow Christ's teaching is impossible, because we can't. CHRIST IN US......does.

Impossible dreams that God burns on our hearts will come into being....because Jesus brings them to life. One of the teachings that Andrew shares is "How to make your dreams a reality." It’s a simple message of the gospel, Christ alone in us. We do not choose anything....He does. Andrew shares of Peter walking on the water. Could Peter walk on water? No. Jesus called to him to come. In physical realms that sounds ridiculous. Even though it appeared Peter wanted to experience the impossible in Christ, he was not alone in the boat. Quite possible the other disciples had something to say about that, but Peter listens to Jesus and with Christ's power in him he steps out and walks in and with Christ. He does nothing, truly from his own self.

Matthew 14:22-33

  ²⁵ Shortly before dawn Jesus went out to them, walking on the lake. ²⁶ When the disciples saw him walking on the lake, they were terrified. “It’s a ghost,” they said, and cried out in fear.

 ²⁷ But Jesus immediately said to them: “Take courage! It is I. Don’t be afraid.”

 ²⁸ “Lord, if it’s you,” Peter replied, “tell me to come to you on the water.”

   ²⁹ “Come,” he said.

   Then Peter got down out of the boat, walked on the water and came toward Jesus. ³⁰ But when he saw the wind, he was afraid and, beginning to sink, cried out, “Lord, save me!”

 ³¹ Immediately Jesus reached out his hand and caught him. “You of little faith,” he said, “why did you doubt?”

 ³² And when they climbed into the boat, the wind died down. ³³ Then those who were in the boat worshiped him, saying, “Truly you are the Son of God.”

Jesus gets all of the glory. Amen. He turns the impossible because of His power! He creates and builds our faith in Him. It’s all about HIM...not about me and not about you. This week and this season I pray that your heart is encouraged....perhaps though you're facing an impossible situation with family members over the season....Jesus works in impossible situations. It’s easy to see the storm and doubt, but the truth is Peter did not stand on the Water, he stood on the WORD.

Stand on the Word. You will see His power alive and well. He is the same today as was on the cross when He defeated death! Ask Him for this today. He longs to give Himself to you to bring glory for Himself and because He loves you endlessly and without fail*

Check out Andrew's website and be encouraged to see how Jesus is transforming lives both here and around the world. He IS the same today!

Mary

World Gospel Explosion

The Gift

I had a most insightful conversation with my five year old son today. He was talking to me about how much he wanted a certain uniform for Christmas. Yep, a uniform!?! I probed further asking him why this gift would be so special. As we talked, I discovered that he thought he'd looked so handsome, pulled together and orderly. Great colour too! He would belong to something bigger with his accomplishments displayed for all to see. Then others too, would see how he belonged there and surely his older brother wouldn't mind him tagging along.

I told him that if he were to get this gift and put it on without belonging, understanding and participating wholeheartedly with the principles and structure of the organization it represented – it would be just a costume - simply another dress-up trunk option.

My mind went further though...

I started to think about this busy, potentially stressful, taxing time of year. Do we just put on Christ like a costume? Churchy, Christianese talk, merely dressing up at our convenience and whim, perhaps out of some sense of obligation? or...

Do we live it? – following the instructions for Christian living in Ephesians 4:22-24:

You were taught, with regard to your former way of life, to put off your old self, which is corrupted by its deceitful desires; to be made new in the attitude of your minds; and to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness.

So what does this righteousness look like in action? As always, it is explained further through verses 25-32, here from The Message:

What this adds up to then, is this: no more lies, no more pretence. Tell your neighbour the truth. In Christ's body we're all connected to each other, after all. When you lie to others, you end up lying to yourself. Go ahead and be angry. You do well to be angry – but don't use your anger as fuel for revenge. And don't stay angry. Don't go to bed angry. Don't give the devil that kind of foothold in your life. Did you used to make ends meet by stealing? Well, no more! Get an honest job so that you can help others who can't work. Watch the way you talk. Let nothing foul or dirty come out of your mouth. Say only what helps, each word a gift. Don't grieve God. Don't break His heart. His Holy Spirit, moving and breathing in you, is the most intimate part of your life, making you fit for Himself. Don't take such a gift for granted. Make a clean break with all cutting, backbiting, profane talk. Be gentle with one another, sensitive. Forgive one another as quickly and thoroughly as God in Christ forgave you.

