Measuring Wealth

When we moved to Highfields we know God was bringing us home, for a time of replenishing. He spoke to us about moving back home and restoring what had been lost to us. We have been here a month now and we see his providence in so many ways. Yes, in tangible ways by paying for our relocation, providing Don with a great job, opening up a whole new world for Avon for me, placing Jack in a school with a dynamic and focused teacher, introducing us to a new church family, and seeing Sam settle and regain his confidence following his surgery only a few short months ago. Honestly, I could go on and on, but you get the picture. This scripture has been pivotal to me in the past two weeks. It is in complete retrospect to what the world teaches us.

The result of humility and the fear of the Lord is wealth, honour and life.(Prov. 22:4)

When I wake in the morning, the words resound through my mind and settle gently into my heart like a renewing gift, a gentle reminder each day that our life here is God's gift and it is good.

With what we have endured in recent years in regard to our travels with MAF, moving from home to home, town to town, state to state, Sam's surgery, and Don's work; this promise from God is like a refreshing drink of water to us. It is reviving our parched souls after a long journey.  Everything is beautiful to us right now; being closer to family, the weather, our new home, new friends, because we know we are in the place where God's blessing resides. And so just as our Pittsworth home was called 'God's Rest', this place is 'God's Blessing'.

We have not despised any part of our journey in fact we have relished in the people we have met and the places we have lived. It was not a fickle journey but one of obedience and love. 

We travel to Brisbane on Friday for Sam's heart review with his cardiologist. Please pray with us for a safe trip and an outstanding outcome for Sam. That his heart shall be strong and endure for the longest time.

Rugged up and happy for Jack's first athletics day. He missed last year's due to us moving around.

Jack came 2nd in his sprint, though they only give participation ribbons in the lower years.

Sam joins in hopscotch at Jack's school.

Jack running in his relay where he caught up where his team was lagging.

The new book I contributed to is now released and I received my author copies from the UK.

Sam is just growing up so much and the boys have only grown closer in our travels.

We are rediscovering gardening. Oh, how I have missed my garden.

An Unexpected Gift

Today brought much excitement and joy in our home.  Our church family at Reach Christian Church, Longreach blessed us beyond what we could ever ask for or imagine. 

Firstly Sam was given a wonderful gift of a truck and trailer from one of the men at our church.  To say was excited would be an understatement.  He has decided that the truck will be Jack's too and they will share.  Thank you so much for bringing a smile to Sam, you know who you are.

We were also given a gift as a family of an iPad mini! Wow, wow, double wow.  It is something I never dreamed would happen.  For a while now, we had been wanting to get one, but with us being on one wage for the longest time, luxuries like this were well and truly out of our reach.  It will be such a blessing to us, especially while Sam is in hospital.  When we opened the gift together I could not breathe, I was just so blown away, that these people that we have come to know over the last six months would do such a thing of love.  And we are so humbled that God knew the desires of our heart and would provide such a thing for us.

In addition to this the church has also given us a portion of money to help us in the time when we are going to be away.  This made me cry happy tears.  This will mean that we can pay rent for another week, so Don and Jack can come down when Sam has his surgery.  With Don being at his new place of employment for only six months means that he has not had the opportunity to accrue much leave and we were concerned that we were not going to be able to pay rent and bills.  This gift will help us in this regard and shows us that God has not forgotten about all of the practical parts of Sam's surgery and all that goes with it. For the last few weeks these things had been weighing heavy on my heart, being the budgeter in our family.  And so I have been praying and waiting, waiting and praying.  In the last few weeks we have also been given other gifts in this regard, all helping to make things easier. 

And because I am honest I will also add this...

It also made me cry humble tears because in the last few months with the kids being sick and me being so focused on Sam's upcoming surgery, making Longreach our home and making sure our family is on track, I feel like I have not had time to make good friends here in Longreach.  Everything has been so busy and in a way I have also closed myself off trying to sort out my own heart and head.  So to be thought of in this way, and given such a gift brought first a sense of shame in my own behaviour and then thankfulness for other people's love. Thank you Reach Christian Church, we love you.

In addition to this we have seen Sam bounce back from his illness this week with such vigour.  After our trip back to Barcaldine this week for the dentist, all should be done in readiness for us to be on our way.

And now, one week before we are due to fly out, I have a renewed sense of God behind us in love and marching before us in victory.

If God is for us, then who can ever stop us.

Waiting Four Years for a Date

It has been four years since Sam had open heart surgery. Sam has a date for his catheter procedure-the 20th February, 2013.  It is taxing being the parents of a heart kid.  We live each day with gusto and get swept up into the normality of life for a while and then are pulled against our will back into the reality of having a child with a broken heart, one that is only half of what it should be. 
Don is getting involved at work, enjoying the job, building new relationships, learning new things.  I am doing mum things, writing, getting my Avon business off the ground and making new friends.  Jack is just beginning Grade 1 next year.  And Sam lives a happy busy little life with me for the moment, before he attends Kindy next year.  There are many minutes in the day when I feel 'normal' and then many when I don't. Like:

• when I have to carry Sam around town because it's hot and a long way to walk and his little heart can't take it.  Only to have someone tell me that I should make him walk and that it's good for little legs to have the exercise.
• when I have to fill out enrolment forms and list his medical history, medications etc.
• when I have to remind myself to let Sam eat anytime to add weight to his slight frame.  And then have people comment on how small he is for his age and ask me what he eats.
• when I have to give him medications at night that are equivalent to rat poison.

