Preventing Back-to-School Blues

Did you hear about the mother who went in to wake up her son on the first day of school?

'Wake up, son. It's time to go to school'
'But why, Mom? I don't want to go.'
'Give me two reasons why you don't want to go.'
'Well, the kids hate me for one, and the teachers hate me, too!'
'Oh, that's no reason not to go to school. Come on now and get ready.'
'Give me two reasons why I should go to school.'
'Well, for one, you're 52 years old. And for another, you're the Principal!'

Back-to-school time can be scary for everyone.  We're in count down mode over here.  When I ask my kids how they feel about starting back I get varying answers: dread over alarm clocks, excitement to see friends, anxious about new teachers and homework.  Sound familiar? Parents can help their child prepare well emotionally for this mixed bag of feelings.  Here are some thoughts to consider...

Acknowledge Emotions - Change in routine can be hard on kids (and adults!).  If your child had difficulties last year, the start of a new year can be particularly stressful. Whatever your child's emotions, they need to be validated.  Kids, even teens, aren't always able to articulate their feelings of stress.  You may notice a change in appetite, mood or sleep patterns.  Keep your eyes open for signs of tension. Listening to your child, asking questions, empathizing with their feelings and reassuring them their future is not defined by their past can help ease your child's anxiety.

Reduce Unknowns - Have you ever played the 'what if' game?  Many children play this at back-to-school time. Here's how it goes - you ask yourself terrifying questions until your stomach is in knots. Fun, right?  Questions like, "What if I can't find my classroom?"  "What if I can't get my locker open?"  "What if I don't like my teacher?"  While you can't wipe out all the what if's, you can reduce them by going to Meet the Teacher Night, walking your child through their schedule, letting him practice his locker combination over and over and over again. One thing I did when my oldest started middle school was help her arrange a lunch plan with friends.  She talked to two or three friends ahead of time. They arranged a specific spot to meet so they could sit together.  This was a huge stress reliever for the first day.

Create Calm - Kids feed off of our emotions.  If we're stressed it stresses them.  If we're calm it helps them feel calm.  I hate to break it to you but we need to lead by example.  We can teach them how to productively handle stress by modeling it in our own lives.  Think of a few ways you can create an atmosphere of refuge and peace in your home especially for these first few days.  Pray with your child, encourage them and demonstrate your confidence that they can handle the new challenges that lie ahead.

With your help, your child can greet the new year with confidence even if he's the principal.

Getting My Back-to-school Act Together

Hey, girlfriends. You know what month it is?  That's right, it's August and we all know what that means.  Am I the only one that gets a small kick in my gut when I hear the word "August"? 

See if you can follow this simple math problem:
August = back-to-school. 
Back-to-school = 5 alarm clocks + 3 daily lunches + infinite homework. 
Therefore, August = 1 Stressed Mom

To raise my blood pressure even more, mix in the fact that I am going back to work full time in September.  I'm filling my final summer days reading organizational blogs and making meal calendars, baby!

Here are some of my favorite tips I thought I'd pass along to my stressed out sistas....
Tip #1 Family Meeting
Get your family together every Sunday night to go over the coming week's calendar.  Remind your kids of expectations regarding chores, homework, and relationships with each other. End your time together sharing best and worst from the week, gratitude and blessing each other. 

Tip #2 Emeals
Dave Ramsey and Focus on the Family endorse an app called "emeals".  I've downloaded it to my phone and can also access it on my computer.  It provides weekly meal plans, easy prep and a master grocery list.  Every mom's best friend!

Tip #3 Delegate
Before the first school day, have your kids make their own morning and evening to do list.  My son writes his morning checklist in dry erase markers on his bathroom mirror.  We have afternoon checklists downstairs in the kitchen.  It saves me a lot of nagging!

Tip #4 Calendar QT
Fall schedules fill up quickly and all that great family time from summer is soon a distant memory.  Go ahead and schedule parent/child dates on the calendar to make sure you stay connected.  Back-to-school brings lots of stress on kids - new teachers, increased homework load as they get older, changing friendships, etc.  When we carve out quality time it demonstrates to our children that we genuinely care.

Tip #5 The Night Before
Every Sunday the kids select their five outfits for school the coming week.  Then, each night they make their lunches (if your kids aren't making their own lunches yet get them moving in that direction).  Breakfast is already planned and backpacks are locked and loaded. Pretend you're a fireman and you've got to be ready to go when that alarm goes off!

Let's face it, stuff is going to come up that we cannot control but by golly, control what you can! Back-to-school does not have to mean we all lose our minds.  With a few simple tips and good communication we can ease back into a routine with peace and keep our blood pressure regulated without medication.  Come on, girls, you've got this.

Parenting Backwards

Raise your hand if you want to raise broken and dysfunctional kids.  No one?   I'm guessing no mom has held their newborn child and dreamed of rearing up their little one with low self-esteem and a plethora of insecurities. Then, why do so many kids struggle as adults with these very issues?  I have a theory.

Many parents aren't parenting backwards.  That's right - Parenting Backwards.  What I mean is parenting with a picture in mind of what you want your child to be like when they're grown. When our kids are young, it's easy to stay focused on the here and now.  Each day has enough packed into it that it's hard to see past the next hour much less years down the road.  Let's face it, from the moment their little red bottoms are slapped at birth, life gets CRAZY!  Families are rushed and pressured to the breaking point.  This often results in a half-hazard approach to parenting. 

Life has a way of carrying us along day to day with no real thought as to where we are going.  I'd like to take a moment to challenge parents to 'parent with the end in mind'. When your kids graduate from high school, what characteristics do you want to see?  Integrity?  Responsibility?  Trust?  Confidence?  These are not natural human qualities.  If you want them to possess these traits as adults, you've got to teach to the heart when they are children. 

Proverbs 4:23 is an all-time favorite, "Guard your heart, for it is the wellspring of life."  How are you guarding and shaping your child's heart?  We spend fortunes on braces to shape their smile; education to shape their intellect; and private lessons or team sports to shape their talents.  But what about character? 

God instructs parents to be the ones to teach character and shape their child's heart.  "And these words that I command you today shall be on your heart. You shall teach them diligently to your children, and shall talk of them when you sit in your house, and when you walk by the way, and when you lie down, and when you rise." (Deuteronomy 6:6-7)  These commands God gives are the heart shapers!  Sow this into your little ones hearts now and reap the benefits when they are adults.

