Today I pulled out my application for the education program that I am going to be applying for for next fall. I wanted to ask my supervisor at work for a reference. However, I read over the FAQ they attach to the application and read about the kind of references they want.
The first reference is from someone regarding work with kids that I have had. I already asked the lady in charge of my church's mid week kids program if she would give me a reference regarding this, and she said she would. The next reference is with an academic reference. I've emailed one of the profs I've had quite a bit, as I am sure he will give me a good reference. The thing is, he is on sabatacle this year. I am hoping that he reads his school email frequently and still uses it even though he's not there this year. Someone told me that he is supposed to be going away this semester so that scares me...that he either won't get the email or that I won't be able to get a reference from him. I have another prof on back-up that I will ask if this one can't (this second prof has actually recommended me as a tutor for the Religious Studies courses, for the students at school who need it, so maybe he'd be able to give me a good one as well).
The third one is giving me problems. I have decided that a reference from my supervisor won't do because they one one that will tie things together and be a well rounded one that will give support to being a teacher and being in the education program...or something like that. I have absolutely no clue who to ask for this, or what it really means. So, tonight I have emailed the registrar in charge of the education program to find out if she can lead me in the right direction. I don't know if it would be acceptable to have the teacher I help at Sunday school (the beginner's class - kindergarten to grade 2) as the third reference or what (I asked that in the email). Hopefully I'll hear back soon as to what they are looking for.
I have been feeling...I don't know...down I guess, or maybe afraid today because of this whole Education program thing. Let me explain a little so that it might help you understand what or why I am in this spot.
When I felt the time came that I needed a change in my life, work was really getting to me. I had been in a somewhat dead end job for nearly 12 years. I was about as far up the ladder as I could go there, which wasn't the problem. The problem was that it was data entry, and I was sick and tired of that kind of work. I was only trained in office work and I no longer had any interest in this sort of thing at all. It made me feel sick to think that was the kind of work I would have to do for the rest of my life. Don't get me wrong, I don't think there is anything wrong with office work or anything...I was just sick and tired of it. I needed a change. I was also getting carpal tunnel, and not long before applying for school, I actually did get it in my left wrist and it was progressing in my right one.
So, I prayed a lot about going back to school...because that is what I would need to do. I had no idea what I wanted to do, or what I should do. It was then that people who didn't know I was even thinking about going back to school started asking me if I had ever thought about being a teacher because I was good with the kids. They told me they could see a twinkle in my eye when I was around them and that I seemed to work well with them. They told me that I would make a good teacher.
I started praying and felt that my direction was being strengthened to go back to school. I talked to the admissions people and found out that I would need to get my BA (Bachelor of Arts) before I could get my BEd (Bachelor of Education). So, I began to pray about what I should take for my BA and felt the Lord direct me to Biblical Studies. Now, before I go on, I've had people tell me that of course God would want me to take that since it's about the Bible and about Him. However, I firmly believe that if God wanted me to take Psychology or something else He would have led me to that. I believe that God has me in the Biblical Studies program for a reason, and not just to learn about Him.
I had also prayed a lot about becoming a teacher (prior to praying about the BA thing) and felt led to this. I felt that the comments people had made were a confirmation that this was the right direction for me. I had all the faith in the world that the Lord wanted me to go back to school and become a teacher.
So, that isn't the problem. The problem for me is that somewhere along the way I started doubting and second-guessing myself. I wonder to myself sometimes if I am doing what God really wants me to do, or if it was just me wanting to do this. I start thinking what if I apply for the education and I don't get in...does that mean I wasn't following God's will for my life but following my own desires? I know that satan could be filling me with doubt, causing me to fell this way.
I am afraid that I won't get into the Education program after all this work, after believing that this was the path God wanted me on. I am afraid that somewhere along the way I stopped having faith and stopped believing that I am doing God's will in this. This doesn't consume me every minute of the day mind you...but today I have really been mulling it over in my mind.
I have been praying that the Lord will let me know who I should ask for the third reference. I have been praying that my marks will be good enough, that He will give me the words to say on the essay part of the application, that I will be granted an interview and get accepted into the program. I know there are areas I need to learn and improve upon in my teaching skills, but isn't that what the education program is about?
I am afraid that if I don't get in, it will be because I started doubting, and stopped trusting. I know that if this is God's will/plan for my life I will get accepted. But what if I don't? Then what? A Bachelor of Arts doesn't really give you anything. I don't want to feel that I have wasted 4 years of my life (especially since I'm getting close to 40) and created a big debt from student loans for nothing.
I am trying to trust God in this. I am trying to believe that He will get me into the program, that He didn't bring me to get this education for nothing. I knew going into this that it would be a long haul (6 years in total), and I don't think He would bring through this far to drop me on my butt and laugh at me for believing that I could be a teacher.
I'm just rambling now I think...more to get this off my chest and just ask for prayer and guidance and wisdom in all of this. Also I need prayers that I will trust and believe that God will bring me through this. I feel weak (not physically, but spiritually and emotionally), but I guess that is good because it is in my weakness that God is made strong...that His strength can get me through this. I just have a huge fear about this. I don't want to fail at this. I don't want to not get into the program. I don't want to fear...I want to trust and believe but I am having a hard time with it in this situation for some reason.
Anyway, I would appreciate some prayer for this. I don't want to worry and fret about it. I want to know that this is what God wants for me and to stop fearing. But it keeps niggling at my mind today and it wont stop.
Thursday, December 29, 2005
Tuesday, December 27, 2005
Post-Christmas Post
Well, Christmas is over and I think it went well. I made it to church and enjoyed the service (the pastor spoke on John 1 about Jesus being with God and was God in the beginning, and how He was made flesh and dwelled among us). There were several people there, but not as many as I had thought might be - though I do know several families were away so they obviously weren't going to be there, and I am sure there were some who just didn't want to attend for various reasons.
My family gathered together after church (I was the only one who went) and had our dinner when I got home and before we could really finish eating (we didn't even get to the pie) before my little nephew started rummaging through the presents wanting to open them. It was great fun though watching him open all his gifts.
