on fire
by switchfoot
they tell you where you need to go
they tell you when you need to leave
they tell you what you need to know
they tell you who you need to be
but everything inside you knows there's more than what you've heard
there's so much more than empty conversations filled with empty words
and you're on fire when he's near you
you're on fire when he speaks
you're on fire burning at these mysteries
give me one more time around
give me one more chance to see
give me everything you are
give me one more chance to be near you
when everything inside me looks like everything i hate
you are the hope i have for change
you are the only chance i'll take
and i'm on fire when you're near me
i'm on fire when you speak
i'm on fire burning at these mysteries
i'm standing on the edge of me
i'm standing on the edge of everything i've never been before
and i've been standing on the edge
Monday, December 10, 2007
Friday, December 07, 2007
Thursday, November 29, 2007
I forgot to include this in yesterday's post...
MIDDLE EAST CROSS CULTURAL SEMINAR
Itinerary, Spring 2008
JANUARY 7 – 11 ORIENTATION AT EMU
JANUARY 11 – 12 TRAVEL to EGYPT
11 Depart from EMU to Dulles 12:45 pm
Depart Dulles for Frankfurt 5:55 pm, Lufthansa 419
12 Arrive Frankfurt 7:35 am, depart Frankfurt 9:55 am, Lufthansa 582
Arrive Cairo 2:55 pm
JANUARY 12 – 23 EGYPT
Program arranged by MCC/Egyptian host, pyramids, Islamic Cairo, Orthodox Cairo, MCC, train trip to Luxor – Valley of the Kings (tombs, temples, Nile River boat ride, etc.)
JANUARY 23 – 27 JORDAN
Program will include a day in Petra, the famous Nabatian city carved in stone, 2 days with Bedoins (camels, overnight in desert in Bedoin tent) and several renowned biblical and archeological sites (Mt. Nebo, Madabah).
JANUARY 28 – APRIL 9 ISRAEL
Program includes language study, archeology, geography, history with Jerusalem University College, Judaism and Islam, Kibbutz stay, Nazareth Village.
APRIL 9 – 13 ATHENS, GREECE
Plans include, independent and group exploration of ancient /biblical sites, culture and Greek Orthodox community. Visit to Corinth.
11 Leave Athens. Travel to Patros for ship to Bari, Italy. Depart Patros 6:00 pm
12 Arrive Bari at 8:30 am - travel to Rome by bus and check into hotel for 4 nights.
APRIL 14 – 22 ROME, ITALY
Individual and group exploration of Rome, ancient and biblical sites, Roman Catholic church, culture. Final debriefing, conclusion of study program, completing assignments, and all final exams. Prepare chapel presentation.
APRIL 22 TRAVEL to USA (the times may change slightly for this flight)
Depart Rome 11:00 am Lufthansa 3857
Arrive Frankfurt 12:35 pm, depart Frankfurt 3:05 pm Lufthansa 414
Arrive Dulles 6:15 pm
MIDDLE EAST CROSS CULTURAL SEMINAR
Itinerary, Spring 2008
JANUARY 7 – 11 ORIENTATION AT EMU
JANUARY 11 – 12 TRAVEL to EGYPT
11 Depart from EMU to Dulles 12:45 pm
Depart Dulles for Frankfurt 5:55 pm, Lufthansa 419
12 Arrive Frankfurt 7:35 am, depart Frankfurt 9:55 am, Lufthansa 582
Arrive Cairo 2:55 pm
JANUARY 12 – 23 EGYPT
Program arranged by MCC/Egyptian host, pyramids, Islamic Cairo, Orthodox Cairo, MCC, train trip to Luxor – Valley of the Kings (tombs, temples, Nile River boat ride, etc.)
JANUARY 23 – 27 JORDAN
Program will include a day in Petra, the famous Nabatian city carved in stone, 2 days with Bedoins (camels, overnight in desert in Bedoin tent) and several renowned biblical and archeological sites (Mt. Nebo, Madabah).
JANUARY 28 – APRIL 9 ISRAEL
Program includes language study, archeology, geography, history with Jerusalem University College, Judaism and Islam, Kibbutz stay, Nazareth Village.
APRIL 9 – 13 ATHENS, GREECE
Plans include, independent and group exploration of ancient /biblical sites, culture and Greek Orthodox community. Visit to Corinth.
