The Lie...

The lie....

You know you've boughten the lie when your worth is determined by the size of your waist, the size of your chest, length of your hair, size of your jeans and the digits in your bank account.

Young girls and women are chasing the false image of beauty and success. It's not determined by the amount of lace we wear, and the amount of cleavage we possess while wearing it. Pin up girls are being idolized and woman of virtue and woman with conviction mocked. Don't buy the lie.

Proverbs 31, is one of my favourite chapters in the Word. When I read it, it's empowering! It's encouraging. They aren not talking about a silenced weakling. They are talking about a capable, compassionate, hardworking woman!  That's who I desire to model my life after.

Here's a few of my favourite verses....

Who can find a virtuous and capable wife? She is more precious than rubies...

(She has standards, is efficient and her wealth isn't determined by her bank account.)

She is energetic and strong,

(She's ready to take on todays' challenges with a jump in her step, she knows her strength is in the Lord.)

She extends a helping hand to the poor and opens her arms to the needy.

(She's not selfish, she's compassionate and giving.)

Her husband is well known at the city gates, where he sits with other civic leaders.

(They have a sphere of influence)

When she speaks, her words are wise.

(She's not a gossip, she thinks before she speaks)

Her children stand and bless her, Her husband praises her.

(She's a woman who is valued in her home. What could be more precious than this?)

Charm is deceptive and beauty does not last, but a woman who fears the Lord will be greatly praised. 

She's a woman who fears the Lord, who loves the Lord. 

Your worth comes from Him! 

Over the last few weeks I have sat with many girls and woman. These woman I consider to be heroes.  Their hearts are beautiful. Their words and stories, inspiring. They radiate and ooze out the Love of Christ. They have their eyes locked into His. Come trial or tribulation, their trust is in the Lord. Tears spill from their eyes knowing the things they face are temporary, they are storing up eternal rewards. Their beauty radiates because His love is penetrating through them. This is captivating. They are the women who may fly under the radar.  The women with a children on their hips. Women with oodles of children in tow and women with grey hair. These woman are far more beautiful than a pin up girl. They are storing up heavenly treasures and passing up temporal satisfaction. 

I'd encourage you to to open His word and allow it to reveal how He sees you. You are His daughter. His child. There is value and an incredible beauty inside of you! Don't buy the lie.....

Thanksgiving

Well ladies, I'm back at it! For many weeks, so many have asked if I BLOG. My answer was...  I will.  I did... and I will again. I use to blog... often. I love sharing with other women what God is doing in my life, in our lives. We've always been very transparent, an 'open book'. When I sit in the company of other women...other mentors, I treasure their transparency. Not to reveal or to expose them, but because I desire to learn. Whether it be from others successes, failures or accomplishments, I want to learn from their experiences. I desire to be challenged. To spurred on, not only in my faith but with my family, as a wife, and as a leader. I've grown most not by those who are the most polished, but by those who are most transparent. Today was a day so simple, and yet so profound. I wrestled with 'IF' I should share our day with you, because I desire to receive eternal rewards more than earthy glory. I believe my heart is pure in sharing this, it's not out of boasting but out of how God can speak in the little things IF we lay down what we're doing, in order to hear Him. How He CAN and WILL use anyone, anyone willing. 

 Early this morning Jamie, went out bird hunting. We had arranged with my brother and sisters to go to a local apple orchard with all the children midmorning when he was back. It's been a family tradition for years. There's a train, a sandpit and a fantastic little shop. Rumour had it they were charging an admission this year. $5.50/per person and that's not including apples. 
My sisters and I were texting back and forth... should we go, or shouldn't we?! 