Some day your present will be your past.  When you're in the future, what do you want your past to look like?  (Read that again slowly if you need to.) Let it be more than orthodontist appointments, good report cards, and soccer trophies.  Let love, truth, mercy and grace also be part of those memories and a part of your future.  Parent backwards to get the past you want in the future and enjoy the beautiful benefits of "heart healthy" children!

God & Guitars

If you are really, really fortunate then once in your life you'll have someone cross your path who makes a lasting impact.  Like most parents, I pray for my kids to get good teachers and coaches in school, etc.  We've been blessed with some precious teachers over the years but tonight was a once in a lifetime experience.

Our son Jack has been taking guitar lessons for three years.  We've been with his current teacher, JRod, for about a year.  Jack has been working towards youth worship band auditions at church.  JRod is the former youth worship band pastor so he's got great insight.  Not only is he an extraordinary musician, he understands the heart of worship.  God has gifted him with a passion and ability to lead the next generation in worship and musical excellence.  That's a little bit about him, now let me tell you about Jack.

He made the worship band and absolutely loves it.  It's his thing and we're so excited he's found 'his thing'.  Since making the band Jack has been eyeing new electric guitars.  The one he has is a starter.  He's been earning money mowing lawns, pulling weeds, etc. for our neighbors.  He's saved up enough to pay for half of a pretty nice instrument.  JRod builds guitars and sells them to professional musicians.  There is one guitar in particular that Jack has admired in JRod's studio. It is a replica of his instructors vintage Stratocaster...the kind of guitar that even makes this novice's jaw drop. 

Jack has really no hope of getting this superior piece of craftsmanship because it's way out of his price range.  So he just admires it from afar.  To put it into my terms...this is a Louis Vuitton purse to one you buy off the rack at Target.  There's nothing wrong with the Target variety, but oh to have Louis.  But I digress....

A few months back Jack decided just for fun to make an imitation electric guitar (actual size) for his teacher.  He made it from sheet metal with a plywood base for stability.  He measured it out.  He used some sort of jig-saw (did you know they make different kinds of saws???) and metal cutters to shape the instrument.  Then he collected various parts from the hardware store and our garage to create the pegs, control knobs and pick-ups found on electric guitars. It was really quite impressive. 

All this time that Jack's been working hard to earn money and working hard on this gift, Chris has been talking with JRod about what kind of guitar Jack should get.  Chris even asked about this custom guitar in his shop but, not surprisingly, it was four times Jack's budget.  However, after thinking on it and praying about it, the teacher texted Chris and said he felt God wanted him to give this guitar to Jack at the price Jack could afford.  What?! 

Chris and I were completely overwhelmed.  Why would he do this?  This custom guitar had cost the teacher hours upon hours of time not to mention financial expense and emotional investment.  How could he part with it for such a low price?  This is the answer he gave. "I've had several people express interest in buying this guitar but I haven't been ready to give it up.  I've seen Jack's heart and I think he deserves this guitar.  I know he will invest himself in it for God's glory.  Jack's the man I'm supposed to give this to." 

So Chris came up with a plan to surprise Jack.  Jack's work of art was ready to be presented to JRod.  We drove over last night to give it to him.  JRod didn't know about Jack's gift...and Jack didn't know about the surprise that awaited him.  You should have seen JRod's reaction upon receiving this imitation guitar.  He treated it like priceless art.  He spent time looking at how Jack made it, the shape, the strings, etc.  His beautiful wife was there and she expressed great appreciation for the time it must have taken Jack to make it.  They talked about where they would hang it in the teacher's studio.  You could say their reaction was worth more than the guitar Jack had built but they saw it for what it was - an expression of thanks for an admired mentor.

After this JRod said, "Hey Jack, did I tell you I sold my Sunburst?  Yeah, I sold it to a kid I teach.  He loves the guitar and I decided I would only part with it if I knew it were going to someone who would use it for God's glory.  That's why the kid I sold it to...is you."  (I'm crying again now just thinking about it.)

Are you trying to guess Jack's reaction?  Did he jump up and down?  Did he say, "Get out of here!"  Did he burst into tears?  How do you respond to such a great gift?  Jack had spent a few hours working on an imitation.  It was cool but it wasn't the real thing.  The teacher had spent countless hours, sweat, energy, and love on this authentic guitar.  Jack was speechless.  Tears welled in his eyes.  He was amazed.  The once admired piece of work in the master's studio now belonged to him.  He didn't have to look at it hanging on a wall and wonder what it would feel like to play.  He held it.  He played it.  Now it would hang on his own wall and he could play it any time he wanted.

There are so many beautiful illustrations in this story but it boils down to this.  When we bring our offering of worship and admiration (the imitation guitar) to the Master, He loves it.  He knows our limitations and weaknesses but he knows our heart too.  He knows our motive is love and admiration. 

What happens when we give all we have to God?  He meets us right there with His overwhelming greatness.  He pours out healing and blessing and meets the deepest need of our heart. God's gift of Himself is the real deal.  He's poured His energy, sweat, and blood out for us.  We don't have to admire this gift from afar. Draw near to the Master today and experience Him for all He's worth.

The Challenge of a Chocolate Pie

Last week I stood before a large, intimidating mountain and dared to climb.  Here's my story.  Before I married my wonderful husband, my last name was Smith.  Being raised a Smith means certain things.  Smith's love Jesus.  Smith's support the Dallas Cowboys.  We laugh a lot and food is at the center of it all.  Our family gatherings revolve around a menu of traditional Smith favorites.  Who is cooking what, when will we eat it and how soon can we plan the next meal are central questions to be addressed.

Among our food traditions and addictions, there is one special dish that rises to the top.  My mother's chocolate pie.  Everyone who knows my mother knows she is a great cook.  People love my mama's cooking.  The woman can prepare anything she sets her whisk to.  In our family there are several recipes we always want mom to fix but none can compare to...The Chocolate Pie.

That's why no one else in our family ever dares to make it.  Until one day last week I decided to climb that mountain. We had special guests staying at our house.  As an expression of my love for these friends, I wanted to make a special dessert.  It doesn't get any more special than The Chocolate Pie.  I'd had my mom's recipe for years but never dared to actually attempt it.  How could it possibly compare?! No way!!  My mom laughs at my trepidation, but my apprehension was justified.  I was scared to follow in my mom's footsteps.  Has anyone ever heard of Picasso, Jr. the great painter or Einstein the second, the great thinker?  I didn't think so.

