Tuesday, November 29, 2005
Thanksgiving List V
Do you want to be humble? If you're like me, it's something you want but would rather not have to work to get. While reading Humility: True Greatness, by C. J. Mahaney, thankfulness for God's grace on the cross and all the blessings in my life flooded to my heart. I don't think the Pilgrims had a yearly Thanksgiving Day like we do. It was an attitude that permeated their whole lives. Humility starts with a grateful heart. It's only when you realize who you were and what you might have been that you understand your utter imcomparableness to Christ. I am reminded today of the wondrous works of the Lord. It is only because the Gospel that we have such a truly wonderful position before God. Join me in praising and thanking Him!
-the ability to speak
-passing tests
-In-N-Out
-the Gospel
-ping pong
-snow
-electricity
-watches
-stationary
-godly examples of Biblical womanhood
-blogs
-rain
-locks
-birthdays
-roses
-Sparkies
-vases
Emily Update XI
Emily was "approved" for a 3 hour pass on Thanksgiving Day. We went to Stacey & Michael's house. It was a short 1 1/2 hour visit, but Emily did very well and seemed to enjoy herself. It was everything we had hoped it would be.
The two "weaning" medications are now at .5 mg. each. She seems happy most of the time and is trying so hard to make sounds. It frustrates her sometimes and she cries. This week she learned to sit up on her bottom and stay up on her own. Her right hand has some grip. Her movement disorder seems more smooth and less jerky. She can throw her feet in front of herself to walk, but cannot support her weight. She leaves at 8:30 a.m. on Monday, Nov. 28 for Memorial Hermann Hospital to have her MRI (scheduled for 10:00 a.m.) She will need to be sedated fort his test.
We have a very long Thanksgiving list this year and besides the obvious, we are most thankful for all you who have prayed for and supported us during this time.
Our love and thanks,
Ken & Natalie
Labels: Prayer Requests
Monday, November 28, 2005
Turkey vs. Eagle?
"I wish the bald eagle had not been chosen as the representative of our country; he is a bird of bad moral character.... The turkey is, in comparison, a much more respectable bird, and withal a true original native of America.... He is, though a little vain and silly, it is true, but not the worse emblem for that, a bird of courage, and would not hesitate to attack a grenadier of the British guards." -Benjamin Franklin
Well, you can't be a genius on everything...
Well, you can't be a genius on everything...
Thursday, November 24, 2005
Happy Thanksgiving!
Thus out of small beginnings greater things have grown by His hand Who made all things out of nothing, and gives being to all things that are; and as one small candle may light a thousand, so the light kindled here has shone to many, yea, in a sense, to our whole nation; let the glorious name of Jehovah have all the praise.
-William Bradford
In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you. 1 Thessalonians 5:18
O give thanks unto the LORD; call upon his name: make known his deeds among the people. Psalm 105:1
Wednesday, November 23, 2005
Thanksgiving List IV
-my sisters' musical abilities
-Miers' withdrawl
-the military
-Adventures in Odyssey
-deer
-pencils
-daily planner
-pumpkin pie
-answering machines
-sandwiches
-sunshine
-rootbeer
Click here to go to List V
While scanning a blog, this post caught my eye. In it, Bob Kauflin, of Covenant Life Church, addresses why defining worship is so important to understanding worship. What really struck me through the scenarios he posted, was that worship is so much more than getting together with other Christians and singing. It's something that Christians are to do, no matter how big or little their church is. I haven't had time to read the rest of his blog, but the title, "Worship Matters," seems to describe it pretty well.
Tuesday, November 22, 2005
Thanksgiving List III
-finished homework
-conversation
-letters
-cellphones
-cowboy boots
-logic
-Genesis
-cousins
-missionaries
-old Bible study teachers
-funny movies
-bookmarks
-swings
-great sermons
-pizza
Click here to go to List IV
Monday, November 21, 2005
The Most Important Part of the Paper
Oh what I do to get out of writing papers... Do you ever read the police blotter in the newspaper? If not, you're missing out! While they don't exactly showcase mankind's brilliance, they do provide the necessary laugh. Check out the ones from today:
At 9:27 p.m., a caller reported two male juveniles were sitting on the side of Rough and Ready Highway. They were not doing anything illegal, but the caller requested they be checked out.
