Wow, it is hard to believe that it has been a whole month since I last posted a blog. Where does the time go? I'm sure some of you may feel that way too. I have been thinking of what to write to you about and the same thing keeps coming up... "THE MOST EXCELLENT WAY". I think my heart has been nudged enough that I should write about this to you, my dear friends and sisters in Christ:)
A few weeks ago I sat at the dinner table and cried. Since it was just my husband and I, he turned to me and asked in a sweet voice, "What's wrong Angela?" I replied, "It has nothing to do with you." We sat eating in silence while I cried. He gave me my space when I really wanted him to figure out what was wrong. We've all been there, haven't we? After 26 years of wedded bliss I should know that if I want my husband to know what I am feeling, I have to come right out and say it. He can't read my mind, nor can I read his. The only one who knows us by heart and soul is the One who created us; our Creator: God. Even then, God expects us to come to Him and make our requests known.
Are you interested in knowing the source of my tears? O.K. girls...get ready... this is serious. See if you can follow.
I had just found out that my sister's dog had died. My sister was so incredibly sad that my heart ached for her. She had just dropped her daughter off to college and was comforted by the fact that she would have her dog around when her husband was gone to work. Now she truly has an "empty nest". Was it the fact that her dog died that set my tear ducts raging uncontrollably? No, it was the love for my sister and sympathizing with the pain she was feeling. When you are so emotionally invested in a person, their pain becomes yours. In sympathizing with Susie (my sister), I began missing my sister Kathy who went to be with the Lord on June 12,2009. The pain came back fresh and anew as if it had never left. That same day, my boss' 11 year old nephew was struck by a car and killed. My boss, a very stoic woman, was reduced to tears, as was I, for her loss. All this news flooded over me over the course of 12 hours. I was an emotional basket case.
By now I am sure you are asking yourself how this story fits with the title, The Most Excellent Way. Just hold on to your hats. Here we go:)
Remember when you were a little girl and the teacher would write EXCELLENT or SUPER on the top of your paper? Do you recall the thrill and pride you felt for a job well done?
The definition of excellent is; possessing outstanding quality or superior merit; remarkably good, extraordinary or superior. Now to find out THE MOST EXCELLENT WAY. Turn in your books to page 957. Wait, you don't know what book? Well, it's only the BEST SELLER OF ALL TIMES...of course...the Bible. Look up I Corinthians 12:31b; And now I will show you the most excellent way. 13:1-2 If I speak in the tongues of men and of angels, but have not love, I am only a resounding gong or a clanging symbol. If I have the gift of prophecy and can fathom all knowledge, and if I have faith that can move mountains, but have not love, I am nothing. verse 13 And now these 3 remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love.
Because of love, my heart is stirred. Because of love, my life is changed. Because of love, I am a new creation. Because of love, I can love. Thank-you Jesus for showing me the most excellent way.
With love,
Angela
P.S. Take off that veil and uncover a love that can only be found in Christ:) He loves you and so do I. Go out and love like Jesus loved...in an extraordinary, superior and remarkably good way. Blessings to you!
BFMC Women's Ministries
Friday, August 27, 2010
Saturday, July 24, 2010
Basic Requirements
Last Saturday I went to a funeral for the mother of a co-worker/friend of mine. What a beautiful celebration of life. Her name was "Ma" Barry. Her life was an example of "what is required of us". Her house was THE place where kids would gather and play their "loud" music. It was the cool, happening place to be. A safe place, home away from home, a place where good times were sure to be found. She loved each child as if they were her own. At her "celebration of life" she wanted to make sure the Scripture was read. This is one of the verses that she chose; Micah 6:8 "He has showed you, O man, what is good. And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God".
