She's Here!
She made it almost full term and weighed in at a healthy 7 pounds 9 ounces! Noah's baby sister, Madison Ryleigh Smith, a.k.a. the newest cousin of Spencer and Abby, has arrived safe and sound!
(Cue trumpets and angel choir with chorus of "HALLELUJAH!!")
This little angel looks very much like her own precious mom looked when she was put into my arms some 27 years ago. We told Meagan and Nathan that out of five grandchildren, it was nice to finally have one that looks at least a wee bit like the Hawley side.
(Zachariah Schreck makes his appearance in three short weeks. It's pretty certain that he will follow the DNA track of his siblings. He'll look nothing at all like his mom, Joy! Abby has mannerisms like her mom but those kids will always be recognized as their daddy's children. Good thing John is handsome.)
Once Meagan had the all clear from her doctor, she started walking and dancing and cleaning. Any and all activity that she had been restricted from for fear of it sending her into labor, became the very activity she activated.
She was ready to deliver that baby!
Last Monday night after family dinner, the contractions hit a steady three minutes apart. Around 10:00 pm, she and Nathan headed for the hospital. By 11:30 we got the call, "They've admitted Meagan. Madi is definitely on her way."
John stayed with Spencer and Abby. One of our trusted teens from church came to stay with Noah. And off to the hospital we went to pray and wait in the designated waiting area.
Being the organizer she is, Kristin brought snacks and drinks. She also urged us all to bring a blanket and pillow. Joy brought her experience. She held Meagan's hand and cheered compassionately. We were ready for the long night of labor to commence.
But Meagan was blessed with a relatively short labor when Noah was born. She had every expectation that the same would happen with Madi - and it did.
A little after 2 AM I wandered back over near the labor room.
A nurse came running out, "She's ready to deliver!"
The doctor who was sauntering in that direction was startled, "She's delivering now?!"
"Yes!" was the curt response. "Right now!"
They both sprinted into the room.
I hurried back to the waiting area and reported the information I'd gleaned through my eaves-dropping.
And twenty-four minutes later, we heard the first precious cry!
I once read this lovely quote by Carl Sandburg, "A baby is God's opinion that the world should go on!"
My heart says AMEN to that!
Wednesday, June 24, 2015
Wednesday, June 10, 2015
Hospitals
Frank knows hospitals like an eagle knows flight!
He's totally comfortable in any hospital. Any where. Any time.
Me? Not so much!
He trained and worked in a regional hospital while we lived in Asheville, NC. Up until recently, my only experience with hospitals was limited to emergency rooms, trauma and the labor/delivery area. All experiences with more than just a little tension involved.
That has had to change.
Not only do we have numerous church members needing hospital care right now. We also have two daughters pregnant at the same time. With due dates differing by only a few days. With one on bed rest and the other caring for TWO toddlers. It has had to change.
Suddenly, I'm spending a LOT of time at doctor's offices, talking with nurses, watching monitors, listening to beepers, offering ice chips, even pushing the occasional wheel chair.
Meagan has gone into labor twice (that required hospital intervention.) She has become so accustomed to the labor pains that she now knows the drill for trying to stop them at home. LARGE amounts of water, in a warm bath, resting on her side, deep breathing.
She and Nathan have it down to a science.
I've spent most of those moments walking around; quietly trying to help entertain Noah and whispering prayers.
Saturday marked her thirty-sixth week. Madison Ryleigh is now totally viable and the doctor has no intention of stopping labor next time the contractions again reach three minutes. (Meagan was a little disappointed that during church Sunday the contractions were only six minutes apart. Oh, the new normal!)
We've all been focused on Meagan's delivery which has seemed eminent at any moment for the past six weeks.
Last night, the tables turned!
Joy (due July 15th) had been incredibly uncomfortable all day long. Lots of nausea. Pressure. Lots and lots of pressure. She had seen the doctor the day before and he gave the all clear. But there was absolutely NO relief for her.
Around 8 PM, he said for her to go to the hospital as a precaution. You see, Spencer and Abby both liked where they were and preferred to NOT to be born by regular means. So, the doctor went in after them. Joy gave birth via cesarean section. That means Zachariah will need to be a C-Section birth as well.
When that's the case, the little incubator mommie can't be allowed go into labor as it will cause problems for the little incubating baby.
The Daddy (John) is currently in Miami on a missions trip with students from our church. They are working long hours in the heat and gathering with other students from all over FL for services in the evenings. While planning this trip in January, we thought it perfectly okay for him to lead the team as Joy would be six weeks from her due date.
CHANGE!
Aunt Kristin and Uncle Cody jumped into action to cover Spencer and Abby. Noni (who could do without hospitals) and Poppa (who could minister in hospitals every day) loaded up the mommie we didn't expect to take to the hospital and took her to the hospital rather quickly. In a driving rain, just for added effect!
