Dedication

On Sunday we stood together and prayed to God, a dedication prayer in which we committed our children and ourselves to God. 

We prayed for strength, grace, love, commitment and that God would be with us, always. 

Both of our families came with us, that's my Dad on stage behind us. And that's Steve and Dawn, our pastors but also the greatest of friends.

We are beyond blessed.

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Camilla, for you everyday I pray for strength. Strength to stand up for who you are, what you believe in, and even more strength to stand in the gap for other people. To lift them up and be their support, to believe in others and the goodness in the world. I pray you would be a mighty warrior, fighting for the things that are important to you. And just as you are strong, I pray you will be soft. I hope your heart could accept people as they are, it would be moved to love and care for those who need it, and you could serve them.

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Katie, for you every day I pray for purity of heart and mind. I know that within you there is something special. There is a sweetness and holiness about you, and I pray that for all of your days you would be friends with Jesus and you would know and trust Him. A faith like no other, one that allows you to dream dreams and see miracles. I pray you would constantly be blown away by the bigness of God and how much he loves you.

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Camilla + Katie to be dedicated

We are dedicating Camilla and Katie to God this Sunday, also Katie's first birthday.

It's something we have wanted to do for quite some time. We are excited to stand with our family and Church family and pray together for them, and us as parents.

You are invited!

The Sisterhood - Why We Exist

For months now I have had it on my mind to simplify The Sisterhood, figure out where its going, put some organisation in place so it runs a lot more efficiently and smoothly. And most of all, figure out why we exist.

I know, I say it all the time, "we exist to bring smiles to an otherwise bleak day". But theres more to it than that.

Let me take you back to that night when The Sisterhood began in my bedroom, around midnight on a Friday, amongst tears and anguish as I blogged my heart out. I was angry with the world, with God, with life, my own brother had gone for days that week without any food to eat. He had the flu as well. Life is hard for him and I was furious. Life is hard. Theres a lot of people doing life very tough out there.

Then my anger lingered onto other situations, the ones who are doing it hard but dont say a word, they just get on with life - they balance kids, work, family, sickness, study, dreams. They balance it all and dont ask for anything in return.

Yes. Those people. The quiet ones. I love those ones. I wanted to know about them, I wanted to love on them, to tell them they were noticed, to let them know they were valued, appreciated, loved. I could think of countless women in my life who needed to be intentionally noticed and appreciated.

I heard God say yes. An audible YES in my room. It was urging, positive, Yeesss...

I have heard two audible words from God before, words so loud I can't help but stop in my tracks and know they weren't from my own head.

The first, I was driving to pick up a friend and heard an audible "SAFETY" being yelled at me, I almost died. I was scared, and started praying over and over and over for safety, I didn't know why, I just asked for Gods protection. After I picked up my friend I didn't mention it to her, half an hour later we were in a car accident. A man on drugs ran a red light as we were going through our green, at full speed, and hit the side of my car. We were supposed to have passengers in the back but 5 minutes before hand plans fell through, they didn't come with us, I was told there would have been death had we had back seat passengers. Safety. I thanked God. Seriously. I honestly with all of my being know that was Gods voice. Not my own.

So when I heard YESS. I knew. An out of this world YES. A heavenly YES.

The Sisterhood was born. Since then, God has spoken to me regularly through prayer, scripture and general "knowing" regarding The Sisterhood.

I'll be honest, I can't do this without him. In fact, I don't want to. Without God, The Sisterhood is just works based. Its just chocolate in the mail. And while thats cool, that can get boring, tired, unfulfilling. I really believe that what makes it successful is whats behind the chocolate. A load of prayers, a word of encouragement, a prophetic word of Hope, a Holy Spirit inspired poem, a vision of heaven.

One of my most fulfilling moments in running The Sisterhood was when I was preparing our first round of multiple LOVE BOMBs. A blogging friend, Simone, had sent me a mix CD in the mail, she urged me to listen to it, I put it on as I assembled the love bombs in their piles, took photos of them, boxed them up and addressed them. The CD was filled with beautiful happy songs. And worship songs. As I photographed and boxed I sang my heart out, I thanked God for caring and loving and saving me, and for caring and loving all of these women. I prayed for each of them and for each member of The Sisterhood.

In that moment I truly felt like I was doing exactly what I was called to do. 

Over time I have come to realise that what we do at The Sisterhood is really what God has done for us. 

Its us, knowing of someone. We are a stranger to them, but we know them, we know of their struggles (well, I do) and we want to help. We go out of our way, we reach out, we join together everything we have to say "here, take this, we love you, even if you dont know us" Loving despite geography, knowledge or circumstances; just because.

The Sisterhood is here to show LOVE, just like Jesus does for us. Just in a more earthly, physical, chocolatey way.

And you know, deep down, its really Jesus showing the love anyway. 

I really have to think about these things (The Sisterhood). When you are in charge of something as awesome as The Sisterhood its important to be clear as to why you're doing it.

When I get emails from women saying their sons needs an ipad, and then sending constant emails asking why I haven't sent one yet, its gets a little stressful. Or emails from I dont know how many women saying they have no money for groceries, their husbands in jail, winz has cut off their benefits..

Its a little stressful.

I have to think about these things because when I get an email every week asking if someone can start their own Sisterhood I need to know why they're doing it. For glory? Riches? God?

Its important to be clear. Who are we helping here, why are we helping. We have to know these things.

