Loving Jesus.Loving Others.Loving Life.

2010-12-11T12:56:00.001-08:00

been updating the other blogsite...www.joyjanszen.blogspot.com

see you over there!

the journey to uganda

2010-09-12T21:30:00.000-07:00

in route to Uganda...currently in ATL...tuesday it's amsterdam then kampala...

www.joyjanszen.blogspot.com

2010-09-06T20:14:00.000-07:00

a few posts you might have missed...

August Updates

September Updates

To learn more on what I will be doing in Kampala, Uganda over the next few weeks, click here.

Thankful for you all!!

2010-08-13T23:23:00.000-07:00

just a reminder that i moved blogs...all the happenings are over on www.joyjanszen.blogspot.com

NEW BLOG LINK

2010-07-30T23:11:00.000-07:00

MEET ME OVER HERE...

http://www.joyjanszen.blogspot.com/

a sermon & a book

2010-07-21T21:30:00.000-07:00

the reality of the truth can be hard to accept. in fact it can be humbling and overwhelming. over the past week i have understood a little more of the extreme call of following Christ. i just finished listening to a sermon on Luke 14. no new words. just a different perspective with a powerful message. david platt teaches on Jesus' words spoken to his disciples. it is convicting. not what david says but the truth of what Christ is saying to those who desire to follow him. i highly recommend you to take some time out of your day and listen to this 8 part series of living radically. i pray it moves you and challenges you to live differently. Click Here to listen.

here are some questions that david asks in part 1 taken straight from Luke 14.

-Do you choose comfort over the cross?

-Will we choose maintenance or a mission?

(status quo or radically abandonment to proclaim the gospel of Christ)

-Will we choose to have indecisiveness minds or an undivided heart?

(an indecision hampers us from obedience to Christ)

also, if you haven't read crazy love by francis chan, it too is one that will challenge the depth of who you are by asking hard questions taken from the very words of Christ.

my journey continues in facing the reality of these truths. i desire to find Christ in the cleft of the mountain. in taking Him at his word. following him. in trusting him because He is who He says He is. so many times we can just settle in reading the words of Christ. may the tides turn in how we read God's word. there is a weight and heaviness in every word throughout scripture.

if we were alive during the time of Christ how would we receive these very words if we were the ones standing with Jesus as He spoke them? what would our response be?

2010-07-19T23:31:00.000-07:00

"When he had gone indoors, the blind men came to him,

and he asked them,

'Do you believe that I am able to do this?'

'Yes, Lord,' they replied.

Then he touched their eyes and said,

'according to your faith let it be to you'

and their sight was restored".

i love this example of the blind men believing that Jesus is able to heal them. they had not seen any other miracles but chose to believe this man because of what they heard. it was simple for them to believe and trust. there was no hesitation but confidence in the one who was asking them. what a challenging statement..."do you believe that I am able?" i think we want to quickly say "yes, Lord". but do we really believe it can happen? do we really believe that God is able? the only obstacle in the way of us seeing God work miracles is our unbelief. we are hindering Him. He is able to do it. He just desires for His children to believe Him. may it be "according to our faith" when we see the hand of God working. knowing that by believing in what He is able to do will allow Him to prove Himself to us. He is yearing for us to believe Him. even when when we don't think it's possible.

2010-07-16T21:05:00.000-07:00

"To God's elect, strangers in the world, scattered throughout...who have been chosen according to the foreknowledge of God the Father, through the sanctifying work of the Spirit, for obedience to Jesus Christ. All honor to God, by His boundless mercy that God has given us the privilege of being born again." 1 Peter 1:1-3

i spent the last few days reading through 1 peter, luke, and psalms. each verse i read seemed more convicting, more comforting, and with more clarity. i am thankful for the time i was given to peel off another layer. to see the areas i am lacking in. and to find the one thing that is worthy.

i love realizing more promises from the word. i love that each promise was put there for us. sometimes it's hard to take what was written centuries ago and apply that same promise to our lives now. God's word is alive and active, right? if that is true, then what we read today that was written long ago, can certainly be seen in our lives. we have to let the word read us. we shouldn't try to make God's word fit into lives, but make our lives fit into His. His word is the standard. the base foundation of who we are.