Often times we make life more difficult than it needs to be. God tells us and even shows us in his word how we are to live. He has showed you, O man, what is good...Act justly, love mercy and walk humbly with your God. In his word and on my knees in prayer, humbling myself before him is when I am the closest to my God. It is there and then I know what God requires of me. Sometimes the answers come quickly. Sometimes the patience of Job is required. But in the midst of this life God is there. Thank God for that. Come join me in this humbling experience. You won't be disappointed. "Ma" Barry...Thanks for the reminder. :)
Often times we make life more difficult than it needs to be. God tells us and even shows us in his word how we are to live. He has showed you, O man, what is good...Act justly, love mercy and walk humbly with your God. In his word and on my knees in prayer, humbling myself before him is when I am the closest to my God. It is there and then I know what God requires of me. Sometimes the answers come quickly. Sometimes the patience of Job is required. But in the midst of this life God is there. Thank God for that. Come join me in this humbling experience. You won't be disappointed. "Ma" Barry...Thanks for the reminder. :)
Saturday, July 10, 2010
A Broken Heart Made New: Alyssa's Story
Hope all is well with you my friends. I am enjoying vacation in Vermont with Green Mountain coffee and Ben and Jerry. It is very beautiful and HOT! but nonetheless relaxing and enjoyable.
I have a really cool story to tell you. I will preface it with Colossians 3:17, "And whatever you do, whether in word or in deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him."
This story goes way back, some 26 years ago. As you may recall I was a nurse in the surgical ICU. I had reached the milestone of surviving my first year as a new graduate. It was mind boggling, all the knowledge I had acquired in so short time period. Back then the ICUs were not specialized as they are today. I took care of patients that ranged from traumatic injuries such as car accidents and gunshot wounds to open heart surgery (pediatric and adult), liver and kidney transplants and much more.
The story I have to tell you is about a little girl who was 2 years old. For the sake of privacy I will refer to her as Alyssa. Alyssa was born with congenital heart disease. Her heart was in the right chest and she had many issues with the way her heart was formed, requiring several surgeries. I was blessed to be her primary nurse. I remember her tiny, frail body, her black hair cascading down her shoulders, her infectious smile and her loving and ever-present parents. As her primary nurse, each time I would work I would care for precious Alyssa. After having open heart surgery and many post-operative complications, I cared for Alyssa for almost 2 months. In that time, being human, I developed a bond with Alyssa and her family. They actually came to trust and confide in me. I am happy to say that Alyssa eventually left the ICU to a step-down unit and eventually home.
So why this story of so long ago? Hang on... there is a method to my madness :)
Fast forward to present day. In my present job as a cardiology nurse, I am responsible for performing stress testing. It is my job to provide a safe and diagnostic test. Many come in with fear and trepidation, expecting the worst and hoping for the best. Many times the news is good but at times the news can be life changing. For those who are diagnosed with blockages it is always good to "catch" the problem before a heart attack occurs. OK...OK... enough of the nurse talk!
Back to the story. While preparing for the next day of stress tests, I readied the charts with all the appropriate papers and doctor's orders. What I came upon in the midst of my preparation was simply unbelievable! In my hand I held an order for a stress test on my beloved Alyssa. Could it be 26 years later that I would see her again? In my mind I had decided that the name was a coincidence. To my surprise, the phone rang while I was reviewing her chart to see if, indeed, it was "my" Alyssa. "URMC cardiology at Clinton Crossings", I answered the phone in a professional tone.
The voice on the other end stated, " Hello, this is Alyssa. I am scheduled for a stress test tomorrow and I have some questions." For the next several minutes we became reacquainted and she confirmed my suspicions...she was the same girl of 26 years ago. I instructed her in regard to the test and told her to tell her mom I said "hello". I just could not believe it.
Now, if you will, rewind back 26 years. Alyssa was well enough to leave the ICU. Her parents had someone take a photo of the 4 of us. Nice photo....but there was no way after 26 years and several moves that I would ever find it. Guess what? After a quick prayer and 15 minutes of searching, I found it. Cool, huh?
