Hey guys!
So, today is our last day in Nairobi. I've not been this sad in a very long time. It was so hard to say goodbye to everyone today. I love them so much.
We leave in the morning to go to Maasai Mara for our SAFARI! Despite how much it sucked to say bye to everyone today, I am very excited about the Safari. I've heard it is completely unbelievable. It should be awesome. :)
Anyways, today we spent at The Youth Center. It was full of the most amazing children ever! There were about 200 of them total and each one was equally darling. We ran a vacation Bible school for them. They loved it! They completely soaked up every second of it. The entire Bible school went well!
The Youth Center is located literally 20 feet from the largest dump in Kenya. It was so sad. No words could ever describe how sad it was. There were so many people going
through the trash and cleaning their clothes in the river that runs through it. I wish that everyone could see that school and where it is located. To say that today was life changing and eye opening would be an understatement. My heart aches for those children.
I have to go pack and go to bed now. I'm not sure if I will be able to write the rest of the trip or not.. If not I will be back in the states at 9:00 PM on Saturday (if all goes as planned!).
I love you all!
Please continue to pray!
-Marissa
Mom: Just a few things.. Please, PLEASE, PLEASE bring me Chic-fil-a to the airport. My stomach needs American food and I can't imagine anything better than a number 1 combo from Chic-fil-a! Also, I have my adapter to plug into the TV with me-- so, I'm not sure how early you have to leave Nana's on Sunday, but if you wanted I can show all my pictures on the TV to who ever wants to come to Nana's. I want to call you tonight but I'm not sure how many minutes I have... If not I will call you from London on Saturday morning. I love you!
Monday, June 22, 2009
Sunday, June 21, 2009
Another beautiful Sunday in Kenya!
Hey there!
Today was a very great day. We went to church from 9:30-2:30… Yes, we were literally in church from 9:30 AM until 2:30 PM. It was great, though. The church services over here are so different than in America. These people know how to praise Jesus! I wish there was a way to describe how powerful each service I’ve been to has been. There is not a moment that I don’t feel completely surrounded by the Holy Spirit during the services. I wish everyone had the opportunity to experience a real Kenyan church service at least once!
After lunch we went to Euticaul’s house for lunch. His wife made us the best meal EVER! We had a blast! I love him and his family. They are so amazing. They make me laugh so hard!
Tomorrow we are doing VBS at the Youth Center. It should be spectacular! I can’t wait. I am in charge of making sure they know Jesus… No pressure or anything, right? I’m glad that my team trusts me with that! :-\
Anyways, please keep praying for us. We fly out to the Masai Mara on Tuesday morning on the world’s smallest plane EVER, so, pray we don’t like die. I hear you can see the herds of animals running along the plains from the air! That will be flipping awesome!
Now it is time for the quote of the day:
“Okay guys… I told the Catholics that we will be challenging them in a jump rope competition today at 5:00!” – Kathy
Love you all! HAPPY FATHERS DAY, DAD!!!!!
-Marissa
Matt Skinner: You are supposed to live in Kenya. Here are the numerous reasons why:
1. THEY MAKE DETERGENT JUST FOR SOCCER PLAYERS!!! It is in the shape of a soccer ball. It’s made to get grass stains and body odor smells out of soccer clothes. I was going to buy you some, but it definitely weighed too much to fit in luggage. It made me laugh pretty hard when I saw it, though.
2. Everyone plays soccer. They make their own balls and play their little hearts out. It’s awesome.
3. The whiter you are the more famous you are. They never EVER see white people here, so, they think that white people are like super heroes!
4. I’ve heard the Beatles in a million different stores I’ve walked into. They have a true appreciation for them. :
So.. With all that said—you are DEFINITELY meant to be here!! : )
Jennifer: I didn’t forget about you. I love you girl. I can’t wait to tell you all my stories and show you all my pictures!
Laura: I miss you loads. I love you very much and can’t wait to see youuuuuuuuuuu on Saturday!
Today was a very great day. We went to church from 9:30-2:30… Yes, we were literally in church from 9:30 AM until 2:30 PM. It was great, though. The church services over here are so different than in America. These people know how to praise Jesus! I wish there was a way to describe how powerful each service I’ve been to has been. There is not a moment that I don’t feel completely surrounded by the Holy Spirit during the services. I wish everyone had the opportunity to experience a real Kenyan church service at least once!
After lunch we went to Euticaul’s house for lunch. His wife made us the best meal EVER! We had a blast! I love him and his family. They are so amazing. They make me laugh so hard!
Tomorrow we are doing VBS at the Youth Center. It should be spectacular! I can’t wait. I am in charge of making sure they know Jesus… No pressure or anything, right? I’m glad that my team trusts me with that! :-\
Anyways, please keep praying for us. We fly out to the Masai Mara on Tuesday morning on the world’s smallest plane EVER, so, pray we don’t like die. I hear you can see the herds of animals running along the plains from the air! That will be flipping awesome!
Now it is time for the quote of the day:
“Okay guys… I told the Catholics that we will be challenging them in a jump rope competition today at 5:00!” – Kathy
Love you all! HAPPY FATHERS DAY, DAD!!!!!
-Marissa
Matt Skinner: You are supposed to live in Kenya. Here are the numerous reasons why:
1. THEY MAKE DETERGENT JUST FOR SOCCER PLAYERS!!! It is in the shape of a soccer ball. It’s made to get grass stains and body odor smells out of soccer clothes. I was going to buy you some, but it definitely weighed too much to fit in luggage. It made me laugh pretty hard when I saw it, though.
2. Everyone plays soccer. They make their own balls and play their little hearts out. It’s awesome.
3. The whiter you are the more famous you are. They never EVER see white people here, so, they think that white people are like super heroes!
4. I’ve heard the Beatles in a million different stores I’ve walked into. They have a true appreciation for them. :
So.. With all that said—you are DEFINITELY meant to be here!! : )
Jennifer: I didn’t forget about you. I love you girl. I can’t wait to tell you all my stories and show you all my pictures!
