Deck the Halls

Fa, la, la, la, laaaa, La, la, la, laaaaaa

Anyone who knows me well knows that Christmas is my absolute favourite time of year. And I also LOVE Christmas decorating. I'm of the "Go big or Go home" school of thought. While I know decorations and lights aren't for everyone, it is definitely for me. I don't just deck the halls, I deck the living room, deck the kitchen, the bathroom, the boot room. A snowman hangs in my car. A mistletoe hangs in my bedroom. I have a USB lit Christmas tree that plugs into my laptop. The bird cage has bows and a bell. The windows have stickies on them, as do half the mirrors!

November 1st, the first few hints of Christmas start appearing. I start with a snowman here & there because they are my favourites. As the month progresses a few more things appear. The boxes start being opened as I dig for the ones I cherish the most. Some things from the past get rejected, and a few new ones are always added to the collection.

This year I've even taken photographs of different ornaments in order to print them and put them in the frames that are already hanging up. And I like the results!

I feel festive! I feel jolly! I feel merry! I feel cheery! This IS my favourite time of year and I can't help but hurl my Christmas joy at everyone else.

So many people say "too early! too early". Others say its a big waste of money! Still others claim that they are too lazy, or just too grinchy to bother. But none of these get me down. I love to Deck the Halls and Deck the Halls I shall!

"But what about Jesus?" you might say. Isn't all this decorating frivolous & worldly? I don't think it is. I know what Christmas is all about, that doesn't mean I need to bring out my nativity scenes only & put all the rest away. It doesn't mean I can't find joy in such a joyful season! Its just the way I choose to decorate my house at this time of year. When it all goes away after Christmas, it doesn't make the fact that Jesus came to earth go away any more than it does to have it all out.

Blessings & joy to you all at the start of this Christmas season!

You Better Watch Out, You Better Not Cry

I was driving around in my car this afternoon running little errands and of course, 'tis the season, I have a Christmas CD playing. Being a lover of all things Christmas, it was an eccletic mix of both children's songs, instrumentals, spirituals & downright funny Christmas tunes.

Just before I got home "Santa Claus is Coming To Town" started playing (sung by Grover from Sesame Street no less) and as I listened to it, I started to chuckle. It seems we spend more time warning ourselves and our children to prepare for Santa's coming than we do for Jesus' coming.

Truly, if you listen to the words, you could easily replace every 'Santa Claus' with the words 'Jesus Christ' and it would make a much better song...

You better watch out, you better not cry

You better not pout I'm telling you why

Jesus Christ is comin' back to town

He's made His list, no need to check it twice

He already knows who's naughty & nice

Jesus Christ is comin' back to town

He sees you when you're sleeping

He knows when you're awake

He knows if you've been bad or good

So be good for HEAVEN's sake

ohhhhhh

You better watch out, you better not cry
You better not pout I'm telling you why
Jesus Christ is comin' back to town

Now, I know the words seem somewhat humourous when changed like that but recently, my husband & I and a group of friends, have spent some time talking about the second coming, thinking about what Heaven will be like and wondering how much longer we have till He comes and how we can reach more people before then. After all this talking, thinking & wondering, we know its time we did some DOING. The fields are ripe! The people are ready.

With reality TV to numb the reality of what's going on in our world today, there are less & less people aware of the signs pointing to the second coming. Less concerned about what is going on in the world that is fulfilling prophecies of old. Apathetic to the point that they don't care, they just trust that they are ready. Being personally ready is a great thing, but that's not our calling. We aren't called to be saved and then sit & wait, attend church on Sundays, say grace for our meals and throw a couple bucks in the Salvation Army kettles...we are called to GO! To your neighbours house, your local shelter, your family & friends, another country, another continent, where ever you see someone needing Jesus. We need to make sure they are just as ready as we are!

"Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations" Matthew 28:19

"Go into all the world and preach the gospel to every creature." Mark 16:15

"I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again." John 14:3

"Take heed, watch and pray; for you do not know when the time is." Mark 13:33

...wars and rumours of wars

... nation against nation

...earthquakes, famines, pestilences, fearful sights

"Now when these things begin to happen, look up and lift up your heads, because your redemption draws near." Luke 21:28

Renewing

"Therefore we do not lose heart. Even though our outward man is perishing, yet the inward man is being renewed day by day." 2 Corinthians 4:16

With the season of fall being in full force, people tend to look at it as the death of the year. Skies are gloomier, colder, darker. Trees & plants are losing their leaves. And soon it will be winter!