So that brings me back to present day; the day that Alyssa is scheduled for her test. I run out on my lunch break and make a copy of the photo for Alyssa. She has arrived for her test. I call her name. She stands and smiles and looks at me without a thread of recognition. She is so beautiful and the picture of health. I want to cry. I tell her the story of her surgery and her parents love for her. Her eyes are misty as are mine. We proceed with the test. Before she leaves I ask her if her mother remembered me. She says sweetly, "she remembers you vividly". She asks me how many times this has happened. I tell her, "never...before today". We hug each other and she is on her way. She is a nurse studying to be a nurse practitioner. Sweet, huh? Her heart is strong and my heart is blessed with the knowledge that my work as a nurse is not in vain.
Colossians 3:17 "And whatever you do, whether in word or in deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him".
I have a really cool story to tell you. I will preface it with Colossians 3:17, "And whatever you do, whether in word or in deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him."
This story goes way back, some 26 years ago. As you may recall I was a nurse in the surgical ICU. I had reached the milestone of surviving my first year as a new graduate. It was mind boggling, all the knowledge I had acquired in so short time period. Back then the ICUs were not specialized as they are today. I took care of patients that ranged from traumatic injuries such as car accidents and gunshot wounds to open heart surgery (pediatric and adult), liver and kidney transplants and much more.
The story I have to tell you is about a little girl who was 2 years old. For the sake of privacy I will refer to her as Alyssa. Alyssa was born with congenital heart disease. Her heart was in the right chest and she had many issues with the way her heart was formed, requiring several surgeries. I was blessed to be her primary nurse. I remember her tiny, frail body, her black hair cascading down her shoulders, her infectious smile and her loving and ever-present parents. As her primary nurse, each time I would work I would care for precious Alyssa. After having open heart surgery and many post-operative complications, I cared for Alyssa for almost 2 months. In that time, being human, I developed a bond with Alyssa and her family. They actually came to trust and confide in me. I am happy to say that Alyssa eventually left the ICU to a step-down unit and eventually home.
So why this story of so long ago? Hang on... there is a method to my madness :)
Fast forward to present day. In my present job as a cardiology nurse, I am responsible for performing stress testing. It is my job to provide a safe and diagnostic test. Many come in with fear and trepidation, expecting the worst and hoping for the best. Many times the news is good but at times the news can be life changing. For those who are diagnosed with blockages it is always good to "catch" the problem before a heart attack occurs. OK...OK... enough of the nurse talk!
Back to the story. While preparing for the next day of stress tests, I readied the charts with all the appropriate papers and doctor's orders. What I came upon in the midst of my preparation was simply unbelievable! In my hand I held an order for a stress test on my beloved Alyssa. Could it be 26 years later that I would see her again? In my mind I had decided that the name was a coincidence. To my surprise, the phone rang while I was reviewing her chart to see if, indeed, it was "my" Alyssa. "URMC cardiology at Clinton Crossings", I answered the phone in a professional tone.
The voice on the other end stated, " Hello, this is Alyssa. I am scheduled for a stress test tomorrow and I have some questions." For the next several minutes we became reacquainted and she confirmed my suspicions...she was the same girl of 26 years ago. I instructed her in regard to the test and told her to tell her mom I said "hello". I just could not believe it.
Now, if you will, rewind back 26 years. Alyssa was well enough to leave the ICU. Her parents had someone take a photo of the 4 of us. Nice photo....but there was no way after 26 years and several moves that I would ever find it. Guess what? After a quick prayer and 15 minutes of searching, I found it. Cool, huh?
So that brings me back to present day; the day that Alyssa is scheduled for her test. I run out on my lunch break and make a copy of the photo for Alyssa. She has arrived for her test. I call her name. She stands and smiles and looks at me without a thread of recognition. She is so beautiful and the picture of health. I want to cry. I tell her the story of her surgery and her parents love for her. Her eyes are misty as are mine. We proceed with the test. Before she leaves I ask her if her mother remembered me. She says sweetly, "she remembers you vividly". She asks me how many times this has happened. I tell her, "never...before today". We hug each other and she is on her way. She is a nurse studying to be a nurse practitioner. Sweet, huh? Her heart is strong and my heart is blessed with the knowledge that my work as a nurse is not in vain.