I had snuck away for my quiet time while Jamie was hunting, still a few hours before we were to leave. The older children were sleeping and the littles were playing quietly around the house. I have been reading through the account of Joseph in Genesis. Man, it's such a powerful account in history! Instantly when I was done I grabbed my phone. It was about that time....you know... the time that I should be checking over twitter, fb or Instagram to see what everyone's been up to. I felt convicted.  I'd prayed... I'd read...but I hadn't listened.  I put the phone down. I asked the Lord to show me something,  He did. He showed me things deep within me... that's when I heard it, saw it, felt it. Instantly, "Commercialism" came to me. We were going to pay over $70 to go make a memory, the same memory we've made for the last 18 years. It's been a consumer mentality. We've received MUCH. Fun, apples, fudge, cider, animals, pumpkins and more fudge!! Now, please don't get me wrong. I LOVE the whole idea of "Apple World", but I believe the Lord was showing me something different today, for me, for us, for our family. I was trying to justify the cost because I'd felt we were ripping our children off if we didn't go. After all, this is what we did! This is what we've done, and yet..I didn't feel completely at peace. Everyone goes! Everyone posts pictures! Everyone makes this memory.... every fall! I have pictures of our oldest when she was 1, 2, 3....she's now 17... you get the picture! Every year we have photos of us all posing with apples and pumpkins. 
We've been there, we've done that.... 
God was trying to speak, trying to do a new thing, in me, in us, in our family.

 He gave me a plan. I text my sister and called my brother. "Yep, we're in...let's do it!" They said. The meeting place had changed. No longer were we meeting at 'Apple World', but in our kitchen. My brother, sisters and 9 children gathered (5 of them 4 and under.) and we started cooking, baking, chopping, bagging, and prepping. The Lord had called us to the streets in our city. To serve the poor on THIS Thanksgiving! We made a few crock pots full of chili and ham. We individually bagged crackers, burnt cupcakes to the point of no return, made Rice Krispy Squares...whatever we had on hand we tried to put to use. The children helped, they played, they snacked, and they watched. Then we ALL went to the streets. Our friend met us there with her daughter. They had bought a massive bag of buns for Thanksgiving yesterday and they didn't get used. She'd just stated to her husband that morning... "What are we going to do with all these buns!"... God had a plan! We set up on the main street across from the Methadone Clinic. Jamie and Joel walked the streets looking here and there for those needing a hot meal. The children served napkins, cutlery, clapped when someone came, chimed in with 'God Bless You, Happy Thanksgiving!' to each person who came. Jase pronounced ' We have more customers, with eager excitement as the poor, the sick, the addicts came'. God was doing something..something in me, in us, in our family... He was showing us what THANKSGIVING is all about. It's about "Living Thanks", as Jamie preached about on Sunday morning.

 The lame came, the deaf came, the poor came, the bound came. We touched them, they touched us. We then moved locations looking for more people to bless THIS Thanksgiving. Again we were blessed by a new group of people that WE could celebrate a quick Thanksgiving meal with. We ran out of food... but we were still able to feed, to bless and to minister to many. 
Some were prayed with. Some were not. 
Some were merely given a small hot meal on the go... so simple. ---- 

I'm thankful. 
I'm thankful that God is always speaking. 
He's always calling.
He's always ministering...
Today what we were called to do was simple.
It wasn't flashy. 
It was free. We grabbed what we had on hand and used it to bring Glory to God! 
We can all do that. 
We can all Go. 
We can all minister.
We can all be the LIGHT to someone, somewhere. 
We have to be willing.
It may not be the streets.. but it will be somewhere. 
We have to be willing to let go of the old and grab onto the new. 
We have to be willing to the the little ones...even if it's inconvenient.
I 'd felt to share this to encourage you, to encourage others. 
Sometimes we wait for the 'perfect moment'. 
For the children to be at a certain age. 
To have more than enough finances.
For someone to set up a big outreach. 
While God.... is just waiting ....for US to GO.... 
So this year, we don't have pictures in the 'Apple Orchard'... but we're okay with that. 

We still had an incredible dinner prepared by my Mom and Dad, in the company of my Grandparents, siblings, children and nieces and nephews. 

4 Generations, serving one God. Priceless.

 


We still had time for 'Bocce Ball'

 

 And 'Gourd Baseball'

And most of all, I had time to hear from the Lord...because I heeded to His whisper. I pray you all had a fabulous Thanksgiving too. So many ways, so many things to give thanks for! 