Though the leaves turning color are beautiful, it feels as though the tree has died once more for the year. But what is going on behind the scenes. The tree is storing up its nutrients & renewing its energy to get even stronger & bigger for next spring where it will burst forth even more dramatic than the spring before!

And so it should be within our souls. Like the falling of the autumn leaves, so should we be dropping off our sins, our bad habits, our angry attitudes, our gloom & despair. By letting the old perish, there is room for so much more good. Renewal! Out with the old, in with the new! In with Jesus!

Voice of the Martyrs Update

NIGERIA Christians Killed by Muslims; Hundreds Displaced in Kano, Nigeria -VOM Sources:On September 28, angry Muslims killed 10 Christians and set churches, homes and businesses on fire in Tudun Wada, in Nigeria's Northern state of Kano. According to The Voice of the Martyrs' contacts in Nigeria, "At 9 a.m., Muslims began the attacks, setting fire to homes and churches. They attacked and killed any Christian they came across." More than 50 people were injured, while more than 500 members of the minority Christian population were displaced. VOM contacts added, "Muslim attackers burnt down all eight churches existing in the community, homes and businesses in the area." Christians believe the attack resulted when Muslim students at a government secondary school in the area claimed a Christian student drew a cartoon of the Prophet Muhammad on the wall of the school's mosque. VOM contacts reported, "No Christian student would do this, since the school has nearly 2,000 students and only seven are Christian.... [also] the mosque is usually busy with Muslims praying around the clock during the (Muslim) Ramadan fasting season; therefore, no Christian student would have any way of getting close to the wall of the mosque to make such sketches on the wall." Pray for the families of those killed. Pray the Holy Spirit will be their greatest comforter. Ask God to encourage and provide for believers in this area. Psalm 119:105, Proverbs 3:5, 6

ERITREA Senior Pastor Arrested VOM Sources:Pastor Oqbamichael, a well-known leader of the Kale-Hiwot Church in Eritrea, was arrested and imprisoned. This was the second imprisonment for the pastor in the past two years. In 2005, he was arrested at a Christian wedding and was later released after 10 months in prison, which included solitary confinement and hard labor in the Sawa Military Camp. The arrest of Pastor Oqbamichael follows the recent arrest of Evangelist Mussie Ezaz, who is also a minister in the Kale-Hiwot Church. Pray God sustains and strengthens Pastor Oqbamichael while he is in prison. Pray the Holy Spirit encourages his family and church. Ask God to protect Christians in Eritrea who are serving Him in the midst of severe persecution. John 16:13, 14

AZERBAIJAN UPDATE: Imprisoned Baptist Pastor's Appeal Rejected - Forum 18 News:On October 3, the Sheki Appeal Court in Azerbaijan rejected Pastor Zaur Baleav's appeal to have his two-year prison sentence overturned. According to Forum 18 News Service, the head of the Baptist Union, Ilya Zenchenko, said, "We are stunned at the result the court handed down. We don't know what to do. It is a tragedy for his wife and children. It was all over in two minutes. Zaur's son is distressed, complaining that there is no hope and no law in Azerbaijan. He is very young, but his emotional reaction is understandable." Pray the Holy Spirit encourages Pastor Balaev, his family and believers in Azerbaijan. Ask God to use his testimony to draw non-believers into fellowship with Him. Hebrews 13:5,6; Isaiah 54:17

NIGERIA Christians in Northern Nigeria Threatened and Forced Underground - Compass Direct News: Death threats and other dangers have driven most of the Muslim-background members of a church in Northern Nigeria underground. However, three members have remained. According to Compass Direct News, "Of the 25 converts who formed a church in the northeastern state of Borno two years ago, only three remain. Still while worshipping separately in towns where they reside, once a month the converts brave the threats of Islamic extremists and family members to return to Maiduguri to secretly pray and praise together." Rev. Titus Doma Pona, the founder and pastor of an underground fellowship in Northern Nigeria, told Compass, "The venue and time is agreed among themselves, and the venue is also changed every meeting, so that they are not attacked.". These recent reports of persecution in Northern Nigeria reflect the trials believers endure. Churches have been burned and the abduction and forcible conversion of teenagers by Muslims has become common. Pray for Nigerian Christians who face death, destruction and hatred for their faith in Jesus Christ.Psalm 91; 2 Timothy 1:7