Fortunately, they were able to stop her contractions with the help of two massive bags of fluids and an IV - which the nurses kept calling her "Date" for the evening. (Humor. Always good medicine!)
We finally stumbled home around 1 AM and got Joy settled in bed. She made the call that John (who was ready to start the four-hour drive from Miami) should stay put and finish the trip with the students and other leaders.
There's nothing whimpy about my girls!
It's true. I would be perfectly content to never visit a hospital again.
But it's also true that I'm incredibly grateful. Grateful for the wonderful professionals working in hospitals everyday to give my girls, my church members, my extended family and friends the care they so desperately need in times of crisis.
In just a few minutes, I'll get into my car and drive to a hospital in Orlando to visit a dear church member. Their situation is not pleasant. But once again, it's the medical professionals who are making it bearable.
So as Noah would say, "TANKS!" (Thanks for ALL you do for the communities you serve!)
He's totally comfortable in any hospital. Any where. Any time.
Me? Not so much!
He trained and worked in a regional hospital while we lived in Asheville, NC. Up until recently, my only experience with hospitals was limited to emergency rooms, trauma and the labor/delivery area. All experiences with more than just a little tension involved.
That has had to change.
Not only do we have numerous church members needing hospital care right now. We also have two daughters pregnant at the same time. With due dates differing by only a few days. With one on bed rest and the other caring for TWO toddlers. It has had to change.
Suddenly, I'm spending a LOT of time at doctor's offices, talking with nurses, watching monitors, listening to beepers, offering ice chips, even pushing the occasional wheel chair.
Meagan has gone into labor twice (that required hospital intervention.) She has become so accustomed to the labor pains that she now knows the drill for trying to stop them at home. LARGE amounts of water, in a warm bath, resting on her side, deep breathing.
She and Nathan have it down to a science.
I've spent most of those moments walking around; quietly trying to help entertain Noah and whispering prayers.
Saturday marked her thirty-sixth week. Madison Ryleigh is now totally viable and the doctor has no intention of stopping labor next time the contractions again reach three minutes. (Meagan was a little disappointed that during church Sunday the contractions were only six minutes apart. Oh, the new normal!)
We've all been focused on Meagan's delivery which has seemed eminent at any moment for the past six weeks.
Last night, the tables turned!
Joy (due July 15th) had been incredibly uncomfortable all day long. Lots of nausea. Pressure. Lots and lots of pressure. She had seen the doctor the day before and he gave the all clear. But there was absolutely NO relief for her.
Around 8 PM, he said for her to go to the hospital as a precaution. You see, Spencer and Abby both liked where they were and preferred to NOT to be born by regular means. So, the doctor went in after them. Joy gave birth via cesarean section. That means Zachariah will need to be a C-Section birth as well.
When that's the case, the little incubator mommie can't be allowed go into labor as it will cause problems for the little incubating baby.
The Daddy (John) is currently in Miami on a missions trip with students from our church. They are working long hours in the heat and gathering with other students from all over FL for services in the evenings. While planning this trip in January, we thought it perfectly okay for him to lead the team as Joy would be six weeks from her due date.
CHANGE!
Aunt Kristin and Uncle Cody jumped into action to cover Spencer and Abby. Noni (who could do without hospitals) and Poppa (who could minister in hospitals every day) loaded up the mommie we didn't expect to take to the hospital and took her to the hospital rather quickly. In a driving rain, just for added effect!
Fortunately, they were able to stop her contractions with the help of two massive bags of fluids and an IV - which the nurses kept calling her "Date" for the evening. (Humor. Always good medicine!)
We finally stumbled home around 1 AM and got Joy settled in bed. She made the call that John (who was ready to start the four-hour drive from Miami) should stay put and finish the trip with the students and other leaders.
There's nothing whimpy about my girls!
It's true. I would be perfectly content to never visit a hospital again.
But it's also true that I'm incredibly grateful. Grateful for the wonderful professionals working in hospitals everyday to give my girls, my church members, my extended family and friends the care they so desperately need in times of crisis.
In just a few minutes, I'll get into my car and drive to a hospital in Orlando to visit a dear church member. Their situation is not pleasant. But once again, it's the medical professionals who are making it bearable.
So as Noah would say, "TANKS!" (Thanks for ALL you do for the communities you serve!)
Monday, June 1, 2015
Grateful Heart!
Jet Lag is no joking matter! (In fact, I first typed "Jeg Lat." Sigh!)
No joking matter, but worth every bit of weariness to have experienced the past two months. My heart is full to overflowing with gratitude!
If I were a mathematical sort, I would calculate the number of miles I've traveled in just under sixty days:
Now I know why I kept praying "Lord, increase my capacity to absorb all I'm experiencing!" I needed Divine assistance!