It's time to wake up from our slumber (our act) and allow...no, enable... no, embrace... no, invite (maybe re-invite) the Holy Spirit within (again). Christian living is not a costume or an act – but a being – JESUS.

This Christmas season, Come Lord Jesus! Father! Son! Holy Spirit! Come and refill, refresh, reignite that fire that drives us for Your kingdom's come and Your will here on earth. Yes, I put on the armour of God because of You and for You and in doing so, know I need more of You, more time at Your feet. Thank you Lord for Your Living Word, for each breath and every opportunity You provide to catch me being faithful.

You are the Gift – may we be present.

Press in and press on,

Giselle

Baby Jesus

As I've been listening to Christmas music, and more specifically the words to some of the Christmas songs, I wonder what the answers are to, "Mary, did you know?" How could she? But I still wonder...

Mary, did you know that your baby boy would one day walk on water?

Mary, did you know that your baby boy would give sight to a blind man?

And Mary, when did you realize that when you kissed your little baby you kissed the face of God?

Did she stand at the foot of the cross with gut-wrenching sobs remembering and REALLY realizing her son was the Son of God and the Lord of all creation. Honestly, I find it very difficult to comprehend all that the young, teenager experienced when she gave birth to her first-born son. No clean hospitals, no doctors, no nurses, no anaesthesia. I know it was a different time and country with different traditions, but as a woman and mom, I find it hard to wrap my mind around Mary's experiences. I would love to sit across from her and ask her what it was really like, away from friends and family, talking to an angel and trusting Joseph to care for her and her baby. And as life unfolded with her son Jesus, when did she realize who he really was and what that meant to the world... and to her?!

I hope you take some time during this Christmas season and reflect on those directly involved on that first Christmas. Some of the Christmas carols sure clean it up, but in reality mangers aren't filled with clean, sanded wood and sterile hay. I grew up on a farm and spent many hours in a barn, it's not where I'd like my new baby to spend their first few nights. However, perhaps we can take some time to ponder, consider and really think about Mary, Joseph and the newborn baby Jesus, and ask the Lord to help us understand just a little bit more about the night Jesus was born. The words to the song "A Baby Changes Everything" by Faith Hill (words and music by Tim Nicholls, Craig Wiseman and K.K. Wiseman) really does say so much.

And babies do change everything, but more specifically THAT baby, Jesus, changed EVERYTHING the day He was born!

Merry Christmas to you and you family!