Laura: I miss you loads. I love you very much and can’t wait to see youuuuuuuuuuu on Saturday!
Saturday, June 20, 2009
Still in love with this place..
Hello all!
Today has been a beautifully fabulous day! We did not have to wake up until the wonderful hour of 8:00 AM. That is definitely the latest we’ve been able to sleep thus far. It was a wonderful way to start the day.
We first went and met with Duncan at his house. He is probably one of the coolest guys I have ever met. He started the organization Care for Aids. His organization runs many different orphanages and other programs in Nairobi and the surrounding areas. After speaking and visiting with him for a bit we went to the children’s orphanage. We didn’t get to spend that much time there, but the time we did spend was great. The kids were absolutely darling.
After the first orphanage we went and met the six boys that Duncan has adopted. They were precious and very funny. We sang, danced and just ate up every second of them. After spending a bit of time with them we headed back to Duncan’s house for lunch. We ate a very delicious meal and fellowshipped with all the people who work for them. They were all great men and women of God and it was wonderful to be able to spend time with them.
Following lunch we headed to the second orphanage of the day. This particular orphanage was the older orphanage for the older children (ages ranging from 4-15). I ended up spending the majority of the time there sitting on the grass while three girls braided my hair as we sang a million different hymns and praise songs. No words can describe how powerful those few hours were. I couldn’t tell you why it was so powerful but something about those three girls singing praise songs with their adorable voices was one of the most beautiful things I’ve ever heard. I loved it so much.
We then headed back to Brackenhurst after the orphanage. It’s been a very, very great day. I love it here so much. I wish that I could put into words how wonderful this country is. I don’t think I will be able to come home.., I can’t even begin to picture myself getting back on that plane to go home. So, just a warning—you guys may never see me again unless you guys kuja happa (Swahili for come over) over here to Kenya! : - )
Quote of the day:
“Are those muscles from lifting orphans in Africa? I think not! I think those muscles are from lifting dumbbells!” -Brittany’s new way to compare guys in America to the hot missionaries we’ve met in Africa
Love you guys very much!
-Marissa
Today has been a beautifully fabulous day! We did not have to wake up until the wonderful hour of 8:00 AM. That is definitely the latest we’ve been able to sleep thus far. It was a wonderful way to start the day.
We first went and met with Duncan at his house. He is probably one of the coolest guys I have ever met. He started the organization Care for Aids. His organization runs many different orphanages and other programs in Nairobi and the surrounding areas. After speaking and visiting with him for a bit we went to the children’s orphanage. We didn’t get to spend that much time there, but the time we did spend was great. The kids were absolutely darling.
After the first orphanage we went and met the six boys that Duncan has adopted. They were precious and very funny. We sang, danced and just ate up every second of them. After spending a bit of time with them we headed back to Duncan’s house for lunch. We ate a very delicious meal and fellowshipped with all the people who work for them. They were all great men and women of God and it was wonderful to be able to spend time with them.
Following lunch we headed to the second orphanage of the day. This particular orphanage was the older orphanage for the older children (ages ranging from 4-15). I ended up spending the majority of the time there sitting on the grass while three girls braided my hair as we sang a million different hymns and praise songs. No words can describe how powerful those few hours were. I couldn’t tell you why it was so powerful but something about those three girls singing praise songs with their adorable voices was one of the most beautiful things I’ve ever heard. I loved it so much.
We then headed back to Brackenhurst after the orphanage. It’s been a very, very great day. I love it here so much. I wish that I could put into words how wonderful this country is. I don’t think I will be able to come home.., I can’t even begin to picture myself getting back on that plane to go home. So, just a warning—you guys may never see me again unless you guys kuja happa (Swahili for come over) over here to Kenya! : - )
Quote of the day:
“Are those muscles from lifting orphans in Africa? I think not! I think those muscles are from lifting dumbbells!” -Brittany’s new way to compare guys in America to the hot missionaries we’ve met in Africa
Love you guys very much!
-Marissa
Friday, June 19, 2009
I'm pretty sure I was born in the wrong country.. I'm definitely meant to be Kenyan..
Hello World!
Kenya is still the greatest country in the world and everyone is still doing well!
Last night was without a doubt the best night sleep Brittany and I have had thus far (not sure about all the other cabins). We woke up pretty early and went to finish painting Pastor Ben’s Church in downtown Nairobi. We painted from about 9:00-1:00. I ended up getting a pretty intense headache after about two hours, though. It wasn’t fun at all. After laying down in the bus, taking some pain medicine and getting prayed for it passed within a few hours.. Thank goodness!
After painting we went to the market. It was QUITE the experience. We bartered our little hearts out. Who knew I would be so good at bartering? It is my hidden talent! I got some serious deals. I can’t wait to show you all what I got. We ate lunch there (we got to eat PIZZA—it was everything that is glorious) and just shopped.
After painting, shopping and endless hours of crazy traffic we finally got back to Brackenhurst. We enjoyed about two hours of free time after arriving back here. It was so nice to just have a little time to relax. We have all been feeling the effects of working so hard these past two days. I know that none of us took the down time we had this afternoon for granted. It was great.
After our down time and dinner we had a group meeting. We all gathered to just kind of share stories and talk. It was very refreshing. This is the best team I’ve ever worked with. God could not have chosen a better group of people. I’m so proud of all of us. I never thought I could love a group of people so much after only knowing them for 8 days (except for Amanda and Brittany, of course, I’ve known them much longer). They’re all so great and never cease to amaze me.
Please continue to pray for us. Tomorrow we will be spending the day at the aids orphanage. I know tomorrow will be full of various struggles and we could really use your prayers. Also, please pray for Dr. Hawkins. He’s had a migraine since yesterday morning and hasn’t been able to leave the bedroom.
I will leave you all with my favorite quote from today…
“Well, my Nanny always told me ‘The more you cry the less you pee!’” –Amanda
I love you all!