Since Christmas I have really felt the desire to have children yet again. It was really strong on Christmas day at church when they had a baby dedication for a little girl who was probably only a couple of weeks old. It actually brought tears to my eyes, not because I was jealous or because it was overly touching (though I always like the baby dedications). No, the desire I had was so strong that I was wishing it were me up there having my baby dedicated.
I think that these feelings might be being triggered because my birthday is coming up and I'll be 37 and still unmarried. I just feel like I'm getting old and my time for having kids is running out. I know God has a plan for my life, but I don't know if it involved being married and having kids, and that is what is scary. I know his plan is for the best for me, but it can get hard at times not knowing.
I'm not feeling pity for myself or anything like that, and in fact I've been better since then; however, the desires are still there and I'm trying to give it all to God and let him control the situation...but again, that is hard.
Anyway, change of topic. One of the gifts I got my nephew for Christmas was a sweater that I made for him. I finished it up Christmas Eve Day, and everyone seemed to like it. Here is a picture I took of the sweater. Some people were asking to see a picture of it when I was done, so here is the long promised picture of the sweater...
My family gathered together after church (I was the only one who went) and had our dinner when I got home and before we could really finish eating (we didn't even get to the pie) before my little nephew started rummaging through the presents wanting to open them. It was great fun though watching him open all his gifts.
Since Christmas I have really felt the desire to have children yet again. It was really strong on Christmas day at church when they had a baby dedication for a little girl who was probably only a couple of weeks old. It actually brought tears to my eyes, not because I was jealous or because it was overly touching (though I always like the baby dedications). No, the desire I had was so strong that I was wishing it were me up there having my baby dedicated.
I think that these feelings might be being triggered because my birthday is coming up and I'll be 37 and still unmarried. I just feel like I'm getting old and my time for having kids is running out. I know God has a plan for my life, but I don't know if it involved being married and having kids, and that is what is scary. I know his plan is for the best for me, but it can get hard at times not knowing.
I'm not feeling pity for myself or anything like that, and in fact I've been better since then; however, the desires are still there and I'm trying to give it all to God and let him control the situation...but again, that is hard.
Anyway, change of topic. One of the gifts I got my nephew for Christmas was a sweater that I made for him. I finished it up Christmas Eve Day, and everyone seemed to like it. Here is a picture I took of the sweater. Some people were asking to see a picture of it when I was done, so here is the long promised picture of the sweater...
It's made from Lion Brand Homespun (I think that's what it's called) yarn, and it is very soft and warm. It was easy to work with and I used 6.5mm needles and it knit up quite fast. I just hope I tied all the ends tight enough and with the right knot so that it doesn't fall apart lol. That's my big fear is that I'll make something for someone and they'll wash it and it will end up falling apart.
Anyway I have to get up early again for work tomorrow. Not sure how much longer I'll be going in - depends on the workload, if it dwindles down like it always does after Christmas, it wouldn't surprise me if I only work the rest of this week. We'll see. I'd like some time to myself over the break to do nothing but relax before going back to school and I will probably get it, just not sure how soon it will start. So, I will head off now and get a little knitting done before I head off to bed to get up early.
Have a Christ filled day!!
Saturday, December 24, 2005
What Else Can I Say?
I wanted to have a wonderful post for Christmas. I've been to many a blog over the last few weeks that have had excellent stories, poems, and discussions regarding the Christmas season. I don't know what else I can say that hasn't already been said.
I would like to take this opportunity to wish one and all a very blessed and Christ filled Christmas. As Christians, we all know the reason for the season is the birth of Jesus, the Christ/Messiah, the promised Saviour that the Lord God has sent to offer forgiveness of sins and eternal life to all who believe and confess that Jesus is Lord.
Christmas is not about the tree, the decorations, the presents, the singing, the snow, the lights, the parties, etc. No, Christmas is about a little tiny baby born over 2000 years ago who would grow up to give His life for us. Christmas is about Jesus, nothing more nothing less.
For those who happen to read this and are not Christians I urge you to seek Jesus, to ask questions. The Bible tells us that the only way to the Father (God) is through the Son (Jesus) and that only those who believe that Jesus is who He said He is and accepts Him as their personal Saviour will spend eternity in Heaven with Him.
The world is full of lies and half truths which try to tell us that Jesus is not the only way to heaven, or that it does not matter what we believe, or even that our works will get us to heaven. They are wrong. Satan has spread this garbage around and wants people to believe this so that they will not be on God's side. Let me tell you this...if you are not for God, you are against Him; that means that you side with satan, and while you may not practice 'satanic worship' believe me you ARE on satan's side. There are no two ways about it. Jesus is the ONLY way to heaven and eternal life.
So, this holiday season, remember that we celebrate CHRISTmas, the birth of Christ our Saviour.
What Child Is This
Why lies He in such mean estate,Where ox and ass are feeding?
So bring Him incense, gold and myrrh,Come peasant, king to own Him;
I would like to take this opportunity to wish one and all a very blessed and Christ filled Christmas. As Christians, we all know the reason for the season is the birth of Jesus, the Christ/Messiah, the promised Saviour that the Lord God has sent to offer forgiveness of sins and eternal life to all who believe and confess that Jesus is Lord.
Christmas is not about the tree, the decorations, the presents, the singing, the snow, the lights, the parties, etc. No, Christmas is about a little tiny baby born over 2000 years ago who would grow up to give His life for us. Christmas is about Jesus, nothing more nothing less.
For those who happen to read this and are not Christians I urge you to seek Jesus, to ask questions. The Bible tells us that the only way to the Father (God) is through the Son (Jesus) and that only those who believe that Jesus is who He said He is and accepts Him as their personal Saviour will spend eternity in Heaven with Him.
The world is full of lies and half truths which try to tell us that Jesus is not the only way to heaven, or that it does not matter what we believe, or even that our works will get us to heaven. They are wrong. Satan has spread this garbage around and wants people to believe this so that they will not be on God's side. Let me tell you this...if you are not for God, you are against Him; that means that you side with satan, and while you may not practice 'satanic worship' believe me you ARE on satan's side. There are no two ways about it. Jesus is the ONLY way to heaven and eternal life.