Jo-Ann

He does it for you and me everyday

Every December I always find I'm telling myself the same thing....besides "shop earlier'' and promising to not eat as many butter tarts as last year. I tell myself to value people over the season more. Value people over the decor...the crazy schedule...the gifts....even the good things that come with Christmas. Tonight I was able to be in the same room as the people I love most in the whole world. We enjoyed our Glowasky family tradition of decorating our tree. Lots of laughter and memories. I am so so so blessed, I know many people who do not have this joy in their lives or even people around them who love them for who they are. I continue to get updates from friends and ministers of Christ who are in Thailand. The water that continues to overtake their homes and families continues to leave devastating consequences. Please in the rush of the season continue to pray for Bangkok and Thailand. Please continue to pray for Peter and Pat Dewitt as they serve Christ there and are practically offering assistance in whatever way they can. He was just sharing again how another church was found in their church building, under water vulnerable to sharks and snakes. The believers were rescued and so many others are looking to the church for direction, many are looking to Christ.....Peter shares the harvest is plentiful right now, practically and spiritually, amen.  Please also pray for Auntie Nataya. When April and I backpacked Thailand we spent a lot of time with her and the YWAM team there, we haven't heard from her yet and are concerned.
There are many many overwhelming things happening around us in the world to precious people...whether we know them or not. There are also overwhelming things happening in our cities, neighbourhoods, churches and family and friendship circles. Jesus is the only way there can be reconciliation or healing or even be the answer to an unable to answer question. We must go to Him and His Word for the answers.....practically being apart of the solution is another way we can support those who desire love and who have practical needs, but are not experiencing relief . You know this and probably have received this in your own life also. The book of James says it so well: "What good is it my brothers, if a man claims to have faith but has no deeds…Can such faith save him….Suppose a brother or sister is without clothes or daily food . If one of you says to him, '' Go I wish you well, keep warm and well fed,'' but does nothing about his physical needs, what good is it…In the same way faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by actions is dead.'' James 2. 14-17.
Jesus Himself at busiest moments of His ministry, when trying to hide away was moved with compassion for....people and their hearts, physical and spiritual needs. He took moments while teaching to heal, save and speak directly to individuals. I encourage and challenge you women of God, in our busiest season of the year, let’s make adjustments, change your Christmas dinner to include people who are longing for connection.....perhaps in that act alone you'll discover ways you can invest practically in their life. Taking time to SEE people as JESUS does transforms us again into more of His likeness and we are the ones who are changed. We must ask Jesus to do this in our hearts. I honestly do not remember a Christmas in my family where we didn't have a house full of people who needed love and practical needs met throughout the holiday season. Both christian and non. Whether my parents had a lot or even when they had very little. This act not only was obedient to the Word but set for us kids such an example of Christ and His desire to see needs fulfilled.
Sister I encourage you make a change this year in your Christmas routine. Perhaps sponsoring a child, or even investing in support relief for Thailand. Look in people and not at them while in the malls....ask God for an open door to walk with someone, wherever they are at in life.

The great beauty of all of this is that Christ Himself did and does exactly that for you and me...everyday.

Mary

Every Women Matters

Sometimes I find myself thinking about women who live in my neighbourhood, some I know by name and others I only see drive down my street. Then I find myself thinking about women who live throughout our district of Manitoba and Northwestern Ontario, some I know by name and others I haven't met yet. But it doesn't stop there for me. I find myself wondering about the women who live across our country and around the world. Some live in condos in cities and others live in shacks in the slums. Some live in big old farmhouses on the prairies and others live in houses in fishing villages on the coasts. Each of these women are equally unique and extraordinary in everything they do, as daughters, neighbours, workers, volunteers, employees, business owners, etc. When I think of these women I wonder how many of them know they are created in God's image (Gen 1:27), how many know they are valuable (Is. 49:16), and how many know they are loved with an everlasting love (Jer. 31:3)?

Some women are born into safe and comfortable families, communities and societies, while other women are born into families and situations where they are oppressed because of their social status, their financial situation or because of their gender.

I am challenged to answer the question do I genuinely care for others, and IF I do what does that look like? What does it take for me to act on my thoughts to show love and care for others? Seriously, what does it take to stir my heart into action?

Every woman matters because they are created in God's image, they are valuable, and God loves each of them. We need to find ways to let others know they matter - to God and to us. We need to voice God's words to the longing hearts of women around the world.

Let's start today with those we come in contact with. Let's be ready to share God's words with others. Because every woman matters, and some don't know it!

Jo-Ann

Got love?

Jesus said, "The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full" (John 10:10 )

A thief comes to steal what is not rightfully his - prepared to destroy property or take life, no matter the cost for his want. He is bent on getting - not giving.

This is in total contrast to why Jesus came - He came so that we might have life - moreover to have it to the full.  Jesus was, God is, intentional in loving on His creation.

The mental state of these two existences is worth contemplating.  Moment to moment we have a choice as to where will will park our minds, our hearts and our choices/actions.  Jesus said all men will know who His disciples are if we have love for one another. 