(I really dont mean to sound unhelpful, these stories break my heart, but I get these emails everyday, I'm realistic, I know we can't help them all so its important to know who we can help)

I know most of you are strangers to me, you "signed up" because a friend told you you could get free stuff, or you could do some baking, or they told you that The Sisterhood is the best thing to ever happen, ever.

I love that they told you something about the sisterhood, but they might not have told you why we're doing it. So I need you to know. I need that bridge between us to be broken down and replaced with reality: I am doing this because I heard GOD say YES. (If you've been around here for a little while this wont be news to you.)

I don't believe God has called us to buy ipads or groceries or to pay for someones internet bill.

He has called us to love those who are doing life well, the hard workers, the women with their heads down bums up, taking care of life. This hard life. He has called us to notice them, to flex our generosity muscles and to tell them that we notice them, just like he notices us. 

We will send gifts to people of all backgrounds, and people of all faiths can donate. 

The Sisterhood is a collection of different women all over New Zealand with different world views, religious beliefs, skills and circumstances all joining together to create something amazing.

Some of you may not like this God stuff at all, I'm thinking if thats you you have probably already stopped reading and removed yourself from our email list (but not before sending me an opinionated email) I'm okay with that. Feel free to do whatever it is you need to do.

Some of you may disagree but still put up with my God babble and will continue to join in. If thats you, I really like you. Thank you for still liking me and being here, even though you aren't into what I am but can see the bigger picture ;)

Others will get this God Thing. Thank you for being here. I really want your help.

Throughout this journey its important that I stay true to who I am, The Sisterhood was started because I heard YES from God, not because I thought it was a good idea or I might get more Facebook friends. Because of that, I'm not too worried about losing Facebook friends, but I AM worried about losing sight of God in this.

Therefore, I will continue to be me, and The Sisterhood will continue as usual, not growing The Sisterhood for the numbers or reputation, but continuing to share the love that God has to offer by way of chocolates and treats and loving on those unappreciated hardworking women.

Just needed you to know that, kay?

I love you all, whoever you are. Thank you for being here, and if you still want to do this journey with us, well, I think you just became my new best friend :)

xx

p.s - I am currently working on documents that will help us and help those overseas wanting to expand The Sisterhood. We all need to be reading off the same page.

If you would like to talk to me about anything I have mentioned here please email me on sophieslim@moo2.co.nz - I will respond to every email, even the nasty ones.

Laying My Burdens Down

Flowers from a Sneaky Sister - Thank you!

My heart stopped again.

Ten ladies. Ten ladies who I have never met. Whose stories and lives have touched my soul. Their stories and lives have reached out to me and changed me for the better.

For me its so easy to forget what goes on in other peoples lives. I'm a self focussed kind of person, I naturally assume other peoples lives are just like mine.

The Sisterhood reminds me that we are all completely different. Different lives, backgrounds, hopes and dreams. Everyone is going through something different.

When I hit that publish button on the post that is going to tell you that we are raising love bombs for these ten ladies, I hope that you will see it too: See the real people behind those fake names. I hope you will see that we have an opportunity to create some smiles, bring some joy and share some love.


And after I hit that publish button, for a moment my life falls down. I think I have over committed and there is no way I can pull this off and I hear my Father say to me "I have this" and I see my Sisters say "We want to help" and I know that what we are doing here is something incredible.

Over these last few days I have been letting go of the pressure that I feel to perform. I am practising leaving results in the hands of God while I do the best that I can and use what he has taught me so far.

Also, I have also been letting the stories go to him.

My inbox has been full of tragic stories this week. Ones that would make me go "Where were you God?!" Instead I have been saying "Here you go God". Handing over peoples lives to Him, their anguish and pain, their disappointment, has been a huge relief to me. Their burdens are not ones that I can carry but I can point them in the direction of Him. I am thankful that He listens.

I'm so glad I am doing it with Him. I couldn't imagine it any other way.

This may all be a bit waffley - There is a lot of my mind right now (in a good way)


READ MORE:
My thoughts after I hit publish on the last LOVE BOMB
This round of LOVE BOMBs

Published!

Yesterday I had phone calls and texts telling me The Sisterhood had been published in The Press and on the Stuff website!

First of all, I wasn't even aware that people still read print media - for that I am thrilled! Go you paper readers! Print is not dead!

Secondly, I was also thrilled that The Sisterhood had some publicity! 26 Sisters gave to our most recent LOVE BOMBs. I am over the moon for them because that article is like a little bit of recognition. Most of these ladies don't know me, most of them haven't met me, they get very little recognition for their generosity and I struggle to express just how thankful I am. Hopefully this article can stay thank you to them. Sisters, buy a news paper, cut out the article, stick it on your fridge and tell everyone "I am in The Sisterhood!"

Celebrate. You are doing good. You are living life well and its okay to be proud of that. Be proud of what has been achieved because God is proud of us. Just like how you would be proud of your own son or daughter achieving something, so is He.

At first I tried to hide from it, honestly, it was a little overwhelming. People kept telling me how well I had done. What was just a little article lead to thousands of blog views in one day, a lot of emails in my inbox from well wishers, new sisters, older sisters, from people wanting to share others stories, from people wanting a hand out or two. I felt my head beginning to swell and my heart beginning to race.