11 Leave Athens. Travel to Patros for ship to Bari, Italy. Depart Patros 6:00 pm
12 Arrive Bari at 8:30 am - travel to Rome by bus and check into hotel for 4 nights.
APRIL 14 – 22 ROME, ITALY
Individual and group exploration of Rome, ancient and biblical sites, Roman Catholic church, culture. Final debriefing, conclusion of study program, completing assignments, and all final exams. Prepare chapel presentation.
APRIL 22 TRAVEL to USA (the times may change slightly for this flight)
Depart Rome 11:00 am Lufthansa 3857
Arrive Frankfurt 12:35 pm, depart Frankfurt 3:05 pm Lufthansa 414
Arrive Dulles 6:15 pm
Wednesday, November 28, 2007
Less than three weeks.
I can't believe it. I'm so ready for next semester, but at the same time, I'm loving it here so much that it will be a little sad to leave.
I also have absolutely no motivation to do anything academic anymore. I'd consider making a to-do list for the rest of the semester, but it might throw me into depression. So I think about the many other things to look forward to...that list is much more exciting:) Some examples....
-Campus semi-formal
-Christmas party for the boys hosted by the girls
-My future suitemates gathering in Lancaster during break
-Hockey team Christmas party
-Christmas!
And, of course...the MIDDLE EAST! (The most exciting news on that front...as of yesterday, one of my best friends is also going!)
The future is bright, to say the least. Papers and exams won't be fun, but it's easy to look past them...maybe that's not good?
On another note, out of my excitement for next semester and my inability to wait patiently for it, I'm beginning to make a list of people to send mass email updates to. If you'd like to be included on this list, please let me know...
I can't believe it. I'm so ready for next semester, but at the same time, I'm loving it here so much that it will be a little sad to leave.
I also have absolutely no motivation to do anything academic anymore. I'd consider making a to-do list for the rest of the semester, but it might throw me into depression. So I think about the many other things to look forward to...that list is much more exciting:) Some examples....
-Campus semi-formal
-Christmas party for the boys hosted by the girls
-My future suitemates gathering in Lancaster during break
-Hockey team Christmas party
-Christmas!
And, of course...the MIDDLE EAST! (The most exciting news on that front...as of yesterday, one of my best friends is also going!)
The future is bright, to say the least. Papers and exams won't be fun, but it's easy to look past them...maybe that's not good?
On another note, out of my excitement for next semester and my inability to wait patiently for it, I'm beginning to make a list of people to send mass email updates to. If you'd like to be included on this list, please let me know...
Monday, November 05, 2007
Sometimes life can be pretty overwhelming.
Like when you have a suicidal friend, a 15-page paper looming over your head, and personal hurts that are minor compared to what you see in others around you, but still rear their ugly heads at inopportune moments. Among other things (like the decision of what to do with the rest of your life...).
Yet in this midst of all this, there is peace. In yesterday's sermon on John 15, the pastor said, "God is never so close to the vine as he is when he is pruning it." Truth.
This too shall pass.
(Thanksgiving is coming.)
Like when you have a suicidal friend, a 15-page paper looming over your head, and personal hurts that are minor compared to what you see in others around you, but still rear their ugly heads at inopportune moments. Among other things (like the decision of what to do with the rest of your life...).
Yet in this midst of all this, there is peace. In yesterday's sermon on John 15, the pastor said, "God is never so close to the vine as he is when he is pruning it." Truth.
This too shall pass.
(Thanksgiving is coming.)
Monday, October 15, 2007
Is it fall break yet?
Just a few short days and then yes, it will be fall break. It is hard to believe this semester is already basically half over. Before I know it, I'll be in the Middle East...and then I'll be halfway through college. Weird.
Right now I'm just craving a Sunday night Miller family dinner...
Just a few short days and then yes, it will be fall break. It is hard to believe this semester is already basically half over. Before I know it, I'll be in the Middle East...and then I'll be halfway through college. Weird.
Right now I'm just craving a Sunday night Miller family dinner...
Sunday, September 30, 2007
Wednesday, September 05, 2007
The story.
For those of you from church, etc., who are probably wondering what in the world is going on.