Purpose in your life to love - and when you fail - ask for forgiveness and try again.   Are you holding on too tight to that which you have been blessed with?  Talents?  Prosperity?  Pray for courage to practice that which the Holy Spirit is prompting you to do.  No excuses - give, give, give.  Freely.  Intentionally.  Frequently. 

In worship, we sing:  All of You is more than enough for all of me, You satisfy me with your love, all I have in You is more than enough.  Is it?

How will you love?  Really, sharing the gospel is as simple as sharing love:

His for us.  Us for Him.  We, for one another.

Got love?  Share.

Press in, press on,
Giselle

His perfect peace

Sometimes we can't always see what is up ahead....like a few years ago when I was preparing my car for winter, I bought all new winter tires and fixed the brakes. I thought I was getting myself super well prepared for "the winter ahead and all that I might come into contact with." A week and a half after I did all of that my car ended up being in an accident where it was completely written off and I was worse off....without a car! Sometimes we can plan and plan and still things will get changed and all that prep seems like it was for nothing.
I really tried to reason what the point or points of all that prep was but it was challenging to come up with something solid that I could say..."yes, I see now why I had to do that and how even though it didn't work out great it, worked out in the end."
Sometimes unplanned, unexpected things in life come up, hit and leave us without an answer, even though we were prepared and were sure we had everything covered. We rest in the comfort of speculation of the “why it happened and the good that’s coming out of it maybe.” That for some gives temporary joy, but it doesn’t change you at the heart of yourself.
I don't know why that happened with my car. I don't know why sometimes in life things get so altered and hit us without any way of preparing. Illness, job loss, relationship directions...sometimes its as simple as I did hours of research and prep for a design project only to have the client respond to the folder by saying...”we had some time over the weekend and just went ahead with our own idea.” As prepped as I could be and I lost time, money and a wasted trip down to the location.
What I have learned and am learning every day more, is the depth of life that Christ gives us. As He grows us deeper into Himself and in His presence the unexpected experience itself begins to fade and the anger and fear in "not knowing or understanding "WHY" is overwhelmed by the peace of Christ (the Peace that passes ALL understanding). If you’re facing something right now, whether it seems big or small ask Jesus to draw you deeper into Himself. Come before Him in repentance, in need of HIM and in obedience read the Word and ask Him for the peace that passes all understanding. He gives it to me every day. His Word tells us He will do the same for you dear friend. He will transform you into more of His likeness and shape this aspect of your character as He brings glory to Himself!

"Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus." Phil. 4.7

"You will keep in perfect peace, him whose mind is steadfast. Because he trusts YOU. Trust in the Lord forever, for the Lord, the Lord, is the Rock Eternal." Isaiah 26. 3

"For He, Himself is our peace..." Eph. 2.14

Mary

Replicate

To reproduce something or to replicate it means to take the original and copy in as accurately as possible.

Dave Buehring says, "Disciple-making is reproducing the character, ways and mission of Jesus in those God brings around you, expecting them to multiply the same in others." (See Dave's website for more on disciple making at http://www.lionshare.org/Home.aspx)

I've been challenged much in the past number of months on being a disciple maker. Replicating Jesus in my everyday walk ,as well as spurring others on to do the same.

How do we do this and what it our goal?

I believe our goal needs to be accurately reflecting Jesus back to others. How do we do this? By not just reading the Bible but making it personal, always putting it into practice, and knowing others well enough if they can't see Jesus in us they'll ask us why.

If we want to make a difference and impact in our world for Jesus then we need to reflect Him in every area of our lives, as well as encouraging each other in the process.

We need to live holy, intentional, disciplined lives.

Deuteronomy 10:12-13 says, “And now, Israel, what does the Lord your God require of you? He requires only that you fear the Lord your God, and live in a way that pleases him, and love him and serve him with all your heart and soul. And you must always obey the Lord’s commands and decrees that I am giving you today for your own good."

Let me challenge you today to be a disciple of Jesus so you in turn can make disciples of Jesus.