TURKEY Alleged Instigators Named in Malatya Murder; Christians Called to Pray - Compass Direct News: The Turkish media recently discovered an e-mail message sent to Turkish Christian leaders in June, revealing the names of Malatya officials who allegedly plotted to murder three Christians in April. The leaders have submitted the letter to the Malatya prosecutor's office. According to Compass Direct News, "The Firat News Agency (ANF) reported on September 18 that an anonymous e-mail message signed ‘A.A.' had named a colonel in the Malatya gendarmerie along with an Islamic faculty member, as the instigators of the plot to kill three Christians. The ANF article identified the officer as Mehmet Ulger, but gave only the initials of several others. A September 19 article in Birgun newspaper, however, listed the name of the faulty member as Ruhi Babat. It also identified a member of parliament from Malatya, one military commander and another suspect, claiming that the murder conspiracy had been planned for four or five months in advance." Meanwhile, Christian leaders in Turkey have called on Christian congregations to designate each Thursday for prayer and fasting, praying for the upcoming trial and for other cases in Turkish courts dealing with the rights and freedoms of Christians. Pray God gives Christians in Turkey boldness to stand for Him, and for the Holy Spirit to touch the lives of all those who were involved in the martyrdom of these believers and the persecution of Christians. Isaiah 26:3, Psalm 27:1

CHINA Two House Church Leaders under House Arrest - China Aid Association: On October 1, the Chinese government placed two house church leaders, Hua Huiqi and Liu Fenggang, under house arrest. According to China Aid Association (CAA), "Each of their houses has been surrounded by two dozen police. Some Public Security Bureau (PSB) officers were even staged on top of Pastor Hua's roof in order to prevent anyone from coming in or going out. On October 3, eight PSB officers broke Hua and his wife's bedroom windows, and then cut off the electricity to their house." Hua Huiqi was released from prison in July after serving six months, while Liu Fenggang was released in February after three years in prison. Meanwhile, Hua Huiqi's 77-year-old mother, Shuang Shuying, is serving a two-year sentence. According to CAA, Shuang Shuying was recently beaten severely, received no medical care; she is now dying in her prison cell. Pray for Christians in China who face increased persecution ahead of the 2008 Olympics. Pray God encourages and heals Shuang Shuying in prison. Romans 8:11, Exodus 15: 26

Can't Hide

"Where can I go from Your Spirit? Or where can I flee from Your presence?" Psalm 139:7

Global satellites have certainly made the world a smaller place. My husband & I were discussing Google Earth yesterday and how we figured that there wasn't too many places left on this planet that one could hide. Satellites can scan all over the world and pick up heat signatures in buildings & caves & things like that. We were wondering where or how new believers could possibly hide during the tribulation. With technology advancing so much it seems almost impossible. But, we also know that with God, nothing is impossible and that He will provide for His faithful during that time.

Supposing that some world terrorist organization is NOT looking for you with their satellites, there are many places to hide in this world, depending on what your hiding from. We can hide from our family or friends by being reclusive, ignoring calls & emails, turning the lights out if someone comes down the driveway. We can hide our feelings by wearing a fake smile, a false outlook or a blank stare. We can hide away from the hustle & bustle of the world by going into the back woods & hills, or to a quieter country with a simpler way of life.

But never, not ever, can we find any place or any way to hide from God. His capabilities go beyond the reach or comprehension of man. He doesn't need fancy technology to know where we are, to know what we are feeling or to see what we are so desperately trying to hide. He can see straight into our heart, the good and the bad, hidden & revealed, loving us despite it all.

Still thankful...after Thanksgiving

We went away to my brother's place for the Thanksgiving weekend to visit and share a delicious turkey dinner. And it sounds like a lot of other Canadians were doing just the same thing! And I'm glad for it. I thank those of you who commented on my Thanksgiving post.

As we get back in the swing of our week, after a few days of holidays, I'm reminded that we are to be thankful for things every day.

I love the fall so I find it easy to be thankful this time of year for the beauty around me. However, with the fall comes fall allergies and my constant sniffling & itchy eyes this year are trying to steal my joy of this favourite season. Still, with all the driving we did the past few days up north, we got to see many beautiful fall colors that took my breath away, and just looking out my office window here, I see the leaves in my own backyard & front yard are starting to be so vibrant as well. The neighbours tree across the street is bright yellow, my Virginia Creeper vine is a deep wine red, the leaves on my lilac bushes are dark reddish green, the backyard elms are slowly turning yellow and I have a huge patch of bright purple flowers in the front garden that have waited all year for their turn to blossom. So, allergies or not, I'm counting way more reasons to be thankful than reasons to grumble.