By noon I realised that was silly, I was just me, Sophie, and I had spent the whole morning on the computer and I had to get out of the house. I shut up shop and headed to the mall with my beautiful daughter who is willing to sit in her pram for a whole afternoon while her Mama shopped. Isn't she a delight? She is actually so patient like that. She goes anywhere and does almost anything so patiently. *brag*

Milla looked on while I found things to spend my Westfield voucher on. Hubby and I are taking part in a Canterbury students research paper on how the earthquakes have effected couples relationships in Canterbury. For the last part of the research we had to keep a small journal for two weeks each and send it in, and in return we got a $50 Westfield voucher! Score! So as you can tell, I had free money to burn (which is a rarity). I ended up buying some new Natio make up (new foundation and blusher), new Natio cleanser and a little cheapo outfit for Milla in the spring time. Sorry Mr Moo, you didn't get anything in this shopping trip!

We ate rice-balls, lollies (just me, not her) and perused the daily paper where we found our little article!

When we got home with the hubby we declared we must pop a bottle of wine open to celebrate being published and also having paid off one of the hubbys credit cards from pre-marriage! Hoorah!! PARTY TIME!

We never did open that bottle and settled for just juice instead. It was a long day.

Today I have already had a phone interview with a womens magazine and taken a bazillion (bad) self timed photos of myself (how do fashion bloggers do it!?). I think when Milla is up from her nap we're going to go buy a chocolate bar. Yes. That's it.

If you have read the article, thank you! As usual I will continue to post the rest of the LOVE BOMBs once I am sure they have been received. 2 more are still in transit as they are rural deliveries. Keep your eyes peeled!

If you're new around these parts why not leave a comment and introduce yourself?

An Unexpected Blessing

My Sisters, I have the most wonderful news to share with you.

But its hard news, its selfish, boasting, look at us news, and it comes in two parts. The first part is the physical, the second is the emotional - spiritual - healing part.

I feel hesitant to share this news with you. How to even begin? I suppose you need to know about the Sisterhood.

A group of women, all around New Zealand, joining together what little they have to make a big difference. The great part of the Sisterhood is that you are welcome to join us, whether to bless or be blessed, everyone is welcome. In the little time we have been together we have achieved much, a smile for a new Mum, reading material for a long recovery post surgery, clothes and toys for a young family who lost everything in their house fire, finances and gifts for a little girl and her parents undergoing cancer treatment.

And then, a few weeks ago. We received something. WHAT!? I know.

And I really really want to tell you about it. But I am hesitant. Because for me, its not really about the stuff that we give, its about the reason. For me its about joining together and giving, because its good to give, because we have so much, because we have been given so much, because we have the power to transform someones whole life. And you know what, maybe we can't pay their mortgage, but we can create smiles, and smiles are life changing. Some days, for some people, just a smile is a miracle. So I need you to know that I am telling you all this because I want you to know how a small gift can transform a life.

Anyway, on with it.

My husband carried around this courier bag in his satchel all week. You see, I get my mail delivered to his work because our letterbox can fit no more that a small envelope in its slot, and there is no where to leave anything, so, I rely on MrMoo telling me if he's received any mail for me. He went away for the weekend, and on his return home he chucked a grey postal bag at me and said "oh yeah, this arrived for you last week". Gosh honey, thanks for remembering.

I love mail. Smiles all around.

I opened it up, and inside, a beautiful card filled with beautiful words from a young girl I met many years ago and have only seen a handful of times since. Inside the card? Cash. Lots and lots of green notes. And floating about this grey bag, more gift cards, for groceries and kids clothing.

Amazing. This is also where I get a bit stumped because what do you say to that besides thank you?? To be on the receiving end of generosity. Wow. Just wow.

Someone had been thinking of me. Moreover, God had been thinking of me. Can I tell you a little secret? Just that day I had been praying "God, don't forget me please. I love to help people, but when I need help, please be there for us.". You see, we haven't had a car for 4 months (I know, please excuse our first world problems). Ours had started to die, so we quickly sold it off and began to save for a better one that would have a lot of life left in it. We had a small budget and for it we weren't able to find anything suitable for our little family. For four whole months. We needed more money. But for our small weekly income there is not a lot of saving room. Dollar by dollar we saved, but we still needed more.

Can I please introduce you to our new car? We bought her this week. Actually. Amongst all the excitement we haven't even discussed the gender issue. Or even a name! Gosh!

I would also like you to know that Camilla has new winter jammies and a whole new range of winter tights to choose from! And. Right now our freezer and bottom shelf of our pantry is bursting; Meats, non-perishables, bags of flour. We are well stocked. (I keep a very very tight grocery budget. We are often running on empty most of the week, but we make do)

So I thanked God. I thanked him for being so sneaky and tricky and delivering such a package of blessings on the very day I finally vocalise my feelings to him ("what if you forget about us!?")

But moreover I want to thank a very generous young lady who felt the need to respond (to what, I don't know) and who followed through. Transforming our world by reaching out to us and sending us an unexpected gift. Not one that we desperately needed, or were relying on to feed our family, but for us made all the difference.

This is just another reason why I love our Sisterhood so much, a small gift sent without any expectation of anything in return, changed our lives this month. I never would have told you that we needed that particular amount of money, because you just get on with life, don't you? Everyone has their own issues to deal with, we can't save the whole world, I'm not different to anyone else, we can survive. There's no need to draw attention to my own situations.