Replication is simple mathematics - accurately making another one

Multiplication is the reproduction of numbers - if I tell two friends and they tell to friends (2 x 2 x 2 and so on . . .)

Disciple making is doing the math and reproducing Jesus followers.

Let's be intentional about replicating Jesus - in what we say, in what we do, and how we say it.

Jo-Ann

Grow

As I ponder, consider and wrestle with what it really means to grow into a mature, Godly woman I find myself needing to look inward at my own heart. It seems it is always easier to point out other peoples flaws, but much more difficult to look into the mirror of my own heart and see it's flaws. If I'm going to intentionally grow and mature into a Godly woman then I'm also going to need to intentionally look at myself and see my heart for what it truly is. A flawed, sinful, needy heart which desperately needs Gods redemption and grace. So if I need God's grace and redemption, then so do others... and if I want grace from others, then I need to offer grace to them as well.

Justice giving to others what they deserve.

Mercy not giving to others what they deserve.

Grace giving to others what they don't deserve.

You don't need to spend hours interacting with people to know that people's quirks and idiosyncrasies can be just down-right irritating some days. However, the Bible makes if very clear that we are NOT to love, care and encourage only those we find enjoyable to be with. We are to love EVERYONE.

So what does this have to do with growing into a mature, Godly woman? Well, I think it means each time we walk into the wall of frustration, hurt, disappointment, betrayal, and loss we need to chose to turn into the arms of our Heavenly Father and take all we feel to Him. Even if that means in the midst of our tears and longing for the situation to be different, we "cast our cares on Him" (1 Pet. 5:7) and ask the Lord to help us become the mature, Godly woman HE wants us to be. "...preferring one another in the Lord" (Rom 12:10).

Repeatedly in the Bible we read about being obedient to God's word and living in a way that pleases the Lord. We need to put into practice what we read and look at the situations and opportunities we find ourselves in and intentionally be more like Jesus. Love when others don't deserve to be loved, forgive when it shouldn't be forgivable, care when no one else does.

[Don't hear me say easy... but let me remind you Paul was in chains in a prison when he wrote, "I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation (Phil 4:12). If Paul can learn to be content, then so can we... with the Lord's strength!]

So let me "encourage(d) you, and urge(d) you to live your lives in a way that God would consider worthy. For he called you to share in his Kingdom and glory." (1 Thess. 2: 12) And "Finally, dear (brothers and) sisters, we urge you in the name of the Lord Jesus to live in a way that pleases God, as we have taught you. You live this way already, and we encourage you to do so even more." (1 Thess 4:1)

Would you determine with me to make choices as we encounter situations to do what Jesus would do (and if you're not sure what that is to dig deep and find out), and to become the woman God created you to be? Because those ahead of us and those behind us on the journey need us to be who God created us to be!

"Let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds." (Heb. 10:24)

Jo-Ann

P.S.  I just finished reading the book of 1 Thessalonians... It didn't take long and what a great encouragement to keep moving forward! Click here - it will only take a few minutes!

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1+Thessalonians+1&version=NLT

Raise the Bar

Physical body building demands discipline.  So too, with the emotional and spiritual.  The Word reminds us not to compare ourselves to others:

We do not dare to classify or compare ourselves with some who commend themselves. When they measure themselves by themselves and compare themselves with themselves, they are not wise.
2 Corinthians 10:12

So, knowing that you set your own bar with God, where will you set it?  What will you stand for?  Against?  How does that change your walk?  Your talk?  Your decisions?

Iron sharpens iron.  When the trying times come - and all you are is compromised from all directions - remember:  our GOD is stronger!  bigger!  around forever! 