in a way...well in a lot of ways, this verse is very applicable to me. peter was writting believers who were suffering. he could not be with them so all that he could do was encourage them through words. he identified them as "God's elect/chosen one's". what a privilege that our Lord chooses us to use. peter also makes it clear that all those that he is writing are "strangers in the world, scattered throughout". meaning this world is and was not their home. they were nomads. moving around from place to place. they were not in one location for an extended period of time. their home was not in this world. as God directed them, they would go. trusting. obeying. and willing for the sake of Christ.

sorry

2010-07-14T21:59:00.000-07:00

i am not even sure if anyone reads my blog, but for the ones that do i'm sorry for being MIA. i am in another transition in my life so the past few weeks i have been all over the place. i have wanted to sit down and give an update, but i haven't gotten all my words together.

i'm being challenged a lot in the gospel and the truth of what God is saying. he has been so gracious to me in being patient with my lack of knowledge and understanding. i am so thankful for that. what a journey He is taking me on. i will give you a better update later.

but one thing I need to ask from you is prayer. pray over these next days, weeks, months, and year ahead.

wholly His,

joy

**by the way 2 months from today I will be headed to Kampala, Uganda! (more on that later, i promise!)

ps-if you do read my blog will you let me know. it may help me be more consistent in posting more frequently. :) also, blog link will be changing. i will let you know what the new link will be in an upcoming post.

time spent well

2010-07-01T17:53:00.000-07:00

i was in reno, nevada for 6 days with my volleyball team playing in the junior national volleyball championship. even though it seems extremely long. it actually went by very quickly. we were busy playing in our tournament. riding go carts. eating at different places. and enjoying each other's company. this was my last tournament with these girls and i didn't want to miss out on an opportunity.

*The view from my room*

*Post go-carting*

i was able to have some great conversations with my girls. i love how the Lord provides moments to sit down at the end of the day and talk about life. something about that brings joy to my heart. it truly was my favorite moment of the weekend. coaching kids in volleyball is one thing, but coaching kids in life is another thing. much greater responsibility. much sweeter time. and much more refining in both lives.

as the days came to a close i knew it would be another ending to a chapter in my life. such a learning season. my team finished 67th out of 128 teams so not too bad. even though we didn't finish where we wanted. there so much more we took away from it. at the end of it all, i walked away without a drop left to give. i hope my time was spent well investing into others. that is what i want to feel every time i'm finished with something. completely exhausted. without anything left to give.

*Final day of competition*

6 months. 10 tournaments. 50+ practices. new friendships that blessed me in every way...PRICELESS!

who knows what the next chapter of my life will hold...i am looking forward to whatever it may be...

what stirs you?

2010-06-13T22:30:00.000-07:00

that has been a question that i believe will continue to be answered throughout life. as i was looking back through sermon notes from the village church, i came across it once again...

What stirs your heart and mind up for Jesus Christ?

Paul addresses it in the book of Colossians, but there again the answer is different for each one of us. it's a question we must answer. we can't ignore the weight of it. do you have a genuine affection for Christ? are you wholly following the Lord?

what is it that turns your head? is it the things of this world? is it being successful? is it achieving a goal? or being awarded for what you have done? what is it that keeps you going? what is your purpose for waking up each day? what is it that keeps you pressing forward?

we have to filter through what we are and find who we are. its a process of being honest. transparent. real. and then when it's all stripped away and pulled back you see the very core of who you are. saved by grace alone. bought with the very blood of Jesus Christ. He alone is the core of who i am. why i live each day. he is the reason why my heart is stirred. why i have joy. love. laughter. hope. grace. and freedom. for He brings restoration to my soul.

as you believe. proclaim. and stand upon the truth of who you are in Christ. you must answer the next question...

how is your mind set on christ?

the mind is constantly battling the words of the world. it is a part of us that struggles the most. it is deceived easiest. and it is the place where satan attacks us consistently. you must define what truth is in your mind so that when false words or unbelief come you will be able to discern between them. guarding your mind is a daily battle. we must shield it from the smallest attacks. we must fill our minds with Christ and Him alone. we must KNOW our Maker in a deeper way. by seeing Him in all things. giving thanks for even the basics of life, such as being able to even read these very words and to have the mind to think upon such things. when we recognize Him then we are stirred. stirred to seek him out with greater pursuit. to genuinely know our almighty God. not withholding anything.