As you may know, EMU requires that each student complete a cross-cultural to graduate. One or two trips are offered each semester, as well as multiple programs each summer. I knew I wanted to do the full, semester-long program, and I had to do it in the spring in order to avoid missing a season of field hockey. Before arriving at EMU last fall, I had planned to go to Guatemala in the spring of my sophomore or junior year. Then I heard about the Middle East cross-cultural in the spring of '08, during my sophomore year. I became very passionate about the idea of traveling there and decided to apply for the trip despite the fact that it is a competitive program and few underclassmen get in. Judgment day arrived...and I didn't get in. I was quite upset, but knew that God had a reason and someting better would come up.
In addition to traveling abroad for a semester, I was also hoping to do an internship program in Washington, D.C. during the spring of my junior year. Because I would like to be on campus my entire senior year, that meant I needed to do my cross-cultural this coming spring. Guatemala was the only other option, so I applied. This program is less competitive and preference is given to those who had not been selected to other trips, so I felt confident about my chances of getting in. Once again, however, I was not chosen for the program.
By this point I was extremely frustrated. I felt like all my plans were messed up now (funny how that works when we try to plan things "perfectly") and I had no idea what to do. I started looking into non-EMU cross-culturals, and became very interested in a program through the Council for Christian Colleges and Universities. However, the more I thought and prayed about it this summer, I began to feel that applying for that program was not the right decision. I wanted to want to go, but it simply didn't seem right. So I changed my mind again, and decided to forget the D.C. internship, and just go to India with EMU's program during the spring of my junior year. This seemed like the right decision...until I came back to school. As I began to think about cross-culturals again, I became unsettled. The more I told people I was planning to go to India, the less right it felt. This started to scare me, as I felt like I had no options left. I kept praying (as I had through the whole process) that God would direct my cross-cultural process and that he would make it clear to me where I was to go. He answered that prayer in a way I hadn't even allowed myself to hope for...
Last weekend, I arrived back at school after playing several hockey games in PA. I checked my email, and as I scanned the unread list, I saw one from the Middle East cross-cultural leader. The subject line: "Middle East cross-cultural opening." My heart started racing, and I opened it to find that someone had dropped out of the trip and they were offering her place to me. I was absolutely stunned. I had never lost my desire to go to the Middle East. In fact, the alternate program I looked at was simply a different trip to the ME. This, however, is far better, and I would much prefer to go with a group from EMU. I couldn't believe this was real, so I decided to take a few days to think and pray about it, just to make sure that accepting the spot would be the right decision. I wanted to feel confirmation that the reason I didn't get in in the first place was because I needed to learn something, not because I really wasn't supposed to go. I chose not to tell any friends until I had made a decision, but I called my parents. Mom's reaction caught me off guard...after her initial gasping (;)), she said, "I'm not surprised at all. The Middle East cross-cultural has been on my heart this weekend and I've just had a feeling that a spot would open up for you." To me, that was tremendous confirmation. After 24 hours of thought and prayer, I emailed the leader to say I was accepting the place.
It just feels so right. I'm amazed at God's faithfulness throughout this six-month struggle and the subtle ways he worked to lead me to this place. Not getting into Guatemala...deciding for and then against multiple other options...and finally simply deciding not to make any plans for this spring...all of those steps brought me here, where I can pick up and go without needing to rearrange many plans at all. This has been my greatest desire all along, and I am so very grateful for the opportunity. I'm also thankful for the lessons learned along the way. It has been a humbling experience and I feel very blessed. I really can't express my excitement and gratitude! I'd also appreciate your prayers for our group as we prepare to leave in just over four months.
For those of you from church, etc., who are probably wondering what in the world is going on.
As you may know, EMU requires that each student complete a cross-cultural to graduate. One or two trips are offered each semester, as well as multiple programs each summer. I knew I wanted to do the full, semester-long program, and I had to do it in the spring in order to avoid missing a season of field hockey. Before arriving at EMU last fall, I had planned to go to Guatemala in the spring of my sophomore or junior year. Then I heard about the Middle East cross-cultural in the spring of '08, during my sophomore year. I became very passionate about the idea of traveling there and decided to apply for the trip despite the fact that it is a competitive program and few underclassmen get in. Judgment day arrived...and I didn't get in. I was quite upset, but knew that God had a reason and someting better would come up.
In addition to traveling abroad for a semester, I was also hoping to do an internship program in Washington, D.C. during the spring of my junior year. Because I would like to be on campus my entire senior year, that meant I needed to do my cross-cultural this coming spring. Guatemala was the only other option, so I applied. This program is less competitive and preference is given to those who had not been selected to other trips, so I felt confident about my chances of getting in. Once again, however, I was not chosen for the program.