So, this holiday season, remember that we celebrate CHRISTmas, the birth of Christ our Saviour.
What Child Is This
What Child is this who, laid to restOn Mary’s lap is sleeping?
Whom angels greet with anthems sweet,While shepherds watch are keeping?
This, this is Christ the King,Whom shepherds guard and angels sing;
Haste, haste, to bring Him laud,The Babe, the Son of Mary.
Why lies He in such mean estate,Where ox and ass are feeding?
Good Christians, fear, for sinners hereThe silent Word is pleading.
Nails, spear shall pierce Him through,The cross be borne for me, for you.
Hail, hail the Word made flesh,The Babe, the Son of Mary.
So bring Him incense, gold and myrrh,Come peasant, king to own Him;
The King of kings salvation brings,Let loving hearts enthrone Him.
Raise, raise a song on high,The virgin sings her lullaby.
Joy, joy for Christ is born,The Babe, the Son of Mary.
(lyrics taken from: http://www.cyberhymnal.org/htm/w/h/whatcist.htm)
Wednesday, December 21, 2005
Just A Little Update
Well, I have been at work for three days now and it feels a lot longer than that. I would have thought my first day back would have gone by somewhat fast, considering I haven't done that work since August. However, the day just dragged on and on and on and on and on and...you get the picture.
Yesterday and today we were able to go in for 7am, but I got there around 7:15 or 7:30 and worked each day (including Monday) until 4:30. The days are long and do not move at any steady pace, but insist on slinking by slower than cold molassas running up the hill backwards! I'd like to say that the pay will be good, and it will, but a lot of it will go to the government who seems to think it necessary to take such a huge chunk of my cheque for taxes. Oh well, at least I am able to get a week or two of work over the holiday to give me some money for school.
I got my assessment for my student loan for the next semester, and it doesn't look like I will have much money left over for books and such. I fear that I won't have any money, that it will all go towards tuition and grad fees and such. Oh well, I will leave it in God's hands and He will take care of me through all of it...I am trusting Him to provide for me financially again. He's done it before in the past, and I know He can do it again; so I won't worry about it.
Well, I just wanted to post a little update. I'm gonna head out now to work on my knitting (the sweater I'm making my nephew for Christmas) so I can get it done on time. I am going to try to get to bed again early tonight (and hopefully tonight I will actually be able to get to sleep and not toss and turn for a couple hours and end up with only four hours of sleep) because we can go in to work as early as 6:30 tomorrow morning. I don't think I'll go in that early - maybe for 7:30, otherwise it makes too long of a day for me (which I'm not used to), and I don't want to end up just giving my pay cheque to the government...cause if I go in early (to which I do not get time and a half or anything luxurious as that), most of the 'extra' money I earn would only be deducted off the pay cheque for taxes anyway...
I hope you are all having blessed and Christ filled days!
Yesterday and today we were able to go in for 7am, but I got there around 7:15 or 7:30 and worked each day (including Monday) until 4:30. The days are long and do not move at any steady pace, but insist on slinking by slower than cold molassas running up the hill backwards! I'd like to say that the pay will be good, and it will, but a lot of it will go to the government who seems to think it necessary to take such a huge chunk of my cheque for taxes. Oh well, at least I am able to get a week or two of work over the holiday to give me some money for school.
I got my assessment for my student loan for the next semester, and it doesn't look like I will have much money left over for books and such. I fear that I won't have any money, that it will all go towards tuition and grad fees and such. Oh well, I will leave it in God's hands and He will take care of me through all of it...I am trusting Him to provide for me financially again. He's done it before in the past, and I know He can do it again; so I won't worry about it.
Well, I just wanted to post a little update. I'm gonna head out now to work on my knitting (the sweater I'm making my nephew for Christmas) so I can get it done on time. I am going to try to get to bed again early tonight (and hopefully tonight I will actually be able to get to sleep and not toss and turn for a couple hours and end up with only four hours of sleep) because we can go in to work as early as 6:30 tomorrow morning. I don't think I'll go in that early - maybe for 7:30, otherwise it makes too long of a day for me (which I'm not used to), and I don't want to end up just giving my pay cheque to the government...cause if I go in early (to which I do not get time and a half or anything luxurious as that), most of the 'extra' money I earn would only be deducted off the pay cheque for taxes anyway...
I hope you are all having blessed and Christ filled days!
Sunday, December 18, 2005
Woo Hoo!!
I am finally done my exams. I got my take home for Reformation done earlier this evening and handed in. My friend Sarah was going in to the school to drop her exam off and I asked if she would mind picking me up on her way so I could get mine dropped off as well. She agreed.
It feels so good to be done with studying for this term. The time has gone fast as I look back, and I have a feeling this next semester will go by quickly as well...and then comes graduation. Scary thought. I don't think I did as well this semester as I have the last three years, so I'm not looking forward to getting my marks back. If I did well, then it will be a miracle.
Tomorrow I start work again and will make a little bit of money. I will more than likely be working this next week full days (and probably some overtime as well because the work picks up a lot at Christmas and besides, they are short two girls because one moved away and another is out until after Christmas...she's having a hysterectomy done). Things will start to slow down between Christmas and New Years, so I may get a few days in next week, but now sure how many. They don't like having extra help in when the work slows down because we end up only working until 1 or 2 in the afternoon and the girls complain that they aren't getting the hours. I can't say that I blame them. Besides, I'd like to have some time to myself over vacation before school starts back up again...just so I can relax before the start of the semester.
I think we go back on the 16th of January which seems a little late this year, but I could be wrong about that. Oh well, I don't mind.
Anyway, I'm off to bed now because I need to get some sleep for work. Going to have long days that I'm not really used to (with the exception of Tuesday's and Thursday's my days were short at school this semester). Also, I will have to get up around 6:30, which I am really not used to. I'll be going in for 8:00 tomorrow. I would imagine things will go well, but it's data entry so that means typing all day. My wrists are feeling a little sore already from all the typing I've been doing the last little while for school, so I hope they won't be bothering me at work.