And then, below this post, I've posted the recent Voice of the Martyrs updates. And friends, I can count oh-so-many reasons more to be thankful just by reading & praying for our persecuted brothers & sisters in need around the globe. We are called to pray for them like we are there suffering with them.

And so, I will try to live each day with a thankful heart for I can never run out of things to be thankful for.

Voice of the Martyrs Update

MYANMAR VOM Calls for Prayer for Christians in Myanmar - VOM Sources: The Voice of the Martyrs is calling on believers around the world to pray for Christians being affected by the continued unrest in Myanmar (Burma). According to VOM contacts, the government is targeting anyone with influence, and churches have not been spared. VOM contacts report, "Churches cannot meet. We are quietly meeting in small groups of no more than five to pray for our country. China reports five people have been killed, the British Broadcasting Corporation is saying about 10 have been killed, but our people have seen hundreds of bodies and many more filling the hospitals." Pray for the protection and safety of Christians in Myanmar. Pray the Holy Spirit will convict the hearts of the government officials and that the testimony of believers will draw others into fellowship with Christ. Psalm 27:1, Joshua 1:9

INDIA Pastor Attacked and Church Burned in North India - VOM Sources: On September 16, Pastor Virendra and his wife, Bhawana, were attacked by Hindu extremists while on their way to a church meeting. They remain steadfast in their faith and say they will continue holding church services despite the attack. According to The Voice of the Martyrs' contacts, "The attackers intercepted the pastor's motorcycle and threw him and his wife off and began to beat them with fists, sticks and rocks. One believer who was on his way to the meeting came along the road just as one of the persecutors raised a large rock over the pastor's head, intending to smash his skull." VOM contacts added, "The believer was able to push the rock backwards, saving the pastor from death. At another point someone was ready to smash [the pastor's] head with a large stick, but his wife intercepted it and he was again saved from death. Pastor Virendra and his wife were beaten for more than 20 minutes, before they finally escaped.Praise God, Pastor Virendra and his wife were not severely wounded. Pray for God's protection for Christians in India, who continuously risk their lives for the sake of the gospel. Ask for the Holy Spirit to touch the lives of the persecutors and draw them into the knowledge of Christ. Philippians 4:8, Psalm 118:17

ERITREA Evangelist Arrested - VOM Sources: The Voice of the Martyrs recently received information that Mussie Ezaz, an evangelist in the Kale Hiwot Church of Eritrea, was arrested from his home in the capital city of Asmara, and imprisoned this past week. The evangelist has been in full-time ministry for more than a decade. Pray God encourages and provides for Ezaz and his family. Ask God to give him boldness in the midst of his suffering and that his testimony will draw non- believers into fellowship with Christ. Romans 8:31, Psalm 91

CHINA Imprisoned Pastor's Health Failing VOM Sources: On September 24, The Voice of the Martyrs received reports that Pastor Zhang Rongliang's health was failing, and if he is not released, he would die in prison. According to contacts in China, "Pastor Zhang must be carried from place to place by two men supporting him. He does not walk well on his own. He openly questions whether he can finish this sentence. If he is not released, there is a good chance that he will die in prison." Pastor Zhang still has four years remaining of the seven-and-a-half year sentence he received after his arrest in 2004. He already had previously spent 12 years in prison for his faith during five separate detentions. He experienced harsh torture, including electric shock, during his previous prison terms. Pray for Pastor Zhang's healing and for his release from prison. Pray the Holy Spirit will encourage him and that his testimony will draw nonbelievers into the knowledge of Christ. Psalm 118:17; 3 John 2

INDIA Hindu Extremists Plan Assaults in Karnataka VOM Sources: On September 22, Christians in Bangalore, Karnataka's capital, protested the growing number of Hindu extremist attacks in the state and their planned assaults on church meetings in Mysore district. According to The Voice of the Martyrs' contacts in India, Hindu extremists belonging to the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh and Bajrang Dal groups planned to launch a series of attacks against Christians in areas of Mysore district. Pray the plans of Satan will not succeed. Pray the Holy Spirit will touch the lives of the extremists and lead them into the knowledge of Christ. Psalm 27:1; 2 Timothy 1:7