Israel was truly the dream trip of a lifetime! And the fact that our church family blessed us with such an adventure......well, that journey just can't be equaled!
Frank and I talk about it with a sense of awe and extreme gratitude. We're still sorting through pictures and experiences and emails from our fellow travelers.
The next two trips were mainly ministry. While in NC, I preached three times in 24 hours. Spain became a new record for me - I preached, taught or coached more than 12 times in 8 days.
The last night we were in Barcelona, they sent Molly, Kristin and I to three different community groups scattered around the area. Kristin with the young ladies group. Molly with a home Bible study. I met with the couples group. We had already met with the church leadership team in the morning and the women leaders for lunch.
By the time we cleared airport security early Thursday morning, we could say with confidence that we had truly left it ALL on the field!
But oh, the adventures of these weeks! The sights! The new friends!
We discovered a long lost "daughter" in Israel. As well as a "son" who gave Frank a farewell hug of epic proportions.
We found a "brother," "sister" and "nephew" in Spain. The Dowson family (who hosted our team) instantly became lifetime friends! By the middle of our first meal, we all knew the Lord had brought us together for the blessing of a rich connection! So much laughter! So many genuine hugs!
Then there was time with the beautiful young couple pastoring International Church of Barcelona. We had a "family" connection with them during their itineration three years ago. John and Brandi Carrano are amazing trail-blazers!
(You should check out the website for their awesome church: icbspain.org Your heart will experience joy and challenge all at the same time.)
So many stories to share with you in the coming days. I'm trying to sort them now. But it felt important to share this thought.
My recent travels have convinced me of a few things:
No joking matter, but worth every bit of weariness to have experienced the past two months. My heart is full to overflowing with gratitude!
If I were a mathematical sort, I would calculate the number of miles I've traveled in just under sixty days:
- Florida to Israel!
- Florida to NC!
- Florida to Spain!
Now I know why I kept praying "Lord, increase my capacity to absorb all I'm experiencing!" I needed Divine assistance!
Israel was truly the dream trip of a lifetime! And the fact that our church family blessed us with such an adventure......well, that journey just can't be equaled!
Frank and I talk about it with a sense of awe and extreme gratitude. We're still sorting through pictures and experiences and emails from our fellow travelers.
The next two trips were mainly ministry. While in NC, I preached three times in 24 hours. Spain became a new record for me - I preached, taught or coached more than 12 times in 8 days.
The last night we were in Barcelona, they sent Molly, Kristin and I to three different community groups scattered around the area. Kristin with the young ladies group. Molly with a home Bible study. I met with the couples group. We had already met with the church leadership team in the morning and the women leaders for lunch.
By the time we cleared airport security early Thursday morning, we could say with confidence that we had truly left it ALL on the field!
But oh, the adventures of these weeks! The sights! The new friends!
We discovered a long lost "daughter" in Israel. As well as a "son" who gave Frank a farewell hug of epic proportions.
We found a "brother," "sister" and "nephew" in Spain. The Dowson family (who hosted our team) instantly became lifetime friends! By the middle of our first meal, we all knew the Lord had brought us together for the blessing of a rich connection! So much laughter! So many genuine hugs!
Then there was time with the beautiful young couple pastoring International Church of Barcelona. We had a "family" connection with them during their itineration three years ago. John and Brandi Carrano are amazing trail-blazers!
(You should check out the website for their awesome church: icbspain.org Your heart will experience joy and challenge all at the same time.)
So many stories to share with you in the coming days. I'm trying to sort them now. But it felt important to share this thought.
My recent travels have convinced me of a few things:
- God is still very much at work all over the world!
- If we look, we will find Him!
- Heart connections are powerful!
- Everyone has something to share with someone!
- Dreams do come about!
- Miracles are happening all around us - just look!
Monday, May 18, 2015
Contractions, Changes, Constants
I'm so grateful for those of you who choose to read Embrace the Grace!
I'm well aware that I deserve NO loyal readership whatsoever with my slackness of the past few weeks!
I'm glad you stopped by, just the same!
That being said, let me give you a couple of quick updates that will better describe the days since our return from Israel.
First off, Madison Ryleigh apparently loves the sounds of excitement she hears and has decided that she wants to be here NOW to enjoy life with us. Unfortunately, she has another seven weeks until her due date!
As soon as we returned, we became aware that Madi will surely be like her mom.
Meagan started trying to make her appearance when I was only five months pregnant. After a couple of hospital stays, I was put on complete bed rest for the last six weeks. I was only allowed to stand and walk to the living room couch, the bathroom, or the shower for three minutes - which Frank timed diligently.
Meagan has had to stop working. (Teachers find it almost impossible to instruct students while sitting.) And now Nathan holds the timer; keeping up with contractions to determine if they need to go back to the hospital.