In the Old Testament, a guy named Joshua had his own mountain to climb.  He'd been trained up under Moses to succeed him but when the time came...well, holy cow, how do you follow freaking Moses?!  In Joshua 1:1-9 God boosts Joshua's confidence with these words, "(v.3) I will give you every place where you set your foot..(v.5) No one will be able to stand up against you; I will never leave you nor forsake you...(v.6) Be strong and courageous...(v.7) Be strong and very courageous...(v.8) Be careful to obey everything I tell you...(v.9) Be strong and courageous.  Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go."

Does God know how to give a pep talk or what?! Yes, Joshua had big shoes to fill.  Who could blame him for feeling a little intimidated?  God said Joshua could do it.  Joshua believed God.  Joshua obeyed God.  Joshua saw God come through. 

Well, it doesn't quite compare to entering the Promised Land, but I made that pie.  After several calls to my mom for support it was finished.  By listening to her encouragement and following her recipe the pie turned out great. 

What mountain stands in front of you?  What is God asking you to do that scares you?  If God says you can do it, then you can!  Believe Him.  Obey Him.  See God come through then we can celebrate.  I'll bring pie!

Who, Me?

Last week, on a hot and humid day, I met some girlfriends for coffee - just the beverage everyone wants to drink on a hot and humid day, right?  We South Texans may be hot and sweaty but by golly, we love our specialty coffees just like those folks in the chilly Northwest.

But, I digress.  As I was saying, I met some quality girlfriends for some quality chat time.  I had just received my favorite sugar and espresso infused beverage when I promptly spilled the blasted thing.  Coffee went everywhere: the table, the chair, the floor, my shirt and even my shoes (the real trauma).  Now, spilling any coffee is bad enough but, this was 'designer' coffee (meaning I purchased it at a well-known coffee establishment at a designer price).  Here I had spilled designer coffee on my designer shoes - POO!  Not the way to start girl-time. 

So, what do you think I did next? Everyone could see that I'd spilled it.  It would be ridiculous to deny it.  I could feel the burn through my clothes.  The sweet scent of salted caramel drifted in the air as a sad reminder of what could have been. What if I decided to ignore it?  What if, when my friends were staring at the mess in front of them, I just said, "What are you staring at?  I didn't spill any coffee.  Who, me?"  They'd think all those latte's had burned my brain cells.   

I'm not so sure we don't act just like this when we brush over our disobedience and rebellion against God.  The effects of our disobedience, like a spilled drink, can be seen and felt - broken relationship with God, ineffective ministry, broken communication and relationship with our spouse or children.  We've made a mess but instead of owning it and asking God for help in cleaning it up, our pride steps in and we quickly put up a wall of denial.  "Who, me?"

King David was a rock star.  He had it all going on until he stole something that didn't belong to him. (See 2 Samuel 11.)  Rather than owning up to it he kept sinning to cover his tracks.  He took that spilled coffee and spread it around, but good.  His mess affected a lot of people and left a trail of carnage in it's wake.  Instead of being the spiritual leader for his people, he became an ineffective leader.  Eventually, a friend helped him see what he was doing and when David finally acknowledged his sin he was broken of his pride.  This was a turning point for David.  He got free of his sin by acknowledging it.

Look at David's prayer in Psalm 51 - 3 For I know my transgressions, and my sin is always before me. 4 Against you, you only, have I sinned and done what is evil in your sight; 9 Hide your face from my sins and blot out all my iniquity. 10 Create in me a pure heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me. 13 Then I will teach transgressors your ways, so that sinners will turn back to you.

You want to be a great wife and mom?  Acknowledge your sin.  Want to be a faithful friend or have an effective ministry?  Acknowledge your sin.  It's easy to point to someone else's mess but what about yours?  God wants to do radically, life-giving things in our families and in our country but we are a prideful people (I'm afraid I'm first in that line).  Let us own up to our mess and run back into the arms of a loving and forgiving God. 

With the help of my friends, I cleaned up the coffee mess. 
With the help of some strong chemicals I cleaned up the stains on my shirt and shoes. 
With the help of the Holy Spirit, I am convicted of my sin. 
By the love and sacrifice of Jesus, I am led to repentance and forgiveness. 

Friends, we don't have to live with the stain of sin.  We don't have to deny it's existence.  It is by his kindness that we are led to repentance and back into sweet fellowship with our loving Father. 

100 Ways to Make Your Marriage Rock

I had to repost this article.  It's got such great wisdom for keeping your marriage thriving. These are for the husbands and the wives, both.  Pick just a couple and do them this week!

1. Write him letters
2. Go on regular date nights
3. Write his name on lipstick on the bathroom mirror
4. Revitalize the romance with intimate dates
5. Pray together
6. Hide notes in secret places
7. Go to bed at the same time
8. Listen to music together-share earbuds
9. Send him on a scavenger hunt in the house
10. Buy him gifts he will love
11. Hide a treat in his glovebox or desk at work
12. Read the Bible together
13. Wear shirts that tell the world you love your spouse
14. Praise your spouse to other people
15. Let them overhear you
16. Read a marriage devotional
17. Porn-proof your home
18. Be best friends
19. Sleep in his t-shirts
20. Look to him to make the big decisions (see comment section for my opinion on #20, #21)
21. Let her make the small ones
22. Don’t nag him
23. Put down the seat, pick up your socks for her
24. Renew your vows privately with whispers and memories
25. Renew them publicly with cake and bubbly
26. Fight naked
27. Tell him you like him
28. Receive his compliments
29. Pick your battles
30. Show her you love her and tell him you respect him
31. Go away together at least once a year
32. Frame your wedding vows
33. Her: Read For Women Only
34. Hang pictures of the two of you around your house
35. Kiss in front of your kids
36. Make his favorite dessert
37. Have pictures of just the two of you made
38. Make sex a priority
39. Spend time apart occasionally
40. Learn to enjoy something he loves
41. Surprise each other
42. Meet him at the door
43. Dreamstorm
44. Text each other from across the room
45. Be accountable to each other
46. Set reminders on your phone to remember him/her throughout the week
47. Call him right now and tell him you appreciate him
48. Be affectionate
49. Him: Read For Men Only
50. Leave work and come home early
51. Wash, vacuum her car. Keep it full of gas.
52. Give each other romantic coupons
53. Engage every day in meaningful conversation
54. Compliment each other
55. Touch your spouse several times throughout the day
56. Take one day a month to make your spouse your total focus
57. Let each other sleep in
58. Be spontaneous!
59. Argue fair: avoid these words “you always” and “you never”
60. Kiss every day
61. Find tangible ways to serve your mate without complaining
62. Forgive quickly
63. Be honest.
64. But not hurtful
65. Get on the same page: plan your budget together
66. Look your best as often as you can
67. Guard your marriage
68. Get out of debt (and stay out)
69. Laugh together
70. Have a date night in
71. When your together-BE TOGETHER (take a break from phones, technology, etc)
72. Talk about your favorite memories together
73. Tell him he’s sexy just because
74. Tell her she’s pretty, especially when she’s not feeling it
75. Make him breakfast in bed
76. Do her chores for her
77. Get a couple’s massage or host your own privately
78. Read a book out loud together
79. Dance together-soft music (alone) or rocking music with the kids
80. Bring her/him a favorite drink during the middle of the day
81. Exercise together-hikes, bike riding, etc
82. Choose not to be annoyed by an irritating behavior/disappointment
83. Tell him a secret he doesn’t know about you
84. Thank your spouse just because, often
85. Sit on the same side of a booth at a restaurant
86. Lay in bed together and stare into each other eyes, without talking
87. Learn something new together-take an art class, cooking lessons, etc
88. Leave a sweet comment on the Facebook wall
89. Teach your kids about marriage
90. Stop what you’re doing, look them in the eye and listen to their answer
91. Create art together
92. Support each other’s goals
93. Know when to talk and when to hush
94. Consider counseling (even if there’s not conflict)
95. Doodle his name
96. Bring her flowers (even when she says they are too expensive)
97. Wear something he loves
98. Share furniture-sit in his lap
99. Fight for your marriage
100. Remember your spouse rocks-even when they don’t

