Wednesday, September 5, 2007

Greetings!


See what no eye can see, go where no foot can go, choose that which is no choice–then you may hear what makes no sound–God’s voice.

- Angelus Silsius (Quoted in How Shall We Live by Joan Chittister, OSB)

Classes started yesterday. Yeah!

At my work we're thinking about how to reach out to Somali parents to tell them about how they can get help for their children, if their children are struggling. Some children are not coping well because of their experiences in refugee camps, experiences of the civil war, etc. What's interesting is that a lot of parents believe that problems are related to not being obedient and in touch with God. As a result, they may not want to look for other kinds of help because they feel like they should just struggle through.

I thought this was interesting because it was so similar to a lot of Christians. God is with us, God has healed us of all our pain before we even ask, but I strongly believe we also have to work through things-- deaths, relationships, work, study-- in a healthy way. We can't just expect things to go away if we pray about them. Rather, we have to have faith in the end result, but really have to work hard at the things in the middle, so that we can retain or regain the joy that we're promised. I would like to have this approach with the things I go through, and also with other people who need support. Empathy is a powerful thing.

Thank you for praying for me, and for Eugene and I. Please continue to lift us up in prayer, as we lift you up, too. It's an awesome way to have fellowship together.

Yesterday I went over Day 5 of Purpose Driven Life. It has a lot more meaning trying to go through the book a second time, I highly recommend trying it out twice. Anyway, it emphasizes that Christians should approach life as a test. From this perspective, events are meant as a training time. Two verses (Using the Message translation) stood out:
God keeps his promise, and he will not test you beyond your power to remain firm; at the time you are put to the test, he will give you the strength to endure it, and so provide you with a way out.
and
Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Come and share your master's happiness.

Have an great Wednesday!

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