I don't want to plan for him to go and have the catheter, but I must. The catheter and surgery will both be at the Mater Hospital in Brisbane.  At this stage I think Sam and I will be travelling down alone for that one.  And then a week or two following he will have the Fontan procedure, open heart surgery, to complete the circulation in his heart.  We are hoping and praying that there is some way that Don and Jack will be able to travel down for that and stay for a few weeks.  At this stage we are pretty sure that the government will only pay for Sam and I to travel, but we will find out more about this later.  There is so much I could worry about such as Don's work, Jack's school, money, rent, bills, my business but I am striving with every ounce of strength that I have to give it all to God and leave it there.
It is like Paul says in the bible, I struggle so much with the flesh part of me wanting to rise up and try and control everything when I know I have no control at all.  God has shown me that the way is clear and that I just need to trust Him, but I must tell you that that is easier said than done. It is a battle to keep your head clear and your heart in the right place. And in between now and then I want to enjoy the trouble free time that we have, celebrating Christmas with family and enjoying a few weeks holiday together over the Christmas break.  Even as I write this my heart quivers within me.  Sam does not remember any of what happened in the first year of his life, but I do.  I remember it with stunning clarity.  But I also remember the strength of my God and all that he has done for us.  And so although I am yet to believe them fully I claim God's promises to us once again.

Sam will live and have life in abundance.  He will testify to the nations of his healing

Things never happen the same way twice dear one.  If you were any braver, you would be a lioness.

May God increase my faith and may He give us His strength on this path He has set before us. His promises are true, no matter how I feel.

Jump In And Make Friends

In our 11 years of marriage, Don and I have moved around quite often.  We have always been blessed to have good friends wherever we have been.  There is one thing that we have noticed though and it is a really simple, yet sad occurrence.  When you move around frequently people are sometimes reluctant to be friendly. We have noticed it again since we have moved down here.  It seems that often people have a defence mechanism that tells them that if you are leaving within a year or so, then it is probably not best to cement new friendships-'after all they are leaving anyway'.  It is not something that people come out and say, but rather a silent withdrawal followed by a lack of wanting to get to know you in any depth.  I have had people ask me how long we are intending to be be in Melbourne, and when I tell them, they start to look around and the conversation ends.  They don't bother to get to know us because we are not staying.

Thankfully we have found ways to combat this, and just love people.  We are continually amazed at how God bring friends into our life for a season.  Often we bump into each other in another time and place.  And when we are together we impact each others lives, deepening ties that are not bound by time, and distance.  We choose to sink our roots in deep, so that we can enjoy genuine and loving relationships, no matter how long we may be together.  We have treasured friends that we have not seen in 5 or more years.  It does not mean we love them any less and when we do see each other, we just take up where we left off. 

Hearts remember love.  Hearts remember the laughs, tears and good times shared. 

I look at Jesus and the three short years that he got to spend with his closest friends.  I look at Paul, who never got to stay still for long.  Each of these had a tremendous impact on the lives of their friends.  The effects were life changing. 

How sad it is that we guard our hearts so closely and not share them abundantly with those we meet.  Imagine if our openness and and outpouring of love, was given freely without fear of loss and hurt. 

I want to encourage you to embrace those around you, no matter how long they may be in your midst.  God puts us in places, and with people for a reason and a season.  Let us not pass by the opportunity to make new friends, mates that could be our company for the eternity to come.

A Crab Dinner

Yesterday I traveled to Lilydale in search of two crabs for our anniversary dinner this evening.  Crab is one of the things that Don and I love to taste and never have. Crab is just not available in Yarra Glen, there is no such luxury.  I returned home yesterday empty handed but ended up doing something else in town that is also a God story, which I shall keep for another day.I  have to tell you that we had a bit of a full on day today, I ended up at the doctor with a mild case of conjunctivitis (which I have not had since I was a child), Jack's kindy break up was on and Don had a big clean up day at ACMA.  He arrived home this afternoon after 5pm and we had nothing planned to celebrate our 11 years together.  So off to our local supermarket we went in search of something special for dinner.  As we wandered in, a gift was waiting for us...............................................................................you guessed it there in the deli department sat two blue swimmer crabs.  I almost danced with joy.  This is a deli that only ever has frozen seafood, a handful of prawns and a few fillets of fish, and today they had for sale two crabs.  Heaven heard the prayers of my heart and God provided for us a little taste of paradise.

God honoured the desires of my heart with a crab dinner.

Tonight we honoured Him as we delighted in each other.  We shared a meal with our children and all had communion together.  Jack even made sure we had a chair for Jesus. 

Simple, full of love and sprinkled with blessing from our God. 

Thank you God for the 11 years that I have shared with my husband.  He is truly a blessing to me in every way.