Prov. 19:17 When you help the poor you are lending to the Lord--and he pays wonderful interest on your loan! 

 Prov. 22:9 Happy is the generous man, the one who feeds the poor.

Embracing the Process

My days are filled. Filled with laughing, laundry, cooking, children, crafts, coffee dates and more. Each morning when I wake, I curl up on the couch with a hot cup of tea & my bible. I seek the Lord for guidance, peace and direction for the day. I ask Him to show me things throughout the day. Somedays, what He shows me is more clear than other days. For my Father in Laws 60th, I was desiring to get a unique picture of the children taken and blown up for him. So, one afternoon as the warm sun beat into the living room, it drew me to the window. The rays were bouncing off the a freshly laid sheet of snow, I thought..this is it! I called to the children and said "It's go time! Brush your hair & teeth and put something clean on". We whipped out the door and drove to the destination I'd previously envisioned. We drove down a long icy path only to see a HUGE gate across the property, with a 'CLOSED' sign on the gate. The park was closed for the winter. I sighed as we turned the big ol' van around and said, 'Keep your eyes open for anything, anything that looks like it would be a great back drop for the picture." The sun was going down, so my mind was racing on where to go next. Then it came to me, there's a gorgeous old barn by my parents place that I've so desired to use in a shoot. As the non-stop on-coming traffic was coming, we could see the barn, it was perfect! I pulled the van into the lot and we were stopped by a rickety old wire fence. It was marked 'NO TRESPASSING'. This barn was abandoned! Surely it was no biggie! The pictures of what could be, was racing through my head. Then... I saw an opening in the gate, someone had gone before us and cut us a way. Thank you Lord, provision, surely He had cut the path?! I said, "Do you think we can fit through that opening?" to the children. As the words left my mouth, I felt convicted. No trespassing meant no trespassing, and my two oldest children confirmed that with a 'Mom, we can't do that, it's not right.' Instantly frustrated and annoyed we got back on the road. Two for two! We were now stuck in traffic and were headed to an out of town park. It has an incredible little bridge, it would be perfect, we could make it work! The sun was going down, but there was still more than enough light for a great shot. The children filed out of the van in suit. Although, by now it was close to dinner time and they were hungry! I had a mission and their hunger and fatigue was not going to cramp my style. I'd promised donuts to all those who were compliant... but to no avail. They didn't see the vision I had seen, they hadn't pictured what I had pictured. I didn't get one frame. Not one photo. Our two oldest and youngest smiled throughout all of the shots, but our other two couldnt' be encouraged, couldn't bare it. They cried. They had the big ol' crocodile tears just a flowing! After trying to snap through the tears, we left the park. I was now hungry, upset and wanted to cry. NO DONUTS was declared, as I buckled my belt. As we were driving home, my oldest daughter knew I was frustrated. We now had no present for Grandpa and no chocolate covered donuts. We continued driving and I saw something blue out of the corner of my eye... it was a big rusty old blue garbage bin. It was dirty, it had garbage billowing out of the top and graffiti all over the side of it. I said, 'Doo....do you think we could use that?' Without much time for response I cranked the wheel and headed left towards it. We had one more chance! We pulled over on the side of the busy road, and again we filed out of the van. The Tim Hortons across the road kept their eyes on the prize this time! 'Smiling = Donuts', repeat 'Smiling = Donuts'! The only thing that kept us from the bin was a small stream. Obviously frozen as we live in Canada, I put our youngest in my arms, camera around my neck and walked across, and instantly the ice broke and I was ankle deep in what I would describe as a thick brown grossness! The other children were standing on the bank, thinking I'd obviously can the whole thing... but I couldn't we'd come to far, we'd gone through to much! A picture is what we were after and a picture we would retrieve! So, before they even thought about doing a 180, I said, I'm already here, make a run for it! With the enthusiasm in my voice, they knew there was no choice. Trench foot for everyone! So, one by one they ventured across. With dancing donuts racing through their heads, they smiled, they complied ...only for a few moments, but for enough to put handles on the vision I had originally seen. It may have looked different, but the idea, the concept... a picture of dear grandchildren was captured!
I was reminded by the Lord that sometimes what we envision isn't always as attainable as we think. There's a process, not one many are willing to take. There are road blocks. There are situations we come to where we could do the easy thing, but it doesn't mean it's the right thing. We share the vision and some of the ones that surround us seem on board until there's inconvenience. Some may growl over their glasses, cry and complain.