Taken from www.wearethatfamily.com

Why Church is Important for Teens

The most recent publication of Pine Cove Camp's 'Transformed' magazine shares the story of a pastor's teenage daughter who had completely rebelled against all her parents had taught her.  She struggled with depression, anger and low self-esteem.  When her family came to Family Camp, the daughter experienced authentic love and acceptance from the youth counselors.  The counselors were not teaching anything different from what the girl had been taught her whole life but somehow she finally heard the truth of God's love for the first time.  She experienced tremendous healing and freedom through this youth outreach.

Teenagers experience constant attack on their self-esteem.  They are searching for significance, purpose and truth.  While mom and dad may be sharing these things with their kids, as children get older they want to hear it from another source.  A great youth ministry is just what teens need.

The purpose of youth ministry is to share God's love and truths in a relational manner.  Most kids are not into religious exercises.  They want relationship.  God is a God of relationship.  Find a youth ministry that relates to kids.  Great options are available.  Many churches use small groups with a leader that will take a genuine interest in your child.

Here's what a good youth ministry will do for your teen:

• Make them feel accepted and loved.
• Give them a place where they can be themselves.
• Meet new friends who go to their school.
• Encourages accountability among peers.
• Be influenced by positive leaders.
• Hear about God's love and purpose for their lives.
• Learn to serve others and become leaders in their community.

Don't underestimate the importance of youth ministry in your child's life.  This is huge.  I was blessed to be part of a thriving youth group growing up.  These dear friends loved me and challenged me to make good choices.  I’m still close with these friends many years later.  Beg, threaten or bribe but do what it takes to get your teen involved in youth group.  Send her to youth camp and summer mission trips.  It’s life changing! 

For more see my book, 'Intentional Parenting: Tween Edition'. www.lisaarchinal.com

Parenting Resources

Hello Faithful Followers and First Timers!
While speaking at the Pine Cove Mother/Tween Daughter Retreat a couple of weeks ago, I had several moms ask if I would post my resources for my talks, books, etc. on my blog.  These are books or websites I have read/reviewed.  They have been helpful enough that I am mentioning them here.  Wish I got a percentage of the royalties but no such luck! ha ha.  Please feel free to post your own resources too!  I'm always interested in helpful advice for raising great kids.  Blessings!

Suggested Reading for parents of boys:

That’s My Son by Rick Johnson

Your Boy by Vicki Courtney

Raising a Modern Day Knight by Robert Lewis

Preparing Your Son for Every Man’s Battle by Stephen Arterburn, Fred Stoeker, Mike Yorkey

 

 

 

Suggested Reading for parents of girls:

 

Mom’s Everything Book for Daughters by Becky Freeman

Preparing Your Daughter for Every Woman’s Battle by Shannon Ethridge

Lies Young Women Believe by Nancy Leigh DeMoss and Dannah Gresh

5 Conversations You Must Have with Your Daughter by Vicki Courtney

Passport2Purity by Dennis and Barbara Rainey (For boys and girls)

Mom’s Ultimate Guide to the Tween Girl World by Nancy Rue

8 Great Dates for Moms and Daughters by Dannah Gresh

familylife.com

family.org

 store.lifejournal.cc/childrenslifejournal.aspx 

 

 

Who vs. Why

For the past five months I've been teaching freshman girls discipleship class at a Christian school.  Some of the girls come from healthy families while others come from homes so dysfunctional I wonder how they make it to school each day.  The children who attend the Christian school are no different from the children who attend public school.  The difference is in the environment.  We, as teachers, are trying to make Christianity contagious.  We have lesson plans, yes, but more than that we hope our own relationship with Jesus is evident and desireable.  It is often said that Christianity is caught more than taught.  This teaching job has rekindled a fire in me to see the next generation put their trust in God and see Him do amazing things in their lives.

While I love my job, I have to admit it can be painful.  At times my girls make choices I know will lead to trouble but I feel powerless to prevent it.  Like a mother, I want to wrap them in my arms and protect them from the dangers of this world.  Having lived longer, I know what's out there and I want to shield them from the darkness.  It's about this time the Lord reminds me He is in control.  It's not my place to keep them locked up in some sort of Christian vault but rather to prepare them for His service to a hurting world.

Pain was not part of God's plan when He created man.  We are responsible for that.  However, God is so amazing He can take pain and turn it into something beautiful.   In the story of Job, when he lost everything - his belongings plus all ten of his children in one day - his friends tried everything they could to explain the 'why' of what happened.  In the end the 'why' didn't matter.  It was the 'who' - or should I say 'Who'. 

Out of the approximately 31,000 verses in the Bible, Job 42:5 is one of my top favorites.  After all of the discussion on why bad things happen, God came to Job and allowed Job to see Him in a powerful way.  Job had never experienced God like he did after his terrible tragedy.  God spoke to Job like He had never done before.  God didn't explain the 'why' but He revealed the 'Who' so well that Job didn't ask any more questions.  He just marveled.  Job's response to God's revelation of Himself was, "My ears had heard of you but now my eyes have seen you." (Job 42:5)

We've experienced so much sadness and pain over the past week.  It seems like everyday there is more bad news.  My natural tendency is to ask 'why?'  But what I need to seek is the 'Who'.  My prayer for us in the wake of tragedy is to see God in such a way that the 'why' is no longer the issue.  May God stand before you as He did for Job.  May God's love overshadow our pain. 