Something Amazing to Share

Last weekend I had a dream.  One that I have not shared on the blog, as I was waiting on God to reveal the truth behind it.  I would like to share it with you now, if you will spend a moment with me.

I was walking down to the beach, holding hands with Jesus.  It was on dusk, and the sky was a myriad of colour.  The breeze was warm and the sea was calm.  We sat near the waters edge, next to one another, our legs curled up onto our chests, looking out to the vast ocean.  Occasionally I would glance over at Him and admire his features, and how his hair blew in the breeze, and then I would look away quickly.  He would do the same, as we delighted in each others company.  It was like we were on a first date, and enjoying just being together.  It was such a  special time.  When our gaze met finally, he smiled (oh that smile can light up a thousand worlds), and motioned with his eyes and hand, to look down at our feet on the sand.  The waves had been lapping at the sand exposing large pebbles by our feet. The pebbles were brilliant and golden, still partially embedded in the sand.  As I picked up a pebble, it's highly polished surface reflected the face of a woman getting out of her car.  The picture was not still but moved like in a film.  I was watching someones life.  I looked back at him amazed,  he threw back his head, and laughed and asked me to pick up another.  As I looked down, and then along the beach I noticed that these were hundreds of these stones that had been exposed all along the sand.  As I looked at the ones at my feet, I saw more faces, a women in her kitchen in a robe, and a man asleep on his bed.  I looked to Jesus and  he answered my questions without opening his mouth, 'You must go and talk to all of these people.' He knew my mind and we seemed to be able to communicate without speech.  I felt such peace at his command, but was very curious as to how this would eventuate. When I awoke, I thought to myself 'How could I possibly reach that many people?' God spoke and told me to 'Wait and see.' 

I share this with you not to exalt myself, but to exalt God that can do anything. We serve such a creative and limitless God.

Well this time I did not have to wait for long, for God's plan to unfold.

God has opened an exciting door in the last few days.  I was contacted by Wesley Mission to appear on their television program called 'Wesley Impact!', to share by interview our story with Sam and God.  The program is prerecorded and will go to air on Mother's Day in 2012.  How amazing is God!  This is how I will speak to many people.

Next Saturday I will fly to Sydney to the Foxtel Studios to record the interview.  Wesley Mission is even paying for my flights.  I will get to share our God story and encourage others, and I give all glory to God for the honour.

I ask for your prayers, that God would give me the words to speak. Just as he promised the apostles that they need not worry about what they will say, but that  Holy Spirit will give them the words.  Please pray that the recording will go well and that the travel to and from Sydney will be blessed.  And most of all pray that hearts will be touched, and lives transformed by God's workings in our own lives.

When I think of his delight in surprising me, and the curiousness of his request, I sit in wonder.  When I think of all of the faces I saw,  and how he loves each one of them, it overwhelms me.  When I think that he has chosen me for such a task is unends me.  I am nothing, He is everything and that is enough for me.
Hallelujah!!

PS.  Sam's heart review at the Children's Hospital is the day before I leave to record this interview.  God's timing is perfect for all things.  

Faith in Action

We are in the process of completing the MAF application papers.  It is an extensive process which includes medicals, psychological profiling, a CV, as well as large application document, in which we need to provide an autobiography of our life to date.  We are enjoying most of it.  I completed part of the psychological testing yesterday, and Don will complete it in two weeks time.  It's quite interesting, and tells you more about yourself while you do it.  Or maybe I am just weird, and like this sort of thing.

There is one thing that I have been dealing with in the back of my mind all week.  It is something that I need to ask you to stand with me in faith for. 

On the medical forms there is a declaration that the doctor needs to sign.  The declarations states that we may be asked to serve in areas that have high heat, humidity, a lack of immediate access to medical care, as well as social and physical challenges.

Do you see my concern?  No doctor in his right mind would sign a declaration saying that these conditions would be OK for Sam.  I am not worried about these things as I know God will look after Sam, and always has.  My concern lies with the fact that our acceptance to MAF may be hinged on this medical report.  I know that God has called us to serve MAF, it is undeniable.  And so each day we are stepping out in obedience, knowing full well that in the world's eyes it looks foolish and folly.  That if we were to look at the hand we have been dealt, we would throw it in.  Yet, we have been asked by God to keep our eyes firmly fixed on him, and not at our situation.  We have watched in in the last few months as CASA has continually tried to deny Don a medical certificate, only to watch him pass test after test with no problem.  Why should we believe that Sam will be any different?  Surely if God has called us, he has a place that is handpicked by him, ready for us to serve. 

It is a battle for me, because as I fill in the forms I am painfully aware that my little boy's body is not the same as everyone else, that his limitations are more pronounced.  And yet, time after time, as we have his check ups we see his heart function is tremendous, and improving. 

Then he said to the crowd, “If any of you wants to be my follower, you must turn from your selfish ways, take up your cross daily, and follow me. (Luke 9:23)

Turn from your selfish ways...
If I am to follow God in his leading, I must turn from my own thoughts, my own doubts,  and my own circumstances.  This means letting go of the worry and standing firm, even when the enemy whispers to me that it is a joke to even complete the papers.   

take up your cross...