He clothes us with armour to protect and defend in Ephesians 6:10-18 in the Message:

A Fight to the Finish

 ^10-12And that about wraps it up. God is strong, and he wants you strong. So take everything the Master has set out for you, well-made weapons of the best materials. And put them to use so you will be able to stand up to everything the Devil throws your way. This is no afternoon athletic contest that we'll walk away from and forget about in a couple of hours. This is for keeps, a life-or-death fight to the finish against the Devil and all his angels.  ^13-18Be prepared. You're up against far more than you can handle on your own. Take all the help you can get, every weapon God has issued, so that when it's all over but the shouting you'll still be on your feet. Truth, righteousness, peace, faith, and salvation are more than words. Learn how to apply them. You'll need them throughout your life. God's Word is an indispensable weapon. In the same way, prayer is essential in this ongoing warfare. Pray hard and long. Pray for your brothers and sisters. Keep your eyes open. Keep each other's spirits up so that no one falls behind or drops out.

It's what God says about you that makes the difference.  Live your life with a sense of victory and purpose.

Press in and press on,
Giselle

Influence

The word influence means to have an affect on somebody that helps to determine that person's actions, behaviour, or way of thinking, or to have the power to affect something.

When I think of those who have influenced me and those I have influenced I find myself wondering what makes someone a "successful" influencer. Is it what they say? How they say it? Is it watching them make a difference in what they do?

For many of us perhaps we don't even see ourselves as influencers, however I would suggest if you have ever influenced a child to eat their vegetables or convinced your friend to purchase those shoes (or boots!) or persuaded someone to make a different choice other than what they were intending, then you are a woman of influence. Even though I hope we all influence others in a positive way, there are (and have been) many people in our world who very negatively impact others with their influence.

We long for you to be a Godly woman of influence to those around you. You may be cheering your child on at their sports game, listening closely at their choir or band concert, responding with a pleasant word of encouragement at your workplace or speaking God's truth and wisdom into a challenging situation, we want you to take the opportunities you encounter each day and influence those around towards Jesus.

Let us intentionally be women of influence who look for situations in our days where we can influence others to draw closer to Jesus.

"Every time we think of you, we thank God for you. Day and night you're in our prayers as we call to mind your work of faith, your labour of love, and your patience of hope in following our Master, Jesus Christ, before God our Father. It is clear to us, friends, that God not only loves you very much but also has put his hand on you for something special. When the Message we preached came to you, it wasn't just words. Something happened in you. The Holy Spirit put steel in your convictions. You paid careful attention to the way we lived among you, and determined to live that way yourselves. In imitating us, you imitated the Master (bold is mine)." 1 Thess 1:2-6 (The Message)

Let's imitate Jesus as we influence those around us.

Jo-Ann

Seek FIRST Him*

This season of my life I am finding that there is much acceleration going on. My Mom always said when I was a child, "With Mary when it rains it pours." Its like everything happens within a very short amount of time and then there’s like a time of settlement for a bit....then it comes all over again. Maybe you're the same way and you know exactly what I mean. This season I am seeing exciting growth in my relationship with Christ and Him forming His character in ways I have not ever experienced. The relationships in my life are growing...needing more attention, but there is so much fruit. In my Interior Decorating Company, "forty one: style. decor. design" God is opening doors and expanding me in ways I wasn’t expecting! I’m busy and excited about the ministries I am honoured to be apart of, I’m dating the man of my dreams...everything important is progressing and seems like at full tilt.
The last while I have felt like I was on a never ending hike! Getting somewhere...maybe even beautiful places...but just not being able to stop and rest..and actually just stop and enjoy where I am on my journey in life.
In my daily time with the Lord I am being challenged....to OBEY the WORD. Period. I felt with life, even though I am in a wonderful season...I was so overwhelmed at times by everything demanding my attention...that the "good things, have been fighting for the "best things" when the only "best part of my life should be Jesus Christ." Matthew 6.33-34: "But seek FIRST the KINGDOM and all these things will be given to you as well. Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself."
Seek FIRST the Kingdom. Seek FIRST the Kingdom. Seek FIRST the Kingdom. The more I read God's Word and the more I obey what it says, through Holy Spirit’s power in me the more I life fully. I’m at peace and in true joy in my heart, my life takes on the priorities that are on God’s heart. Immersing myself in Christ every day, making HIM the priority and then daily taking (sometimes painful) steps to be obedient to what the Word says: The more I take time to listen, read and obey, the more I become and the more I get to experience!
So right now in this season of acceleration I am learning to SEEK FIRST THE KINGDOM. Not to seek first the worry and stress of life, not to seek first how I can be the best decorator in the world, not even to seek first to be a good person. NO. Seek FIRST the KINGDOM...and you will see more than you ever have before*

Mary

Are you battle weary?