UZBEKISTAN Crackdown on ChristiansForum 18 News: According to Forum 18 News, several Christians were recently arrested or fined.
On August 27, Sharofat Allamova received a suspended sentence of six months in central Bhukara. This was after police confiscated literature from her in June. Allamova was prosecuted under article 244-3 of the Criminal Code, which punishes "illegal production, storage, import or distribution of religious materials."
On August 28, Pastor Khyn-Mun Kimi and a colleague were fined about one month's salary for "illegal" religious activity in Karakalpakstan.
In an unrelated incident, a group of Protestants in the Southern region of Uzbekistan were detained after they "illegally" met for worship. Police confiscated religious literature and 12 of the believers face impending charges. Pray Christians in Uzbekistan will remain steadfast in their faith despite pressure from the government. Ask God to touch the lives of authorities in Uzbekistan. Isaiah 54:14, Psalm 91

HAPPY THANKSGIVING

Its Thanksgiving Weekend here in Canada. And we have A LOT to be thankful for.

A small list:

I'm thankful for my husband who brings me love & joy every single moment.

I'm thankful for my family, both near & far, that loves, encourages and supports us.

I'm very thankful for my sis-in-law's newfound faith in the Lord - it warms my heart so much!

I'm thankful that God provides for our daily needs, a roof over our head and food on our table.

I'm thankful that God provides so much more than just these two basics.

I'm thankful for Fall, the changes it brings and all that I love about it.

I'm thankful for good friends and the fun & precious times we get to spend with them.

I'm thankful for on-line friends, my CPW gals, and all my blogging friends - a life line of love & encouragement across the wires of the world wide web - enriching my life & my soul.

I'm thankful to be living in Canada where we take so many of our freedoms for granted.

I could probably list many more things but these are just a few that came to mind first. What are you thankful for today...even if its not a Thanksgiving weekend in your country?

Going to take a couple days away from the computer to spend time with family & eating a delicious turkey dinner. See you next week!

Out of the Same Mouth?

"Out of the same mouth proceed blessing and cursing. My brethren, these things ought not to be so." James 3:10

Guilty...as self-charged! I cringe when I hear someone talking that doesn't know how to speak a single sentence without using profanities. I cringe when I hear someone take the Lord's name in vain. And then, I especially cringe if I hear a profanity come out of my own mouth...but it happens. I don't exactly have control of my tongue at all times.

James also says "the tongue is a fire, a world of iniquity" vs 6 and yes, it burns me sometimes. If I lose my patience (especially in traffic) then even if I'm in the middle of belting out a worship song in my car, my melodious praise song can instantly do an about-face to yell at the other offending driver. "These things ought not to be so."

So this is my cofession...but I'm working on it - its not as bad as it once was nor as good as it once was. A phase perhaps, but certainly not a desirable one. And so I keep reading in James, this book of so much wisdom...

"...let every man (and woman) be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath" 1:19

Red-Winged Blackbirds

(no photo credit for this one - I found it on a bird identification site - hopefully not violating someone's copyright)

"Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and comes down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shadow of turning." James 1:17

Something amazing just happened in my backyard. My husband just came home & was getting something back there & called me to 'come quick' from inside the house. When I got outside, the sound was almost deafening. There, in the elms of our yard and our neighbour's yard were dozens of red-winged blackbirds calling & singing at their loudest. Now, a bit of history here...this particular bird call is my favourite of all birds. I love the sound of them and its one I recognize anywhere. To hear so many of them at once was spectacular. I grabbed a patio chair & just sat down in awe! At first I thought there was maybe 20 or 30 of them, then it seemed to me there was at least 50 of them flitting back & forth between the trees and over my head, making that precious sound.

Lawrence called it "A Gathering", like they were all getting together to discuss their next big move. I googled this and said that in the fall (which is now) these birds gather together in LARGE numbers searching for food & stick together.

What is somewhat odd, is that usually, the red-winged blackbird hangs out in marshy & pond areas, sometimes in fields. They like to cling to reeds & cat-tails and I know I will always hear one at Hayne's Point because there are LOTS of reeds & water grasses there for them to cling to. Maybe once in a while I might hear one pass by my yard, but dozens and dozens of them, just for a few minutes, it was truly amazing. Like they stopped by just for me.

Even the smallest things can be looked at like a gift. It was a treat. It made me happy. I was filled with awe. How can that NOT be a gift from God for me to experience?