The cross is represtative of our identiy and salvation in Christ Jesus.   I must live as Chrsit has asked us to and in the knowledge that I live in the Kingdom.  I must dare to be different and walk in the new life I have been given daily. This is what what it means to pick up your cross. 

and follow me...

Only Jesus can hold my gaze.  If I rest my eyes, even for a second on the what lays before me, I will be undone.  The amazing story that we were told on Sunday at church, was of the eagle and how it is the only bird designed with special glands in it's eyes so it can look directly at the sun.  All of the pesky birds that try to attack the eagle are undone when the eagle powers upward toward the sun.  One by one they all drop away becuase they are not designed the same as the eagle.  
I need to be just like this eagle.  I need to keep powering upward toward the sun, and as I do all of these things will drop away. 

Living in God's Kingdom is not easy, but it is rewarding.  Will you stand in faith with me? Will you pray with me and encourage me with some scripture? 

When Your Children Suffer He Knows

Do you see how our children suffer Lord?

Do you see the pain in his eyes, and the fear that grips him, when he sees yet another syringe?

Do you see the look of absolute helplessness in his eyes, as I plead with him to sit still just for a moment and the pain will be gone soon?

Do you hear his laboured breathing, his eyes pleading with me to help him, just get one more breath?


Do you see my heart ache when I cannot help him?

Do you see him longing to run with the other kids, and not grow weary?

Can you feel the painful lump in my throat, and the tears stinging the back of my eyes, as I try to be strong for his sake?

Do you hear me, when I want to scream, but I don't because I am in the middle of a crowded place, so every fiber of my being shakes with distress and anger?

Yes, I see how MY children suffer.

Do you see the courage in your son's eyes, even when he has to endure another procedure?

Do you see the trust in him, when he resigns to let the doctors touch him, even when every part of him wants to get up and run?

Do you see me standing and holding his other hand, while his breathing labours and your heart breaks?

Do you see him content in himself even with his physical limitations, and how he draws the attention of the others in a room with his endearing and steadfast spirit?

Do you feel my heart break along with yours?  Do you feel my arms around you, strengthening you in every situation?

Do you hear me when I whisper quiet words to your heart in the midst of your anger, and how my unconditional love melts away every argument you bring?

Yes Lord, I know all of these things.

Take the fear of the future from me Lord, I cannot handle the thought of any more pain.  You have promised his healing, and so to you I turn my eyes and, in You I choose to place my hope. 

If someone you love is suffering, Jesus knows and you are not alone.

PS.  Sam and the rest of our family are well. I just wanted to share this discussion that I had with God today, to encourage anyone else who may face an ongoing battle.   Even on days when the physical pain is not so present, my heart aches at times, looking at the path we are walking.  Thankfully, Jesus knows, he suffered in my place, and is more than equipped to handle my feelings.  He waits to hear yours as well.

Measuring Success

By which measure do you gauge the success of your day?

I know I often feel successful if I get much done in a day.  In my mind I think:

If I could just get the washing done, I would be happy
If I could just get the floors clean, I would be happy.
If I could just get some 'me' time, I would be happy.
If I could just sit down and write, I would be happy.

Happy meaning in this instance, that me completing these tasks, would make for a  a productive and successful day.

After weeks like this last one, God has once again realigned my compass, in regard to being successful.  If I had been using my compass this week, I would have fast ended up in a little town called Despair.  Both of the boys have been very unwell, almost to the point of requiring hospital.  I have had the flu, and Don has been away flying for the week.

Thankfully I chose to close my eyes to my compass, and instead went to God's word for direction.  His promises are steadfast and true, and lead to much more desirable destinations, such as Hope City, and Kickingsatansbuttville. 

You see, God knew this week was coming, and he allowed it. He saw that I was getting worn out trying to tread water, using my own compass as a guide.  He knew I needed a slap reminder, to refocus my loving gaze upon Him.  And he did not leave me in this time.  He prepared the week by sending my parents from QLD, organised a month ago, to help me, and love me in this time.  He knows what we need and he provides.  He did not allow the illnesses to linger.  I only had the flu two days!  Yes, two days! And both of the boys drank and ate despite their wretched gastro virus, that lasted almost a week.  Being continually hydrated is what kept them out of hospital.

We have had many unexpected gestures of kindness this week, phone calls, messages, a plethroa of prayers all being sent our way.  We have experienced God this week, in a warm and familiar way, the way that let's us know that He holds us firm, even in tough times. 

The end of this week took us to Melbourne City, a place we have not set foot in, since Sam had his surgeries.  This Friday Sam will turn 3, another year of victory, another year of living the promises of God. We visited the Victoria Markets and I shared with people at Koorong in the City, our story of God's goodness. 

 Jack (2), just before Sam was born, September 2008 at the Queen Victoria Markets.

Jack (5), Sam (almost 3) and Grandad, at the Queen Victoria Markets almost three years later, to the day.