I think thats why I love our "surprise!" blessings so much. If only to say "we were thinking of you..." because who doesn't want to be thought of? Isn't that the greatest compliment? Someone thought of me. For a moment, someone took the time to select a gift of their choosing and send it to me. Amazing. Thank you. Often in return I have heard "I will repay the favour!" But its not about that is it? No, its not. It comes with no expectations and no strings attached. Just accept and be, and know that you are thought of.

Hardworking mums, sisters, daughters, friends - Amazing women who just get on with it. I wonder, do you know of anyone like this? Perhaps they have a unique situation, or perhaps they are just surviving, doing life. Do you think we could bring a smile to their face? Do you think we could let them know that we were thinking of them?

Seriously, is someone popping to mind right now? Email me (sophieslim@moo2.co.nz). Please. I would love to know their names. An address would be great too, because we would love to send them a little something.

If you can't think of anyone but would you love to share the little you have to bring a life changing smile to someones world you can email me too (sophieslim@moo2.co.nz) because soon I will hopefully have an inbox full of the names of strong, beautiful women who could use a smile.

I love you all, really, I do, and I want to thank you for taking the time to read my words and my little story. And finally, I would like to say a public thank you to my donee, thank you for thinking of me. 


**I would also like to apologise to anyone if they thought I was sharing pregnancy news in this post, a bit misleading huh! Whoopsies.

Hunger and Thirst

On Saturday night I had the huge honour and privilege of being able to share with 50 ladies about whats been going on in my heart recently.

The night was called Hunger and Thirst and it was an opportunity for the women of our Church to get together and thirst after the things of God. I was asked to speak and I shared about girly friendships.

I shared about how, as a female, you are so unique and special, and that should be embraced and understood. It's okay if you need constant affirmation, its okay if you need to put on a dress. As girls, we make great best friends because we know what other girls like and what they need. 

(Amy of Crafty Fox)

I was inspired by Ruth from the bible, a great story between a mother and her daughter in law. The mother had nothing to offer her daughter in law, Ruth. She was bitter, alone, not very great friend material. But the bible says that Ruth clung to her despite that. She stuck around. She was there when Naomi needed her the most. 

Later on Ruth (the DIL) goes to Naomi (the MIL) for advice, Naomi gives her some pretty wise selfless words of wisdom which later lead to employment and then to marriage for Ruth (score!). As great friends we need to be giving each other encouraging, wise advice that builds each other up. And as a woman, seek to be around these people. Don't bother with drama or pettiness, instead encourage friendships that build each other up in faith and good things :)

I have really amazing friends, they are a great part of my life and there are things that I get from my great girly friends that I can find no where else.

Did you know that in a Dove survery they concluded that 70% of women feel prettier because of their close female friendships. 

My friends are essential to my wellbeing and happiness. 

Its my prayer that you would begin to understand the huge value that the ladies around you have for your life and that you would be a great friend in return, one that sticks around and offers sound advice and encouragement.

(Amy of Crafty Fox)

I loved having the opportunity to speak, its been a long time since I've been behind the mic or having to prepare a message, I was definitely out of practice but it all comes back [kind of] naturally. I'm looking forward to more opportunities like this in the future :)

The whole night was a great opportunity to minister to each other, throughout the night I was able to hear many testimonies and have the opportunity to pray for many people. So so cool! Super big thank you to Wendy and Toni, a mother daughter duo from our church who put on the whole night for us. It was such a gift.

The Shack - A Book Review

Enouraged by Mrs Readalot I picked up the shack at my small temporary quake library, it has only the most popular books stocked because it is in such a small space (only 3 shelves). The Shack awaited my arrival.

I remember this book going around christian circles a few years ago and I remember people taking it as gospel. That's why I didn't read it. "That's not gospel!" I would tell myself. It's a novel; A completely made up, ficticious book that a man created for his family to read. And it is brilliant. Instead of telling you about I'm going to tell you what it did for me.

Not many books have the power to do something for you which is what makes this book unique, it ministered to me in quite a different way.

At first I was disturbed, I had to face the realities of loosing a young child and dealing with blame and guilt and fear and absolute disgusting MESS. This world is so messy. Good people get hurt, some people are twisted, evil and scary and are words that I don't even have to describe them. I couldn't read these parts alone, I had to be near my husband. They upset me and opened up my heart "Please God, not us" I prayed.

I was then confronted with meeting god and she [He] wasn't what I expected. I was confused and challenged and determined to push through. I came to meditate and accept that perhaps God is far bigger than myself. In the book god explains that often peoples picture of him is of a better version of themselves. That is definitely how I have viewed God. Just maybe 100x better than me. But still, that limits him. Still, that shows that he has flaws, as I do. But in reality that is not the case. God is far bigger and greater than I could possibly imagine and I started to believe that because of the picture that was written in this book.

I started to believe in God. 

The real God of the universe. Not my small God.

Through reading this book my prayer life has changed. I especially loved the story where the main character Mack was at the dinner table where god had prepared him a meal. He bowed his head and went to say "grace" before looking up and thanking god. God had literally provided his meal for him. It was a little comical. Also, at the dinner table the Holy Spirit asks Mack how his family is. Mack goes on to tell the 3 his familys troubles and triumphs and about each of his children until he stops and asks "Don't you know already?" the Holy Spirit then goes on to tell him that they do know, but they choose to give up that power for a relationship with him. Who wants a friend who knows absolutely everything about you so there is no reason to speak to each other? Who wants a relationship that is based on power and having that lorded over you? Instead, she [because in the book the HS is a female asian] explains that they would rather hear from you, from us, about whats going on. They like to hear it from our perspective. Isn't that wonderful? I have known this of course because the bible encourages us to pray in all situations, but hearing it in this form put a whole new understanding and perspective. God wants to hear from us. Mind blowing!