-Marissa
Mrs. Sandra: Brittany is doing great still! She is one of the hardest workers I’ve ever met and hasn’t stopped smiling since we took off. You’ve got one incredible daughter!
Mom and Dad: I might be bringing a child home… So, just a warning. Also, I have a feeling I might be in love—but he is a missionary, so, we are meant to be. Oh and he doesn’t have aids—that is always a plus! Just kidding.. About the love part anyhow.. The child part—totally happening. Also, tell Will I got him the coolest, most rad present EVER at the market today.. I’m more excited about his than the stuff I bought for myself!!!
Kenya is still the greatest country in the world and everyone is still doing well!
Last night was without a doubt the best night sleep Brittany and I have had thus far (not sure about all the other cabins). We woke up pretty early and went to finish painting Pastor Ben’s Church in downtown Nairobi. We painted from about 9:00-1:00. I ended up getting a pretty intense headache after about two hours, though. It wasn’t fun at all. After laying down in the bus, taking some pain medicine and getting prayed for it passed within a few hours.. Thank goodness!
After painting we went to the market. It was QUITE the experience. We bartered our little hearts out. Who knew I would be so good at bartering? It is my hidden talent! I got some serious deals. I can’t wait to show you all what I got. We ate lunch there (we got to eat PIZZA—it was everything that is glorious) and just shopped.
After painting, shopping and endless hours of crazy traffic we finally got back to Brackenhurst. We enjoyed about two hours of free time after arriving back here. It was so nice to just have a little time to relax. We have all been feeling the effects of working so hard these past two days. I know that none of us took the down time we had this afternoon for granted. It was great.
After our down time and dinner we had a group meeting. We all gathered to just kind of share stories and talk. It was very refreshing. This is the best team I’ve ever worked with. God could not have chosen a better group of people. I’m so proud of all of us. I never thought I could love a group of people so much after only knowing them for 8 days (except for Amanda and Brittany, of course, I’ve known them much longer). They’re all so great and never cease to amaze me.
Please continue to pray for us. Tomorrow we will be spending the day at the aids orphanage. I know tomorrow will be full of various struggles and we could really use your prayers. Also, please pray for Dr. Hawkins. He’s had a migraine since yesterday morning and hasn’t been able to leave the bedroom.
I will leave you all with my favorite quote from today…
“Well, my Nanny always told me ‘The more you cry the less you pee!’” –Amanda
I love you all!
-Marissa
Mrs. Sandra: Brittany is doing great still! She is one of the hardest workers I’ve ever met and hasn’t stopped smiling since we took off. You’ve got one incredible daughter!
Mom and Dad: I might be bringing a child home… So, just a warning. Also, I have a feeling I might be in love—but he is a missionary, so, we are meant to be. Oh and he doesn’t have aids—that is always a plus! Just kidding.. About the love part anyhow.. The child part—totally happening. Also, tell Will I got him the coolest, most rad present EVER at the market today.. I’m more excited about his than the stuff I bought for myself!!!
Thursday, June 18, 2009
BRACKEN-FLIPPING-HURST
HEY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
So, I am online for more than just second! We are now back in Nairobi. We arrived at about 10:30 this morning. We've been in Kumowongo for the past few days. While there we managed to put a roof on the Real Life Church (what is now the only Christian church in the village), "tap the floor" (we had to LITERALLY pound the dirt into the ground to create a smooth surface for the cement once they lay it), held a worship service and helped lead THIRTY people to JESUS!!!!! It was AMAZING!!!
While working on the church we attracted a BUNCH of people from all over the town. The children of the community were just dying to see us, speak to us, play with us and touch us. It was hilarious. I really think that they thought we were aliens at first. One of the translators told me that the really young children have probably never seen white people before and everyone only does once every few years. We came into contact with hundreds of children of every age. They were, without a doubt, the sweetest kids I've ever met. One child in particular really touched my heart. The first morning I was there I met this little girl named Deborah (pronounced day-bor-a). She was absolutely darling. She was probably about 3 years old but she couldn't talk well so I'm not sure. It took her a while to warm up to me but within an hour or two she was hugging all over me. After about an hour of laying all over me she started mumbling this word. Obviously, I do not speak the language and thus had no clue what she was saying. I called my AMAZING translator over and asked him what she was saying. He looked at me and said "I do not think that you want to know." It turns out that she was calling me mom. I don't think that I have ever been so broken hearted and so sad in my life. Leaving her yesterday was without a doubt the hardest thing I've ever had to do. I am not sure where she lives or whom she lives with but it is safe to assume it isn't exactly the best conditions.
So, onto happier news. WE ARE IN BRACKENHURST!!!!! It is absolutely BEAUTIFUL and GREAT! The place we've been staying since we've been here hasn't exactly been the best. I'm just a little tired of goat at every meal, not being able to flush the toilet and either barely having water or not having it at all. I think Amanda did a wonderful job of describing the water pressure when she said "What is this!? My pee has more water pressure than this!" Brackenhurst, however, is glorious. We had BAKED CHICKEN, SALAD, ROLLS, GREEN BEANS AND RICE for dinner!!! The shower is equally amazing as is the toilet!
Tomorrow we will finish painting Pastor Ben's church (we started this afternoon once we arrive in Nairobi) and then head to the market for a few hours. I am very very very excited about the upcoming days! Please continue to pray for us!!
I will leave you with a few quotes you'll only hear in Africa...
"I have a malaria pill stuck in my throat" - Amanda
"Brittany.. Wake up and see if that is an elephant out side of our window" -Me
"MARISSA! Watch out for that cactus! You almost ran straight into it!" -Brittany
"There is nothing better than putting on fresh dirty clothes." -Amanda
There are a million more.. Those are just a few for today. I will post another blog tomorrow!
Go read our other blog too! It is www.teamafrica09.blogspot.com !
LOVE YOU ALL!