10 days

2010-06-09T12:00:00.000-07:00

i took a road trip may 26 - june 4 to the Ozarks and I do have to say it was absolutely more than I could've asked for!!

Stop #1 : Conway, AR

i spent the first couple days with one of my best friends, Emily. we basically played the whole time i was there. we climbed pinnacle mtn in a huge thunderstorm, ventured to the top of the peabody hotel to get the last glimpses of a beautiful sunset, and then ate at flying fish. a unique fish cousine in downtown little rock. we stayed up talking until the late hours of the night. oh how i love those moments. i am so thankful for this friend. what a blessing it was to get time with her! (pictures coming soon...)

Stop #2 : Fayetteville, AR

from conway i headed to northwest arkansas to spend time with two other of my best friends, garrett and stephanie peters. we did so many different things which doesn't surprise me with these two...probably my most adventurous friends i have! i love it though because you just never know what you will be doing. :) steph and i found a mullberry tree at this park we walked at. if you haven't tried mullberries, you should! we cooked fajitas (one of my favorite meals), played phase 10, played settlers of catan, went to the farmer's market downtown, planted some fruits and veggies, hiked around natural falls, ate at a catfish house, played put put, went to church, and ate some more. it was soo much fun to see them and get extended time at their house! definitely wish i lived closer!

Stephanie & I on the hunt for some good produce.

We did it! Bags in hand full of good stuff!

Stop #3: Branson/Lampe, MO

sunday afternoon I headed to Branson, Missouri. it's a place that every kid wants to be during the summer months...at Kanakuk Kamps. i met up with one of my best friends, Bekah. all the staff from kamp were on a night off which was great because i got to see a lot more people than i was expecting. before heading back to Lampe (which is where K2 is) we stopped at the imfamous Andy's Frozen Custard. it was out of control with all the people there but so worth it.

Madi (past camper), Me, and Beks

from sunday until friday i was at kamp. i just love that place. i spent 5 summers working there and it never gets old...well kamp doesn't, but i do. :) now that i am 25, i have past campers who are now counselors. some of those are even on leadership. it's crazy how time flies and now my kids have their own kids. what joy it brings to my heart to see my campers investing into other students. to challenge them in their walk with the Lord. to share the ups and downs of life with them. and to point them to the cross. there is no greater privilege.

every conversation i had and time spent with my dearest friends and past campers was more than i could ask for. the fellowship i had during these 10 days was truly refreshing to my soul and spirit. each friend the Lord has graciously blessed me with have sharpened, refined and challenged to become more like Him.

Celebrating!!

2010-05-24T15:29:00.000-07:00

I love celebrating life with my friends! Every end of a season is just as sweet as the beginning of a new one. Early Friday morning I drove down to Austin, Tx to be with one of my best friends, Sarah Escamilla as she closed out her time at Texas. Her and I met 3 years ago in Zambia. God knitted our friendship together and has continued to bless it over the years! She is truly an "iron" in my life. She has consistently encouraged me, sharpened me, and walked beside me through it all!

Sarah loves her water fountains!

Friday night after the celebratory dinner with her sweet family, we parted ways and I headed down to New Braunfels to stay with my sister Jamie. And as an additional surprise, my other sister, JJ and her whole family were staying the night as well. It is the unplanned visits that are actually the best! All of us stayed up till the wee hours of the night talking. It was so great! I am so blessed with this family! Saturday we spent the morning talking over coffee and then eventually headed northbound on 35 back home.

Sunday was another day to honor those ending a chapter in their life. My senior girls in my small group were honored during church. Most of them only have one more week of their high school career. It's crazy to think that was me 7 years ago. Crazy how time flies! I am so incredibly proud of these girls and all they have done to get to this point. The next four years are even better! Congratulations girls!

Miss Jordan Garner is headed off to Oklahoma Baptist.

Miss Madeline French is headed to my Alma Mater...

BAYLOR!!