Each year since Sam's birth he has had dramatic circumstances surrounding his birthday.  God has a plan for his life, and the enemy does not like it.  A week after his birth day he crashed in ICU post surgery.  A week after his first birthday he suffered a stroke, from which he was almost immediately restored.  On his second birthday he had an accident that required a helicopter ride to the hospital.  Each year we celebrate Sam's life in victory, the attack comes.  So I would like to ask you for your prayers, prayers of protection and courage, both for Sam and for us. We will not keep quiet about God's goodness to us.  When I look at photos like that above, and see the distance traveled, all it does is increase my faith.  It increases my faith in the unwavering love of God, that overcomes all adversity. 

So, going back to measuring success, God's words ring true in my heart;

'Success is not measured by earthly measures, but by My standards which are far more accurate, with the results being eternal.  On your darkest day, you are successful, because as you become less, I become more.  When illness and turmoil surround you, I see your heart and it shines like the noonday sun.   Your few words in anguish, are worth more to me than hundreds of voices in jubilant song.' 

Success is life lived in the palm of God's hand.

A Heartfelt Response

In response to a beautiful woman who reads my blog, this post has been inspired. This is for you N xx

It was God who led me to the decision to home school Jack, and then it was God who led me to the decision to enroll Jack in school. 

I think that we put too much pressure on ourselves to have to provide the best we can for our children.  We set impossibly high standards for our selves and all the while God is calling-'give them back to me'.  When God asked me to home school Jack we lived two hundred meters from the local primary school; I was perplexed, but He was very persistent.  Looking back now I can see it was best, because we were going to be moving mid year and this was better for his personality and character.  We were going to have enough change in our life, and God knew what was coming.  There was no way I could have known what this year held for us as a family-but God does. 

As we moved down here to start a new chapter together, God started speaking to me about sending Jack to primary school.  I was confused at first, because of my on ideas.  I had the idea in my head, that you either sent your children to school, or you were a home schooling family.  God has different ideas.  And thankfully His ways are well above my own. I have learned not to argue with God, as I can't see our future.  As far as I know, we are going to be spending the next 18 months here in Yarra Glen.  I don't know what God has in store for us while we are here.  Perhaps I will be too busy doing other things for God.  Perhaps there is something that he wants each of us to learn through this time.  Perhaps he wants Sam and I to have some mummy and son time.  Perhaps God wants me to focus on writing for Him.  I am still seeking Him each day about his plans for us.

I think Jack's school decisions are a reflection of our everyday walk with God.  He is the first One and the last One that I go to for advice.  I read His word daily, and as I do He speaks to me.  As I wash the dishes, He whispers words into my heart.  He confirms what he speaks, by opening doors, and sending people, and providing tokens of affirmation, just at the right time.  Living in the way of His Spirit, is something that I still learn, but something I cannot do without.  God has given us a unique path, one fraught with many perilous, and challenging obstacles.  He alone holds the map, and so I find my help and my contentment in Him, in ALL things.

If you are looking for an answer, if you are carrying a burden, remember that He ALONE holds the map to your future.  It is a plan full of adventure, mercy and love.  Let him navigate you daily (more frequently if needed) so that his perfect will may be seen in your life.  I leave you with this brilliant passage from the pen of Smith Wigglesworth (a word that God gave me just for this post):

'Are you ready to be so in God's plan that you will feel God's hand upon you?  You will know that He has chosen you, so you might be a firstfruit unto God.  Are you ready for the Lord to have His choice, so that His will may sweep though your very nature, and so that you may know as you have never known before this day of the visitation between you and him?'

O Yeah, Lord, we are ready!

Wow! Time to update.

We have finally moved into our new home yesterday, after many hiccups and a plethora of prayer.  We are tired, worn, excited, comfortable and relived, to have a more permanent place to rest our heads.  For those of you who don't know, our home was not ready when we arrived, and and we had to find alternate accommodation in both in the interim, and then a new home.  Today is my first day of internet access-how exciting!

Once we get a little more settled into our new abode, I will post some pics, but for now here is a moments of the last few weeks in pictures.  To our distant friends. we miss yo and love you.  To our new friends, we look forward to getting to know you all better and sharing our God stories.

Above: One last hoorah, with our church family, in Pittsworth.  We love you guys!

 


 Above: Empty nest at Pittsworth.  We left Pittsworth QLD, on the 23rd July.

Above: Time to start our new adventure.  Don has flying on his mind and Jesus in his heart. 

Both above: Many antics ensued from the travel pack that Gran devised for the car.  It's contents kept us all amused in the car and motels.  Thank you Gran! 

Below:  The foggy drive over the Victorian border was breathtaking.  Thick fog and frost created a gorgeous view for our entry to our new home state.

 

Above:  Our interim accommodation for the last nine nights were spent here at IBPL,  the Institute of Basic Life Principles, which had on campus accommodation for the short term. Thanks for your help IBPL.

 

Both above: Countless hours have been spent at the Lilydale Lake and Mostrose parks this week.  A great place for me to relax and the boys to let off some steam, while Don was at college and we still had no home.
 

Above:  This is the only photo I have taken so far of our new home.   I will add more pictures later. The Magnolia was just so beautiful and was a gift from God as it is just coming into bloom as we move in.  A sign of new life, new beginnings and God's perfect timing.

Thank you all for praying for us.  We have been carried along by your prayers. 

Prayers Answered!

I know, two updates in one day-crazy.