-Marissa
Chrissy: Don't you worry-- I haven't forgotten about your earrings. I'm getting them tomorrow. I wish you were here. Everything we do and see makes me think of ya! So, do you think I could do it next summer.. Like for the whole summer? Just a thought. I'm in love with this country. I've never been this happy in my life. Oh, funny you said that about the song-- we were just singing that in the bus yesterday!! I can't WAIT to see you and talk to you.
Mom and Dad: I hope you guys are having fun in NYC! I miss you loads. It was great to hear your voice last night, Mom. I love you guys and can't wait to show you all our pictures and tell you all our stories. :o)
So, I am online for more than just second! We are now back in Nairobi. We arrived at about 10:30 this morning. We've been in Kumowongo for the past few days. While there we managed to put a roof on the Real Life Church (what is now the only Christian church in the village), "tap the floor" (we had to LITERALLY pound the dirt into the ground to create a smooth surface for the cement once they lay it), held a worship service and helped lead THIRTY people to JESUS!!!!! It was AMAZING!!!
While working on the church we attracted a BUNCH of people from all over the town. The children of the community were just dying to see us, speak to us, play with us and touch us. It was hilarious. I really think that they thought we were aliens at first. One of the translators told me that the really young children have probably never seen white people before and everyone only does once every few years. We came into contact with hundreds of children of every age. They were, without a doubt, the sweetest kids I've ever met. One child in particular really touched my heart. The first morning I was there I met this little girl named Deborah (pronounced day-bor-a). She was absolutely darling. She was probably about 3 years old but she couldn't talk well so I'm not sure. It took her a while to warm up to me but within an hour or two she was hugging all over me. After about an hour of laying all over me she started mumbling this word. Obviously, I do not speak the language and thus had no clue what she was saying. I called my AMAZING translator over and asked him what she was saying. He looked at me and said "I do not think that you want to know." It turns out that she was calling me mom. I don't think that I have ever been so broken hearted and so sad in my life. Leaving her yesterday was without a doubt the hardest thing I've ever had to do. I am not sure where she lives or whom she lives with but it is safe to assume it isn't exactly the best conditions.
So, onto happier news. WE ARE IN BRACKENHURST!!!!! It is absolutely BEAUTIFUL and GREAT! The place we've been staying since we've been here hasn't exactly been the best. I'm just a little tired of goat at every meal, not being able to flush the toilet and either barely having water or not having it at all. I think Amanda did a wonderful job of describing the water pressure when she said "What is this!? My pee has more water pressure than this!" Brackenhurst, however, is glorious. We had BAKED CHICKEN, SALAD, ROLLS, GREEN BEANS AND RICE for dinner!!! The shower is equally amazing as is the toilet!
Tomorrow we will finish painting Pastor Ben's church (we started this afternoon once we arrive in Nairobi) and then head to the market for a few hours. I am very very very excited about the upcoming days! Please continue to pray for us!!
I will leave you with a few quotes you'll only hear in Africa...
"I have a malaria pill stuck in my throat" - Amanda
"Brittany.. Wake up and see if that is an elephant out side of our window" -Me
"MARISSA! Watch out for that cactus! You almost ran straight into it!" -Brittany
"There is nothing better than putting on fresh dirty clothes." -Amanda
There are a million more.. Those are just a few for today. I will post another blog tomorrow!
Go read our other blog too! It is www.teamafrica09.blogspot.com !
LOVE YOU ALL!
-Marissa
Chrissy: Don't you worry-- I haven't forgotten about your earrings. I'm getting them tomorrow. I wish you were here. Everything we do and see makes me think of ya! So, do you think I could do it next summer.. Like for the whole summer? Just a thought. I'm in love with this country. I've never been this happy in my life. Oh, funny you said that about the song-- we were just singing that in the bus yesterday!! I can't WAIT to see you and talk to you.
Mom and Dad: I hope you guys are having fun in NYC! I miss you loads. It was great to hear your voice last night, Mom. I love you guys and can't wait to show you all our pictures and tell you all our stories. :o)
Monday, June 15, 2009
I'm in Kenya!
Hey guys!
So sorry it has taken me so long to write. We've not had internet access until tonight. We're here, though!! We're safe and everything is going very well! We're having the time of our lives! I love it here and have never been this happy in my life! :)
I wish I could write more but it is really late here and others are waiting to use the computer. I will try to write tomorrow. I know we'll have more access on Thursday, so, if not tomorrow then Thursday!!
Love you guys very much!!
-Marissa
P.S. Sorry mom and dad for not calling.. The phone card isn't working.. At all!! I've been trying, but no luck at all. I don't know what is wrong with it. We're fine though. Don't worry. I love you guys.
P.P.S. Mrs. Sandra-- Brittany is doing great! She's having a blast and completely safe. :-)
So sorry it has taken me so long to write. We've not had internet access until tonight. We're here, though!! We're safe and everything is going very well! We're having the time of our lives! I love it here and have never been this happy in my life! :)
I wish I could write more but it is really late here and others are waiting to use the computer. I will try to write tomorrow. I know we'll have more access on Thursday, so, if not tomorrow then Thursday!!
Love you guys very much!!
-Marissa
P.S. Sorry mom and dad for not calling.. The phone card isn't working.. At all!! I've been trying, but no luck at all. I don't know what is wrong with it. We're fine though. Don't worry. I love you guys.
P.P.S. Mrs. Sandra-- Brittany is doing great! She's having a blast and completely safe. :-)
Sunday, May 31, 2009
So, this weekend I went to Greenwood for our last meeting before we leave for Kenya! It was such a great, great weekend. We spent last night packing things and just hanging out. It was so great to see Brittany, Amanda, Chrissy, Steven and Dr. & Mrs. Hawkins. We had a blast and it was really good to catch up with them. I'm so blessed to have such extraordinary friends.
Today we got commissioned during each of the three services. It was very, very powerful. I really felt everyone's prayers surrounding us as we were standing up there. I think that is my favorite feeling in the world.. The actual feeling of prayer. It's amazing.
After Church we had our meeting and spent a couple of hours together before leaving. The meeting went well and we all left overly excited! 11 days.. 11 days until we're in KENYA!!!!!!!! YAY!