Still reading in James, this is a verse that lots of people quote but few of us probably understand the magnitude of. EVERY good gift is from God. Not just a few of them, all of them. And the perfect gifts, like a calm sunny morning, golden fall leaves, or even a man-made delicious pie...ok, likely WOMAN-made. When they are good, they are of God, they are of heaven. Big or small!

I thank the Lord for a small bird that brings me joy with its song, I thank the Lord that a multitude of these birds made a stop in my yard to bring me awe!

Trials = Patience??

"Count it all joy when you fall into various trial, knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience." ~James 1: 2-3

The book of James has been "In My Face" a lot for the past two weeks. My sis-in-law Kathy and I have been discussing it quite a bit as we seek patience for the things in our lives. And then again, James came up in Sunday's sermon.

I guess this is a sign for me to get serious about what James had to say. So I'll start at the start. And it is my goal to memorize these two verses.

I will memorize the above version - New King James - because that is my most used Bible - but I also like how the NIV says it "2-Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, 3-because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance." I'd like to persever through my trials AND come out with patience! And also the version from The Message "Consider it a sheer gift, friends, when tests and challenges come at you from all sides. You know that under pressure, your faith-life is forced into the open and shows its true colors."

No matter what version it comes from - we are to be grateful and HAPPY to face trials & challenges because it will strengthen us if we can have patience, perseverance & faith!

When you're waiting for something, when things aren't going your way or when you are feeling like your are going through something with no end in sight, we start praying to God to speed things up. Time goes so slow, almost backwards, while we wait on Him to solve whatever it is we are waiting for, experiencing or facing! It can be hard to look beyond our own time frames & look to God's.

We might think that we have plenty of patience & that, OK God, you proved your point - here I am being patient - when really, He's only just begun this little life lesson of testing. Some of us Falter, Fume or Forget! All the wrong f-words for those of us who should be Focusing on FAITH. Faith that God's timing is better than our own. Faith that we are growing because of this. Faith that we can lean on Him when we are waiting! And Faith that all of these things are drawing us nearer to Him...which is the ultimate goal. So, despite of our impatience, when the trials come, we really SHOULD embrace them joyfully, like a gift that, though it may be hard, we are going to come out of it stronger & closer to God!

I can't say I'm excited about my trials or impatience, but I'm certain that God is with me while I wait on His time & that my faith can grow stronger as I look to him for the end of the test.

Smiles

My blogging friend SunnySusan has awarded me with this "You Make Me Smile Award"

This is what the person that created this award says about it- "the thing that I love most about blogging is that I learn so much about a person just by reading their blog. I have met MANY wonderful people with wonderful stories to tell,and I am grateful every day for each person that I have the pleasure of crossing paths in life with. I wanted to create something special for the people who have inspired me through their blogging; the stories they tell, and the lives that they lead with grace and dignity. I visit their blogs for inspiration and encouragement. Although there are MANY people I want to give this award to at this very moment, I am going to choose a couple bloggers:Please grab your badge and wear it(with a smile) proudly, and pass it on because you inspire and encourage me, thank you."

Although I haven't been blogging or even commenting much lately, I have been thankful to read many of your blogs & continue to enjoy them in my blogging absence.

So, now it is my turn to pass it on this award:

Almost all of your blogs make me smile on a daily basis, but these ones get my special award for today :)

LGS at Realm of the Lone Grey Squirrel - usually your blogs crack me up, other times they are serious and almost always informative and an interesting cultural look at Malaysia. I appreciate your blog!

Barb at I Am Mrs. Miles - I always learn & see things that make me smile on your blog

Amrita at Yesu's Garden - I so enjoy coming to your blog & learning about your culture, especially the things you are cooking. And your faith & compassion for your fellow man is so inspiring!

Karla at Looking Towards Heaven - I get giggles almost every time I read your blog about your family life and the antics of you and your kids. Thanks for sharing this glimpse into your world of smiles.

Voice of the Martyrs Update

When these updates come in, it always makes the woes & small problems of my own life seem small & meaningless. Praise God that I can live in Canada and don't have to face these kinds of things that many of our brethren are facing all over the world!