At 8:53 a.m., a man called to report that his dogs had been pepper sprayed the night before at his residence on the 16400 block of Rattlesnake Road. The man said he was concerned someone may have been in his yard casing his house. Deputies responded and discovered the dogs had been sprayed by a skunk.
Police received a call at 4:33 p.m. concerning a man on foot who had collided with a parking meter and went down on the 200 block of Broad Street. Rescue was en route.
Thanksgiving List II
-medicineClick here to go to List III
-music
-awesome students
-books
-sweet and funny comments
-memories
-breaks from school
-flowers
-mugs
-chai
-headphones
-good grades
-singing
-planes
-cds
-Pilgrims
-scissors
-cookies
-(purple) telephones
Broken Hearts
A friend studying to be a nurse shared this with me in her last letter:
Just a couple of weeks ago, an unsaved person I know committed suicide. There are so many people out there hurting. They might not have the actual disease, but each and every one of them has a sin problem. They need the Healer who can not only mend their broken hearts, but also mend their broken relationship with Him. Oh that not one more person would die around us before having the opportunity to meet Him!
EDIT: This is a good remind from Mark Cahill's last newsletter--
Did u know that there is an actual disease called 'Broken heart syndrome'? Its proper name is 'acute pulmonary heart syndrome' and it is a halt in blood flow that is originally caused by sadness + trauma and can ultimately lead to death
Just a couple of weeks ago, an unsaved person I know committed suicide. There are so many people out there hurting. They might not have the actual disease, but each and every one of them has a sin problem. They need the Healer who can not only mend their broken hearts, but also mend their broken relationship with Him. Oh that not one more person would die around us before having the opportunity to meet Him!
EDIT: This is a good remind from Mark Cahill's last newsletter--
I was going to Stone Mountain Park a while back. I got into a talk with a lady at the gate. I ended up giving her my first book One Thing You Can’t Do In Heaven. Later that day, she was shot and killed during a robbery. I found out this week that another lady who works there saw her reading the book that day. She asked what are you reading? She responded she was reading this book to find out if there was anything out there after she died. She found out that evening exactly there is out there when you die. Can I be thankful that I had one last chance to give her that truth before she died?
Saturday, November 19, 2005
Emily Update X
Emily continues to improve (two steps forward, one step back). Two of her medications are now just under 1mg each. We are excited about this little milestone (the weaning continues). Emily now has organized daily activities (Mon-Fri) and that keeps us busy. The weekends are slower. Emily is scheduled for an MRI on Nov. 28. She will be transported by ambulance to Memorial Hermann for that test. Emily is probably best described as an infant in most of her ways and is learning how to do things again.
Some have asked and just to let you know...Emily can have visitors of all ages. Please don't feel obligated to come. We know how far the drive and how expensive the gas. Just your prayers are most appreciated. Thank you for remembering to pray for us.
We are becoming attached to all the children at this place. We cry and rejoice with them through the good/bad times.
Ken & Natalie
Labels: Prayer Requests
Thanksgiving List I
As Thanksgiving day approaches, I've been realizing how much God has given me that I haven't taken much time for which to thank Him. I sat down to write some of them down and my list grew and grew! So here is a partial list from today:
For my own sake, I'll be posting more later to remind myself that Thanksgiving isn't a one day event. It's a daily attitude for all year long!
Click here to go to List II
-mom
-dad
-sisters
-friends
-salvation
-Fortuna (dog)
-Sapphire (cat)
-house
-my own room
-'puter
-books
-fall weather
-trees losing their leaves
-grass
-lip gloss
-well water
-basketball
-quads
-streams
-pics
-digital cameras
-liberty
For my own sake, I'll be posting more later to remind myself that Thanksgiving isn't a one day event. It's a daily attitude for all year long!