I want to ask that you all will begin praying for our team and those that we will meet. Please pray that God will begin preparing our hearts and minds for all He is going to do. I appreciate it more than words could ever describe.
I'll leave with just a few of my favorite quotes about missions.. :)
Today we got commissioned during each of the three services. It was very, very powerful. I really felt everyone's prayers surrounding us as we were standing up there. I think that is my favorite feeling in the world.. The actual feeling of prayer. It's amazing.
After Church we had our meeting and spent a couple of hours together before leaving. The meeting went well and we all left overly excited! 11 days.. 11 days until we're in KENYA!!!!!!!! YAY!
I want to ask that you all will begin praying for our team and those that we will meet. Please pray that God will begin preparing our hearts and minds for all He is going to do. I appreciate it more than words could ever describe.
I'll leave with just a few of my favorite quotes about missions.. :)
"A tiny group of believers who have the gospel keep mumbling it over and over to themselves. Meanwhile, millions who have never heard it once fall into the flames of eternal hell without ever hearing the salvation story."
- K.P. Yohannan
"Today five out of six non-Christians in our world have no hope unless missionaries come to them and plant the church among them."
- David Bryant
"Lost people matter to God, and so they must matter to us." -- Keith Wright
"This generation of Christians is responsible for this generation of souls on the earth!" -- Keith Green
“The light that shines farthest shines brightest at home." -- C.T. Studd
“God had only one Son and he made that Son a missionary.” -- David Livingston
- K.P. Yohannan
"Today five out of six non-Christians in our world have no hope unless missionaries come to them and plant the church among them."
- David Bryant
"Lost people matter to God, and so they must matter to us." -- Keith Wright
"This generation of Christians is responsible for this generation of souls on the earth!" -- Keith Green
“The light that shines farthest shines brightest at home." -- C.T. Studd
“God had only one Son and he made that Son a missionary.” -- David Livingston
Tuesday, May 12, 2009
It's really STILL an issue?
Hello friends!
So, I'm a complete slacker and haven't published a blog in quite some time. My life has been bombarded with exams, work and now pneumonia.. Yes, that is right, I have pneumonia. I think that I am the only one in the world that could manage to get pneumonia... in the summer! Thanks to a great doctor, three different steroids, an inhaler, a great antibiotic, a shot in the butt, loads of chicken noodle soup and endless amounts of hot tea, though, I feel like I am finally on my way to getting better. :). Enough about that, though.. Who wants to hear about pneumonia when you can hear about what is on my heart today? Ha!
Today's blog is about the ever so controversial subject of race. This subject is on my heart currently for a number of reasons. The main reason, however, that it is currently on my heart now, more so than typically, is due to a conversation that I had with a good friend a few days ago. He is an African American male and I am, obviously, a white female. I honestly can't remember what started the whole conversation about our different races, but it was a conversation that lasted well over four hours. I find it crazy that two people can manage to carry on a conversation about race for that long, but some how we did. We talked about everything concerning race. It was such a refreshing, yet disturbing conversation.
We both shared stories about how we had experienced racism in our lives and how our race had been the cause of various things. It is so shocking to me that racism is still an issue. It is 2009 and people really still care about something as small as skin color? It breaks my heart to think that racism is still an issue. Not only does it break my heart that people are still being persecuted and looked down upon because of their skin color, but it breaks my heart even more that those who are the 'racist' are missing out on the opportunity to get to know GREAT people.. because of their SKIN color.
I've been very, very blessed with eyes that have never seen skin color as anything more than beauty. How dull would this world be if we were all one color? I praise God that we aren't all the same. It would be so boring. Now, I realize that I am from a very different generation with very different views than those older than me. I've tried to understand how racism could still be an issue for older generations but I just don't get it. I also REALLY don't get how ANYONE in my generation has issues with race. It's just ridiculous to me. Racism is the one thing that manages to get under my skin, break my heart and make my blood boil all at the same time.
I don't really have anything big to say or famous last words to write.. I just had to get this whole race issue off my chest. With all this said, though, please know that I am praying very hard for a few things. First, I am praying that God will give me more patience in dealing with the never-ending issue of race. I am also praying that every new generation will continue to become more accepting and as time continues to pass race will become less and less of an issue.
-Rissa
30 days 'til Kenya... OH MY GOSH!!! :-D
So, I'm a complete slacker and haven't published a blog in quite some time. My life has been bombarded with exams, work and now pneumonia.. Yes, that is right, I have pneumonia. I think that I am the only one in the world that could manage to get pneumonia... in the summer! Thanks to a great doctor, three different steroids, an inhaler, a great antibiotic, a shot in the butt, loads of chicken noodle soup and endless amounts of hot tea, though, I feel like I am finally on my way to getting better. :). Enough about that, though.. Who wants to hear about pneumonia when you can hear about what is on my heart today? Ha!
Today's blog is about the ever so controversial subject of race. This subject is on my heart currently for a number of reasons. The main reason, however, that it is currently on my heart now, more so than typically, is due to a conversation that I had with a good friend a few days ago. He is an African American male and I am, obviously, a white female. I honestly can't remember what started the whole conversation about our different races, but it was a conversation that lasted well over four hours. I find it crazy that two people can manage to carry on a conversation about race for that long, but some how we did. We talked about everything concerning race. It was such a refreshing, yet disturbing conversation.
We both shared stories about how we had experienced racism in our lives and how our race had been the cause of various things. It is so shocking to me that racism is still an issue. It is 2009 and people really still care about something as small as skin color? It breaks my heart to think that racism is still an issue. Not only does it break my heart that people are still being persecuted and looked down upon because of their skin color, but it breaks my heart even more that those who are the 'racist' are missing out on the opportunity to get to know GREAT people.. because of their SKIN color.