Miss Sarah and Amanda Barnard (my cousins' cousins)

are both going to Aggie land...A&M

Bible Study Girls..well some of us!

a gift

2010-05-23T19:05:00.000-07:00

(well...it's official I'm awful at posting. especially when the last blog anticipated another post soon after...sorry for those who read this regularly)

there is just one story to be shared that depicts a beautiful illustration of grace. it happened last saturday night when i attended a launching party for a new christian company (another blog to explain "Halle Joy"). anyways, we were learning more about our role, responsibilities, and the logistics of it all. somewhat overwhelming, but altogether exciting. many emotions were felt that evening that in the end i began to cry. expressing this emotion rarely comes when in public, but at times it's good to cry. being completely real even though many people are wondering why someone is so upset about an exciting event. :)

that night i had to make a commitment and either be in or out. i was going back and forth weighing out the pros and cons. i knew this opportunity would only come once, but wasn't certain on how i could pull it off and make it work when i don't have a clue how to do it. however, through the tear filled eyes i knew i needed to take the step. doing this would take courage, boldness, faith, trust, dependability, and obedience. i was on the fence between comfortable and uncomfortable. the problem with that is...the fence. trying to be on both sides. not fully on one or the other. i had to make a choice.

and in faith i stepped. believing some how, some way my Lord would provide. i was believing that He would equip me for this. i didn't have the attributes, character qualities, or giftings as others did thus i was feeling even more inadequate. i didn't know how i would pull this off or how to even begin. and in that moment i felt the Lord say.."you don't know how to do this, but I do. Don't you trust me? Don't you believe that I will make a way for you? All you have to do is believe me!" I had to trust Him more then my feelings. more then what i could see with my eyes. I had to believe. I had to obey. I had to step outside my comfort zone. depending on Him wholeheartedly with every breath. the story of Abraham came to mind when the Lord asked him to go to this land that I will show you, even though you don't know where to go (Heb. 11:8). I'm sure Abraham felt similar emotions, but then again He obeyed and went.

as the night came to an end, God came through for me. He came through in ways that I can't quite describe on a blog. he provided a way for all of this to be possible. he took care of the finances that i was so worried about. he gave me a gift (paid in full...debt free). that i did not deserve. it was by His grace alone that i am where i am today. He is paving the path. this new opportunity has been given FROM Him and it is truly FOR Him. i firmly believe that God does not call the equipped, but He equips the called.

just as the brandon heath song says.."Don't get comfortable. I am going to move this mountain and then I am going to move you through." that is just what the Lord did that night.

as i experienced this act of grace from a family friend...it hit me even heavier because i was reminded of the gift of grace through the cross of Jesus Christ. we don't deserve to be saved, but God so desired us to be. He gave His only son for us. as a gift. to atone for our sins. our life is paid in full. debt free. what a mighty God we have who watches over all of us. who takes care of our every need. and who loves us unconditionally. HE IS JEHOVAH-JIREH!

a little behind

2010-05-17T10:28:00.000-07:00

i'm behind and i have no excuse. i am not quite sure how the day goes by so quickly and nothing on my "to-do" list gets crossed off. a little frustrating but there's always hope for tomorrow right? :)

A few fun events...May 1 was prom for my bible study girls so I got go see them at the church all dolled up. It was so fun! Quite eventful because of the limo not showing up, but it just adds to the memories when they look back. I went up to the church to see the girls all dressed up...

Acting out...I'm believing God.

May has been filled with Volleyball as well. Its still full throttle with practices; which is so fun but my kids continue to prove that I am out of shape. Ha. I went home for Mother's Day and spent the whole weekend hanging out with mom. Last year I was in Zambia so I was making up for that by having an extended time at home. It was great to relax and be home!

This past Saturday was a day that God blew me away with His faithfulness, His provision, and His grace! I will explain more in the next post...