The entire family is pretty focused on keeping Madison "in the oven" for at least three more weeks. We would appreciate your prayers for them both.
Joy is doing well with her pregnancy. Although keeping up with Spencer, Abby and Noah most days leaves her ready for a back rub almost every evening! Zach is not due until mid-July. "Noni, it's Zah-ka-why-ah!" Abby loves her little brother's name and corrects me as often as her mother will allow!
Speaking of Mother's Day (did you like that segue?) Joy brought the sermon for our Mother's Day services! We were so very proud of how she listened for what the Lord wanted to say. And I've heard it was a powerful message of encouragement for both the women and the men.
"You've heard?! Weren't you there?"
Actually, no I wasn't.
I had flown to Concord, NC to speak for the Mother's Day brunch held by First Assembly on Saturday. Then I was also scheduled to speak for their services on Sunday. You can actually click on this link and listen to the sermon I gave if you'd like. It starts at about 40 minutes into the service. http://cfachurch.com/media.html
The time in Concord was great fun. Their women's pastor is a dear friend from college years and beyond. I've spoken there before and know many of the ladies. Their pastor and his wife have preached at our church. And special bonus - time with my sister who lives near there!
Did I mention that we also hosted my dad and his new wife, Christeen, for a few days after returning? Yeah, we did that too. Of course, it was nice having them and getting to know Christeen, who truly is a sweet lady.
And that our church offices are still crammed into the church kitchen because we're trying to expand our nurseries with so many babies being born?!
And that Kristin and I leave for Barcelona on Wednesday?
"Did she say Barcelona? As in Spain? As in running of the bulls and flemenco dancing?"
Yes, Barcelona, Spain. We may see a flemenco dancer or two but no bulls, I hope.
Last January, our missionaries asked that I bring a small team of ladies to speak for a conference they were planning for May. I was honored by the invitation but had to chuckle because of the timing. It was scheduled for two weeks after we would return from Israel. No way in the world! Maybe 2016.
I shared the request with Frank who immediately said, "Sheri, you should pray about this! Ask if they can push it later into May."
I had almost no faith that something this amazing would happen right on the heals of our dream trip!
But I asked and they said, "Certainly! End of May works!"
I kept praying and each door I tested seemed to swing open. Wide Open!
Our missions director was certain her husband wouldn't let her go. "Absolutely! You need to go with her! This is an important trip!" was her husband's immediate response.
Cody cleared Kristin to go! And please understand that we were each responsible for raising our budget to make this trip. Missionaries can invite - but they don't have extra funds to cover the cost of the ministry teams they need.
This was actually a ministry trip I had secretly dreamed of taking. The young couple working there are serving as pastors for a rapidly growing international church. The wife and I connected immediately because she grew up near Pensacola and felt just like one of my own girls.
I kept fasting and praying because this was a time I needed a very definite word from the Lord. The decision deadline was rapidly approaching. Everything had to be in place before we left for Israel or we wouldn't be able to go.
And Israel was only three weeks away!
On that Sunday morning, I was in my prayer chair searching for a scripture I wanted to share with a lady in our church. I knew I had seen the passage in Romans and it would be such an encouragement to her, but I couldn't remember exactly where it was.
As I quickly scanned the pages, my eyes fell on the word SPAIN.
I screeched to a halt and read the following, "....I have been longing to see you. I plan to do so when I go to Spain. Now, however, I am on my way to Jerusalem. When I have completed this....I will go to Spain."
You can not make up this stuff!
I walked (a bit dazed) into the bedroom where Frank was getting ready for church.
"Honey, read this!" I handed the passage to him.
He read it and looked right into my eyes, "I told you you're supposed to go! How much more plainly do you need to see it?"
So, Wednesday we leave for Spain.
I'll get to preach/teach at least seven times in eight days. Kristin will lead worship and teach. Molly (who organized it all) will teach and sing too. We are humbled, excited, overwhelmed. And my clothes are already packed, believe it or not.
Yes, we're dealing with early contractions.
Yes, there are all sorts of changes swirling around.
But God's word continues to serve as a constant for me. And that's probably why He used scripture to confirm this next leg of my journey!
We have a group of twelve ladies who have agreed to go with us by being prayer partners. Would you please consider joining us that way too? We could really use the extra prayer! And the scriptures I shared are found in Romans 15:23-29. Check it out - pretty amazing!
I'm well aware that I deserve NO loyal readership whatsoever with my slackness of the past few weeks!
I'm glad you stopped by, just the same!
That being said, let me give you a couple of quick updates that will better describe the days since our return from Israel.
First off, Madison Ryleigh apparently loves the sounds of excitement she hears and has decided that she wants to be here NOW to enjoy life with us. Unfortunately, she has another seven weeks until her due date!
As soon as we returned, we became aware that Madi will surely be like her mom.