I've been very, very blessed with eyes that have never seen skin color as anything more than beauty. How dull would this world be if we were all one color? I praise God that we aren't all the same. It would be so boring. Now, I realize that I am from a very different generation with very different views than those older than me. I've tried to understand how racism could still be an issue for older generations but I just don't get it. I also REALLY don't get how ANYONE in my generation has issues with race. It's just ridiculous to me. Racism is the one thing that manages to get under my skin, break my heart and make my blood boil all at the same time.
I don't really have anything big to say or famous last words to write.. I just had to get this whole race issue off my chest. With all this said, though, please know that I am praying very hard for a few things. First, I am praying that God will give me more patience in dealing with the never-ending issue of race. I am also praying that every new generation will continue to become more accepting and as time continues to pass race will become less and less of an issue.
-Rissa
30 days 'til Kenya... OH MY GOSH!!! :-D
Thursday, April 23, 2009
Passion
Hello world,
If you can't tell already, I'm a very passionate person. It is very difficult for me to just be indifferent about something. There are very few subjects that I don't have any opinions on. I can't tell you why I am like this, I just am. I've tried many times before to not have opinions and just be one of those people who simply smile and nod at everything. It does not work, though.
It wasn't until recently that I became grateful for having this passionate personality. I was put into a group this semester with two other people. One of these two was the type of person I was just talking about.. The type of person who just smiles and nods and doesn't ever express any type of opinion. She was hands down the dullest person I've ever met. I mean, the girl wouldn't even tell me what background for a power point she liked more. I just wanted to slap her so that I could see some type of emotion come out of her. Terrible, I know, but very true.
After being forced to meet with this very lame and dull girl at least once every week for the past semester, I developed a love for my passionate personality. I am so glad that God did not create me dull and boring. I'm so happy that I have opinions and passion.
Anyways, I'll write another "passionate" blog soon. My life should calm down once exams are over and I'll be more consistent with my blogging. :)
-Marissa
42 days til Kenya!!
If you can't tell already, I'm a very passionate person. It is very difficult for me to just be indifferent about something. There are very few subjects that I don't have any opinions on. I can't tell you why I am like this, I just am. I've tried many times before to not have opinions and just be one of those people who simply smile and nod at everything. It does not work, though.
It wasn't until recently that I became grateful for having this passionate personality. I was put into a group this semester with two other people. One of these two was the type of person I was just talking about.. The type of person who just smiles and nods and doesn't ever express any type of opinion. She was hands down the dullest person I've ever met. I mean, the girl wouldn't even tell me what background for a power point she liked more. I just wanted to slap her so that I could see some type of emotion come out of her. Terrible, I know, but very true.
After being forced to meet with this very lame and dull girl at least once every week for the past semester, I developed a love for my passionate personality. I am so glad that God did not create me dull and boring. I'm so happy that I have opinions and passion.
Anyways, I'll write another "passionate" blog soon. My life should calm down once exams are over and I'll be more consistent with my blogging. :)
-Marissa
42 days til Kenya!!
Wednesday, April 8, 2009
Image bearers
I'm reading Sex God by Rob Bell along with two of my friends. We just started this book club sort of deal. We've got a list of books that we all want to read and then we get together and discuss them. Last night was the first official night of our book club get-together. It was great. We just sat around and talked about what we've gotten out of what we've read thus far. We picked out various pages and sentences that really stuck out to us. The one paragraph that really got me thinking was:
"The writer of Genesis makes it clear that in all of creation there is something different about humans. They aren't God, and they aren't going to become God, but in some distinct, intentional way, something of God has been placed in them. We reflect what God is and who God is. A divine spark resides in every single human being.
Everybody, everywhere. Bearers of the divine image."
This really got me thinking. It is without question that we are different than every other creature on the planet and that God did make us special. However, I don't know how or why but I've never really thought that deep into that concept.
We are supposed to reflect what God is and who God is? What are flipping responsibility! We really suck at this, don't we? I mean, the fact that I represent the Creator of ALL is just scary. I'm so far from perfect, and He is all that is perfect. I can't even make an A on a Spanish test, but He created the people who speak Spanish! I am just so far from being anything like God that is hard for me to think that I am a reflection of Him.
What if we really took this concept to heart though? What if we really, truly lived as though we are bearers of the divine image? How great would life be if our goal was to truly represent God? How blessed are we that God chose US to bear His perfect and beautiful image? Just something to think about. :)
That is all for now!
-Rissa
63 days til Kenya!
oh, and HEY JENN! :o)
"The writer of Genesis makes it clear that in all of creation there is something different about humans. They aren't God, and they aren't going to become God, but in some distinct, intentional way, something of God has been placed in them. We reflect what God is and who God is. A divine spark resides in every single human being.
Everybody, everywhere. Bearers of the divine image."
This really got me thinking. It is without question that we are different than every other creature on the planet and that God did make us special. However, I don't know how or why but I've never really thought that deep into that concept.
We are supposed to reflect what God is and who God is? What are flipping responsibility! We really suck at this, don't we? I mean, the fact that I represent the Creator of ALL is just scary. I'm so far from perfect, and He is all that is perfect. I can't even make an A on a Spanish test, but He created the people who speak Spanish! I am just so far from being anything like God that is hard for me to think that I am a reflection of Him.
What if we really took this concept to heart though? What if we really, truly lived as though we are bearers of the divine image? How great would life be if our goal was to truly represent God? How blessed are we that God chose US to bear His perfect and beautiful image? Just something to think about. :)
That is all for now!
-Rissa
63 days til Kenya!
oh, and HEY JENN! :o)
Monday, April 6, 2009
"Even the best fall down sometimes"
Hello everyone!
Sorry it has been a while since my last post. This week has been filled with endless projects, major tests, ridiculous amounts of homework and crazy hours spent working at Chicos. However, I have a little bit of time now soo.. Here goes a new post!