So...off to slumber land now...have a Christ filled and blessed day everyone!!
It feels so good to be done with studying for this term. The time has gone fast as I look back, and I have a feeling this next semester will go by quickly as well...and then comes graduation. Scary thought. I don't think I did as well this semester as I have the last three years, so I'm not looking forward to getting my marks back. If I did well, then it will be a miracle.
Tomorrow I start work again and will make a little bit of money. I will more than likely be working this next week full days (and probably some overtime as well because the work picks up a lot at Christmas and besides, they are short two girls because one moved away and another is out until after Christmas...she's having a hysterectomy done). Things will start to slow down between Christmas and New Years, so I may get a few days in next week, but now sure how many. They don't like having extra help in when the work slows down because we end up only working until 1 or 2 in the afternoon and the girls complain that they aren't getting the hours. I can't say that I blame them. Besides, I'd like to have some time to myself over vacation before school starts back up again...just so I can relax before the start of the semester.
I think we go back on the 16th of January which seems a little late this year, but I could be wrong about that. Oh well, I don't mind.
Anyway, I'm off to bed now because I need to get some sleep for work. Going to have long days that I'm not really used to (with the exception of Tuesday's and Thursday's my days were short at school this semester). Also, I will have to get up around 6:30, which I am really not used to. I'll be going in for 8:00 tomorrow. I would imagine things will go well, but it's data entry so that means typing all day. My wrists are feeling a little sore already from all the typing I've been doing the last little while for school, so I hope they won't be bothering me at work.
So...off to slumber land now...have a Christ filled and blessed day everyone!!
Friday, December 16, 2005
The Colors of Christmas
I got this in an email today and thought it was good. Not entirely sure how I feel about the last little part though regarding the symbol of Santa though...
Christmas Eve, I sank back, tired, but content, into my easy chair. The kids were in bed, the gifts were wrapped, the milk and cookies waited by the fireplace for Santa. As I sat back admiring the tree with its decorations, I couldn't help feeling that something important was missing. It wasn't long before the tiny twinkling tree lights lulled me to sleep.
I don't know how long I slept, but all of a sudden I knew that I wasn't alone. I opened my eyes, and you can imagine my surprise when I saw Santa Claus, himself, standing next to my Christmas tree. He was dressed all in fur from his head to his foot just as the poem described him, but he was not the "jolly old elf" of Christmas legend. The man who stood before me looked sad and disappointed. And there were tears in his eyes.
"Santa, what's wrong?" I asked, "Why are you crying?"
"It's the children," Santa replied sadly.
"But Santa, the children love you," I said.
"Oh, I know they love me, and they love the gifts I bring them," Santa said, "but the children of today seem to have somehow missed out on the true spirit of Christmas. It's not their fault. It's just that the adults, many of them not having been taught themselves, have forgotten to teach the children."
"Teach them what?" I asked.
Santa's kind old face became soft, more gentle. His eyes began to shine with something more than tears. He spoke softly.
"Teach the children the true meaning of Christmas. Teach them that the part of Christmas we can see, hear, and touch is much more than meets the eye. Teach them the symbolism behind the customs and traditions of Christmas which we now observe. Teach them what it is they truly represent."
Santa reached into his bag and pulled out a tiny Christmas tree and set it on my mantle.
"Teach them about the Christmas tree. Green is the second color of Christmas. The stately evergreen, with its unchanging color, represents the hope of eternal life in Jesus. Its needles point heavenward as a reminder that mankind's thoughts should turn heavenward as well."
Santa reached into his bag again and pulled out a shiny star and placed it at the top of the small tree.
"The star was the heavenly sign of promise. God promised a Savior for the world and the star was the sign of the fulfillment of that promise on the night that Jesus Christ was born. Teach the children that God always fulfills His promises, and that wise men still seek Him."
"Red," said Santa, "is the first color of Christmas." "He pulled forth a red ornament for the tiny tree. Red is deep, intense, vivid. It is the color of the life-giving blood that flows through our veins. It is the symbol of God's greatest gift. Teach the children that Christ gave His life and shed His blood for them that they might have eternal life. When they see the color red, it should remind them of that most wonderful gift."
Santa found a silver bell in his pack and placed it on the tree. "Just as lost sheep are guided to safety by the sound of the bell, it continues to ring today for all to be guided to the fold. Teach the children to follow the true Shepherd, who gave His life for the sheep."
Santa placed a candle on the mantle and lit it. The soft glow from its one tiny flame brightened the room. "The glow of the candle represents how people can show their thanks for the gift of God's son that Christmas Eve long ago. Teach the children to follow in Christ's footsteps...to go about doing good. Teach them to let their light shine before people that all may see it and glorify God. This is what's symbolized when the twinkle lights shine on the tree like hundreds of bright shining lights, each of them representing one of God's precious children's light shining for all to see."
Again Santa reached into his bag and this time he brought forth a tiny red and white striped cane. As he hung it on the tree he spoke softly. "The candy cane is a stick of hard white candy. White to symbolize the virgin birth and sinless nature of Jesus, and hard to symbolize the Solid Rock, the foundation of the church, and the firmness of God's promises. The candy cane forms a "J" to represent the precious name of Jesus, who came to earth. It also represents the Good Shepherd's crook, which He uses to reach down into all ditches of the world to lift out the fallen lambs who, like all sheep, have gone astray. The original candy cane had three small red stripes, which are the stripes of the scourging Jesus received by which we are healed, and a large red stripe that represents the shed blood of Jesus, so that we can have the promise of eternal life. Teach these things to the children."
Santa brought out a beautiful wreath made of fresh, fragrant greenery tied with a bright red bow. "The bow reminds us of the bond of perfection, which is love. The wreath embodies all the good things about Christmas for those with eyes to see and hearts to understand. It contains the colors of red and green and the heaven-turned needles of the evergreen. The bow tells the story of good will towards all and its color reminds us of Christ's sacrifice. Even its very shape is symbolic, representing eternity and the eternal nature of Christ's love. It is a circle, without beginning and without end. These are the things you must teach the children."