Meagan started trying to make her appearance when I was only five months pregnant. After a couple of hospital stays, I was put on complete bed rest for the last six weeks. I was only allowed to stand and walk to the living room couch, the bathroom, or the shower for three minutes - which Frank timed diligently.
Meagan has had to stop working. (Teachers find it almost impossible to instruct students while sitting.) And now Nathan holds the timer; keeping up with contractions to determine if they need to go back to the hospital.
The entire family is pretty focused on keeping Madison "in the oven" for at least three more weeks. We would appreciate your prayers for them both.
Joy is doing well with her pregnancy. Although keeping up with Spencer, Abby and Noah most days leaves her ready for a back rub almost every evening! Zach is not due until mid-July. "Noni, it's Zah-ka-why-ah!" Abby loves her little brother's name and corrects me as often as her mother will allow!
Speaking of Mother's Day (did you like that segue?) Joy brought the sermon for our Mother's Day services! We were so very proud of how she listened for what the Lord wanted to say. And I've heard it was a powerful message of encouragement for both the women and the men.
"You've heard?! Weren't you there?"
Actually, no I wasn't.
I had flown to Concord, NC to speak for the Mother's Day brunch held by First Assembly on Saturday. Then I was also scheduled to speak for their services on Sunday. You can actually click on this link and listen to the sermon I gave if you'd like. It starts at about 40 minutes into the service. http://cfachurch.com/media.html
The time in Concord was great fun. Their women's pastor is a dear friend from college years and beyond. I've spoken there before and know many of the ladies. Their pastor and his wife have preached at our church. And special bonus - time with my sister who lives near there!
Did I mention that we also hosted my dad and his new wife, Christeen, for a few days after returning? Yeah, we did that too. Of course, it was nice having them and getting to know Christeen, who truly is a sweet lady.
And that our church offices are still crammed into the church kitchen because we're trying to expand our nurseries with so many babies being born?!
And that Kristin and I leave for Barcelona on Wednesday?
"Did she say Barcelona? As in Spain? As in running of the bulls and flemenco dancing?"
Yes, Barcelona, Spain. We may see a flemenco dancer or two but no bulls, I hope.
Last January, our missionaries asked that I bring a small team of ladies to speak for a conference they were planning for May. I was honored by the invitation but had to chuckle because of the timing. It was scheduled for two weeks after we would return from Israel. No way in the world! Maybe 2016.
I shared the request with Frank who immediately said, "Sheri, you should pray about this! Ask if they can push it later into May."
I had almost no faith that something this amazing would happen right on the heals of our dream trip!
But I asked and they said, "Certainly! End of May works!"
I kept praying and each door I tested seemed to swing open. Wide Open!
Our missions director was certain her husband wouldn't let her go. "Absolutely! You need to go with her! This is an important trip!" was her husband's immediate response.
Cody cleared Kristin to go! And please understand that we were each responsible for raising our budget to make this trip. Missionaries can invite - but they don't have extra funds to cover the cost of the ministry teams they need.
This was actually a ministry trip I had secretly dreamed of taking. The young couple working there are serving as pastors for a rapidly growing international church. The wife and I connected immediately because she grew up near Pensacola and felt just like one of my own girls.
I kept fasting and praying because this was a time I needed a very definite word from the Lord. The decision deadline was rapidly approaching. Everything had to be in place before we left for Israel or we wouldn't be able to go.
And Israel was only three weeks away!
On that Sunday morning, I was in my prayer chair searching for a scripture I wanted to share with a lady in our church. I knew I had seen the passage in Romans and it would be such an encouragement to her, but I couldn't remember exactly where it was.
As I quickly scanned the pages, my eyes fell on the word SPAIN.
I screeched to a halt and read the following, "....I have been longing to see you. I plan to do so when I go to Spain. Now, however, I am on my way to Jerusalem. When I have completed this....I will go to Spain."
You can not make up this stuff!
I walked (a bit dazed) into the bedroom where Frank was getting ready for church.
"Honey, read this!" I handed the passage to him.
He read it and looked right into my eyes, "I told you you're supposed to go! How much more plainly do you need to see it?"
So, Wednesday we leave for Spain.
I'll get to preach/teach at least seven times in eight days. Kristin will lead worship and teach. Molly (who organized it all) will teach and sing too. We are humbled, excited, overwhelmed. And my clothes are already packed, believe it or not.
Yes, we're dealing with early contractions.
Yes, there are all sorts of changes swirling around.
But God's word continues to serve as a constant for me. And that's probably why He used scripture to confirm this next leg of my journey!
We have a group of twelve ladies who have agreed to go with us by being prayer partners. Would you please consider joining us that way too? We could really use the extra prayer! And the scriptures I shared are found in Romans 15:23-29. Check it out - pretty amazing!