It's not coincidence that the book of Psalms follows the story of Job.  "Weeping may last for a night but joy comes in the morning", Psalm 30:5. 

Don't Hand a Blind Man a Map

By Chris Archinal

It must have been 1991.  I was the Assoc Youth Minister at FBC Lubbock while attending Texas Tech University.  FBC was 3 blocks from the campus so it was easy for me to park my Jeep CJ-5 at the church and simply ride my bike to class.  One afternoon, my twin brother, Jason, was running late for class.  Instead of fighting to find a parking place he parked at the church and borrowed my bike.  A few hours later he returned.  He came to my office and when I saw his face I could tell something was wrong.  I asked him what was bothering him and he told me this story.  

After class Jason was unlocking my bike from the rack and I guess the noise he made as he loosened the lock caught the attention of a blind man who was standing nearby with his dog.  The man, looking like a stereotypical blind person, complete with the stick, dark glasses and dog, looked Jason's direction.  He said, "Excuse me, could you help me?  I seemed to have lost my way." As it turns out the man was headed to the library and through a series of wrong turns he was totally lost.  Of course, Jason stopped what he was doing and immediately helped him.  Jason took him by the arm and walked him towards the library until he looked at Jason and said, "Ah, now I know where I am.  Thank you for the help, and have a great day."  Jason double-checked, maybe even triple-checked to make sure he was certain to continue on alone and watched the man as he navigated across the street and down the sidewalk that led to the library.  Jason watched as the man made his way up the library steps and only when he had safely entered in did he go back to the bike rack.  

I'll never forget the expression on Jason's face as he told me this story.  His eyes filled with tears, choking back the frog that seemed to have nestled in his throat.  Then he asked me, "What do you think I am supposed to learn from that?"  We sat and talked about the obvious lesson, which is to be grateful everyday for something we so take for granted...our sight.  But digging deeper God revealed something more.  You see, we encounter spiritually blind people everyday...people that don't know Jesus.  And whether they ask us outright, or just with their actions, many are saying, "Excuse me, could you help me?  I seemed to have lost my way."  So what do we do when we see someone who is lost...someone who has lost their way?  

Draw a map: Jason, knowing the campus layout very well, could have drawn the man a very nice map.  He could have handed the man the map and said, "Here are step by step directions...good luck!"

Point: Jason could have put his hand on the guys shoulder and pointed saying, "Yup...you wanna go that way."

Verbal instructions:  "No, no, you're waaaay off.  If you want to go to the library you need to...." and then proceed to describe to the man exactly what he needed to do.  

 The bottom line (and ridiculously obvious) truth about those options is....they AREN'T options.  You would never do those things for a blind man.  A map is no good to someone who can't see.  Pointing is just as worthless.  And verbal instructions only make him feel more embarrassed.  The ONLY option Jason had was to do what he did.  To take the man by the arm and "lead him" to the library.  

You want to help those who are blind to Christ?  Assist those who have lost their way?  Lead them.  Don't write down a bunch of scripture and tell them to "follow this Roman road to salvation."  Don't just point them to church, telling them that's where they can "find their way," and don't preach at them using churchy terms they won't understand.  Instead, lead them.  Is it wrong to share scripture, point them to church or verbally share your faith?  Of course not.  In fact, those are definitely supplements to sharing your faith.  But the very best thing you can do is walk through life with them, helping them find their way...God's way.  

Oh, and by the way, you won't be so lucky to have someone walk up and say, "I'm a sinner, what must I do to be saved?"  Your blind person will come to you with life questions, real pain, a financial or marital crisis, or the like.  Each hurt, each issue, each cry out is their way of looking to someone they think can help saying, "Excuse me, could you help me?  I seemed to have lost my way." 

 

Pick on Someone Your Own Size

As a child there was a boy on our street who was just a year or two older than me.  He was at least a foot taller but very lanky and didn't weigh much more than I did.  He loved to pick on me and my friends.  He would annoy us when we were playing house.  He threw pebbles at us when we rode our bikes.  He made fun of us at the bus stop.  My friends and I didn't see that there was anything we could do about it.  We felt pretty powerless.

That is until one day when my much older brother saw what was going on.  Now, you need to understand that my brother, Andy, wanted nothing to do with me.  My brother was much meaner to me than this kid.  However, when he was coming home from high school one day, my big brother witnessed this neighbor kid messing with us.

Before I knew what was happening, Andy grabbed this kid by the shirt collar and told him he'd better pick on someone his own size.  Something to the effect of: "There's a new sherriff in town so scram!"  My friends and I just looked at each other, jaws dropped, and let it sink in.  Here was Andy, who had no use for us, coming to our rescue!  We were liberated!  We were free from the tyranny of the neighborhood bully!  Victory!

Now that I am an adult I struggle with other bullies in my life.  Unfortunately, they are not as easy to control as the street bully.  Ephesians 6:12 explains, "For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places."  Friends, we are fighting bullies we cannot see.

Yesterday, a bully tried to pick on me.  My husband, Chris, had something very stressful happen at work that felt threatening to his future and hence, our family.  At first we felt fearful, powerless and defeated.  We were angry with the people who seemed to be causing this problem until we remembered Ephesians 6. 

We immidiately stopped and prayed.  There's only one person more formidable than a big brother - Big Daddy!  Matthew 7:11 explains it best, "If you, then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give good gifts to those who ask him!"  We cried out to our Heavenly Father to come to our rescue.  Only the Lord can set evil in it's proper place.  As soon as we prayed and confessed our trust in God, we experienced peace.

Later the same day, Chris got a call from someone with knowledge and influence in this situation and gave us some very reassuring words.  The man's encouragement was appreciated and reinforced our faith that God is at work on our behalf. 

What bullies are you facing today? It may look like a person or a circumstance that is threatening you but look a little deeper. We don't have to sit back and let physical or spiritual bullies paralyze us. Call on Big Daddy. Put your hope in God. Keep your focus on Him and watch Him stand up for you. 

Summer School

Sleeping late, sunbathing, movie watching.  These are terms that describe a typical summer at the Archinal house.  School is out - it's time to play!  We believe in maxing out the fun during summer. I crave this time with the kids and they crave time away from a structured school day.  But does this mean their brains have to turn to mush?  Does playing in the pool all summer long mean their little minds have to get watered down too?  I think not!