For the Glory of His Name,

Joy

remembering

2010-05-03T13:25:00.000-07:00

my heart has been wrestling a lot with what to share. too many things that it has been difficult to place words down to even describe. i have been overwhelmed with God's goodness. past. present. and what is to come. when you recognize the very touch of God's hand. the guidance of His mighty staff. and the call of His voice. you then can say yes. YES! i am following the One who has gone before me. he has cut covenant with me. he has set before me the path to take. for he prepared this way for me to take long ago. it may look different to those around me. but this is the way i must go. i have to fulfill the assignment. the task given unto me.

i have been challenged lately to look back on my life. to find the stones of remembrance. to be reminded of my faithful God. whom i follow and serve. even to think upon significant moments of my life brings tears to my eyes. God has been so good. more than i deserve. His word is filled with promises. not just to be read and known. but to be proclaimed by His children. he has set us apart to be used by Him to further His kingdom.

one of my stones of remembrance is having the honor to visit the orphans and vulnerable children of Zambia, Africa. my time spent there is forever etched in my memory. i was not prepared for the impact it would have upon my life. God knew though. :) a little bit of life changing to say the least.

recalling the stories. the children. the people. the transformation. all of it stirs up such emotion in me. emotion that is full of joy from the Lord. just recently i have had 2 different family members (my 11 yr niece & cousin) interview me about my time in africa. they both are doing a project for school. i was honored to tell them stories once again. every story told. described. i relived. it felt as though i was just there yesterday. as i remembered. my heart got tender. tender because i saw the graciousness of God. His kindness. His love. His mercy. His redeeming power. i got to witness with my very own eyes. lives being radically transformed. what a privilege. All Glory is His!

i can see their faces now. full of love. full of joy. full of life. thank you Jesus for watching over them. thank you for making beauty out of the ashes.

to my zambian family...i will always carry you close to my heart. i am so thankful and grateful unto our God for allowing me to serve with you. thinking about you brings a smile to my face. love in my heart. and joy to my soul. you all have changed my life. thank you for letting God use you to make a difference in me. i praise the Lord for you all. i am humbled to tell the stories on this side of the world. may our living God be praised!

Happy April!

2010-04-15T12:25:00.000-07:00

The month of April is a busy one for me this year...went to New Orleans for a volleyball tournament (previous post), celebrated my 25th birthday (crazy!) on April 9, had another volleyball tournament in Dallas, and now I'm heading off this afternoon for Minnesota for yet another tournament! It's been packed, but have loved every second of what I get to do! I really don't understand why the Lord has allowed me to do what I am doing...I am humbled every day for the people I get to walk through life with...even if they are in high school! :) Both Bible Study on Tuesday nights and time spent with my volleyball kids all are moments I cherish!

A few pictures from the past 2 weeks...

A red velvet cake for my bday

Jordan and Madeline took me out to eat

at Cheesecake Factory for my birthday dinner!
Love these girls!

Of course you have to have a solo picture with your cake...

Madeline, Me, and Kailey

Saturday night (April 10) I had another birthday dinner, but this time with some of my family! We ate at this place called Fresos in Burleson!! I think it's climbing the charts on a being a favorite!

I brought home a few things from New Orleans for my nieces

(one of yet to be delievered to Raylee who lives in New Braunfels)

We finished 3rd at the Dallas Lonestar Qualifier!
Being silly! I love these girls!

new places

2010-04-13T11:27:00.000-07:00

Traveling has become a new occurrence for me, especially with coaching volleyball. The first weekend of April, during Easter, I was in New Orleans with my team. I loved seeing new places and being with my kids; however, I missed being home with my family. It is one of my favorite times of the year to spend with the family in celebrating our risen Lord. We did have our own little Easter egg hunt with my kids in New Orleans. (Pictures posted below)

Laura (head coach) and I

Riding the trolley to the French Quarter

In the middle of Jackson Square in the French Quarter

Walking around..I loved the old buildings!

We had an early Easter egg hunt for the girls!

Probably one of my favorite things to watch! :)

Easter Egg Pic..post hunting

Another look at the buildings in the French Quarter

One of my favorite pictures...

part of the old buildings and

then the new modern buildings in the background

Shadows

2010-03-30T10:21:00.000-07:00

life is full of light and shadows.

a silhouette of one thing or another. the part that is not tangible with our own hands. but seen with our eyes. and felt when we stand in them. shadows are hidden pictures. bringing coolness. rest. refuge. a covered area not damaged by the sun. but kept aside. its a place where we can see more clearly. a beautiful collision of grace. for a shadow to fall, an object must cast it from the light. therefore, its between the radiance of light and the place it falls. to receive and experience the shadow. one must step into it. not be afraid. but realize it's there for a purpose.