By this point I was extremely frustrated. I felt like all my plans were messed up now (funny how that works when we try to plan things "perfectly") and I had no idea what to do. I started looking into non-EMU cross-culturals, and became very interested in a program through the Council for Christian Colleges and Universities. However, the more I thought and prayed about it this summer, I began to feel that applying for that program was not the right decision. I wanted to want to go, but it simply didn't seem right. So I changed my mind again, and decided to forget the D.C. internship, and just go to India with EMU's program during the spring of my junior year. This seemed like the right decision...until I came back to school. As I began to think about cross-culturals again, I became unsettled. The more I told people I was planning to go to India, the less right it felt. This started to scare me, as I felt like I had no options left. I kept praying (as I had through the whole process) that God would direct my cross-cultural process and that he would make it clear to me where I was to go. He answered that prayer in a way I hadn't even allowed myself to hope for...
Last weekend, I arrived back at school after playing several hockey games in PA. I checked my email, and as I scanned the unread list, I saw one from the Middle East cross-cultural leader. The subject line: "Middle East cross-cultural opening." My heart started racing, and I opened it to find that someone had dropped out of the trip and they were offering her place to me. I was absolutely stunned. I had never lost my desire to go to the Middle East. In fact, the alternate program I looked at was simply a different trip to the ME. This, however, is far better, and I would much prefer to go with a group from EMU. I couldn't believe this was real, so I decided to take a few days to think and pray about it, just to make sure that accepting the spot would be the right decision. I wanted to feel confirmation that the reason I didn't get in in the first place was because I needed to learn something, not because I really wasn't supposed to go. I chose not to tell any friends until I had made a decision, but I called my parents. Mom's reaction caught me off guard...after her initial gasping (;)), she said, "I'm not surprised at all. The Middle East cross-cultural has been on my heart this weekend and I've just had a feeling that a spot would open up for you." To me, that was tremendous confirmation. After 24 hours of thought and prayer, I emailed the leader to say I was accepting the place.
It just feels so right. I'm amazed at God's faithfulness throughout this six-month struggle and the subtle ways he worked to lead me to this place. Not getting into Guatemala...deciding for and then against multiple other options...and finally simply deciding not to make any plans for this spring...all of those steps brought me here, where I can pick up and go without needing to rearrange many plans at all. This has been my greatest desire all along, and I am so very grateful for the opportunity. I'm also thankful for the lessons learned along the way. It has been a humbling experience and I feel very blessed. I really can't express my excitement and gratitude! I'd also appreciate your prayers for our group as we prepare to leave in just over four months.
The deepest spiritual lessons are not learned by His letting us have our way in the end, but by His making us wait, bearing with us in love and patience until we are able honestly to pray what He taught His disciples to pray: Thy will be done. Acceptance of whatever that means is the great victory of faith that overcomes the world. -Elisabeth Elliot
Soli Deo Gloria.
Sunday, September 02, 2007
Friday, August 17, 2007
Thursday, July 12, 2007
As much as I love being home, I am quite ready for school again. I need a break from the endless hours of work, even though I love my job--well, one of my jobs. I want classes and textbooks and friends that live next door and hockey and chapels and weekend movies and making a tiny room feel like home and late nights and being way too busy. All of it and more. Not necessarily in that order.
Wednesday, May 30, 2007
Surrender
my hands hold safely to my dreams
clutching tightly, not one has fallen
so many years have shaped each one
reflecting my heart, showing who i am
now you're asking me to show
what i'm holding oh so tightly
can't open my hands, can't let go
does it matter?
should i show you?
can't you let me go?
surrender, surrender
you whisper gently
you say i will be free
i know, but can't you see?
my dreams are me
my dreams are me
you say you have a plan for me
and that you want the best for my life
told me the world has yet to see
what you can do with one that's committed to your call
i know of course what i should do
that i can't hold these dreams forever
if i give them now to you
will you take them away forever?
or can i dream again?
surrender, surrender
you whisper gently
you say i will be free
i know, but can't you see?
my dreams are me
my dreams are me
surrender.
barlowgirl
my hands hold safely to my dreams
clutching tightly, not one has fallen
so many years have shaped each one
reflecting my heart, showing who i am
now you're asking me to show
what i'm holding oh so tightly
can't open my hands, can't let go
does it matter?
should i show you?
can't you let me go?
surrender, surrender
you whisper gently
you say i will be free
i know, but can't you see?
my dreams are me
my dreams are me
you say you have a plan for me
and that you want the best for my life
told me the world has yet to see
what you can do with one that's committed to your call
i know of course what i should do
that i can't hold these dreams forever
if i give them now to you
will you take them away forever?
or can i dream again?
surrender, surrender
you whisper gently
you say i will be free
i know, but can't you see?
my dreams are me
my dreams are me
surrender.
barlowgirl
Thursday, April 26, 2007
done.