I started to pray.

Isn't that amazing? As a result I have been talking to him. Not just when I need things or huge things are happening. I have been vocalising my little worries, my little joys, how I feel when I see my beautiful daughter, my nerves, my triumphs, my relationships. I have been sharing almost everything with him and it is amazing. I really hope to keep it up. You know how it is. Ebbs and flows and all that.

The novel ends, and wont ruin it, but I could definitely think of 5 people off the top of my head who I thought needed to read this - people who needed a new perspective on a God they felt had left them.

Thank you for suggesting this book Mrs Readalot.

Next on my night stand is Growing Great Girls by Ian and Mary Grant. 

Healing Souls

Just a cute photobooth picture - this girl has me completely smitten and in love

I believe giving to others can heal their souls.

 As well as meeting physical needs giving can also meet emotional needs. Like I've said, often times its less about the physical gift and more about the intention and heart behind it. It lets another know that they are not alone, there are people who care about them. Perhaps the gift is a sign that things can and will and are getting better.

In everything I do I want to be doing it with God. In every gift I give I want God to be in it because He is the greatest healer.

Some times this is a little bit tricky. I want everyone to be involved in The Sisterhood, I don't want for it to be an exclusive christian sisterhood. Its all inclusive. Anyone can give and anyone can receive. I know for sure that being generous is not limited to religious beliefs (although it can often help). That doesn't mean that God is not involved, even though I'm not saying "God bless you every chance I get"

I think God is much more subtle than that. He doesn't need me to throw his name down peoples throats. God can work and heal people without me even mentioning His name. Even though sometimes I do and sometimes I don't mention His name, he is in all and through all. He is in every bag of clothes, every dollar, every cup of coffee, even if the person donating them doesn't have a relationship with God, I do, and my prayer for the Sisterhood is that God would do something miraculous with the lives we are able to reach. And you know maybe just a smile is a miracle for that particular day. Every situation is different and I am honoured to be able to make a way for a miracle and an opporunity.

Our God is so big, so strong and so mighty there's nothing our God cannot do.

Like I said, it's an honour to be involved in this little initiative. Its an honour that God would use me to reach out to his people, Its an honour that you would trust me with your goods. It's humbling, consuming, fulfilling and every other 'ing' you could think of. This is more than "social justice". This is reaching ordinary people where they are and giving them a little bit of HOPE.

Every Sunday

I took these photos last Sunday during a sermon. Milla munching, trying to keep her entertained with a fuel card. 

Camilla will grow up in Church. We hope not to shove Christianity down her throat but through action and word we hope to raise her with Christian values and lead her to the cross where she can build her own relationship with God. When she looks back on her childhood I hope that she can see that.  

It's morbid I know but we still haven't decided what will happen to Milla if we were to pass away. I suppose the rational answer is that our families would take over her care. However, both of our families don't share the same values that we do. I know that each of them would do the best job they could. Maybe they would take her to Sunday school every now and again. But who would pray with her? Who would teach her to forgive like Jesus forgives us? Who would parent her in a way that shows the same Grace and Love that God has for us?

Jury is still out on that one. 

Top Right: Millas Friend came to our church for the first time! They were very happy to sit next to each other! :)

Counting The Blessings

Just before I read a status of a friend of a friend on Facebook. It was short and to the point. She has cancer and has about a month left to live. She has a family and is planning to renew her marriage vows at the end of the month to celebrate their life and love.

What an appreciation for life.

With an eternal perspective everything changes. The small day to day trivia is no longer relevant, a "must do by 30" (or whatever) list probably doesn't matter any more. I have never had a life threatening illness but I presume in the last weeks the only things that matter is family and friends and a whole lotta love. 

I have questioned my life this year and had it flash before my eyes while alone in a voilent earthquake. The only things I thought of was my husband, baby and My Maker. 

I guess day to day we can't live in this perspective constantly. Its really inward focussed and doesn't pay the bills...

But it does pay to daily count your blessings and remember whats important during your day. 

My Saturday is almost over and it has been wonderful. I have joyfully cleaned, cooked and looked after our family. Everyday stuff, but with a smile and a glad heart. I also enjoyed a lunch time picnic under beautiful trees with 2 babies, a toddler and good friends. My life is short and one day it will end here on earth and continue elsewhere. For now, while I have My Loves around me I am enjoying what I have been gifted.

Isn't it wonderful?

My heart goes out to my friends friend. I'm sure there are many people around the world coming to terms with the same situation. Life is precious.

Learning Joy

Learning Joy 

source

Joy reaches beyond circumstances and fleeting emotions to be our strength in a time of need. Joy is not happiness because it cannot be diminished by a temporary situation. Sometimes I can be sad and still joyful.

I was watching Glee Project this week and the judge of the competition to find Glee's next guest star told one of the final 4 contestants that he thought he was at a disadvantage because he hadn't seen him breakdown yet. This guy was joyful and he held himself together and didn't succumb to the pressure or dramatics of the situation. What made him different? He was a Jesus Freak. The joy of the lord is our strength (Nehemiah 8:10). and its what sets us apart and sustains us for this journey.