Monday, April 27, 2015
Resplendent!
If you've read Embrace the Grace for very long, you know that one of my favorite descriptive words in the English language is "resplendent." It just rolls off the tongue with such elegance and form.
And our wonderful adventure in the land of Milk and Honey was nothing short of RESPLENDENT!
I've wrestled for a solid week with what my opening post should be about. The sights? The sounds? The foods? The people? The atmosphere?
Should I tell of how I cried - in the Tel Aviv Airport on arrival?!
Would you prefer to hear about our wildly diverse group of touring pilgrims/historians/vacationers?
Could I adequately describe to you the sense of holiness at key locations?
These all beg rehearsing. But to get me back on track, I've opted for an "Israel Story" that actually took place just after our return home.
Frank and I know that jet-lag is no joking matter. Especially since we needed to be on our game by Monday for sure. So when Cody picked us up in Orlando Saturday morning, we jumped right into the U.S. time. A real challenge but necessary.
(To understand what that meant, try adding seven hours to whatever time it happens to be as you read this now. I'm writing at 12:30 PM - which means it's currently 7:30 PM in Israel. The clock may say one thing, but your exhausted body says something entirely different. Now add to this little equation the fact that we only slept about three hours on the flight home. You get it, right?)
In order to stay awake until we just could not hold our eyes open any longer, we did something a little nuts. We went to a backyard barbecue with friends!
The laughter and noise kept us coherent if not fully alert.
After we'd been there about thirty minutes, Joy arrived with Spencer and Abby. We got off in a quiet corner for that reunion. No better feeling than little arms that squeeze sincerely.
They came to sit with us as we finished our delectable pork and beef. ("Sitting with us" meant one in the chair with me, the other on my lap. And no, I didn't mind at all.)
As everyone buzzed in conversation around us, Spencer asked me a question but I couldn't really hear what he had said. I leaned in closer and said, "What did you ask, Sweetie?"
Big blue eyes penetrated mine as sincerity oozed from his precious red lips. He repeated his question a little more loudly, "Noni, did you and Poppa get to say, 'Hosanna! Hosanna!' for Jesus while you were in Iz-ah-rel?"
Palm Sunday had just been two weeks earlier. He drank in the re-enactment of Christ's triumphal entry to Jerusalem. He and the other toddlers waved palm branches enthusiastically while calling out "Hosanna! Hosanna!" The teacher added, "Blessed is He who comes in the Name of the Lord!"
His one innocent statement became the frosting on the cake for me. A four-year old totally understood that Noni and Poppa had visited the very place where Jesus walked. And that we didn't go as tourists - we went as modern pilgrims to worship our Living Lord.
Tears stung my eyes as I pulled him close and said, "Yes, buddy! We said 'Hosanna! Hosanna!' for Jesus and 'Hallelujah! Hallelujah!' too."
How thankful I am to have viewed an empty tomb in Jerusalem. But my joy overflows in knowing that my grandson understands that Christ rising from the dead brings life to his little world as well!
Simply resplendent!
And our wonderful adventure in the land of Milk and Honey was nothing short of RESPLENDENT!
I've wrestled for a solid week with what my opening post should be about. The sights? The sounds? The foods? The people? The atmosphere?
Should I tell of how I cried - in the Tel Aviv Airport on arrival?!
Would you prefer to hear about our wildly diverse group of touring pilgrims/historians/vacationers?
Could I adequately describe to you the sense of holiness at key locations?
These all beg rehearsing. But to get me back on track, I've opted for an "Israel Story" that actually took place just after our return home.
Frank and I know that jet-lag is no joking matter. Especially since we needed to be on our game by Monday for sure. So when Cody picked us up in Orlando Saturday morning, we jumped right into the U.S. time. A real challenge but necessary.
(To understand what that meant, try adding seven hours to whatever time it happens to be as you read this now. I'm writing at 12:30 PM - which means it's currently 7:30 PM in Israel. The clock may say one thing, but your exhausted body says something entirely different. Now add to this little equation the fact that we only slept about three hours on the flight home. You get it, right?)
In order to stay awake until we just could not hold our eyes open any longer, we did something a little nuts. We went to a backyard barbecue with friends!
The laughter and noise kept us coherent if not fully alert.
After we'd been there about thirty minutes, Joy arrived with Spencer and Abby. We got off in a quiet corner for that reunion. No better feeling than little arms that squeeze sincerely.
They came to sit with us as we finished our delectable pork and beef. ("Sitting with us" meant one in the chair with me, the other on my lap. And no, I didn't mind at all.)
As everyone buzzed in conversation around us, Spencer asked me a question but I couldn't really hear what he had said. I leaned in closer and said, "What did you ask, Sweetie?"