"Remember the prisoners as if chained with them and those who are mistreated, since you yourselves are in the body also." Hebrews 13:3

SOUTH KOREA UPDATE: Korean Hostages Told Convert to Islam or Die -“ British Broadcasting Corporation On September 12, South Korean Christian aid workers held hostage by the Taliban in Afghanistan for six weeks, reported being beaten and ordered at gun point to convert to Islam, according to the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC). According to the BBC, the former hostages told a press conference they were made to work like slaves while in captivity. Jae Chang-hee told reporters, "We were beaten with a tree branch or kicked around. Some kidnappers threatened us with death at gunpoint to force us to follow them in chanting their Islamic prayer for conversion. I was beaten many times. They pointed a rifle and bayonet at me and tried to force me to convert." Jae Chang-hee added, "We lived like slaves. We had to level the ground for motorbikes, and get water and make a fire." BBC reported that Yu Jung-hwa said she thought she was going to die. "The most difficult moment, when I had a big fear of death, was when the Taliban shot a video. All 23 of us leaned against a wall and armed Taliban aimed their guns at us, and a pit was before me. They said they will save us if we believe in Islam. I almost fainted at the time and I still cannot look at cameras." Recalling how Pastor Bae Hyung-kyu was led away to his death, the BBC said Han Ji-young, in tears, added, "Bae didn't even look at us when he was leaving the room. He only said, 'Overcome with faith.'" Continue praying for God to touch the lives of these believers as they deal with their experience in Afghanistan. Pray God comforts the families of the two that were killed. Pray the testimony of these Christians will draw non-believers into fellowship with Him. Deuteronomy 28, Psalm 91

INDIA Christians Beaten by Militants in India “ VOM Sources
BANGALORE: On September 8, Pastor Angam Haokip was attacked by more than 30 men in the village of Geddalahalli, Bangalore. According to The Voice of the Martyrs' contacts in India, the men forced Pastor Haokip to stop his vehicle. VOM contacts reported, "They asked him if he was a pastor and when he said 'yes,' they pulled him out of his car. The men accused him of 'ruining' the nation and beat him in front of several witnesses. They tried to crush his legs with boulders and also kicked him in the neck." The pastor sustained severe injuries to his back and chest and his car was destroyed. When he tried to file a complaint with local police, it was rejected because the police said a complaint had been registered against him for negligent driving.

HYDERABAD: On September 9, Pastor Sudhakar and four Christians visiting from Singapore were attacked by members of Hindu militant groups while leading a worship service at Bethel Gospel Church in Amberpet, Hyderabad. According to, a report from the All India Christian Council, approximately 300 believers were gathered when the militants forcibly entered the church building and began to shout obscenities against Christianity. The intruders assaulted Pastor Sudhakar with a rod. Prior to the attack, the militants had filed a complaint with local police alleging the pastor and the Singapore team were involved in forcible conversion.Pray for healing for those injured in the attacks. Ask God to bless the ministry of these pastors and other Christians who are spreading the gospel in India. Pray God touches the lives of the persecutors and leads them to faith in Christ. Romans 8:11, Isaiah 40:31

CHINA UPDATE: House Church Leader Released from Prison “ China Aid Association On September 10, prominent Beijing house church leader, Pastor Cai Zhuohua, was released after three years in prison. According to The Voice of the Martyrs' contacts, "Cai was in good spirits when he was released. Cai was not allowed to read or have a Bible for the past three years. Since his release, he has been picked by the Public Security Bureau (PSB) and taken to their office. He has to report to the PSB office once a month and has been warned not to speak out or attend church services." Praise God that Pastor Cai has been reunited with his family. Pray God gives him and other believers in China courage to continually live for Christ, despite the immense challenges they face. Pray their testimonies will draw non-believers, even PSB officers, into the knowledge of Jesus Christ. 2 Timothy 1:7, Psalm 27:1

AZERBAIJAN Imprisoned Pastor's Appeal Resumes - Forum 18 News-UPDATE: On September 6, the lawyer for imprisoned Baptist Pastor Zaur Balaev expressed optimism as the appeals process began in Sheki Appeal Court in Azerbaijan. According to Forum 18 News service, Gazalfar Rzaev said, "Of course I am optimistic." Illya Zenchenko, head of Azerbaijan's Baptist Union, was also hopeful Balaev's two-year sentence, on charges he assaulted five police officers, would be overturned. However, Zenchenko does fear Balaev might not be fully exonerated. He told Forum 18 News, "This is a dilemma for the court. Clearing Balaev would mean incriminating the police officers who falsely testified against him." On August 8, Balaev was convicted under Article 315, Part 1 of the Criminal Code, which punishes the application or threat of application of violence against a state representative when he or she is carrying out official duties. Balaev was sentenced to two years in prison. Pray for Pastor Balaev and his family while he is in prison awaiting the outcome of his appeal. Ask God to encourage believers in Azerbaijan. Isaiah 54:7, 2 Timothy 1:7