Without joy where would we be?

Having a heart and spirit of Joy is something that I pray for most. If I could eternally have anything in the world, it would be that. Joy.

Thank you Lord for your everlasting Joy that sustains us and keeps us strong. Thank you that you are in all and through all things and there is always a reason to be joyful. Amongst the darkest days I pray your light would shine in our lives and we would be joyful people and ever thankful. 

Learning Love

Learning Love

source


Genuine love is sincere - it comes from deep within and is really meant. It is not merely a word or a phrase and it cannot be said without an action or gift. Love evokes goodness, devotion and pure selflessness. It is perfect.

Often I struggle to completely love but it is something I am learning to do.

Love is a result of knowing God. It grows naturally as your relationship with God grows. It cannot be forced because real love is sincere. As we push into God we learn more of His love for us, our love for Him and our love for others. We cannot impress God with how good we can love because we love because he first loved us.

Psalm 51 "Restore to me the joy of your salvation and grant me a willing spirit to sustain me."

Thank you Lord for your salvation that covers all of my wrongs. Please restore me to that place of joy when I first met you and everything was fresh and exciting. Fill me with more of your Spirit so that I could know you better. Sustain me with your goodness and teach me to Love.

The House That Jesus Builds

Yesterday I read an article on why an author does not go to "church", although professes to be a Christian. He has many reasons, all of which I have heard before but none that I think are legitimate. You can read the article here if you really have some time to kill. Over the years I have seen many people used in churches in the wrong ways, just as people are used in businesses or in families. It is a sad sad story when a business man or leader tries to build a Church. It does happen and when it does I can understand why people feel used and tired. Some people do actually need to find a new church, others have inner issues (perhaps a fear of commitment or vulnerability) and probably just need to be planted where they are and grow. Each individual is different. Above all, I have the very firm conviction and belief that you will not flourish or survive as a Christian without a body to belong to.

However, Jesus says that he will build His Church. Through that statement I believe that a church should reflect the characteristics of Jesus and be flowing with gifts of the Holy Spirit.

I found a Church to grow in, one that loves me, uses my gifts (often not enough), and builds me up in faith and the Word of God. I know our Senior Pastors and consider them great mentors and friends and I truly value their leadership. They are both so wise and have a complete love for people. I know our pastoral leadership team (and am on it) and I have faith in everyones ability to love God and love others. For me, going to Church on Sunday is a joy. Attending midweek leadership meetings are an honour. I dont consider these things to be a burdon or feel as if I am guilted into them. I receive so much from being a part of a church.

Perhaps thats the difference between myself and the person who wrote that article? I am a part of a Church, whereas he just attended a church and got bored. If you show up late, sit in the same seat, clap your hands when you are told, say your Amens at the right time and then leave as soon as the preacher puts down the microphone I can guarantee that you will not grow.

Like the article said, Church is people. However, it is not just me and not just you. It is all of us, fellowshipping, swapping stories, doing good deeds, receiving and participating in ministry, encouraging one another and swapping cellphone numbers. Then, through the week you contact each other. They become part of your life. You care for each other.

The Church is a beautiful thing and I am thankful that I belong to a great one. I hope you do too.

This week our Church funded 9 Midwinter Dinners to happen all across Christchurch and hosted by different members of our pastoral team. We hosted ours last night and it was truly wonderful. I dont want to sound like a lunatic, but it really warmed my heart and cemeted in my heart what I have stated above. The essence of Church is doing life together and I am grateful that we can do that. Most of the dinners are for 10-25 people however they are hosting a community wide one tonight which everyone is welcome to. They have a pig on a spit and everything. I hope you can get down there and socialise and connect with a few people.

These photos are of our dinner and I know each midwinter dinner will be different depending on who goes and who hosts. That's the beauty of connecting in smaller groups - personalities can shine through and you can get to know each other.

I would like to thank our Church for displaying the characteristics of Jesus - Love, generosity, a heart for the poor and broken, community, fellowship and giftings. Thank you for funding our dinner last night too. It was a real treasure being able to serve people from our community and I am thankful that it is one of your highest priorities!

Right now there is a team of about 15-20 Aucklanders in our city who are here specifically to serve you. One of them took me grocery shopping yesterday because I cant lift anything without pulling my stomach muscles. These 3 helpful guys turned up last night to finish off the dinner I cooked and to serve everyone and do the dishes afterwards. These people have been walking around our neighbourhood handing out gift baskets filled with goodies and are preparing tonights huge community dinner. 


Feel loved, Christchurch. There are some very generous people around who have not forgotten you.

[Footnote: I felt as if these two posts went hand in hand with each other and I wanted to share them with you. I hope you can see where I am coming from :) Also, I'm more annoyed than you that some of the photos are blury - the lighting wasn't the greatest)

Dear Baby, Week 25 Update

Current weight: 67kgs (no change since last week)

Total weight gained: 2 kgs (original weight: 65 kgs)

Babys growth this week: This week she weighs approximately 700gms and is the length of a watermelon! A whole watermelon! Inside my belly! Whoa-nelly! They say that from 25 weeks onwards if she was to be born now she would have a pretty fighting chanced at surviving with some good doctors and machines.