My first year of college is over. I feel relieved, and proud, and sad all at once. This week is bittersweet. I'm so ready to be home and feel like I live there for a few months, but I'm not ready to leave this place yet either. I never thought I would be able to say that. Believe me, it's a good feeling to be able to. I feel at home here. I've lived with these people, in this place, for 8 months. It's not easy to pack up and leave. But that's all that's left for me to do. My roommate for next year already did that, and my other friends and I said goodbye to her this morning. So surreal.
Anyway, enough moping in disbelief. I am going to Lancaster in 48 hours!
Also, Michael Wiebe-Johnson was discharged this weekend and has been on campus several times this week. I helped him glaze pots ("helped" being a relative term) for his Ceramics class and he even gave me one to say thanks. As if I could have forgotten him before...now I surely never will. His vision is not quite back to normal and he gets tired very quickly. He is still in a wheelchair and he had some sort of brace around his stomach (for his chipped vertebrae, maybe?). But considering what could have been, all those things are blessings. God is so faithful.
My first year of college is over. I feel relieved, and proud, and sad all at once. This week is bittersweet. I'm so ready to be home and feel like I live there for a few months, but I'm not ready to leave this place yet either. I never thought I would be able to say that. Believe me, it's a good feeling to be able to. I feel at home here. I've lived with these people, in this place, for 8 months. It's not easy to pack up and leave. But that's all that's left for me to do. My roommate for next year already did that, and my other friends and I said goodbye to her this morning. So surreal.
Anyway, enough moping in disbelief. I am going to Lancaster in 48 hours!
Also, Michael Wiebe-Johnson was discharged this weekend and has been on campus several times this week. I helped him glaze pots ("helped" being a relative term) for his Ceramics class and he even gave me one to say thanks. As if I could have forgotten him before...now I surely never will. His vision is not quite back to normal and he gets tired very quickly. He is still in a wheelchair and he had some sort of brace around his stomach (for his chipped vertebrae, maybe?). But considering what could have been, all those things are blessings. God is so faithful.
Friday, April 20, 2007
2 more classes.
3 finals.
1 speech.
summer.
In other news, Michael Wiebe-Johnson had a successful surgery yesterday to insert a pin into his hip. He should be able to walk with crutches today and expects to be discharged this weekend! If all goes as planned, he should be able to finish the semester. God is so faithful.
3 finals.
1 speech.
summer.
In other news, Michael Wiebe-Johnson had a successful surgery yesterday to insert a pin into his hip. He should be able to walk with crutches today and expects to be discharged this weekend! If all goes as planned, he should be able to finish the semester. God is so faithful.
Sunday, April 15, 2007
Update on Michael Wiebe-Johnson...
There is much to praise God about! Shortly after Wiebe was airlifted to UVA, they put him in a medically-induced coma because they were afraid he had internal head injuries, like bleeding on the brain. However, as far as I know, nothing was significantly wrong. Even more miraculously, he has no spinal cord injuries and no paralysis! By Friday evening, he was able to talk to his parents on the phone, and yesterday he called one of the guys who was with him when it happened--in fact, the only one who saw him fall, and the one who sat with him for several minutes, thinking he was dead. I haven't heard any updates today yet, so it looks like his most serious injuries are a fractured hip and chipped vertebrae. Praise God! Pray that he will continue to recover quickly and fully.
There is much to praise God about! Shortly after Wiebe was airlifted to UVA, they put him in a medically-induced coma because they were afraid he had internal head injuries, like bleeding on the brain. However, as far as I know, nothing was significantly wrong. Even more miraculously, he has no spinal cord injuries and no paralysis! By Friday evening, he was able to talk to his parents on the phone, and yesterday he called one of the guys who was with him when it happened--in fact, the only one who saw him fall, and the one who sat with him for several minutes, thinking he was dead. I haven't heard any updates today yet, so it looks like his most serious injuries are a fractured hip and chipped vertebrae. Praise God! Pray that he will continue to recover quickly and fully.