Jack will be starting school very soon, we visit the school in the morning and there will be no problem with him starting!

We have a home approved to rent!  We move in on Friday.  Halllllllellllujahhhh!!

Praise God with me :)  He is awesome!  Thank you for your prayer.  We feel like we are walking on the water. 

Pray that all goes well with the move and that we can settle in to this new place.  I look forward to sharing with you more regularly soon.

Needing Prayer

So we have moved to Victoria.  We have arrived to find that the house we had lined up is not  ready and we are living in temporary college accommodation until we find a new home.  We are comfortable, warm and a little frazzled, but we are finding our feet and we have more peace in our hearts than we did two days ago.  Our shipping container full of our only belongings, is sitting in the unprepared home's driveway and we are in the midst of inspecting, applying and praying for a home.  We hope to hear back about one of the homes today.  We do not have internet access, or a home phone line, or a postal address for that matter-no fixedabode would be my best way of describing it.  I am typing this from a new found friend's computer so that I can update you on our circumstances and beg you for your prayers. 

Please pray that God would continue to open doors for us to find a home very soon-there are complications with our goods being on another person's property.

Please pray that we all stay well and fighting fit.

Pray for Don as he begins his training today at the Australian Center for Mission Aviation.

Pray for me to keep these two little boys occupied and their hearts and heads as settled as possible.

Pray that Jack will be able to attend school and they will have special consideration for him to start Prep.  He misses out on the date cut off by eight days.

Pray most of all that God will be glorified in all we do in both the good times and the turbulent.  He is placing amazing people in our path each day to help us.

xx Nicole

Book Club Sharing

 

Last Wednesday I had the honour of sharing at a Christian Book Club at a local cafe.  It was such an amazing event.  God really blessed me by being able to interact in an intimate environment with the group members and hear how the book has impacted them, allowing them to share their own God stories. I am looking forward to many more opportunities such as these as God provides them.  The following is part of the email newsletter that the group has just sent:

 

 

Now, about our get-together last Wed. evening - It was such a blessed time for us all as beautiful Nicole shared with us about her life, Don, Jack and of course little Sam and "Sam's Heart".  How her faith and trust in God inspired us.  Thank you so much Nicole.  We hope you keep in touch with us so we will know of your prayer requests and also because we would like to be part of the next stage of your family's incredible journey with our precious Father.  I feel in my heart that He has great, great plans ahead for you, Don and your precious sons.  Your book I have no doubt, will bless all who read it. ~Carolyn

I share this with you not to brag about my opportunities, but to brag about God who does all things according to His purposes, for his glory.  I love being the hands and feet of God wherever I am.  

 

If you have read Sam's Heart and it has impacted your life in some way, I would love to hear from you.  You can email me here.  If you would really like to help me in encouraging others to read it, you could bless me by leaving a comment/review on the Koorong or Word Bookstore websites.

Relocation and Royalty

All is going according to God's plan.  As it is with God's timing, I watch as every little step falls into place.  We have found a home in Yarra Glen, Victoria, close to where Don will finish his flight training.  Don's medical for flying is in the midst of being processed and issued.  The car has been serviced and has two new tyres, ready for our long drive. There is a story with this car, it was a gift from God, and I will share that story another time.  The sale of of our home is progressing despite the enemy's many attempts to throw a spanner in the works, we are still packing in faith.  We have had wonderful friends in our church, rally around us and help us out with the move, offering to look after the boys, giving us financial support and giving us accommodation for our final nights in Pittsworth.  It reminds me of those final scenes in the Indiana Jones movie-The Last Crusade, when they have to walk the stepping stones in the right way to make it across the trap.  If we view the stepping stones using the right vision-God vision, then we will know the path and the steps are ordered clearly one after another.  Each step has it's place in the order and if you try and step outside of that you risk danger. However if we walk on the steps in the correct order, only blessing can come.  God is giving us wisdom, please continue to pray for us in that area.

We also had a delightful Saturday afternoon with some of the MAF family in Fernvale over the weekend.  There were representatives there from Cairns, Arnhem Land, Gold Coast and all over.  We caught up with old friends made new ones, prayed together, ate great food and encouraged on and other in the paths God has us on.

In the midst of of all of this the boys are coping quite well.  They have moments when they grow a little sentimental, due to saying good bye to very good friends.  But we know we will all see each other again.

During all of these happenings, God is doing something special with Jack's heart.  Over the last few days God has been telling Jack, that he needs to treat his Mum like a princess.  For the last week he has been telling me how pretty I am, every 5 minute, just in case I forget.  (By the way, I'm sure I look adorable when I rise out of bed with pillow wrinkles, messy hair and morning breath-LOL)  Then last night he began bringing me presents first my necklace wrapped up in paper and half a ton of sticky tape, then my eyebrow brush wrapped in the same fashion.  Finally a paper crown that he had made with the help of his Dad.   I saw Jesus in his eyes when he gave them to me.  It was more than my little boy appreciating his mummy (and that would be good enough for me).  God spoke to my heart and showed me that this is what he was seeing as we went about our busy day to day appointments and routines.  This is what he saw when I wake up in the morning, when I am sick, when I am hurting, when I am happy.  His view of us does not change.  We are his bride, no matter what we look like here on earth, we are covered by his blood, washed whiter than snow and we radiate because we are filled with his light. He sees past the blemishes and personality hang ups and sees us for who we truly are-men and women after his own heart.  It does my soul good to know that God loves me like this.  I hope you know it too.  We must love each other lavishly, just as Jack did, so that the world will see God in us.