Times I have vomited this week: 4

Baxton Hicks Contactions this week: 0

Thoughts this week: Space is getting a little tight inside and I can feel her squirming and rolling around. Sometimes its quite uncomfortable and I have to stop what I am doing and wait for her to get settled. That just reminds me how much she has and is growing. Life is such a mind blowing miracle. She must also be growing tonnes this week because I have noticed a definite lessening in movement. Not a bad lessening... More like she's spending more time sleeping, which is probably a good thing because it seemed like she never stopped punching and kicking!

[professional Mini Moo Listening Device]

Dear Baby Girl,

You are such a mystery to me. This week your Papa tried to hear your heart beat through a toilet tube (a book told us that it would work) but it didn't work. He said he could hear lots of things, but none of them obviously you. I'm keeping the "listening device" for the future when you get bigger, maybe we'll be able to hear you then. (Don't worry, in 2011 we do have technology to listen properly... This was just something fun we did one night to entertain ourselves)

I love finding out more about you. Slowly, God is revealing more to me. When I was a teenager I always knew I would be married by 20 (even though I had no boyfriend and wasn't really interested in them either) and I knew I would have started our family by the time I was 23 (even though I knew nothing about children and had no maternal instincts). I don't know why I thought that, but when I married your father when I was 20 I knew that we would be starting our family shortly. Plans were made and it seemed like we wouldn't be starting our family for another few years. As I prayed about this I realised that there were other ways I could "have children". I was going to go to Africa and expected to fall in love over there, I expected to home a young primal girl who had no family... I was open to the possibilities of what "having children" meant. Then, [a good] surprise, you came along. You will be here just intime to celebrate my 23rd birthday and I couldn't be more thrilled. I thank God for the seeds he planted in my heart 6 or 7 years ago before I even knew Him, or your Papa, or you. 

I tell you this journey not to make you feel like you weren't planned... It is such a blessing to know that you were planned, so many years ago, since the beginning of time by your Creator. I trust and believe with all of my heart that you are a gift from God, and I will look after you on behalf of Him who sent you just as He will look after you too.

Be blessed little one. 

Love, Mama.

Dearest Father in Heaven,

Today amongst others I am so thankful for your devine power. Thank you for your plan that you have had for so many years and thank you that I am apart of it. I feel so blessed and honoured that you would choose ME, of all people, to carry your daughter into this world. Please help Graeme and I in everything we do for your little one because for the most part we have no idea what we are doing :)

Thank you,

Sophie

Easter Weekend

Well, let me tell you! I have had the best weekend!

Mostly, I watched a lot of Lost (up to season 3.5, don't spoil it) but that also involved awesome friends, some quality time with the Hubs, great food, Church and celebrations, hot cross buns, creme eggs, BBQs, board games and card games, awesome weather and general happiness <3

Graeme and I managed to slip in some time to eat ice-creams in Sumner while doing some Earthquake tourism (We haven't really gotten out much and seen the city to be honest). It was wonderful and the sun was just setting.

(Taken on Graeme's iPhone)

On [resurrection] Sunday we had 2 Church services to attend. After the morning service we had a great big [free] feast. Graeme and I were on Potato Salad Serving Duty (we were the best). I'm not sure how many people were there, but they filled up our whole auditorium and it was honestly such a delight to have them in Church to celebrate Jesus' sacrifice and resurrection! I seriously met so many new people who have been coming to our Church for a few weeks now and somehow they had evaded my eyeline. So glad I got to meet many people and make some new friends! It seems C3 is growing right under our noses.   

  (Photos taken curtosy of Matt Lang of http://www.mattlang.co.nz/)

 (Photos taken curtosy of Matt Lang of http://www.mattlang.co.nz/)

 (Photos taken curtosy of Matt Lang of http://www.mattlang.co.nz/)

At the end of both Church services we also celebrated Baptisms - a bunch of people were baptised symbolising their death to sin and resurrection into Gods Grace! What a special weekend to be baptised too! Congratulations if that was you!

I have so much to be thankful for on the anniversary of my saviours betrayal, death and resurrection - but mostly I am thankful that it was him who took up the cross when certainly, I should have been there. For all of my sins, I deserve that death. The difference is, I would have been guilty and I would still be in the tomb. Thankfully, Jesus was guilty of nothing, was the Son of God and he rose from the dead, sealing our salvation. What a man!

Happy Easter!

Christchurch Earthquake

[As this is my blog, I am writing this for myself in years to come, not you for the here and now. It is unfinished and unedited]

A week ago on Tuesday 22nd February 2011 at 12.50 pm, I was getting ingredients out of our pantry to make my own pizza dough to take to our young married couples connect group that night. After activating the yeast I planned to jump on the closest bus and make my way into town for a job interview that afternoon. Realising I did not know the recipe off the top of my head, I went down to our bedroom to pick up my laptop to Google search it.

Without any warning I was thrown sideways by the moving ground and a great banging sound. I ended up on top of our bed and had dropped my laptop to the floor. Immediately our TV unit and dutchess landed exactly where I had been standing moments before hand.

In moments I decided to shelter in the corner of the room ontop of our bed rather than in the door way. A TV was now between me and the doorway and I thought if the house came down on top of me I would want to be as close to the outside as possible.

I sheltered my face from the windows and braced my self in the corner of the room and pushed my head up into a shelf that was bracketed into the wall. The room was twisting and pulling and I had pictures of the roof caving in and all of the things in storage in the attic falling onto my head. The windows sounded like they were going to explode, they rattles and banged and a number of times I was kicked from the wall onto the bed with the force of the movements.

I was scared and confused.