Summer is my favorite time, in part, because it's MY time to teach what I think is just as important as reading, writing and arithmetic.  It's Mommy Summer School.  Parents can use summer breaks to teach all sorts of important lessons to their kids.

1.  Spiritual -  Have your kids pick out a devotional book and make it a routine to do your devotionals together each morning before turning on the TV.  Pick out a few key scriptures that your kids can memorize - one per week.  You can even tie scripture memory to rewards.  For example, your child is begging you to take him to see the newest movie?  Have him earn the privilege by assigning one household chore and one memory verse.  Use the extra time of being able to stay up late to tell a Bible story and discuss it as a family.  Encourage kids to ask questions and seek applications.

2.  Financial - Have your kids do chores to earn allowance.  Teach them the three parts of income: tithing, saving, and spending.  Our oldest just started babysitting this summer, she's earned enough to open a savings account.  Banks have special accounts for kids which help them establish good financial habits.  Check it out!

3.  Responsibility - Before you play, you must obey!  Establish daily and weekly responsibilities they must finish before doing anything else.  This teaches kids to have integrity in their work and gives them a sense of pride.  They may bark about it at first but if parents are consistent, kids will soon see it as just something they do each day and not as punishment. 

4.  Self-confidence - When children learn new skills it gives them a strong sense of self.  Teach kids how to make their own breakfast and lunch.  Invite your children to help with grocery shopping, planning and preparing meals.  Let kids have one night a week where they help you make dinner.  Use trips to the store to teach them how to checkout and pay for their items.  It's important for them to learn life skills at a young age and kids love it!  Use hotel stays to teach your kids how to check-in and how to call downstairs for extra towels.  This teaches them how to speak to adults and how to take care of themselves.  It gives them a greater sense of self-respect when they can do things on their own while you are there to support and encourage.

5.  Health and wellness - Be sure they aren't spending too much time in front of the TV or technology.  This can sometimes be hard.  Motivate kids to get exercise through family outings.  Get in the pool, take a bike ride, or even go to the neighborhood Y.  Our YMCA allows children as young as 12 to be trained on exercise equipment.  My kids have done this this summer and they love going to the gym and working out with me.  I love it because it's more family time!

All of this is just the tip of the iceberg and I'm sure you've got many more ideas of your own.  The important thing is to take advantage of the summer hours to establish some great learning opportunities.  Who knew summer school could be so fun! 

Lessons from a Lemonade Stand

As a minister's kid, I grew up in the church where I often heard stories of missionaries traveling to far away lands helping the poor.  I remember sitting in a Sunday School room looking at pictures of children my age who lived in Africa.  Their clothes were worn, their faces dirty and their stories were the same - they had no clean water.  As a child I was baffled by this.  Why couldn't the grown ups figure out a way to get water to these children?

Many years later, children in Africa, specifically South Sudan, are still without clean water.  The difference is, now I am the grown up and I am responsible to do something to help.  As a follower of Jesus, I cannot pretend to live in ignorance of those who are hurting, no matter how many miles away they may be.  Jesus taught us to care for the sick and hurting...and he didn't put geographical boundaries around it.

The question was where to start in my efforts to change the world.  The answer was Sister Effect.  Recently, two of my friends established an organization to make a difference in the lives of those living in South Sudan.  They came up with the name Sister Effect (http://www.sistereffect.org/).  The idea being that women and girls will use whatever gifts they have (writing, baking, music, anything) to raise awareness and funds which will result in life-giving change for those in the Sudan.

As a mother of two daughters, I wanted my 'sisters' to learn early that they can make a difference in someone else's life - even someone they have never met.  So, I asked the girls what talents or abilities they have that they could use to help girls in South Sudan.  The result was a bake sale/lemonade stand benefitting Sister Effect.

My own sister and I were holding a garage sale and decided it was the perfect opportunity to help the girls get started.  The girls did all the work.  Mary Catherine baked and baked.  Ellie mixed lemonade.  They made signs and set up their stand.  For two days that sat in the sweltering Houston heat selling their wares.

The result?  They raised a whole $20.  I have to be honest and say that at first I was really disappointed in the small amount of money.  But then I realized I was being short sighted.  There is a much greater effect taking place.  Yes, the money is important.  But more important are the lessons it taught my girls. 

They learned:

• They have special abilities, given by God, that they can use to bless others.
• There is great joy in doing something completely selfless.
• Working together can bring greater results than working alone.
• You don't have to be a grown up to make a difference.

That's a lot of lessons learned just from one little lemonade stand!  I learned something too.  You don't have to have millions of dollars to change the world.  You don't have to move to Africa to help the people that live there.  Sometimes, the best thing you can do is raise awareness in your own little circle of influence - in this case it was influencing my girls.

I have a feeling this won't be their last business venture.  They've caught the Sister Effect bug.  It's amazing what sister's can do together. 

It Could Have Been Worse

I think of myself as a "Pray-er".  I believe in prayer.  I don't always understand how or why God answers as He does but I've lived long enough to see God do amazing things when people pray.  While I pray daily and I've seen God answer many prayers, I am still floored when I see God work!

Yesterday, Chris took the kids to the pool while I stayed home to work on a talk I'm giving at church tomorrow night.  After working for an hour I got sleepy and decided to lay down for a nap.  Just as I was drifting off I had a sudden urge to pray for protection for my kids.  It seemed a little strange that I would feel that way as they are all excellent swimmers, Chris was with them, and they were at a pool with lifeguards.  Nevertheless, I prayed for their safety.

About thirty minutes later I was surprised to hear Chris pulling into the driveway since they had only been gone a short while.  Then I see my son, Jack get out of the car with a large butterfly bandage on his chin.  Apparently he had slipped while getting out of the pool and hit his chin quite hard on the edge.  Chris needed to take him to the emergency room where he ended up getting his chin glued!

You may think my prayer didn't "work" or it was too late.  To the contrary.  I know in my heart that the Lord had me pray for my kids at the exact moment the accident was about to happen and my obedience to pray prevented a much worse accident. 

Moms, we are our children's first line of defense against spiritual as well as physical danger.  Imagine yourself the general in a war.  As you hold your hands up your army has victory but the second you lower them they begin to lose.  This is exactly what happened in Exodus 17 when the Israelites were going to war.  When Moses, their leader, held is hands up the Israelite army advanced.  But, when his arms got tired, he lowered them and the army suffered setbacks.  Two friends had to come and hold Moses' arms up so the Israelites could gain the victory!