Ever since I can remember I've had certain people in my life that I hold to very high standards. For instance, my old youth minister. When I was 13 she was the perfect image of what a woman of God is (and she still is that to me!). I couldn't ever picture her doing anything wrong, never messing up, always being perfect. It was like she was my own personal Jesus. She was perfect in my eyes. To this day I remember how upset I was when I figured out that she had made mistakes in her past and wasn't the person of perfection that I made her out to be. It broke my heart to think that the one person that I desired to be just like, the one person that I loved and looked up to the most makes mistakes like the rest of the world.
I wish I could say that she was the only person I've ever held to such unfair standards, but unfortunately it is something I still struggle with. It makes me sick to think that I do this. I know what it feels like to have such pressure put on you to be this ideal person that people look up to. I think everyone has felt that feeling before. That feeling that someone is counting on you and to mess up would be to break their heart.
I've really spent a lot of time thinking about this lately. I've been let down, yet again, by holding people to these unrealistic standards. I realize that I'm completely absurd to expect people not to mess up, but I'm working on that! After a lot of thinking, though, I've come to two conclusions.
My first conclusion is that Satan completely uses this whole search for perfection in others to his power. Think about it for a second.. We don't hold the drug addicts or prostitutes to these high standards, but rather the Church girls that memorize Bible verses. It doesn't hurt us or let us down when the "bad kids" get caught drinking or smoking. However, if one of the girls from the youth group gets caught drinking the entire town hears about it. Everyone looks to Christians to be great and perfect. Even the Church puts pressure on you to "walk the walk". Don't get me wrong, I completely think that we should be different and try our best to abide by God's laws. However, it is a lot of pressure and Satan is aware of this. Why do you think that the Preacher's kids always have the reputation for being the crazy ones? The whole "goody-goody" role gets old after a while.. Sometimes the idea of being "of the world" seems quite appealing. I think that this is all Satan. He twists the whole good-girl and good-boy reputations into something negative. Also, Satan uses the fall of others to break our hearts and make us loose hope.
The second conclusion I've come to is that we all desire perfection. I think it is without question that everyone wants to believe that there is someone out there who will never let them down or disappoint them. It just kind of hit me today as I was driving down the road that Jesus truly is the only one that will ever fill that void of 'perfection' in our lives. It isn't that I didn't already know he was the only perfect person, but that the whole idea of someone truly never messing up seems to be completely out of my realm of reality.
I think it is beautiful that we desire and thirst for perfection. I think it is even more beautiful that our Father provided that for us through Jesus. It's just one of the many things He managed to accomplish through sending Him for us.
That is all for now. Enjoy the rest of the week!
-Rissa
64 days til Kenya!!!!
Sorry it has been a while since my last post. This week has been filled with endless projects, major tests, ridiculous amounts of homework and crazy hours spent working at Chicos. However, I have a little bit of time now soo.. Here goes a new post!
Ever since I can remember I've had certain people in my life that I hold to very high standards. For instance, my old youth minister. When I was 13 she was the perfect image of what a woman of God is (and she still is that to me!). I couldn't ever picture her doing anything wrong, never messing up, always being perfect. It was like she was my own personal Jesus. She was perfect in my eyes. To this day I remember how upset I was when I figured out that she had made mistakes in her past and wasn't the person of perfection that I made her out to be. It broke my heart to think that the one person that I desired to be just like, the one person that I loved and looked up to the most makes mistakes like the rest of the world.
I wish I could say that she was the only person I've ever held to such unfair standards, but unfortunately it is something I still struggle with. It makes me sick to think that I do this. I know what it feels like to have such pressure put on you to be this ideal person that people look up to. I think everyone has felt that feeling before. That feeling that someone is counting on you and to mess up would be to break their heart.
I've really spent a lot of time thinking about this lately. I've been let down, yet again, by holding people to these unrealistic standards. I realize that I'm completely absurd to expect people not to mess up, but I'm working on that! After a lot of thinking, though, I've come to two conclusions.
My first conclusion is that Satan completely uses this whole search for perfection in others to his power. Think about it for a second.. We don't hold the drug addicts or prostitutes to these high standards, but rather the Church girls that memorize Bible verses. It doesn't hurt us or let us down when the "bad kids" get caught drinking or smoking. However, if one of the girls from the youth group gets caught drinking the entire town hears about it. Everyone looks to Christians to be great and perfect. Even the Church puts pressure on you to "walk the walk". Don't get me wrong, I completely think that we should be different and try our best to abide by God's laws. However, it is a lot of pressure and Satan is aware of this. Why do you think that the Preacher's kids always have the reputation for being the crazy ones? The whole "goody-goody" role gets old after a while.. Sometimes the idea of being "of the world" seems quite appealing. I think that this is all Satan. He twists the whole good-girl and good-boy reputations into something negative. Also, Satan uses the fall of others to break our hearts and make us loose hope.
The second conclusion I've come to is that we all desire perfection. I think it is without question that everyone wants to believe that there is someone out there who will never let them down or disappoint them. It just kind of hit me today as I was driving down the road that Jesus truly is the only one that will ever fill that void of 'perfection' in our lives. It isn't that I didn't already know he was the only perfect person, but that the whole idea of someone truly never messing up seems to be completely out of my realm of reality.
I think it is beautiful that we desire and thirst for perfection. I think it is even more beautiful that our Father provided that for us through Jesus. It's just one of the many things He managed to accomplish through sending Him for us.
That is all for now. Enjoy the rest of the week!
-Rissa
64 days til Kenya!!!!
Monday, March 30, 2009
And so it begins..
Hello world!
Welcome to my blog! Obviously, this is my first blog, so, bear with me. Honestly, I probably haven't written a blog since like 7th or 8th grade when xanga was the cool thing to do. This should be neat, though. I've thought about doing a blog for a while and today I finally decided to.. So.. Here it goes!
Steven and Chrissy got married on Saturday.. WOW! They are two great friends of mine. Their wedding was perfect. Chrissy was without a doubt the most gorgeous person I've ever seen and Steven was just glowing! The wedding ceremony itself was beautiful and very sweet. The reception was a complete blast with loads of dancing, a candy bar, a great DJ, some kickin punch and delicious cake. The whole wedding was simply wonderful.