CHINA House Church Leader in Xinjiang Formally Arrested, Church Leaders Released - China Aid Association
XINJIANG - On August 31, house church leader Zhou Heng was formally arrested for receiving three tons of Bibles. He is currently detained at Xishan Detention Center. According to China Aid Association (CAA), Zhou Heng's formal arrest notice accused him of "illegal business operations." CAA reported, "Our contacts recently spoke with a released inmate who shared a cell with Brother Zhou. He reported that Zhou was severely beaten by inmates and prison guards." Prior to his arrest on August 3, Zhou Heng managed a bookstore called Yayi Christian Book Room and sold religious books. "Local authorities have closed the bookstore. The Bibles Zhou was collecting were reportedly donated by South Korean churches and were intended for distribution to local believers free of charge. However, the Chinese government only allows officially sanctioned (state) churches to print and distribute a limited number of Bibles each year," CAA added.

INNER MONGOLIA: UPDATE - China Aid Association reported that authorities have released the seven house church leaders arrested on August 21. The Christian leaders were arrested during worship services. Praise God for the release of these Christian leaders. Pray for house church leader Zhou Heng and Christians in China who face challenges because of their faith in Jesus Christ. Psalm 27:1, Isaiah 54: 14

ERITREA Christian Tortured to Death in Eritrea - Compass Direct News/Open DoorsOn September 5, Eritrean authorities tortured to death 33-year-old Nigsti Haile for refusing to recant her Christian faith while being held at the Wi'a Military Training Center. Haile is the fourth Christian killed in Eritrea in less than a year. Compass Direct News reported, "She was one of 10 single Christian women arrested at a church gathering in Keren. They have spent 18 months under severe pressure. Haile was killed for refusing to sign a letter recanting her faith." In May 2002, government officials called in the leaders of all evangelical churches in Eritrea and told them they would not be permitted to hold further public services. Only the "historic religions" of Catholic, Orthodox, Lutheran and Islam have been allowed to hold public worship since that time. Compass Direct says that more than 2,000 Eritrean Christians are imprisoned. Not a single one of them has been formally charged or had a public trial, and all have been denied legal representation. Amnesty International released a report yesterday that said most of the more than 2,000 imprisoned Christians have been held for more than two years in harsh conditions, with little or no medical care. Pray for the Holy Spirit to comfort the family of Nigsti Haile. Ask God to protect and encourage Christians in Eritrea, especially believers imprisoned because of their faith in Jesus Christ. Philippians 4:6-7, 2 Corinthians 10: 5-6

Been So Busy

Rocky Mountain town of Field, in BC

I have been away and I have been busy! What a busy week it has been! Thank you for your patience & faithfulness & comments. I appreciate both.

First of all, I had a quick & fun road trip on my own this week. I took off on Tuesday morning to Calgary for a couple days to visit my sister-in-law. It was the perfect time of year to go (before the unpredictable Alberta winters start) and the roads were beautiful. My hubby wasn't able to come so I made the trip alone & thoroughly enjoyed the drive. Stopped often to take photos of course and I will post more of those in the future I'm sure.

My sis & I had a great visit and my heart left Calgary very happy for her! I stayed in a beautiful Bed & Breakfast along Calgary's Fish Creek Park and spent some nice time hiking & exploring in the park. It was truly Fall already there, lots of beautiful leaves & a great crisp Fall smell in the air!

The weekend too was very busy. Barely had time to get home before we were off on another adventure. Some visiting photographers were in town this past week and busy doing photo outings. We joined them on Saturday morning to do the historical Mascot Mine tour in Hedley, BC. I have several photos of this fantastic mine that was built into the side of a cliff about a mile above sea level. It was a great tour and we loved the history of it...but oh the stairs. 589 of them, down and back up again! The ol' calves are a little tense now! But we did it and it was a very enjoyable & full day!

Sunday too, mom & dad came up and the 4 of us drove out to the Rock Creek Fall Fair. It was great as far as country fairs go. We watched lots of barrel racing, ate great greasy fair food, saw all the exhibits & Lawrence even won me a little stuffed pony throwing darts at balloons! A fun time was had by all!

So, now its back to Monday. I have dozens of photos to process and an article to write & appointments to make. Lots filling my mind already this Monday morning but I wanted to come in & say hello and share a few quick photos so you know I haven't forgotten you or your blogs.

Have a great week!!