This is a physical picture of an equally real spiritual battle.  As we lift our prayers to God on behalf of our children, God will move them forward and give them victory in life.  If we grow weary from praying for them, our children are subject to defeat by forces of darkness that are at work all around us.  (For more on this, check out Ephesians 6).

I'm so grateful that my loving Heavenly Father alerted me to a need for my children.  I am thankful that I recognized it and 'raised my hands'.  I'm also grateful that Jack only busted his chin and scraped up his side.  You moms out there know just as well as I do... it could have been much worse.

Hope in Grief

Yesterday I had the opportunity to spend time with a friend whose family has been rocked by the sudden death of a loved one.  She shared with me how the brother of the deceased is struggling to cope.  He holds his emotions together only to crater under the strain of grief.  My heart breaks as I hear of this family's pain and I feel helpless, wanting more than anything to take it away.

Where can we go when death is standing over us like a dark shadow?  We must turn to Jesus.  He is our Comforter and Hope.  Jesus is well acquainted with grief.  He stood at the tomb of his good friend, Lazarus.  He listened to the cries of Lazarus' sisters, "Jesus, if you had been here, this wouldn't have happened."  Have you ever said that to Jesus? 

What was Jesus' response to this grieving family?  The shortest verse in all of scripture - John 11:35, "Jesus wept."  Jesus loved this family and cried with them.  Was Jesus crying because it was a hopeless situation?  No.  Was he crying because he was helpless to do anything about it?  No.  He cried because death was never in God's plan.  When God created Adam and Eve in the Garden, the world was perfect.  Death didn't exist until man sinned.  It broke God's heart then and it breaks His heart now.

Jesus wept because he loves his people so much.  He hates to see us suffer.  When we cry, he cries.  Shortly after crying with his friends, he went on to raise Lazarus from the dead.  Wow, now that's a pretty good response to grief!  If only Jesus would come and raise all of our loved ones from the dead.  Why doesn't he?

He raised Lazarus from the dead to show that only HE (Jesus) has power over death.  Nothing and no one in all the world is stronger than death - except Jesus!  He gave his life that we could cheat death.  Jesus brings eternal life to those who trust in him. 

Friends, between you and me, when it's my time to go, I don't want to be brought back to this decrepit world.  I want Jesus to raise me up to heaven.  I want to be alive with him for all of eternity in a world without sin. 

I'm happy for Lazarus' sisters that they got to see Lazarus again this side of heaven.  But the point of the story does not end with a resurrection barbeque in Lazarus' backyard.  The real party happens when Jesus welcomes us home to heaven.  He brings life eternal to all of us who will call upon his name. 

Are you grieving today?  Know that Jesus grieves with you.  Are you angry at death?  Jesus is too.  Do you feel helpless?  You are.  But Jesus isn't.  He has conquered death.  Friends, let Jesus comfort us as no one else can.  Let us turn to the only one who can do something about death.  Like Lazarus' sisters, let's call upon Jesus.

The Possum in My Pool - by Chris Archinal

This morning I rescued a baby possum from our pool. He was holding on to a basketball struggling to stay balanced and keep his head above water. He had obviously been holding on all night. To be honest, even though a nasty little creature, it was a sad sight. I carefully took the pool net, picked him and the basketball out of the water, then crushed him with a shovel.

Just kidding! I took the sad soaked critter and carefully set him down over the back fence into the bayou from where he likely came.  With his claws (and even his teeth) he clung to that ball, fearing that he was being dumped into greater peril. When I grazed his back with the grass he reluctantly and suspiciously placed a paw on the ground. Recognizing it was safe, he let the rest of his weary body collapse into the grass.

He didn't lay there long. The kids and I watched as he slowly crawled again to my backyard, this time behind a storage shed...nice. I went to clean out the pool skimmers while the kids stayed glued to the possum's every move.  They tracked him like they were on some Animal Planet reality show.

Sadly, there in the skimmer I found the possum's brother. Bummer. He didn't make it. I could imagine the events of the previous night. One brother struggles to survive on a basketball and watches as the other brother fights for his life; finally succumbing to the depths of the water and eventually sucked into the skimmer. Oh the drama.


You know the sad/interesting thing about this story? In our pool we have what we affectionately call the "Popsicle step". It's an over sized step leading into our pool. Pool companies advertise it as a tanning step. That possum, who I was just informed by my kids is now named Midnight, was 18 inches from that step when we found him. Who knows how close his brother may have been. One little stroke of the paw and he likely would have found himself on the safety of the step.

As I sat on the back patio, finding myself lost in the story of the two brothers' struggle, I began to play out a Disney-type storyline.  Picture it with me: Two possums struggling to stay afloat on an unsteady basketball.  Finally, one brother realizes they'd both die if they both continue to stay on the ball.  The older brother sacrifices himself so the younger can live.

Cheesy, I know.  Welcome to my world. As the movie played out in my head, I began to see the spiritual significance. In fact, I'm wiping tears from my eyes as I type because of the lesson I learned. So many people, me included, find themselves struggling and fighting for their life in this cruel world. So many people trying to stay afloat. Looking for peace.  Looking for answers.  Answers that they hope will "save" them.

Are we much different than this poor little possum?  Fortunately, our salvation is only 18 inches away. That 18 inches is the distance from your head to your heart. You have heard (in your head) about the salvation Jesus offers. You have heard of His forgiveness. You have heard of His obsessive-compulsive tendencies to seek you out. You know in your head what He says is true...BUT you haven't believed it in your heart.

Maybe you haven't received this truth because you think you're not good enough. Maybe it's because you think,  "He couldn't forgive me, I mean, look at me!" So instead of trusting Him in your heart, you just hold on for dear life, trying to balance yourself in this world moments from drowning.

Friends YOU ARE ONLY 18 inches from safety. Trust Him today. Believe in Him today. Whoever you are, whatever you've become...He loves you. He loves you enough to not just leave you there. Reach out for Him.  Your salvation is closer than you think.

Which Way Are You Going?

"This has been a crazy week."  How many times have you heard that line?  How many times have you said it?  I should have it tattooed on my forehead.  Seriously, it seemed everything that could be possibly fall on my calendar for the month of April, fell on last week.  To top it off, as fate would have it, my husband was out of town.  Of course!  Then, just to make things interesting, I had two kids get sick.  So let's just go ahead and throw a few doctors appointments in the mix.  Why not?