Click here to go to List II
Friday, November 18, 2005
A Table in the Presence
With the holiday breaks coming up soon, some of you might be looking for some new reading material, besides the same old same old textbooks. One book I picked up last summer is called A Table in the Presence. I took it along on a camping trip and had to fight to be able to finish it! We had four people constantly reading it and had to nicely take turns. :-) With our family on its third copy, as we keep giving it away, this one is a keeper! The back of the book says, "There are some places where you just don't expect to find God." But as the words inside (like this letter) reveal, war does not stop God from working! This book has some amazing stories of His hand in even some of the smallest details, such as finding a missing Bible lost in the middle of a desert. If you're interested in the military, war, biographies, heroism, sacrifice, or His story, this book is for you!Wednesday, November 16, 2005
This Is Real Life
When friends all around you setting due dates for their wedding, it hits you--you're getting old!! I know, I know, lol. But in comparison to what you used to be, and even to a lot of classmates (unless you take classes from Moody...), the days you've crossed off on your calendar are stacking up. Now is the time to be out there making a difference in the world. The preparation time of teenagehood is over, the future is here. It's said that once you hit 20, the habits you've formed will remain with you for the rest of your life. But does that mean you can't change? I don't think so. Growth in character, self-gov't, and Christ-likeness is a lifelong event. Yes, there's hope out there for all of us non-perfect older people! Are we willing to make the effort, though? I pray so! This post by the Harris guys greatly encouraged me today. Both guys and girls can profit from their words of wisdom!
Sunday, November 13, 2005
Emily Update IX
Emily was moved to a different hospital to receive therapy. She can laugh and cry, but cannot speak. As far as mobility is concerned, she is relearning everything.
We completed our first week at HealthBridge Children's Hospital and are settled in our latest "home". Emily continues with her movement disorder (we are concerned). Monday through Friday she receives an hour each of Physical therapy, Occupational therapy, and school. Speech therapy is on hold. This week she was able to progress from supporting her back for 3 seconds to roughly 15 seconds. We are grateful for small things. The therapy hurts and makes her cry. Please pray for her little body.
We appreciate your sincere prayers and thoughts for Emily during this time.
We are in training as we learn to put on her feet/leg splints, use the feed pump, administer medicines and other care for Emily.
Labels: Prayer Requests
Saturday, November 12, 2005
Their Eyes Are on You
While funny, this story serves as a good reminder that there are people out there watching us. Living for Christ needs to be a 24/7 way of life!
Friday, November 11, 2005
Veterans' Day
In 1984
Today
"...NOW, THEREFORE, I, GEORGE W. BUSH, President of the United States of America, do hereby proclaim November 11, 2005, as Veterans Day and urge all Americans to observe November 6 through November 12, 2005, as National Veterans Awareness Week. I urge all Americans to recognize the valor and sacrifice of our veterans through ceremonies and prayers. I call upon Federal, State, and local officials to display the flag of the United States and to encourage and participate in patriotic activities in their communities. I invite civic and fraternal organizations, places of worship, schools, businesses, unions, and the media to support this national observance with commemorative expressions and programs..."
Complete text is found here.
Today
"...NOW, THEREFORE, I, GEORGE W. BUSH, President of the United States of America, do hereby proclaim November 11, 2005, as Veterans Day and urge all Americans to observe November 6 through November 12, 2005, as National Veterans Awareness Week. I urge all Americans to recognize the valor and sacrifice of our veterans through ceremonies and prayers. I call upon Federal, State, and local officials to display the flag of the United States and to encourage and participate in patriotic activities in their communities. I invite civic and fraternal organizations, places of worship, schools, businesses, unions, and the media to support this national observance with commemorative expressions and programs..."
Complete text is found here.
Thursday, November 10, 2005
I Want One of These!
States I've Visited...
Sunday, November 06, 2005
Being Special Isn't Enough
While working on my public speaking class, a speech I recently heard by Noah Riner came to mind. Noah, a former homeschooler, is now the student body president of Dartmouth College. While welcoming the freshman class, he urged them to realize that four years of gaining knowledge isn't enough--it is the content of one's character that matters most in the end. Oh yeah, did I mention that he set forth Jesus as a prime example of one who had character?