Friday, April 13, 2007
Early this morning, several of my guy friends attempted to pull a seemingly harmless prank--putting a stuffed buffalo from the science center on top of Oakwood, their 3-story dorm (they've done things like this before with no problems). Something went wrong, and one of the guys fell. They airlifted him to UVA medical center. I am told when he was on the ground he could not speak and could only move his arms. Please pray for Michael Wiebe-Johnson and his family. His parents are on the way to Virginia from Indiana. I'm basically in shock right now--I mean, I just ate lunch with Wiebe yesterday. This feels very unreal. All of your prayers are appreciated. Thanks.
Monday, April 09, 2007
Thursday, March 29, 2007
Sunday, March 18, 2007
I went to a war protest this weekend.
I know, I know. Me? I was surprised too. But don't worry. I didn't hold any angry signs or yell obscenities. All I had was a small electric candle, symbolizing the light of Christ and his call for peace. And all I said, aside from conversations with my friends and strangers along the 4-mile walk from the National Cathedral to the White House, was "Peace," which we chanted at the White House. And songs--we did a lot of singing. "We Are Marching in the Light of God," "Amazing Grace," "Dona nobis pacem," "This Little Light of Mine," and others were all repeated multiple times along the way.
This was the Christian Peace Witness for Iraq. I traveled there with 4 of my friends after the EMU bus was cancelled due to bad weather. We arrived at the Cathedral late because snow and traffic made our trip from Harrisonburg to D.C. nearly 4 hours long and were surprised to be asked by a reporter if we would mind saying a few words for some Channel 8. I wonder if we made it on the news that night...? We walked into the Cathedral and were stunned by the realization that it was filled to capacity. Anyone who has visited the Cathedral may remember its size. Well, on Friday night it was packed with 3,000 people of all Christian denominations from 48 states. We happened to walk in just as they started singing "God of Grace and God of Glory," which was beautiful. All those voices resonating off every wall and pillar made an amazing sound. National denominational representatives spoke, led responsive readings, etc. We missed what sounded like some of the most interesting parts of the service, but we did get to hear Jim Wallis speak. For me, the most memorable thing he said was, "America is not the hope of the earth and the light of the world – Jesus Christ is!" Perfectly stated. Go to http://www.beliefnet.com/blogs/godspolitics/2007/03/jim-wallis-marching-orders.html for a transcript of the whole speech.
One of the things I most appreciated about the service, and the entire event, was that it wasn't angry or politically partisan. Speakers criticized both President Bush and the timid Democratic Congress that, so far, is proving itself too weak to stop the war. There was no yelling, except for the calm chant of "peace" at the White House as we raised our lights high. I saw no signs bashing Bush or anyone else. In fact, there were very few signs at all. Nearly all of the participants seemed interested in and excited about just making a quiet stand for peace, not disturbing the peace. The beauty of the service was carried over into the walk to the White House. As we walked, carrying light in the midst of snow flurries and singing songs about light and peace, it all felt very surreal. Even as we prayed in front of the White House, it didn't seem like it was really happening. Then my feet began to feel like solid blocks of ice, and suddenly it was very real:) At any rate, it was a beautiful, worthwhile event, and I am glad I went. Even though I never thought I would go to a protest:)
I know, I know. Me? I was surprised too. But don't worry. I didn't hold any angry signs or yell obscenities. All I had was a small electric candle, symbolizing the light of Christ and his call for peace. And all I said, aside from conversations with my friends and strangers along the 4-mile walk from the National Cathedral to the White House, was "Peace," which we chanted at the White House. And songs--we did a lot of singing. "We Are Marching in the Light of God," "Amazing Grace," "Dona nobis pacem," "This Little Light of Mine," and others were all repeated multiple times along the way.