Finally. please join us in prayer for Sam's cardiology review on Thursday at 9am. Pray that God will glorify His name.

Pruning Hurts

I haven't posted recently, because I haven't felt like I had anything inspiring to share.  Instead I will just share what is going on in our somewhat lively day to day adventures.
True to my usual form I have been trying to plan everything, make lists, and find a new home in a new state, all of which have fallen flat on their face.  At every turn God keeps reminding me that I have to let go, lay it all at his feet and wait.  I am not good at waiting.  I am trying to learn, but God knows I am slow to learn.  Trying to find a home interstate is almost impossible,as rental properties in Victoria need to be viewed before they can be rented.  So while I was desperately trying to find a way around that, God provided a few weeks on campus at the College at the student accommodation, that we will need to pay for, but it will provide opportunity for us to find a home.  One step at a time...you think I would know the rhythm of his pace by now, and still I try to run ahead and do it my own way.  I still have this inbuilt desire to provide stability and a smooth transition for my family which I have to continually relinquish to God.  It is not a simple and easy process but something that must be done many times a day.  There's a whole lot of repenting going on at the moment.  God is pruning away the dead wood, preparing for the new growth in the new season.
The next thing I do is try and plan costs for everything, and as I do I become increasingly frustrated because it doesn't balance out.  I try to see into the future and think about all of the costs and make sure we have enough to cover them.  We don't.  So then I have to give it all back to God and tell him I can't do it.  I need him to be our provision on this path he has us walking.  Empathise with me if you will.  There is at least one budgeter in every family, and God does want us to prepare somewhat, but He does not want us to say'

...“Today or tomorrow we are going to a certain town and will stay there a year. We will do business there and make a profit." How do you know what your life will be like tomorrow? Your life is like the morning fog—it’s here a little while, then it’s gone. (James 4:13-14)

I cannot plan ahead for what I cannot see.  We will be in Melbourne 18 months or so, and then who knows where.  I can't plan for that, and God doesn't want me too.  Already he is reminding me that he is in control.  We didn't have enough money to complete the move to Melbourne, so God had someone remind me that we can stop the payments on our home, and use that mortgage money now, and we also got a bonus that we weren't expecting.  God is our provider.  This is what I struggle with at the moment.

God has reminded me that it is my job to be a good mummy on the ground now, not to worry about the future.  It is my job to make sure my little boys are OK with this move, that my husband feels supported and that the house is ready to go to it's new owners.

And so the scripture God gave me, his promise, keeps repeating in my head about every 10 minutes:


Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and live righteously, and he will give you everything you need.(Matthew 6:33)

Pruning hurts but already I feel renewed and more prepared to face this new adventure.  I recognize the strong and firm hands of my God, as he gently but resolutely cuts away the dead wood.  It reminds me that he is changing me from day to day into the likeness of Jesus, so all is well with my soul.

If you would like to hear more about the calling that Don and I are embarking on read the post - The Calling

W.O.W. Wow

Yesterday was such a strange day.  In the morning we were disappointed to learn that the contract to sell our home had fallen through.  Don and I spent the morning searching God because he had told us both separately that this was the time.  We rallied our friends to pray.  Something just didn't feel right.  We did not have God's peace.  We praised God anyway in the midst of our uneasiness. 

I started to question if I had heard God right, if he really wanted us to go to MAF at all.  I asked him to send a buyer for our home that day, and to not put me to shame when I had faith in His promises. I cried and asked his forgiveness for doubting him but I needed a to know that I wasn't crazy!

An hour before Don left to go to work, we received a phone call from the real estate with another offer from different buyers on our home.  We negotiated over last night and we agreed on a price today.  The contract will be signed over the next few days. WOW.

I really don't know what to say.  God saved me from shame, he was faithful to his promises as he always is.  Why don't I learn, after all we have been through with Him?  I feel just like Israel in the Old testament as they meandered from obedience to unfaithfulness.  I cried more then, and asked God's forgiveness for my human frailty, lack of wisom and lack of faith.  And as I told him how much I loved him he said 'Just as this promise has been fulfilled so will Sam's heart be whole.  So will he testify of my goodness to all men.  So will he be a display of my mercy and power upon the earth.  Just keep your eyes upon me and do not be anxious for anything'  Amen Lord, amen.

So what does this mean for us.  It means a great many things.  It means the time of rest here in Pittsworth is coming to close.  It means that the time of waiting is over and the time of preparation for missionary service has begun.  So now we prepare, pack and move to Melbourne, for Don to begin study.  I don't know what this will all look like yet, but it will likely happen over the next month.