Sometimes we, or others around us are easily distracted. The process at times seems almost unbearable. At times, no matter what the prize we can loose focus. We loose focus of the 'what could have been' or 'what is to be', because of our selfishness. Us wanting to do our own thing, not willing to be compliant or be obedient.

But I'm encouraging you, to embrace the process! Don't give up on yourself! Don't give up just because those around you may not be seeing what you see! Press on, persevere and don't lose focus! If He's given you the vision, He will walk through the process with you, seeing it to completion! Amen!
Galations 6:9 says 'So let’s not get tired of doing what is good. At just the right time we will reap a harvest of blessing if we don’t give up.'

Often times He takes the Gross situations and turns them into pictures of perfection! The garbage heap, the grossness... it's all used for His glory, He'll find the beauty in it!

So, if you want to hear more from the Lord, ask Him to speak to you through your situations, you'll be amazed at what He shows you!

Calm before the....

I wanted to capture some pictures of where we've spent our last week! It's truly incredible that all this has been set up in 4 days! Our children have thrown their coats and boots on each day as we've gone over to set up. They love being a part of what's going on. They love coming alongside and helping with whatever might need to be done. Whether it be sorting, arranging, dressing STELLA (the mannequin), or using the carpet sweeper (do I ever love that they love that job!)they are eager to serve. I've loved hearing their voices and laughter through the isles of clothing as they played tag, or hide-and-seek with the other children.
Praying for incredible opportunities tomorrow

Our Welcome Area, getting to meet the faces of those in our community!

Our middle daughter and her best friend both 4 yrs old, organized all the children's shoes, they had such a fab time modeling them. Never to young to fall in love with shoes :)

Accessory Central! Lots of great scarves, earrings, bracelets and TONS of handbags!

The Goods...

Stella, the mannequin! Outfit put together by: Ry&Kara Design... our two little assistants!

New to YOU Clothesline!

Here we are in yet another cold Canadian winter! The snow this year has been incredible! There's been no need for making snow forts as it seems they just appear on your front lawn. Feet and feet of snow! Each year for the past few years, we've hit the streets in London and run a coat drive. We've gathered coats, boots, hats, mitts etc. and those who have a heart for the homeless, and the addicts. We've had an incredible team each year whose desire isn't to brag on what they've done, but those who have the heart of the Father filled with compassion desiring nothing more than to share a hot breakfast, coffee and the message of Christ with those they'd come in contact with that day.

This year, we felt to do something different. For the past month we've been gathering clothing from friends, family, neighbours, co-workers etc, and are running a 'Free Used Clothing Store' in our building. We had a pile of bags donated. Last night while we were sorting, I'm not kidding when I say the clothing is multiplying. The bags that came in, compared to the clothing that's hung is NOT comparable. The room is literally filled with all kinds of goodness! Incredible finds and name brands, some clothing with tags still attached. The people who gave, didn't give their rags! Truly the spirit of giving and unity is in the house. Those donating from other churches and local businesses. Volunteers coming from near and far to help bless the community He's entrusted us with. Here's a preview of the 'Clothesline' in it's beginning stages! Pray that lives will be touched and forever changed as they come through our doors of The Sanctuary. We're praying for MUCH opportunity to share the life changing gospel Jesus Christ with who come through our doors this Saturday!

Our helpers came big and small. This is just the start of the children's shoes, I think we have close to 100 pairs.

Back at it!