This was the Christian Peace Witness for Iraq. I traveled there with 4 of my friends after the EMU bus was cancelled due to bad weather. We arrived at the Cathedral late because snow and traffic made our trip from Harrisonburg to D.C. nearly 4 hours long and were surprised to be asked by a reporter if we would mind saying a few words for some Channel 8. I wonder if we made it on the news that night...? We walked into the Cathedral and were stunned by the realization that it was filled to capacity. Anyone who has visited the Cathedral may remember its size. Well, on Friday night it was packed with 3,000 people of all Christian denominations from 48 states. We happened to walk in just as they started singing "God of Grace and God of Glory," which was beautiful. All those voices resonating off every wall and pillar made an amazing sound. National denominational representatives spoke, led responsive readings, etc. We missed what sounded like some of the most interesting parts of the service, but we did get to hear Jim Wallis speak. For me, the most memorable thing he said was, "America is not the hope of the earth and the light of the world – Jesus Christ is!" Perfectly stated. Go to http://www.beliefnet.com/blogs/godspolitics/2007/03/jim-wallis-marching-orders.html for a transcript of the whole speech.
One of the things I most appreciated about the service, and the entire event, was that it wasn't angry or politically partisan. Speakers criticized both President Bush and the timid Democratic Congress that, so far, is proving itself too weak to stop the war. There was no yelling, except for the calm chant of "peace" at the White House as we raised our lights high. I saw no signs bashing Bush or anyone else. In fact, there were very few signs at all. Nearly all of the participants seemed interested in and excited about just making a quiet stand for peace, not disturbing the peace. The beauty of the service was carried over into the walk to the White House. As we walked, carrying light in the midst of snow flurries and singing songs about light and peace, it all felt very surreal. Even as we prayed in front of the White House, it didn't seem like it was really happening. Then my feet began to feel like solid blocks of ice, and suddenly it was very real:) At any rate, it was a beautiful, worthwhile event, and I am glad I went. Even though I never thought I would go to a protest:)
Saturday, March 10, 2007
Spring break is already over! Well, it will be tomorrow. That's okay though...for the first time, I am truly ready to go back. That's not to say that I'm not loving home, because I really am, or that I'm looking forward to digging back into schoolwork, because I certainly am not, but EMU finally does feel like a second home. One where I feel comfortable and settled and at peace.
With all that said, I am quite ready for summer. 4 full months of sun and home and work and no classes sounds wonderful. And with only 50 days left until then, I know it will be here before I know it. Can't wait!
With all that said, I am quite ready for summer. 4 full months of sun and home and work and no classes sounds wonderful. And with only 50 days left until then, I know it will be here before I know it. Can't wait!
Thursday, February 08, 2007
Monday, February 05, 2007
"Someone out there was meant to be the love of your life, your best friend, and the one you can tell your dreams to....He'll brush the hair out of your eyes, give you kisses on the forehead, and hold you tight in his arms. He'll call you only to say hi, just because he's thinking about you. He'll listen to your problems. He'll never let you go to bed upset. He'll look you in your eyes and tell you that your the most beautiful girl he has ever seen, and for the first time in your life you'll believe it."
I copied this quotation from the Instant Messenger profile of a friend. As I read it, it hit me...there is someone, and he's already completely in love with me.
His name is Jesus. Okay, so maybe he won't romantically kiss me on the forehead, but who better to tell my dreams to than the one who holds them in his hands and placed them inside of me? Who else is so consistently faithful to be available to listen to my problems and calm my spirit? He wants to be my first love and my best friend, and as my creator, he does think I'm beautiful.
That's why these types of wishful-thinking fairy tale quotes bother me. I appreciate the (unspoken) reminder to look to Jesus to be the fulfiller of romance, but I'd rather think about statements like this:
"A woman's heart should be so hidden in Christ it takes a man seeking Him to find it."
That's what it should be about. My heart belongs to Jesus first. And if he chooses to bless me with an earthly romance, it will be an expression of that love.
I copied this quotation from the Instant Messenger profile of a friend. As I read it, it hit me...there is someone, and he's already completely in love with me.
His name is Jesus. Okay, so maybe he won't romantically kiss me on the forehead, but who better to tell my dreams to than the one who holds them in his hands and placed them inside of me? Who else is so consistently faithful to be available to listen to my problems and calm my spirit? He wants to be my first love and my best friend, and as my creator, he does think I'm beautiful.
That's why these types of wishful-thinking fairy tale quotes bother me. I appreciate the (unspoken) reminder to look to Jesus to be the fulfiller of romance, but I'd rather think about statements like this:
"A woman's heart should be so hidden in Christ it takes a man seeking Him to find it."