I asked, "But where does that leave you Santa?" The tears gone now from his eyes, a smile broke over Santa's face. "Why bless you, my dear," he laughed, "I'm only a symbol myself. I represent the spirit of family fun and the joy of giving and receiving. If the children are taught these other things, there is no danger that I'll ever be forgotten."
"I think I'm beginning to understand."
"That's why I came," said Santa. "You're an adult. If you don't teach the children these things, then who will?"
The Colors of Christmas
Christmas Eve, I sank back, tired, but content, into my easy chair. The kids were in bed, the gifts were wrapped, the milk and cookies waited by the fireplace for Santa. As I sat back admiring the tree with its decorations, I couldn't help feeling that something important was missing. It wasn't long before the tiny twinkling tree lights lulled me to sleep.
I don't know how long I slept, but all of a sudden I knew that I wasn't alone. I opened my eyes, and you can imagine my surprise when I saw Santa Claus, himself, standing next to my Christmas tree. He was dressed all in fur from his head to his foot just as the poem described him, but he was not the "jolly old elf" of Christmas legend. The man who stood before me looked sad and disappointed. And there were tears in his eyes.
"Santa, what's wrong?" I asked, "Why are you crying?"
"It's the children," Santa replied sadly.
"But Santa, the children love you," I said.
"Oh, I know they love me, and they love the gifts I bring them," Santa said, "but the children of today seem to have somehow missed out on the true spirit of Christmas. It's not their fault. It's just that the adults, many of them not having been taught themselves, have forgotten to teach the children."
"Teach them what?" I asked.
Santa's kind old face became soft, more gentle. His eyes began to shine with something more than tears. He spoke softly.
"Teach the children the true meaning of Christmas. Teach them that the part of Christmas we can see, hear, and touch is much more than meets the eye. Teach them the symbolism behind the customs and traditions of Christmas which we now observe. Teach them what it is they truly represent."
Santa reached into his bag and pulled out a tiny Christmas tree and set it on my mantle.
"Teach them about the Christmas tree. Green is the second color of Christmas. The stately evergreen, with its unchanging color, represents the hope of eternal life in Jesus. Its needles point heavenward as a reminder that mankind's thoughts should turn heavenward as well."
Santa reached into his bag again and pulled out a shiny star and placed it at the top of the small tree.
"The star was the heavenly sign of promise. God promised a Savior for the world and the star was the sign of the fulfillment of that promise on the night that Jesus Christ was born. Teach the children that God always fulfills His promises, and that wise men still seek Him."
"Red," said Santa, "is the first color of Christmas." "He pulled forth a red ornament for the tiny tree. Red is deep, intense, vivid. It is the color of the life-giving blood that flows through our veins. It is the symbol of God's greatest gift. Teach the children that Christ gave His life and shed His blood for them that they might have eternal life. When they see the color red, it should remind them of that most wonderful gift."
Santa found a silver bell in his pack and placed it on the tree. "Just as lost sheep are guided to safety by the sound of the bell, it continues to ring today for all to be guided to the fold. Teach the children to follow the true Shepherd, who gave His life for the sheep."
Santa placed a candle on the mantle and lit it. The soft glow from its one tiny flame brightened the room. "The glow of the candle represents how people can show their thanks for the gift of God's son that Christmas Eve long ago. Teach the children to follow in Christ's footsteps...to go about doing good. Teach them to let their light shine before people that all may see it and glorify God. This is what's symbolized when the twinkle lights shine on the tree like hundreds of bright shining lights, each of them representing one of God's precious children's light shining for all to see."
Again Santa reached into his bag and this time he brought forth a tiny red and white striped cane. As he hung it on the tree he spoke softly. "The candy cane is a stick of hard white candy. White to symbolize the virgin birth and sinless nature of Jesus, and hard to symbolize the Solid Rock, the foundation of the church, and the firmness of God's promises. The candy cane forms a "J" to represent the precious name of Jesus, who came to earth. It also represents the Good Shepherd's crook, which He uses to reach down into all ditches of the world to lift out the fallen lambs who, like all sheep, have gone astray. The original candy cane had three small red stripes, which are the stripes of the scourging Jesus received by which we are healed, and a large red stripe that represents the shed blood of Jesus, so that we can have the promise of eternal life. Teach these things to the children."
Santa brought out a beautiful wreath made of fresh, fragrant greenery tied with a bright red bow. "The bow reminds us of the bond of perfection, which is love. The wreath embodies all the good things about Christmas for those with eyes to see and hearts to understand. It contains the colors of red and green and the heaven-turned needles of the evergreen. The bow tells the story of good will towards all and its color reminds us of Christ's sacrifice. Even its very shape is symbolic, representing eternity and the eternal nature of Christ's love. It is a circle, without beginning and without end. These are the things you must teach the children."
I asked, "But where does that leave you Santa?" The tears gone now from his eyes, a smile broke over Santa's face. "Why bless you, my dear," he laughed, "I'm only a symbol myself. I represent the spirit of family fun and the joy of giving and receiving. If the children are taught these other things, there is no danger that I'll ever be forgotten."
"I think I'm beginning to understand."
"That's why I came," said Santa. "You're an adult. If you don't teach the children these things, then who will?"
Wednesday, December 14, 2005
A Little Bit Of Humour
I got this from my mom and dad's horticultural newsletter...it's quite funny, or at least I thought it was...hope you enjoy!
1. Clear large space on table for wrapping present.
2. Go to closet and collect bag in which present is contained, and shut door.
3. Open door and remove cat from closet.
4. Go to cupboard and retrieve rolls of wrapping paper.
5. Go back and remove cat from cupboard.
6. Go to drawer and collect transparent sticky tape, ribbons, scissors, labels, etc.
7. Go back to drawer to get string, remove cat that has been in the drawer since last visit and collect string.
8. Remove present from bag.
9. Remove cat from bag.
10. Open box to check present, remove cat from box, replace present.
11. Lay out paper to enable cutting to size.
12. Try and smooth out paper, realize cat is underneath and remove cat.
13. Cut the paper to size.
14. Throw away first sheet as cat chased the scissors and tore the paper.
15. Cut second sheet of paper to size - by putting cat in the bag the present came in.
16. Place present on paper.
17. Lift up edges of paper to seal in present. Wonder why edges don't reach and realize cat is between present and paper. Remove cat.