I suddenly realised that I was shouting "Jesus" frantically over and over again. This wasn't a curse or swear word, it was a plea for help. Once I realised I was praying I decided to focus on that and direct my prayers. "Jesus with Graeme, Jesus with me, help, lives". Broken sentences were my prayers of desperation.

I glanced outside and could see the neighbours house was still standing, that brought me comfort.

I looked up at the roof, it looked like it was twisting and bending, I was expecting it to snap. I kept picturing myself buried amongst timber and bricks, in that moment I told myself I would fight for my life.

After 20 seconds of a 6.8 magnitude earthquake centered only a few kilometers from our home, the shaking stopped as quickly as it had begun and was then promptly followed by another. After the second, I collected myself and my cellphone and bolted through the house and out the door. I didn't even pay attention to the rest of the house even though I had to jump over broken glass, push blocked doors open and climb over suitcases.

I made it out to the street where house and car alarms were piercing the air, water was filling the gutters from broken mains, cracks were in the road and a neighbours brick fence had come down.

Neighbours were hugging each other. A stranger asked if I was okay and all I could say in the moment of shock was "Holy Crap", he replied "I know."

I went to check on elderly people sheltering on their porch and as I called out, another big rumble came and I held onto the lamppost which looked ready to snap. Boulders fell from the hills that were behind us and left plumes of dust in the air.

I pulled out my cellphone and text Graeme to see if he was okay, he replied immediately, and then I text my mother who lives out of town that I was "ok and not to call" and then I put my phone away. From experience I knew that the phone lines would over load and Graeme was all I needed to hear from in that moment.

The next few hours are a blur - I sat in our driveway as the after shocks continued, I had no cell reception or power, and I felt extremely out of the loop and alone. I knew at the time that people were fighting for their lives and there was nothing I could do.

Graeme arrived home dusty, tired and exhausted. When I asked him how he was he looked and me and his eyes welled up. I found out he had pulled people from buildings, some concious, some appeared to be lifeless.

I cannot imagine what that does to a person - the deceased, their families and community, and the rescuers. I knew in that moment that it would take years to recover and it was so much bigger than I could comprehend.

I thanked God that my little family was okay - Graeme, myself and Mini-Moo. And I prayed that while we were okay, God would look after every other little family too.

[to be continued...]

Integrity

Generally speaking, I am a sinner who is a lier, a complainer, self focused and with an ego by nature.

Despite all of this, I am trying to be a person of integrity in everything I do because a lot of the times I fail at this.

As Christians most of us have not grasped the fact that what we say and do directly comes from what we really believe and think.

Although to do this on our own would be considered works based, I am aiming to do this with God as my convictor.

I am praying that he would open my eyes and help me to be a better person and to represent him well.

[I believe that it is important to constantly evaluate the fruits of salvation in your life and to do something about the results. If you are lacking in this area as I am, or any other area, I hope you pray too.]

Christmas Day

For Graeme and I, Christmas day was first spent together over a cup of coffee, then a lot of present opening and sunshine and backyard games at the Mutu's, and then lots of laughs and drinks at the Hawes'.

I had a great Christmas Day and really enjoyed myself. Both places we went to really outdid themselves with all the food and good stuff happening, I feel like I stretched my tummy so much because I'm still so hungry and its Monday now! At the end of the night I fell asleep on the couch and was woken up a few hours later when it was home time!

My "commercial free" Christmas was a success. We were still given presents, and I appreciated the ones we did get A LOT, because I seriously wasn't expecting anything. Also, we handmade a few gifts to give to a few people. So, I did not spend a second longer in a mall than I needed too, and I loved that aspect. This is definitely something I want to install in our family in the future, surprisingly Graeme went along with my plan and I think it worked out well for both of us :)

Here's out christmas at the Mutus...

 The sunblock dance

 We got a swingball set for Christmas! Hoorah! 

We hope you all had a wonderful day with lots of family and friends, joy and celebration for the greatest birthday in history! Jesus, we love you, and we love celebrating you!

Be safe on the roads this holiday season xx

Thanksgiving

Jesus, for everything you have done for me, when I least deserved it. And even now, when I still haven't learn't, I still stumble, you continue to offer me the grace to get through each day.

Graeme, for leading our family and being strong. With Jesus we can get through each day and I am so thankful that you rely on him too. I respect you even more.

Family, for teaching me a lot about being a citizen in this world. I realise now that you were my cheerleaders all along and taught me so much about life. Thank you for pushing me to try new things and supporting my hair brained schemes.

Friends, old and new, for coming into my life and making it a brighter place. I am looking forward with hope that we will grow closer together in the future and support each other as we all lead such different lives.

Steve & Dawn for being such great supports this year. You two are the closest, wisest, funnest, smartest, supportive and caring-est pastors I know.

Internship, for teaching me about real ministry, for making me realise what I care about and for rediscovering those forgotten prophecies and callings spoken long ago.

House, for your all day sunshine and happy place.

Connect group, for teaching me about 'doing life together' and making it a joy to lead.

New Zealand, for the safety and comfort you offer, and the beauty that surrounds me.

Today I am very thankful. Last night our connect group celebrated Thanksgiving and I was so overwhelmed when everyone declared what they were thankful for. It made me realise how good God is and how much he is inspiring and working in our lives. Incredibly thankful that I am on this journey today and looking forward to what tomorrow will bring.

What are you thankful for?