Colossians 3:17 "And whatever you do, whether in word or in deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him".
Monday, June 21, 2010
Chop, chop...
For the last two weeks, on Thursday evening, I have been taking a self-defense course at a karate studio in Brighton. My teacher, Sensei Ashley, is a 22 year old black belt with a maturity far beyond her years.
We have learned moves to dissuade, disorganize, disorient and disable. Moves in which you can use your body as a weapon to fend of an attack. Using your words can be a persuasive move dissuading the attacker. Yelling something as simple as ,"Fire", can elicit much needed help. The way you stand can mean the difference between an attack and a peaceful resolution.
We have learned kicks, punches, blows and strikes. It is not so much the strength with which you defend yourself but the way in which you position yourself that can catch an attacker off guard.
Our last session, Sensei Ashley, closed by saying that the world teaches us that we are weak. We are not. We are strong and can defend ourselves. I found this to be a very interesting statement in the fact that it has spiritual application.
Yes, the world teaches us that we are weak against an enemy. I Peter 5:8 says,"Be self-controlled and alert. Your enemy, the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, looking for someone to devour." John 10:10 "The thief (Satan) comes only to steal, kill and destroy."
But God's word tells us in Psalm 46:1 that God is our refuge and STRENGTH, an ever-present help in trouble. Isaiah 40:31 ...but those who hope in the Lord will renew their STRENGTH. They will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint. In II Corinthians 12:9 Jesus said, "My grace is sufficient for for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness."
These verses remind us that apart from Christ we are weak and it is only in Hm that we are strong. Philippians 4:13 "I can do all things through Christ who gives me STRENGTH." God has equipped us to fight the battle with a full armor. Ephesians 6:10-17 The Armor of God; verse 10 "Finally, be STRONG in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on the full armor of God so that you can take your stand against the devil's schemes."
The remainder of these verses describe the armor that God has equipped us with. Check it out. Remember, you are not alone in this life. You can draw strength on the One who loves you and gave up his life so that you might have abundant life. You are a strong warrior despite what the world may tell you. So put on your armor everyday and gain strength. You are a superhero infused with the strength and power of our supernatural God. You go girl. Chop...chop!
Armed and dangerous,
With much love,
Angela
We have learned moves to dissuade, disorganize, disorient and disable. Moves in which you can use your body as a weapon to fend of an attack. Using your words can be a persuasive move dissuading the attacker. Yelling something as simple as ,"Fire", can elicit much needed help. The way you stand can mean the difference between an attack and a peaceful resolution.
We have learned kicks, punches, blows and strikes. It is not so much the strength with which you defend yourself but the way in which you position yourself that can catch an attacker off guard.
Our last session, Sensei Ashley, closed by saying that the world teaches us that we are weak. We are not. We are strong and can defend ourselves. I found this to be a very interesting statement in the fact that it has spiritual application.
Yes, the world teaches us that we are weak against an enemy. I Peter 5:8 says,"Be self-controlled and alert. Your enemy, the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, looking for someone to devour." John 10:10 "The thief (Satan) comes only to steal, kill and destroy."
But God's word tells us in Psalm 46:1 that God is our refuge and STRENGTH, an ever-present help in trouble. Isaiah 40:31 ...but those who hope in the Lord will renew their STRENGTH. They will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint. In II Corinthians 12:9 Jesus said, "My grace is sufficient for for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness."
These verses remind us that apart from Christ we are weak and it is only in Hm that we are strong. Philippians 4:13 "I can do all things through Christ who gives me STRENGTH." God has equipped us to fight the battle with a full armor. Ephesians 6:10-17 The Armor of God; verse 10 "Finally, be STRONG in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on the full armor of God so that you can take your stand against the devil's schemes."