Well, I find it hard to believe it's been over two years since I last blogged! I so desire to share with you what 'Spire Jewels' is all about. Please, let me set the stage. Last May I had the privledge of meeting a group of people that for 2 years I had heard so many incredible stories about. My husband Jamie had been going to Rwanda, and ministering to the people there for over two years. I had heard testimonies, miracles, healings... I had heard about wrestling matches, games, weddings, and so much more. I couldn't help but feel their laughter and tears through every photo I encountered. The Lord blessed us with three babies back to back, so I hadn't had the desire, nor felt released to physically go to Rwanda until this past May. What an honour! After being in Rwanda for two weeks, the Lord started birthing things inside of me. Desires and plans for the women and children there. We are set to go back again in the spring, this time our oldest daughter is going with us. For months we have been speaking 'creative ideas and inventions' to come across our congregations paths. One day while checking my email, I came across a link, I clicked it ... and instantly...and I mean instantly something inside of me awoke. I clicked through a few pictures, then went through them again. I knew this was something I was to do. I was Inspired by this jewelry. Hence 'SPIRE JEWELS'. I wasn't looking for a hobbie or another thing to throw on my plate, but there was an excitement inside of me. Almost instantly I called for my oldest son..... we are two peas in a pod, always up for excitement and an adventure! I said 'get on your coat', (now he's homeschooled, so when he realizes he's being released from his work... yeeow the smile and excitment that lights up in this boy is electrifying.) He said 'Where are we going?" I said "Antique shopping.... well the excitement drained from his face... but not from mine, I ran out the door with him in tow! As I was barging out the door, I realized I'd never been antique shopping or even knew where an shop was....but thanks to the good old blackberry we found our way! As soon as we graced the doors of the shop, I felt as though I was in my grandmothers house, the beauty the furniture was incredible. We peered through booths and shelves until we found what we had come for..... BUTTONS! I know the crazy homeschooling button collector... call me what you will, but I believe this idea fell in my lap, not by accident, but was a God ordained opportunity for me to raise and help fund our mission to Rwanda. I do not know the lady whose pictures I came across on the net, I still am not sure how the link or pictures crossed my path. She lives in another country. But one thing I do know is that our God is a God who aligns things. I know there are times in our lives we feel as if we aren't making a difference. We wonder if we are inspiring anyone to go on and be all that God's ordained and called them to be... but let me tell you I believe the Lord spoke prophetically to me through this. We have no idea, who we are influencing, who we are inspiring. Some people we'll meet and some we won't. But know that your live counts, that you are making a difference. That you have the potential to influence many...whether you see them or not, people are watching. So live your life.. make it count!

Crowns....here or there?

Well here I am, as I sit here waiting for our littlest one to surrender for the night, I am pondering and thinking on all that God has really laid on my heart the last few weeks.

God has really been doing some "REAL DEAL" things in my life. Finding out who and what is the real deal. Searching hearts and motives, in my own life as well as in others. Finding out whose really in it for HIM, and whose really in it for themselves. Not really looking at others but really searching deep within myself to make sure all I am, all I do, and all I live for is the One I am living for. 

As I was bathing the babe tonight, I was overwhelmed with the thought of "How many people are receiving their crowns now?" "The Glory, the Honour and Fame"  How many are receiving their treasures now? Although the Lord has been speaking to me about things that kind of align with this, this saying got me to stop and think. How many ministries or lives are drawing more attention to themselves than to God. It caused me to stop and really seek Him. "God I don't want to receive my crowns here. I want to receive them in your presence, I want to throw them at your feet when I come face to face with you.  I want my work and live here to bring Glory, Honour and Fame to You and You alone. I want and deeply desire for you to be exalted and followed...not man"  

We watched an awesome movie last night "SECOND CHANCE" that really captures my hearts desire. To really do His work, no matter where it is. Whether it in the ghetto, to the homeless, to the rejected...I will work wherever and with whomever He's called me to. 

I challenge you too, to not get caught up with the titles, positions, don't go looking for praise among man. Serve Him with all your heart with all you have. Then when the time comes you'll be thankful He was taking notice of you the whole time!  You'll have much to show for it, in His presence as you cast your many crowns at His feet.