18. Place object on paper to hold in place while tearing transparent sticky tape.
19. Spend 20 minutes carefully trying to remove transparent sticky tape from cat with pair of nail scissors.
20. Look for roll of ribbon. Chase cat down hall in order to retrieve ribbon.
21. Repeat all previous steps until you come to your last sheet of wrapping paper.
22. Put all packing materials in bag with present and head for locked room. Once inside lockable room, lock door and start to relay out paper and materials
23. Remove cat from box, unlock door, put cat outside door, close and relock.
24. Lay out last sheet of paper (this will be difficult in the small area between the toilet and the sink, but do your best).
25. Discover cat has already torn paper. Unlock door, go out and hunt through various cupboards looking for sheet of last year's paper.
26. Rember that you haven't got any left because cat helped with this last year as well.
27. Return to lockable room, lock door, and sit on toilet and try to make torn sheet of paper look presentable.
28. Put name tag on present. Sit back and congratulate yourself on completing a difficult job.
29. Unlock door, and go to kitchen to make drink and feed cat.
30. Spend 15 minutes looking for cat until coming to obvious conclusion.
31. Unwrap present, untie box and remove cat.
32. Go to store and buy a gift bag.
33. Drive home.
34. Remove cat from gift bag and give him a treat...he's had a long day!
Wrapping Hints for Cat Owners
1. Clear large space on table for wrapping present.
2. Go to closet and collect bag in which present is contained, and shut door.
3. Open door and remove cat from closet.
4. Go to cupboard and retrieve rolls of wrapping paper.
5. Go back and remove cat from cupboard.
6. Go to drawer and collect transparent sticky tape, ribbons, scissors, labels, etc.
7. Go back to drawer to get string, remove cat that has been in the drawer since last visit and collect string.
8. Remove present from bag.
9. Remove cat from bag.
10. Open box to check present, remove cat from box, replace present.
11. Lay out paper to enable cutting to size.
12. Try and smooth out paper, realize cat is underneath and remove cat.
13. Cut the paper to size.
14. Throw away first sheet as cat chased the scissors and tore the paper.
15. Cut second sheet of paper to size - by putting cat in the bag the present came in.
16. Place present on paper.
17. Lift up edges of paper to seal in present. Wonder why edges don't reach and realize cat is between present and paper. Remove cat.
18. Place object on paper to hold in place while tearing transparent sticky tape.
19. Spend 20 minutes carefully trying to remove transparent sticky tape from cat with pair of nail scissors.
20. Look for roll of ribbon. Chase cat down hall in order to retrieve ribbon.
21. Repeat all previous steps until you come to your last sheet of wrapping paper.
22. Put all packing materials in bag with present and head for locked room. Once inside lockable room, lock door and start to relay out paper and materials
23. Remove cat from box, unlock door, put cat outside door, close and relock.
24. Lay out last sheet of paper (this will be difficult in the small area between the toilet and the sink, but do your best).
25. Discover cat has already torn paper. Unlock door, go out and hunt through various cupboards looking for sheet of last year's paper.
26. Rember that you haven't got any left because cat helped with this last year as well.
27. Return to lockable room, lock door, and sit on toilet and try to make torn sheet of paper look presentable.
28. Put name tag on present. Sit back and congratulate yourself on completing a difficult job.
29. Unlock door, and go to kitchen to make drink and feed cat.
30. Spend 15 minutes looking for cat until coming to obvious conclusion.
31. Unwrap present, untie box and remove cat.
32. Go to store and buy a gift bag.
33. Drive home.
34. Remove cat from gift bag and give him a treat...he's had a long day!
Sunday, December 11, 2005
Angel Alert!
Tonight was the annual Sunday School Christmas concert at church. This year, for the second year in a row, they did a little musical. Unlike past years when the adult classes also took part, by singing a song or reading some scripture, it was just the kids and youth...mostly the kids (all dressed as angels), and middle school (angels as well), but the high school youth (not dressed as angels) got up and sang a song. It was all great though.
The musical they did was called 'Angel Alert', and it was about the angels getting ready to proclaim the birth of Jesus. There were several songs as well as speaking parts, and the kids did a fabulous job. Before it started, they had the toddlers (with their moms) walk up and across the stage so that they could "take part" as well. There were only about four or five of them, but they did their walk without any complications or tears. Can you say adorable?! I turned to my friend Kristina and proclaimed that I wanted "one of those" (meaning the kids)...actually I said that and added, "or four or five of them". My heart really ached tonight for a child; it's times like this when the longing to have kids really hits hard.
Anyway, the kids did fantastic with the singing and actions to the words. There were some who weren't on cue or didn't seem to know the words or actions well, but you get that for anything like this...and you have to give them credit for getting up there and performing in front of everyone. I know I'd be nervous if it were me!
At one point, they had the three and four year olds up to take part in a song and one little fellow was more interested in playing with the microphone stand, cord and sponge cover thingy that fits over the microphone. Everyone was laughing at that...total three year old cuteness!
So, other than longing to have children of my own to watch as they take part in the concert, I really enjoyed the concert. The two ladies who were in charge of this did a fantastic job at putting it all together. Two of the ladies Sunday School classes did the costumes, and one of the deacons (who probably had some help) did the scenery, and others helping out with sound, lights, power point, and refreshments...everyone did a fantastic job!
Anyway, just thought I'd share my evening with you. Hope your day is and was Christ filled!
The musical they did was called 'Angel Alert', and it was about the angels getting ready to proclaim the birth of Jesus. There were several songs as well as speaking parts, and the kids did a fabulous job. Before it started, they had the toddlers (with their moms) walk up and across the stage so that they could "take part" as well. There were only about four or five of them, but they did their walk without any complications or tears. Can you say adorable?! I turned to my friend Kristina and proclaimed that I wanted "one of those" (meaning the kids)...actually I said that and added, "or four or five of them". My heart really ached tonight for a child; it's times like this when the longing to have kids really hits hard.