The remainder of these verses describe the armor that God has equipped us with. Check it out. Remember, you are not alone in this life. You can draw strength on the One who loves you and gave up his life so that you might have abundant life. You are a strong warrior despite what the world may tell you. So put on your armor everyday and gain strength. You are a superhero infused with the strength and power of our supernatural God. You go girl. Chop...chop!
Armed and dangerous,
With much love,
Angela
Friday, June 11, 2010
Petunia pinching and deadheads
Ahh.....summer...Oh the joy of warmer temperatures, longer days, beautiful gardens and the smell of fresh cut grass. After a long winter's nap our senses are awakened with spring and summer activities and traditions; picnics, baseball, fresh garden veggies, strawberry shortcake, family vacations, bonfires....memories...
Recently, I was the benefactor of a wonderful "girls day out". I woke to the sounds of the birds singing and the sun peering through my windows. After a refreshing sleep, I was excited and energized as I anticipated the day. My mom promised to make our 2nd annual trek to Johnston's nursery in Gasport to get our luscious hanging baskets. To me this trip would signify the beginning of the lazy, hazy days of summer.
As we arrived, we were greeted by a fine, misty rain and a damp noreasterly wind.(Just kidding about the wind but it made it sound interesting:)) My adventure began as we arrived @ the nursery. I searched the many greenhouses, with wagon in tow, to find my treasured hanging baskets. The hanging baskets were less than spectacular. They appeared droopy and in need of some TLC.
"Fear not Angela", I said to myself. "You can nurse these feeble creatures back to life". "But...but I want them to be strong and beautiful to begin with". Hmmm...to my utter surprise, I searched throughout the 4th greenhouse and TA DA DA DA... I fell upon (not literally) glorious, grandiose baskets with an array of colors that were fabulous, floral extravaganzas. Each basket held an assortment of petunias, daisies and pretty, purple flowers. (name unknown to this novice flower girl) They were downright gorgeous. I had at last found my "hidden treasures"....1, 2, 3...3 hanging baskets at the bargain price of $12.50 each. WOO HOO! Everyone loves a good bargain but no one more than I.
So, after a day of flower "picking", lunch and clothes shopping, my "girls day out" was complete. But no day would be complete without a word of wisdom from my beloved mother:) "don't forget to pinch your petunias...deadhead your flowers daughter". This was and is a good piece of advice reminding me of this scripture verse, 2 Corinthians 5:17. "Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creation; the old is gone, the new has come."
Instead of being "droopy" Christians, we can be infused with the Holy Spirit and become new and vibrant creations. Off with the deadheads and on with the new; new life in Christ. You've heard the saying, "The grass is always greener...where you water it". Don't forget to nourish yourself daily with God's word so that you, too, can be the vibrant creation you were meant to be.
God Bless your heart!
Angela
Recently, I was the benefactor of a wonderful "girls day out". I woke to the sounds of the birds singing and the sun peering through my windows. After a refreshing sleep, I was excited and energized as I anticipated the day. My mom promised to make our 2nd annual trek to Johnston's nursery in Gasport to get our luscious hanging baskets. To me this trip would signify the beginning of the lazy, hazy days of summer.
As we arrived, we were greeted by a fine, misty rain and a damp noreasterly wind.(Just kidding about the wind but it made it sound interesting:)) My adventure began as we arrived @ the nursery. I searched the many greenhouses, with wagon in tow, to find my treasured hanging baskets. The hanging baskets were less than spectacular. They appeared droopy and in need of some TLC.
"Fear not Angela", I said to myself. "You can nurse these feeble creatures back to life". "But...but I want them to be strong and beautiful to begin with". Hmmm...to my utter surprise, I searched throughout the 4th greenhouse and TA DA DA DA... I fell upon (not literally) glorious, grandiose baskets with an array of colors that were fabulous, floral extravaganzas. Each basket held an assortment of petunias, daisies and pretty, purple flowers. (name unknown to this novice flower girl) They were downright gorgeous. I had at last found my "hidden treasures"....1, 2, 3...3 hanging baskets at the bargain price of $12.50 each. WOO HOO! Everyone loves a good bargain but no one more than I.