Big blue eyes penetrated mine as sincerity oozed from his precious red lips. He repeated his question a little more loudly, "Noni, did you and Poppa get to say, 'Hosanna! Hosanna!' for Jesus while you were in Iz-ah-rel?"
Palm Sunday had just been two weeks earlier. He drank in the re-enactment of Christ's triumphal entry to Jerusalem. He and the other toddlers waved palm branches enthusiastically while calling out "Hosanna! Hosanna!" The teacher added, "Blessed is He who comes in the Name of the Lord!"
His one innocent statement became the frosting on the cake for me. A four-year old totally understood that Noni and Poppa had visited the very place where Jesus walked. And that we didn't go as tourists - we went as modern pilgrims to worship our Living Lord.
Tears stung my eyes as I pulled him close and said, "Yes, buddy! We said 'Hosanna! Hosanna!' for Jesus and 'Hallelujah! Hallelujah!' too."
How thankful I am to have viewed an empty tomb in Jerusalem. But my joy overflows in knowing that my grandson understands that Christ rising from the dead brings life to his little world as well!
Simply resplendent!
Tuesday, April 7, 2015
Shalom!
It's finally HERE! We leave for the airport in four hours.
Of course, we've planned realistically based on my track record. We need to leave for the airport in four and a half hours so the target time was moved up. There are many of you out there who can totally relate. You're the ones laughing with me and not at me. Big difference!
The suitcases are packed and ready to zip. I'm fielding last minute calls and texts. Frank had a haircut and final office run.
This post is unbelievably short because I need to be showered and dressed when Frank gets back home. But I also know that so many of you are excited with us and praying for us.....you had to be part of today as well.
One lady in our church called the office last week and asked that I call back. When I finally got to return her call, I had my pen ready to jot down whatever it was she needed me to help with. We chatted a few minutes; talking a lot about Israel. Then I asked what I could do for her.
"I don't need anything, Pastor Sheri. I'm just so excited about your trip. It feels like I'm getting to go too!"
Tears sprang to my eyes. She had called purely for the joy of celebrating with me. What a gift!
Thank you too, dear reader, for being happy with us as we experience this lifetime dream fulfilled. Can't wait to fill you in when we return April 18th! Woo Hoo!
PS - Those who commented on the "Normal or Nuts" post seemed to think my odd ways are totally Normal! Thanks for that encouragement!
Shalom, Y'all!
Of course, we've planned realistically based on my track record. We need to leave for the airport in four and a half hours so the target time was moved up. There are many of you out there who can totally relate. You're the ones laughing with me and not at me. Big difference!
The suitcases are packed and ready to zip. I'm fielding last minute calls and texts. Frank had a haircut and final office run.
This post is unbelievably short because I need to be showered and dressed when Frank gets back home. But I also know that so many of you are excited with us and praying for us.....you had to be part of today as well.
One lady in our church called the office last week and asked that I call back. When I finally got to return her call, I had my pen ready to jot down whatever it was she needed me to help with. We chatted a few minutes; talking a lot about Israel. Then I asked what I could do for her.
"I don't need anything, Pastor Sheri. I'm just so excited about your trip. It feels like I'm getting to go too!"
Tears sprang to my eyes. She had called purely for the joy of celebrating with me. What a gift!
Thank you too, dear reader, for being happy with us as we experience this lifetime dream fulfilled. Can't wait to fill you in when we return April 18th! Woo Hoo!
PS - Those who commented on the "Normal or Nuts" post seemed to think my odd ways are totally Normal! Thanks for that encouragement!
Shalom, Y'all!
Wednesday, April 1, 2015
Normal or Nuts
I'm not really sure if this is Normal or Nuts. Hopefully, you'll weigh in and give me some perspective.
With those I care most deeply about, I have a genuine need to SEE their home; their environment.
What?! Nuts! Definitely Nuts!
Please reserve judgment until I can explain.
I first became aware of my oddity when my sister moved to Wild, Wonderful West Virginia. She's my only sister and suddenly I had this overwhelming desire to SEE where she would be living, teaching, going to church.
We talked frequently on the phone and she described their home, her school, their grocery store - but that wasn't enough. So my gracious husband put me on a plane to go for a visit.
After three days, I returned to NC satisfied. I had a clear view of her new surroundings in my mind's eye and that brought me peace.
My best friend moved to Nashville, TN. Another plane ticket. Another three days of traveling around with her to experience the daily routine of one I love. Clear perspective/total peace.
When John first announced his intention to marry Joy, I was greatly relieved that his mom (Linda) invited me to come to NY as a guest speaker for their spring ladies' event. That trip took four days but it was wonderful!
I experienced the "home" of the young man who would become our first son.
I met the people who influenced him in church; drove past his high school. Saw the backyard where he grew up playing with his brothers. I walked the incredibly long driveway he helped shovel every winter; character in training! Sat at the piano where he learned to play and stood in the basement where he learned to work on motors. Deep Contented Sigh.