Anyway, the kids did fantastic with the singing and actions to the words. There were some who weren't on cue or didn't seem to know the words or actions well, but you get that for anything like this...and you have to give them credit for getting up there and performing in front of everyone. I know I'd be nervous if it were me!
At one point, they had the three and four year olds up to take part in a song and one little fellow was more interested in playing with the microphone stand, cord and sponge cover thingy that fits over the microphone. Everyone was laughing at that...total three year old cuteness!
So, other than longing to have children of my own to watch as they take part in the concert, I really enjoyed the concert. The two ladies who were in charge of this did a fantastic job at putting it all together. Two of the ladies Sunday School classes did the costumes, and one of the deacons (who probably had some help) did the scenery, and others helping out with sound, lights, power point, and refreshments...everyone did a fantastic job!
Anyway, just thought I'd share my evening with you. Hope your day is and was Christ filled!
Thursday, December 08, 2005
Sorry, We're Closed...
I just had a mini conversation with someone who told me he had just read that these so called "mega" churches have gotten together and decided they will close their doors on Christmas this year. As you probably no doubt know, Christmas is on a Sunday this year.
What's wrong with this picture? I mean, think about it...Jesus is the reason for the season isn't He? Afterall, Christmas is about celebrating the birth of our Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ! Sure, the holiday seems to have taken a nose dive into commercialism for the past, I don't know, mega several years. Sure, Jesus has been replaced by Santa for a lot of people. Sure Rudolph is a star in his own right...cartoons and songs in his honour...and the evil monster Greed has crept up and taken over the season...
Christmas just isn't what it originally was...ok there are those who say it's based on pagan rituals and stuff...trees being decorated or something like that, the day it is celebrated is supposedly a pagan holiday or something...I can't even begin to remember all the so called "associations" with pagan holidays and rituals that people claim to have been adopted into the Christian Holy Day...I don't begin to even understand it all...
All I know is that for Christians, the day is meant to celebrate the birth of Christ (though the Bible says nothing of remembering his birth, only His death...but I'm not against celebrating his birth), the fact that God humbled Himself and came to the earth as a tiny baby who had come to save mankind from his/her sins and offer eternal life.
So, if Jesus is the reason for the season, why are these churches closing their doors on Christmas day? I just don't get it. The church should be there for those who are seeking Christ, and what better day to be open than Christmas day!
Service start a little too early and someone is afraid they won't get the presents unwrapped soon enough? No problem, wait until after the service...the presents aren't going anywhere. Afraid the turkey might not be cooked by noon? No problem, wait til after the service...nothing says you can't have your turkey closer to supper time (or early evening) instead of noon or just after.
I mean, think about it...would Jesus close the doors to His house if He were there? I'm guessing no...I'm guessing He'd have them wide open ready to welcome His guests and visitors...so, again I ask...what's up with closing the church on Christmas day?
What's wrong with this picture? I mean, think about it...Jesus is the reason for the season isn't He? Afterall, Christmas is about celebrating the birth of our Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ! Sure, the holiday seems to have taken a nose dive into commercialism for the past, I don't know, mega several years. Sure, Jesus has been replaced by Santa for a lot of people. Sure Rudolph is a star in his own right...cartoons and songs in his honour...and the evil monster Greed has crept up and taken over the season...
Christmas just isn't what it originally was...ok there are those who say it's based on pagan rituals and stuff...trees being decorated or something like that, the day it is celebrated is supposedly a pagan holiday or something...I can't even begin to remember all the so called "associations" with pagan holidays and rituals that people claim to have been adopted into the Christian Holy Day...I don't begin to even understand it all...
All I know is that for Christians, the day is meant to celebrate the birth of Christ (though the Bible says nothing of remembering his birth, only His death...but I'm not against celebrating his birth), the fact that God humbled Himself and came to the earth as a tiny baby who had come to save mankind from his/her sins and offer eternal life.
So, if Jesus is the reason for the season, why are these churches closing their doors on Christmas day? I just don't get it. The church should be there for those who are seeking Christ, and what better day to be open than Christmas day!
Service start a little too early and someone is afraid they won't get the presents unwrapped soon enough? No problem, wait until after the service...the presents aren't going anywhere. Afraid the turkey might not be cooked by noon? No problem, wait til after the service...nothing says you can't have your turkey closer to supper time (or early evening) instead of noon or just after.
I mean, think about it...would Jesus close the doors to His house if He were there? I'm guessing no...I'm guessing He'd have them wide open ready to welcome His guests and visitors...so, again I ask...what's up with closing the church on Christmas day?
Tuesday, December 06, 2005
Housekeeping Items
No, I'm not talking about vaccuming and dusting...
Housekeeping Items:
1. Those of you who've visited my friend Kate's blog (at Kingdom Son) has moved. She tells her reasons why in her new blog at Lighting My Way. Please visit her new blog.
2. Some prayer requests: Myself for upcoming exams; Jayleigh is feeling ill and mentions it on her blog; Saija is in the process of selling her house, and mentions it on her blog; and Rebekah can always use our prayers.
3. Jennifer has a great series she is doing on the birth of Christ.
4. Paula has an amazing testimony that belongs to Jeff, a Messianic Jew, on her blog. If you haven't read it you, I encourage you to do so. She also has a link to his site as well so you can stop by and visit him too.
Well, I guess the last item that I want to share is praise to God. I got my mid term mark back today, finally, for my 1 Samuel class and did much better than I thought. I got 35/40. The prof said that if he could remember correctly, he believes that I got the highest mark in the class. So, I give my praise to the Lord for this!
Housekeeping Items:
1. Those of you who've visited my friend Kate's blog (at Kingdom Son) has moved. She tells her reasons why in her new blog at Lighting My Way. Please visit her new blog.
2. Some prayer requests: Myself for upcoming exams; Jayleigh is feeling ill and mentions it on her blog; Saija is in the process of selling her house, and mentions it on her blog; and Rebekah can always use our prayers.