That's what it should be about. My heart belongs to Jesus first. And if he chooses to bless me with an earthly romance, it will be an expression of that love.
Thursday, February 01, 2007
If you are ever having a bad day, you should watch this immediately:
http://youtube.com/watch?v=5P6UU6m3cqk
You will smile, I promise.
http://youtube.com/watch?v=5P6UU6m3cqk
You will smile, I promise.
Wednesday, January 24, 2007
Dan Wessner
B.A., Stanford University
J.D., University of Virginia
M.Div., Princeton Theological Seminary
Ph.D., University of Denver
This is my Constitutional Issues professor and pre-law advisor. How many people do you know who got their undergraduate degree at Stanford, went on to law school at UVA, seminary at Princeton, and finally wrapped it up with a doctorate? So I'm already in awe of this man, and then yesterday in class he told us that in law school (at UVA, that's awesome enough) he roomed with the son of SANDRA DAY O'CONNOR. No matter how you feel about her, to room with the child of a Supreme Court justice is pretty incredible. Not only that, but it was while she was being confirmed, or whatever that's called, so he got to go to her hearings with the Senate Judiciary Committee. We all just kind of sat there staring at him in disbelief. Wow.
B.A., Stanford University
J.D., University of Virginia
M.Div., Princeton Theological Seminary
Ph.D., University of Denver
This is my Constitutional Issues professor and pre-law advisor. How many people do you know who got their undergraduate degree at Stanford, went on to law school at UVA, seminary at Princeton, and finally wrapped it up with a doctorate? So I'm already in awe of this man, and then yesterday in class he told us that in law school (at UVA, that's awesome enough) he roomed with the son of SANDRA DAY O'CONNOR. No matter how you feel about her, to room with the child of a Supreme Court justice is pretty incredible. Not only that, but it was while she was being confirmed, or whatever that's called, so he got to go to her hearings with the Senate Judiciary Committee. We all just kind of sat there staring at him in disbelief. Wow.
Monday, January 22, 2007
Friday, January 19, 2007
Singing "Psalm 121 (I Lift My Eyes Up)" during Celebration, the student-led Sunday night worship service...
I lift my eyes up to the mountains
Where does my help come from?
My help comes from you
Maker of heaven, Creator of the earth
Oh how I need you Lord
You are my only hope
You're my only prayer
So I will wait for you
To come and rescue me
Come and give me life
Me: "Lord, I do need you now, more than ever."
God: "No, Karissa. You don't need me any more than you've ever needed me. It's just that right now you choose to recognize your unfluctuating, intense need for me."
Lord, may I never lose sight of that lesson...
I lift my eyes up to the mountains
Where does my help come from?
My help comes from you
Maker of heaven, Creator of the earth
Oh how I need you Lord
You are my only hope
You're my only prayer
So I will wait for you
To come and rescue me
Come and give me life
Me: "Lord, I do need you now, more than ever."
God: "No, Karissa. You don't need me any more than you've ever needed me. It's just that right now you choose to recognize your unfluctuating, intense need for me."
Lord, may I never lose sight of that lesson...
Sunday, January 14, 2007
Sunday, January 07, 2007
I'm back. And it doesn't feel bad at all. It was comforting to realize that I was excited when we were just a few miles from school, and even more so when we pulled up beside my dorm. It would be nice to know that I'll be able to get home before Easter, but that's just another opportunity for me to work on trusting God--that he'll either make a way for me to get home some weekend, or that time will fly and I'll have a great, fruitful time until then. He has been nothing but faithful, and I know he will continue to be.
On another note, I am going to Camp Hebron this weekend as sort of a student representative for EMU at the Lancaster Mennonite Conference youth retreat! One of the admissions counselors had space for two people to join him, and he invited the EMU freshmen from LMH (since we're connected to that group). Since that weekend was so influential in my college decision process, I jumped at the chance to go, both for my personal growth and enjoyment and, perhaps, as a way to somehow give back. I'm really excited!
On another note, I am going to Camp Hebron this weekend as sort of a student representative for EMU at the Lancaster Mennonite Conference youth retreat! One of the admissions counselors had space for two people to join him, and he invited the EMU freshmen from LMH (since we're connected to that group). Since that weekend was so influential in my college decision process, I jumped at the chance to go, both for my personal growth and enjoyment and, perhaps, as a way to somehow give back. I'm really excited!
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