Then it's time for the Word:

Psalm 20

 ¹ May the LORD answer you when you are in distress;
   may the name of the God of Jacob protect you.
² May he send you help from the sanctuary
   and grant you support from Zion.
³ May he remember all your sacrifices
   and accept your burnt offerings.^[b]
4 May he give you the desire of your heart
   and make all your plans succeed.
⁵ May we shout for joy over your victory
   and lift up our banners in the name of our God.
   May the LORD grant all your requests.
 ⁶ Now this I know:
   The LORD gives victory to his anointed.
He answers him from his heavenly sanctuary
   with the victorious power of his right hand.
⁷ Some trust in chariots and some in horses,
   but we trust in the name of the LORD our God.
⁸ They are brought to their knees and fall,
   but we rise up and stand firm.
⁹ LORD, give victory to the king!
   Answer us when we call!

and PRAISE!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zlA5IDnpGhc&feature=related

Reminded.  Renewed.  Running on.  With me?

Pressing in and pressing on,
Giselle

Your daily adventure*

Just looking again at the pictures highlighting our retreat a few weekends ago makes me so excited about what GOD IS DOING around the world...but more so even what He is doing here, at home...in our hearts and in our families and in our communities.
I love how when God calls us to something often we have no idea how things will come together, but God does and will make it happen in His time, with His resources and by His power. The burden of "result" is not on our shoulders, the adventure of "obedience" is something we can do something about.
In the recent months I have been learning alot about being decisive and action focused more than ever before in my life....lol since my amazing boyfriend exhibits this trait I soon realized that I would have to be ok with that too and be open to how God was going to shape my heart through being challenged by it......I always seem to be a few steps behind him:)

I think its essential to ask God, hear what He has to say and then GO and DO. However I think sometimes we wait around, either indecisive or afraid....when the Word clearly has given direction to go and do. I find often I’m waiting around and not just DOING what God so beautiful has already told and called me to do. When Matthew 28. 19 says: "Go and make disciples of ALL nations......." We are commanded to go and do. Now is the new believer that God brought to your small group the woman God wants you to disciple? Pray about it, ask God to shut the door if its not right and go for it. If the door shuts, move on and...keep making disciples. Are you feeling overwhelmed with family, work, ministries and feel like there is no day off in the week for you to rest? Genesis 2.2: “By the seventh day God completed His work which He had done, and He rested on the seventh day from all His work which He had done.”

The seventh day God rested. Take your day off. God commanded obedience of it for Himself, we need to practice that also. 
Get deeper into the Word. Take EVERY opportunity. Trust God for the results, ask Him for a heart of repentance and obedience. Be trusting and obedient when a door shuts. Let Him take you to a new place of blessing and "knowing Himself," the greatest fulfillment there is*

Mary

Ladies Retreat

Here are a few highlights from the fall ladies retreat.

Shopping at the Mission Minded Marketplace.

Many great items from Living Hope - Watoto.

Beautiful pieces of jewellery from the Dominican Republic.

Our great helper Brenda!

Our amazing sound person Debbie!

Thanks worship team for leading us in worship!

Myself and our beloved speaker - Colleen!

A few of the ladies from Stonewall

and Dauphin

and Lac du Bonnet

and Calvary Temple Winnipeg.

Lots of laughter

with great friends.

And a room full

of beautiful ladies!

We had a great weekend hearing from the Lord,

making a difference in our world,

investing into the lives of others,

and spending time with

quality ladies!

Meet our retreat roadie Andrew... Thank you for all of your help!