the cross of christ is casting a shadow on us. he is the object. the person. the one who is standing in the gap between us and his father. who is the magnificent glorious light. in that shadow there is hope. our eyes are opened. to see the great love the father had and still has for us. our God views us through his son. not seeing our dark hearts or sin. but seeing one who is purified. cleansed. restored. redeemed. all through his son's death on the cross - burial - and powerful resurrection. what inexpressible joy we have in him who has saved us. the shadow of the cross is where i am found.

i recently came across a song sung by the david crowder band. it's titled shadows (reason for this post). what new meaning it brought forth.

Chorus:

when shadows/darkenss fall on us.

we will not fear. we will remember.

we will remember the cost.

we are resting in the shadow of the cross.

In sickness & in health

2010-03-25T12:53:00.000-07:00

Last weekend I went home to help with Mom and Dad. As you all know, my precious Mom broke her arm and continues adjusting with only one good arm for the time being. Up to this point, she has been Dad's full-time caretaker in making sure he is up on his meds and food intake. With Mom not 100%, my siblings and I have been taking shifts at being home. Mom has enjoyed the company, plus also the extra help with meals and basic chores around that house.

Dad helping Mom get her ice

machine adjusted on her arm.

Mom didn't want me to take

this picture but I did anyways! :)

*Keep praying for both Mom and Dad as they both heal in specific ways...Mom : for her shoulder, the bone gragh to take, swelling to go down, and overall recovery....Dad : for him to eat more, allow time to rest, increase of his strength and energy level, and overall weight gain.

Winter Park, CO

2010-03-24T12:48:00.000-07:00

Madeline and I

Kailey, Me, Jordan, & Madeline

(some of my small group girls)

Us again...

Down town Winter Park eating dinner

Lauren, Madeline, and Me

Simply Gorgeous!!

In fast forward

2010-03-19T11:23:00.000-07:00

Again, it's been two weeks almost since my last post. I really can't believe how fast the days go by. Even though there is craziness in my life, I love every moment. Not one of them is a surprise from the Lord.

To catch you up on the past events:

March 5: I headed to Austin, Tx to watch my camper, Sally, play in the semi-finals at the 2A State Basketball tournament. I met up with 2 of my friends from Kanakuk, Tanya Beardsley and Bethann Boitmann. God graciously blessed my time down in Austin to visit and catch up on life! It refreshed me in so many ways to see them and Sally. I also made an extra stop on my way out of town to see one of my best friends, Sarah. Such a fun day!!

March 9: Started the Believing God Bible Study with 15 high schoolers! God has been so good in blessing our time together. We have met 2 times already and I am blown away at how God moves and enriches our fellowship! Each week as we move deeper into the study, pray that God would penetrate even more in every heart and draw us to a greater understanding of who God is!

March 12-17: I had a volleyball tournament down in Houston and then spent the beginning of this week in Colorado with part of the youth group from First Baptist Hurst. Some of my girls in my small group were on that trip and I was able to spend more time with them. We had a blast skiing in Winter Park and making fun memories! With going on trips like this, I believe God has called all of us to truly live life with others. To walk alongside one another, encouraging, sharpening, and pushing them closer to Jesus Christ.

**Unexpected turn of events: Saturday, March 13 my sweet Mom, Dad, and brother were riding horses on the ranch as usual. However, during a normal day, the horse my mom was riding was spooked and jolted quickly. Mom was thrown off, hitting the ground hard and landing on rocks. She landed on her RIGHT shoulder which we came to find out she had broken her humerus bone in multiple places. My Dad and brother rushed her to the hospital and she ended up having surgery the next day. The doctors had to put in 12 screws, a plate, and a bone graft. She is RIGHT handed so this will be a new adventure for her to begin learning to do things with her left hand as she is healing. She was released from the hospital Tuesday (March 16) and has been adjusting to the "new normal" with Dad trying to take care of her. Please be praying for the bone graft to take, quick healing, the next several months as she is recovering and in physical therapy. And also keep praying for Dad as well. Pray for him to continue to have strength and energy as he is enduring this with Mom.