I beg you for prayer. We have experienced fierce opposition in recent weeks from the enemy.  I would ask that you cover us with God's protection and the blood of Jesus.  I would ask that you pray for the  house contract to be finalised without any hitches and hiccups.  I would ask that you pray for peace of mind for us all as we navigate this new path, especially for the boys.  And finally I ask that you praise God with me for the mighty blessings he has bestowed upon us. 

Let the fun and games begin...

Put On Your Tiara

This post is a little more in depth than my others, but worth the read if you will stay with me :)

You know how it is.  God gives you a scripture and it is burned like a brand upon your heart and mind. I am not talking about a memory verse, but one that has been planted in your spirit by God.  As you go about the day to day, the same words keep coming to you.  You face a challenge or difficulty, and the words literally jump up from your heart and jolt your brain.  That scripture for me for the last 6 months has been Matthew 6:33.

Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and live righteously, and he will give you everything you need. (Matthew 6:33)

This word from God for me is amazing.  Any time I start to doubt in our future, Sam's healing, our finances, the boy's behaviour,  or my relationships with friends and family, this is God's answer.  It is a rock solid promise and I hold onto it with everything I've got.  When I speak it out loud I feel the fear and insecurity pick up tail and run.  I love that it affirms who God is, and the simplicity of walking in the ways of Jesus.

Today I did some further research into the original meanings of the words before they were translated.  I don't often do this but I was prompted.  What I discovered both delighted me and challenged me.

Seek the Kingdom of God above all else...

Seek means to look for; (latin word quaerite)

Kingdom of God means; kingly government, royal authority, kingship and royalty (latin word regnum)

all else means; first (latin word primus)

I always thought seeking the Kingdom of God meant to seek after the things of God.  These words just made the meaning all the more richer. We are to be governed by the King, we are to exercise royal authority and act as royalty to seek God.  This means that when troubles come we don't slink back and hide in a corner, we stand upright, lift our eyes to God and proclaim his government over earth, and over our problems.  We bring the Kingdom down to touch earth!  How awesome is this? I now love latin!  This is where we speak our faith.

...and live righteously...

The latin words here mean to follow all of Gods laws, to walk in His ways (Latin words et iustitiam eius.).  This is where we do our faith.  And remember faith without works is dead (James 2:26)

...and he will give you...

The latin for these words was my favourite discovery.  The word adicientur means to throw, cast to, fling at, put, put to or set near.  I literally had to stop myself laughing to type this.  God is saying speak and live your faith in Me and I will pitch what you need to you with great haste and urgency.  I love this I can almost see God dispatching his angels with great haste to aid his royal children upon the earth.  I also had the very comical picture of Jesus rolling up his sleeve, and pitching his help down to us from Heaven, but that is just my imagination.  I can't help it if God made me weird! :)

...everything you need.

omnia, means all and every, and the words 'you need' come from the latin vobis which is also comical.  It is a rhetorical kind of phrase meaning "Who knows more than you? I do."  This is where God tells us that He knows what we need and he affirms that He is in control.  I love this word and all that is implies. 

I wonder if you have a verse that God has given you for a special season of your life?  Please share if you would like.  I would love to hear from you.  I hope this hasn't been too heavy.  The colourful language and the rich beauty and fullness it adds to God's promise to me, was something I wanted to share with you. 

Seasons

I love plants.  I love growing plants, propagating plants, nurturing them and enjoying them.  It does my heart good to walk in the garden at different times of the day, and enjoy the sights, sounds and scents that nature provides.  I love how each of the plants responds to seasons and circumstances.  Many times in the bible Jesus uses plants to describe our relationship with God.  Here are some of the beautiful things we can learn from the seasons in the garden.

To survive the intense heat of the Summer we need to make sure that we have roots that go deep, to streams of living water. Though we may be heat stressed and weary, this is also a time of strong growth, encouraging us to put down strong roots for the next season. Summer is also the time of rain and storms, which refresh us and wash us clean. 

 Autumn is when all of the dead leaves fall away.  We are often pruned in this time to make way for the new growth in the Spring. It is a time of rest and stripping away.

Winter is a season when we are often dormant. A time of standing fast and waiting.  A time of weathering through the harsh frost and icy winds.  To stand strong in this time of this time you must have put down deep roots in the Summer months.

Spring is the season of new life, new growth and new adventure. Definitely where we would like to live most of our days.  However did you know that without the Summer heat and rain our roots would fail to grow deep enough?  Without the rest of Autumn, our lives would be short lived and overly burdened.  Without the cold frosty Winter, our buds may fail to bloom and give fruit.

Each Season holds it's own beauty and purpose, both for the plants of the earth and the children of God.

For everything there is a season,

a time for every activity under heaven. (Ecc 3:1)

If you have the time read more of this passage here.

I Want To Be a Tree Hugger

Joyful is the person who finds wisdom,

the one who gains understanding.

For wisdom is more profitable than silver,

and her wages better than gold.

Wisdom is more precious than rubies,

nothing you desire can compare with her.

She offers you long life in her right hand,

and riches and honour in her left.

She will guide you down delightful paths;

always her ways are satisfying.

Wisdom is a tree of life to those who embrace her;

happy are those who hold her tightly.

(Proverbs 3:13-18)

Put's a whole new perspective on being a tree hugger doesn't it?