As I traveled back from Spartanburg to Charleston early Sunday morning (had to get back for work) I managed to do a whole lot of thinking. I love the drive from Charleston to Spartanburg and vice-versa. There is absolutely nothing (except for Columbia) between the two cities. I-26 is one of the dullest interstates ever. Why do I love it so much? I love it because I get to just relax and spend some time alone. This particular ride back was extra nice, though. My mind just kept playing the whole day before over and over. I kept thinking about how perfect everything was, how happy Steven and Chrissy were and how genuinely happy I am for them. As I was thinking tears were streaming down my face. I couldn't figure out why either. Then it hit me.. Chrissy was the one that taught me what it was to be a Christian single woman. She taught me to embrace my singleness and enjoy this chapter of my life. She is so in love with Christ that she just bubbles over with joy and happiness. She has a spirit that is captivating. It's impossible not to be completely happy around her. She showed me how to become head over heels in love with Christ.
When Steven entered her life they both taught me what it is to have a Christ centered relationship. He completely respected her in every aspect and she completely respected him. They had such a fun relationship. I've never seen two people laugh so hard and have so much fun together. I hung out with them a LOT before I moved and I don't ever recall them ever being upset with one another. As I was riding down the road and tears were falling down my cheeks it just really became apparent to me.. They are the first couple that I've ever seen that didn't fight over small things, that didn't have off days, that didn't upset each other... They are the first couple I've ever known that truly wasn't trying to see what they could get out of the relationship, but rather what they could give to the other person. There is no secret to why their relationship is so great.. It is completely God. They really do have Christ at the center of their lives and live for Him alone. They haven't been going through the relationship on their own terms, but on His. They've been obeying His rules.. Not their own or anyone elses.
Sometimes I get so caught up in what everyone around me sees as acceptable that I forget such simple things. I feel like the world puts all this pressure on college students to be in a relationship and settle down with someone. I find myself looking at what the world sees as normal and healthy that I forget what I believe. I should be praising God that I am not in a relationship rather than worrying about finding someone. I know that He will bring me that person in His timing. I'm grateful that His timing hasn't happened yet. I have had some of the best years of my life being a single college girl. Being single has allowed me to learn to value and love myself. More importantly, though, being single has allowed me to grow in Christ and become dependent on Him alone. I know that when God brings the right man into my life I will make sure that He is in the middle of that relationship. Why? Because I know that I am happiest when I am concentrating on Him. I realize that the only way to truly be happy and have a healthy relationship is if He is at the center of it.
So, thanks Chrissy and Steven for being such an example for not only me but everyone else. :)
That is all for now!
-Rissa
P.S. 74 days until Kenya!!!
Welcome to my blog! Obviously, this is my first blog, so, bear with me. Honestly, I probably haven't written a blog since like 7th or 8th grade when xanga was the cool thing to do. This should be neat, though. I've thought about doing a blog for a while and today I finally decided to.. So.. Here it goes!
Steven and Chrissy got married on Saturday.. WOW! They are two great friends of mine. Their wedding was perfect. Chrissy was without a doubt the most gorgeous person I've ever seen and Steven was just glowing! The wedding ceremony itself was beautiful and very sweet. The reception was a complete blast with loads of dancing, a candy bar, a great DJ, some kickin punch and delicious cake. The whole wedding was simply wonderful.
As I traveled back from Spartanburg to Charleston early Sunday morning (had to get back for work) I managed to do a whole lot of thinking. I love the drive from Charleston to Spartanburg and vice-versa. There is absolutely nothing (except for Columbia) between the two cities. I-26 is one of the dullest interstates ever. Why do I love it so much? I love it because I get to just relax and spend some time alone. This particular ride back was extra nice, though. My mind just kept playing the whole day before over and over. I kept thinking about how perfect everything was, how happy Steven and Chrissy were and how genuinely happy I am for them. As I was thinking tears were streaming down my face. I couldn't figure out why either. Then it hit me.. Chrissy was the one that taught me what it was to be a Christian single woman. She taught me to embrace my singleness and enjoy this chapter of my life. She is so in love with Christ that she just bubbles over with joy and happiness. She has a spirit that is captivating. It's impossible not to be completely happy around her. She showed me how to become head over heels in love with Christ.
When Steven entered her life they both taught me what it is to have a Christ centered relationship. He completely respected her in every aspect and she completely respected him. They had such a fun relationship. I've never seen two people laugh so hard and have so much fun together. I hung out with them a LOT before I moved and I don't ever recall them ever being upset with one another. As I was riding down the road and tears were falling down my cheeks it just really became apparent to me.. They are the first couple that I've ever seen that didn't fight over small things, that didn't have off days, that didn't upset each other... They are the first couple I've ever known that truly wasn't trying to see what they could get out of the relationship, but rather what they could give to the other person. There is no secret to why their relationship is so great.. It is completely God. They really do have Christ at the center of their lives and live for Him alone. They haven't been going through the relationship on their own terms, but on His. They've been obeying His rules.. Not their own or anyone elses.
Sometimes I get so caught up in what everyone around me sees as acceptable that I forget such simple things. I feel like the world puts all this pressure on college students to be in a relationship and settle down with someone. I find myself looking at what the world sees as normal and healthy that I forget what I believe. I should be praising God that I am not in a relationship rather than worrying about finding someone. I know that He will bring me that person in His timing. I'm grateful that His timing hasn't happened yet. I have had some of the best years of my life being a single college girl. Being single has allowed me to learn to value and love myself. More importantly, though, being single has allowed me to grow in Christ and become dependent on Him alone. I know that when God brings the right man into my life I will make sure that He is in the middle of that relationship. Why? Because I know that I am happiest when I am concentrating on Him. I realize that the only way to truly be happy and have a healthy relationship is if He is at the center of it.
So, thanks Chrissy and Steven for being such an example for not only me but everyone else. :)
That is all for now!
-Rissa
P.S. 74 days until Kenya!!!
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