3. Jennifer has a great series she is doing on the birth of Christ.
4. Paula has an amazing testimony that belongs to Jeff, a Messianic Jew, on her blog. If you haven't read it you, I encourage you to do so. She also has a link to his site as well so you can stop by and visit him too.
Well, I guess the last item that I want to share is praise to God. I got my mid term mark back today, finally, for my 1 Samuel class and did much better than I thought. I got 35/40. The prof said that if he could remember correctly, he believes that I got the highest mark in the class. So, I give my praise to the Lord for this!
Friday, December 02, 2005
A Fun Day
I had a fun day today. I wasn't overly productive in anything and got a few thing accomplished that I wanted to, but none the less, I had fun and that is what counts.
My nearly two and a half year old nephew was up today for the day, as he is every Friday. What made today fun, was he and I made gingerbread men. I've never made gingerbread before so I didn't know how it was going to turn out. I searched allrecipies.com and found several recipies for gingerbread; not knowing which would be best, I picked one and printed it off.
"D" (my nephew) seemed to have fun and helped make the cookies. I would measure out the ingredients and he would dump them into the bowl and stir. Mind you, I would also stir to make sure everything was mixed well. Once we got everything mixed, we attempted to roll out some of the dough and use his little gingerbread man cookie cutter I got for him today. We ran into a problem...the dough was too sticky. The recipe said to add a little more flour (no more than 1/2 cup more), so I did. Only problem was, it didn't help.
I was getting frustrated because D's mom and dad (his dad is my brother) were coming to get him about an hour from that point, and I had wanted to get them made and cooled so he could take some with him. I tried several times (with D helping to roll it out and cut the cookies with his "gooey uh-er" as he called it. That part was fine, but trying to pull away the excess dough or get it off the counter was impossible. It was still too sticky. I did manage to get some odd shaped gingerbread men onto the cookie sheet and bake those ones (only 6). They didn't turn out too badly, though we rolled the dough a little too thin so it was more crispy around the edges and on a couple they were the tiniest bit burnt. So, I knew not to cut them so thin next time.
Well, I had read on a couple of other recipies for the gingerbread men (on the allrecipies.com site) that the dough should be refrigerated for a little while to make it not so sticky and easier to roll out, etc. I put the batch into the fridge and let it cool.
My parents and I went out for supper and we got back around 7:30ish so I decided that I would attempt to make the cookies. I floured the counter and rolling pin a bit to prevent sticking, got the dough out of the fridge and proceeded to roll it and cut out the cookies. Wow! It actually worked! So, believe me when I tell you that if you have not made these things, make sure you chill the dough for a couple of hours first!! I have about another 6 cookies at least to make...maybe 12 and then I'm completely done with that for today.
I figured I would save out some for D and let him know those were the ones he helped me make and he could take them home. I also thought if they tasted good that I would take some to the kids in the Sunday School class I help teach. Might be a nice little treat for them, that is if they like gingerbread...anyway, I didn't want to take them if they were gross, so naturally, like all good cooks, I sampled :o). Mmmmmmm! It was good! So, I think I will take enough in for the class tomorrow and leave whatever is left here.
So, as I finish up with this adventure I am thinking I need to get a start on my Colonial America paper that is due on Tuesday. I guess that will be the rest of my excitement for what is left of today.
Hope you had a Christ filled day, and that you will have one tomorrow as well! God bless.
My nearly two and a half year old nephew was up today for the day, as he is every Friday. What made today fun, was he and I made gingerbread men. I've never made gingerbread before so I didn't know how it was going to turn out. I searched allrecipies.com and found several recipies for gingerbread; not knowing which would be best, I picked one and printed it off.
"D" (my nephew) seemed to have fun and helped make the cookies. I would measure out the ingredients and he would dump them into the bowl and stir. Mind you, I would also stir to make sure everything was mixed well. Once we got everything mixed, we attempted to roll out some of the dough and use his little gingerbread man cookie cutter I got for him today. We ran into a problem...the dough was too sticky. The recipe said to add a little more flour (no more than 1/2 cup more), so I did. Only problem was, it didn't help.
I was getting frustrated because D's mom and dad (his dad is my brother) were coming to get him about an hour from that point, and I had wanted to get them made and cooled so he could take some with him. I tried several times (with D helping to roll it out and cut the cookies with his "gooey uh-er" as he called it. That part was fine, but trying to pull away the excess dough or get it off the counter was impossible. It was still too sticky. I did manage to get some odd shaped gingerbread men onto the cookie sheet and bake those ones (only 6). They didn't turn out too badly, though we rolled the dough a little too thin so it was more crispy around the edges and on a couple they were the tiniest bit burnt. So, I knew not to cut them so thin next time.
Well, I had read on a couple of other recipies for the gingerbread men (on the allrecipies.com site) that the dough should be refrigerated for a little while to make it not so sticky and easier to roll out, etc. I put the batch into the fridge and let it cool.
My parents and I went out for supper and we got back around 7:30ish so I decided that I would attempt to make the cookies. I floured the counter and rolling pin a bit to prevent sticking, got the dough out of the fridge and proceeded to roll it and cut out the cookies. Wow! It actually worked! So, believe me when I tell you that if you have not made these things, make sure you chill the dough for a couple of hours first!! I have about another 6 cookies at least to make...maybe 12 and then I'm completely done with that for today.
I figured I would save out some for D and let him know those were the ones he helped me make and he could take them home. I also thought if they tasted good that I would take some to the kids in the Sunday School class I help teach. Might be a nice little treat for them, that is if they like gingerbread...anyway, I didn't want to take them if they were gross, so naturally, like all good cooks, I sampled :o). Mmmmmmm! It was good! So, I think I will take enough in for the class tomorrow and leave whatever is left here.
So, as I finish up with this adventure I am thinking I need to get a start on my Colonial America paper that is due on Tuesday. I guess that will be the rest of my excitement for what is left of today.
Hope you had a Christ filled day, and that you will have one tomorrow as well! God bless.
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