My usual mornings with the Lord got pushed out and replaced with meetings, appointments and commitments - none of which were more important but all of which I let take over.  I don't know why we are called "stay-at-home moms."  We're never home! 

I substituted a person for a planner; a relationship for a rat race; a sense of calm for significant chaos.  Ever done that?  Too often we are pre-occupied with doing rather than being.  We've got a serious case of ADD when it comes to sitting before God.  We're not content to focus on Him in worship and prayer.  It's much easier to go and "do" in His name than it is to get to know the One we claim to serve.

Jesus said, "I am the way, the truth, and the life."  He IS the way.  He is THE way.  He is the WAY.  Don't miss the impact of this simple statement.  Want to know God's will?  He is the way.  Want to know His plan for your life?  He is the way.  Need wisdom or guidance?  He is the way. 

Walking closely with God each day guarantees you'll be exactly where He wants you.  This is not to say we can't keep busy schedules but the busyness can't take the place of our relationship with Him.  That's when you know you're too busy and that's when we get out of His will.

The disciples didn't need a map of where to go as long as they had Jesus.  They just watched Him and followed!  Are you substituting a road map for a relationship with The Way?  Then you're missing out.

If we want to know God's will, we must carve out time to cultivate our relationship and learn to recognize His voice.  God is anxious to show us the way....are we ready to follow?

Lost in Translation

Recently I had to make a return at a local discount store. I hate making returns. I always feel guilty for some reason, like it's a personal insult to the cashier. I'm afraid they are going to be mad at me. Crazy, I know, and just one of my many hang-ups. The lucky cashier, who got my dysfunctional self as their customer, was friendly enough but apparently had just moved here from 'Couldn't-pronounce-it-if-I-wanted-to-stan' where English is clearly not their primary language.

While I was quite impressed with her ability to understand most of what I was saying and even speak to me in broken English, I had a difficult time understanding everything she said.  I tried hard to listen, not wanting to embarrass her by asking her to repeat herself.  She was trying so hard to communicate but my ears were not catching on.  My uneasiness excalated tenfold as we tried to mime our messages to each other. Awkward!

There is a truth in scripture that is often lost on us.  God is saying something important but we don't always have ears to hear it.  I think we read it in passing without giving pause to it's overwhelming message.  This being the day before Easter Sunday, I want us to stop and really listen to what God is saying. 

2 Corinthians 5:21 is crazy Truth - "For He made Him who knew no sin to be sin for us, that we might become the righteousness of God in Him." Read that a couple of times and let it sink in.  It ought to give us chills.

A line in Chris Tomlin's song, "Here I Am to Worship", says, "I'll never know how much it cost to see my sin upon that Cross."  He's right.  We could never comprehend what it cost the Creator of the universe or His only son to bear the consequences of our sin.  Isaiah said it best, (Is. 64:6), "All of us have become like one who is unclean, and all our righteous acts are like filthy rags."  Yep, that pretty much sums us up. 

From the Pope to the hooker on Bourbon Street, we're all destitute!  From Mother Teresa to Lady GaGa, we are all depraved and in desperate need of a Savior.  Even the Apostle Paul, who labored tirelessly and suffered greatly for the gospel, realized his greatest efforts to please God were no more than rubbish compared to the righteousness of Christ.

See Philippians 3:7-8, "But whatever was to my profit I now consider loss for the sake of Christ. What is more, I consider everything a loss compared to the surpassing greatness of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whose sake I have lost all things. I consider them rubbish, that I may gain Christ and be found in him, not having a righteousness of my own that comes from the law, but that which is through faith in Christ—the righteousness that comes from God and is by faith."

We've got to stop and really think about this.  The impact of the resurrection has got to go beyond our head and sink deeply into our heart.  Jesus experienced the wrath of God, which is more painful to endure than anything we will ever experience EVER.  Oh that we would walk not in guilt of this glorious gift but in life.  May we live in the freedom of Christ! May we show our gratitude through obedience, humility and service for this righeousness that we have recieved so undeservingly.

Do you have ears to hear God's message to you this weekend? It's a foreign concept for an innocent man to give his life for a guilty one but that's exactly what He did. No matter what country you are from, no matter what language you speak, ask God to help you truly hear and receive the crazy truth of His limitless love. Happy Easter.

He Goes Before You

There are those we are familiar with in history who have faced great obstacles.  They overcame fear.  They marched forward with courage and left a legacy of bravery and hope.  Moses crossing the Red Sea with the Egyptians on his tail.  Abraham Lincoln abolishing slavery and facing a nation at war with itself.  John Glenn flying into space attempting to be the first man to walk on the moon.  Moms with daughters trying out for cheerleader. 

Okay, if you've ever had a child tryout for something then you agree that last sentence deserves to be included.  I'm not sure facing cheer tryouts is any less stressful than leading a nation to freedom or flying into outer space.  I'll bet there are some of you moms out there that could argue the week of cheer clinics and tryouts has a lot of similarities to a civil war.

This morning I sit on my back patio, relaxed and enjoying praise music and hot coffee, while some of my dearest friends are popping TUMS and praying their guts out while their daughters are at tryouts.  Mary Cate and I were in that boat this time last year and I've got the scars to prove it. 

As the Lord would have it, my devotional this morning was on Mark 14:28, Jesus said, "But after I have been raised, I will go before you to Galilee."  Jesus was trying to prepare his disciples for his crucifixion and resurrection.  He knew they would be scattered, terrified and confused upon his arrest and death.  He was telling them not to let their eyes fool them.  While they would see him die, that wasn't the end.  They would also see him live again.

Even though Jesus faced terrible torture and death, he was still concerned about his boys.  To comfort and encourage them, he said, "I'll meet you on the other side.  You are going to face fear and uncertainty but I'm going ahead of you.  I'll be there."  Is Jesus cool or what?!

God never sends you into a situation alone.  Just like He went before the Israelites with a cloud by day and a pillar of fire by night, so He goes before you.  God is never caught off guard by a situation that you face.  He's already there preparing the way.  He knows exactly what you need. 

Psalm 139:7-10 speaks the truth, "Where can I go from your Spirit? Where can I flee from your presence? If I go up to the heavens, you are there; if I make my bed in the depths,a you are there. If I rise on the wings of the dawn, if I settle on the far side of the sea, even there your hand will guide me, your right hand will hold me fast."

Whatever you face today, know that Jesus is already there, in that moment.  He is present with you.  He is fully aware of what you are facing and what you need.  Whether you are facing angry Egyptians or a panel of cheer judges, rest assured God is with you.  He will never leave you.  (Just remember to point your toes and smile!)