So, after a day of flower "picking", lunch and clothes shopping, my "girls day out" was complete. But no day would be complete without a word of wisdom from my beloved mother:) "don't forget to pinch your petunias...deadhead your flowers daughter". This was and is a good piece of advice reminding me of this scripture verse, 2 Corinthians 5:17. "Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creation; the old is gone, the new has come."
Instead of being "droopy" Christians, we can be infused with the Holy Spirit and become new and vibrant creations. Off with the deadheads and on with the new; new life in Christ. You've heard the saying, "The grass is always greener...where you water it". Don't forget to nourish yourself daily with God's word so that you, too, can be the vibrant creation you were meant to be.
God Bless your heart!
Angela
Sunday, June 6, 2010
Memories
This past week we celebrated Memorial Day. Originally known as "Decoration Day", it commemorates U.S. soldiers who gave their lives in the military service. We, as a nation, remember those soldiers and the gift of freedom that they have given all Americans. For that gift, I am grateful and proud to be an American.
This Memorial Day memories flooded over me new and afresh. I was reminded, with pain that cut to the core of my soul and eyes moist with tears, of my sister Kathy. Kathy lost her battle with cancer one year ago on June 12th. So many memories washed over me. Memories of my sister; in good times and those more difficult. Kathy was "on fire" for the Lord. Her contagious laughter and infectious spirit were a joy to behold. There are so many wonderful stories I could share about Kathy and probably will; eventually :) The bottom line is that she lived her life knowing and sharing Christ with anyone and everyone. Was Kathy perfect? No, she like all of us had her faults. Despite this, she was a true reflection of Christ. I miss her.
Speaking of perfection, there is only one person who was and is perfect. This is the man that I am proud to say that I know well and he knows me by heart. Much like the veterans of the past, he gave his life so that we could experience freedom; freedom from sin and all that robs us of joy. His name is Jesus.
I Corinthians 11:23-26
The Lord Jesus, on the night that he was betrayed, took bread, and when he had given thanks, he broke it and said, "This is my body, which is for you; do this in remembrance of me". In the same way, after supper he took the cup saying, "This cup is the new covenant in my blood; do this, whenever you drink it, in remembrance of me".
So as we memorialize on this Memorial Day and those past, remember Jesus. He loves you more than life:)
With a grateful heart,
Angela
This Memorial Day memories flooded over me new and afresh. I was reminded, with pain that cut to the core of my soul and eyes moist with tears, of my sister Kathy. Kathy lost her battle with cancer one year ago on June 12th. So many memories washed over me. Memories of my sister; in good times and those more difficult. Kathy was "on fire" for the Lord. Her contagious laughter and infectious spirit were a joy to behold. There are so many wonderful stories I could share about Kathy and probably will; eventually :) The bottom line is that she lived her life knowing and sharing Christ with anyone and everyone. Was Kathy perfect? No, she like all of us had her faults. Despite this, she was a true reflection of Christ. I miss her.
Speaking of perfection, there is only one person who was and is perfect. This is the man that I am proud to say that I know well and he knows me by heart. Much like the veterans of the past, he gave his life so that we could experience freedom; freedom from sin and all that robs us of joy. His name is Jesus.
I Corinthians 11:23-26
The Lord Jesus, on the night that he was betrayed, took bread, and when he had given thanks, he broke it and said, "This is my body, which is for you; do this in remembrance of me". In the same way, after supper he took the cup saying, "This cup is the new covenant in my blood; do this, whenever you drink it, in remembrance of me".
So as we memorialize on this Memorial Day and those past, remember Jesus. He loves you more than life:)
With a grateful heart,
Angela
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