When the girls went away to college, I helped set up their rooms. I knew where they were most likely sitting as we talked on the phone. I understood how far their walk was to work in the campus bookstore. I knew the house where they did nanny service. Peace.
Probably my most extreme example of this was Kristin's time in India. At eighteen, she got on a plane and flew halfway around the world to serve as a nanny and teacher for missionary friends. We were only able to talk once a week for a few minutes at a time. She tried to describe the people, the food, the scents, the heat, the churches - but it was an impossible task.
This place was changing her life and I had absolutely no visual image to relate to whatsoever!
It had already been planned that Frank would go over to minister, then fly back with her. But Mom would be left trying to grasp the magnitude through only a few photos and stories.
Nope! Plane ticket, please. Fourteen days and thousands of miles later, I came home with my visual images firmly ensconced. (And as a bonus, my own life-changing experiences!)
This morning as I sat in my prayer chair by the window and read of the Israelite children; of Jesus in the Temple; of the Psalmist David - I began to smile. A big, goofy kind of smile. The kind that just comes up out of your gut and takes over your face!
"I'm going to YOUR favorite place on earth, Father!" It swept over me for the hundredth time.
Frank and I will stand on the Temple steps where Jesus stood. Step into the Jordan River. We will walk through the dimly lit tunnel dug 2,500 years ago by Hezekiah. We'll kneel in Gethsemane; glide on the Sea of Galilee. I'll finally SEE what I've spent all this time reading about and studying.
One week from today, I'll land in Tel Aviv and begin my ten day journey to experience the home of One I have loved my entire life.
My joy of anticipation knows no bounds! There is certainty that this will be life-changing .
On second thought, if it's nuts - I'm okay with that!
But I'd still love to hear your vote. Blessings!
With those I care most deeply about, I have a genuine need to SEE their home; their environment.
What?! Nuts! Definitely Nuts!
Please reserve judgment until I can explain.
I first became aware of my oddity when my sister moved to Wild, Wonderful West Virginia. She's my only sister and suddenly I had this overwhelming desire to SEE where she would be living, teaching, going to church.
We talked frequently on the phone and she described their home, her school, their grocery store - but that wasn't enough. So my gracious husband put me on a plane to go for a visit.
After three days, I returned to NC satisfied. I had a clear view of her new surroundings in my mind's eye and that brought me peace.
My best friend moved to Nashville, TN. Another plane ticket. Another three days of traveling around with her to experience the daily routine of one I love. Clear perspective/total peace.
When John first announced his intention to marry Joy, I was greatly relieved that his mom (Linda) invited me to come to NY as a guest speaker for their spring ladies' event. That trip took four days but it was wonderful!
I experienced the "home" of the young man who would become our first son.
I met the people who influenced him in church; drove past his high school. Saw the backyard where he grew up playing with his brothers. I walked the incredibly long driveway he helped shovel every winter; character in training! Sat at the piano where he learned to play and stood in the basement where he learned to work on motors. Deep Contented Sigh.
When the girls went away to college, I helped set up their rooms. I knew where they were most likely sitting as we talked on the phone. I understood how far their walk was to work in the campus bookstore. I knew the house where they did nanny service. Peace.
Probably my most extreme example of this was Kristin's time in India. At eighteen, she got on a plane and flew halfway around the world to serve as a nanny and teacher for missionary friends. We were only able to talk once a week for a few minutes at a time. She tried to describe the people, the food, the scents, the heat, the churches - but it was an impossible task.
This place was changing her life and I had absolutely no visual image to relate to whatsoever!
It had already been planned that Frank would go over to minister, then fly back with her. But Mom would be left trying to grasp the magnitude through only a few photos and stories.
Nope! Plane ticket, please. Fourteen days and thousands of miles later, I came home with my visual images firmly ensconced. (And as a bonus, my own life-changing experiences!)
This morning as I sat in my prayer chair by the window and read of the Israelite children; of Jesus in the Temple; of the Psalmist David - I began to smile. A big, goofy kind of smile. The kind that just comes up out of your gut and takes over your face!
"I'm going to YOUR favorite place on earth, Father!" It swept over me for the hundredth time.
Frank and I will stand on the Temple steps where Jesus stood. Step into the Jordan River. We will walk through the dimly lit tunnel dug 2,500 years ago by Hezekiah. We'll kneel in Gethsemane; glide on the Sea of Galilee. I'll finally SEE what I've spent all this time reading about and studying.
One week from today, I'll land in Tel Aviv and begin my ten day journey to experience the home of One I have loved my entire life.
My joy of anticipation knows no bounds! There is certainty that this will be life-changing .
On second thought, if it's nuts - I'm okay with that!
But I'd still love to hear your vote. Blessings!
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)