Have I sparked your interest already? If so, be sure to either read the speech here or watch it here! Isn't it encouraging to know that there are other young people out there who are willing to stand for truth?
HT: The Rebelution for the video link.
Tuesday, November 01, 2005
The Meaning of Fall
Letter from War
I thought y'all might like to read this letter from an IFCA chaplain:
Greetings from the land of Abraham!
Iraq is quite the place for Bible history buffs. The city of Ur, hometown
of Abraham, lies in the far south of the country, near the Arabian Gulf,
along the Euphrates River. Babylon is farther north, but still S by SE of
Bagdad. The ancient city of Nineveh, spoken of in Jonah, is in the far
north near the city of Mosul. And to the east lies Iran (ancient Persia),
where Esther took a risk of Faith and saved her people (the Jews) from
annihilation. Unfortunately, I cannot visit any of these places! J But
it's still fun to be in the "old neighborhood" and reminisce about places
the Holy Spirit carried my imagination to in Sunday School and as I cut
my spiritual teeth on God's Word. All I can say is that, if it was as dry
and dusty in Abraham's day as it is now, it's no wonder he left!
God is really working here at Al-Taqaddum. Our Chapel services have been
growing in attendance. Our general Protestant service averages around 50
each week, and the Gospel service (more African-American in flavor)
averages 60. Our Sunday evening service, which I lead most weeks, has
doubled in attendance recently to around 40. Several Marines have put
their faith in Christ in recent weeks, and several believers have
rededicated themselves to following Jesus. Of course, this has not come
without satanic opposition. From my previous update you know our chapel
was hit by a rocket. It has been rebuilt and we never had to cancel a
service. Thank God for the Navy Seabees! Ramadan, the Muslim holy month
that ends in early November, has been a more tense time for us since the
terrorists get extra points with Allah if they sacrifice themselves this
month. By the way, "Allah" is NOT another name for Almighty God (the God
of the Bible). Allah is an ancient moon god that Mohammed kept after he
cleared all the other pagan gods out of the Kaaba in the ancient city of
Mecca. That's why Muslim countries have a crescent moon on their flags.
They also like to put swords on their flags, since "conversion by the
sword" was Mohammed's favorite evangelization tool. So don't be fooled by
all the "Islam is really a peaceful religion" propaganda.
Pray for the Iraqi people. Most of the country approved their new
constitution, except the area that we are in - which still loves Sadaam
Hussein, and there will be elections in mid-December. The new government
should be in place by early January. Many Iraqis are being trained as
police and as soldiers. We have probably processed as many friendly Iraqi
casualties as we have US forces killed in action. So they are trying to
stand up for their country and their freedom. It is sad that there have
been over 2000 Americans who have died since this war began in 2003, but
those of us over here believe in what we're doing. George Washington, in
his 1789 Thanksgiving Proclamation, told our new nation to pray to "the
great Lord and Ruler of Nations... . to render our National Government a
blessing to all the people... . To protect and guide all sovereigns and
nations... and to bless them with good governments, peace, and concord...".
So in other words, our President "George W", is just doing what the
original George W directed! You probably won't hear that on the daily
news broadcasts which, for the most part, are against this war (ie.,this
President).
On a more personal note, I'm thankful for God's faithfulness to sustain
my spirit. I've been away from home for four months now, with at least
four months to go. I miss my family and missed my 25th wedding
anniversary, and two of my kid's birthdays. Of course, the holidays are
right around the corner and my New Year will begin over here. But such
are the sacrifices that military families make to serve our Nation and
the cause of freedom. Beyond that is the stress of being away from home
and in a combat zone. Another rocket hit our camp recently (no one was
hurt) and the ground just shook. It was a sobering reminder that any of
us could be killed at any time. Then there is the stress of living among
Marines, who can be a rough bunch at times and rather vulgar (but they
have hearts of gold too!). I try to remember Paul's admonition to Timothy:
"Endure hardship, as a good sailor (hey, I'm Navy) of Jesus Christ
(II Tim 2:3)."
God bless you all and keep praying for us. We pray for you too!
Blessings,
Chaplain Alan Garner, USN