I am heading home for the weekend to be with Mom and Dad! I'm praying that it will be refreshing for all of us!! We continue to look to the Lord and plead His blood. We are believing and trusting God's purposes are true and right. May He be glorified in all of this!!

time is flying

2010-03-04T13:41:00.000-08:00

i can't believe it's been a week since i posted last. not many things have been happening, but just busy with everything else. last weekend my volleyball team had a tournament. we ended up finishing 2nd which is pretty good. we haven't finished that high in a tournament yet, so we were thrilled with our accomplishment.

one of my favorite things that happened last weekend was on saturday night. after i finished day one of my tournament, i got to hang out with a few senior girls in my small group. i had been talking to them about Baylor Sing so we busted out the dvd's i had. it was so fun to laugh, talk about memories, and watch all the different acts. theses girls are awesome and i feel so privileged that God has allowed me to cross paths with them. they are all going to be a part of the bible study we are lauching next tuesday! i'm so excited about that!!

the majority of this week has been filled with babysitting, volleyball practice, preparing for the upcoming bible study, a tournament this weekend, and going to austin, tx to watch yet again my camper, sally higgins, play in the state tournament. i don't normally do spontaneous and spur of the moment trips, but i figured this will be the last time to see her play in high school. it's going to be a crazy next 36 hours, but well worth every minute! she plays tomorrow morning at 10am!! :)

please be praying over the bible study many of the juniors and seniors from church have signed up to commit to. we are doing beth moore's believing God study. i did this study exactly 3 years ago this same time. pray that God would move heavily in the hearts of the girls. that we all would see, know, understand, and experience the love of Christ in a deeper way. also, pray that God would annoint my mouth with His words and that it would be Him speaking and not me. pray that i would continue to move myself out of the way so that Jesus can be clearly seen. we have 10 weeks ahead of us that will be one incredible journey.

for the glory of HIS name.
joy

Road Trip to West Texas

2010-02-26T18:20:00.000-08:00

On Wednesday, I took a quick road trip to San Angelo to watch one of my campers from Kanakuk play in her Quarterfinal Basketball game. It was so fun and I am so thankful the Lord provided the opportunity to go. At this point in life, it's difficult to stay up-to-date with all my campers and friends at that so any chance I get, I take it. With Sally having her game, I knew we wouldn't have a whole lot of time to get to hang out and really catch up, but no matter what I wanted to support her and celebrate this time with her.

Sally and I

I met up with her precious mom and grandma at Sally's house. Sally stopped by just for a few minutes before her game. Soon it was 6:30pm and game time in San Angelo! It was AWESOME!! Watching Sally in her element brings on a whole new persepective. I loved watching her step into her leadership role as she lead her team to a victory. She was amazing! They won their basketball game and advanced to the Regional 2A tournament in Midland. One more round and they are headed to Austin for State Championship! Yay!

Here are a few pics:

Even though it was a quick trip, it was so worth it! What an honor it has been to walk next to Sally up to this point. I was blown away at the person she has become. And I feel so privileged that I have gotten to be a small part of her life. God has been so gracious in all of this and He continues to bless our frienship year after year. I couldn't be more proud of her and excited for all that is to come!

the wonder of it all

2010-02-18T12:48:00.000-08:00

another week has come and is passing by quickly. the patterns of the weather change with each day. what beautiful and glorious moments there were in watching the snow fall. so much peace filled my heart. peace that i can't understand. peace that assures me all things are in God's control. and not one moment is out of place. maybe that's the promise hidden in the wonderous picture of snow. for me it is. the illustrations our Creator provides for us to see Him more takes my breath away...

and as the sun begins to show itself daily, it warms the frozen ground. the process produces refreshment for that which is underneath. it soaks deep down. the sun displays itself in all its glory. standing tall in the ski. we bask once again in the light that shines. feeling the warmth. regaining strength. and filled with an inexpressible joy.

not only does God speak through His creation. but he also does through His people. it amazes me what He reveals through short or long conversations. let Him speak to you. listen. be sensitive to His spirit. recognizing His ways are much higher than ours. and when you can not see His invisible works. believe. in hope. may it be that our spirit is strengthened due to the unseen acts of the Lord. remember. HE IS FOR US. a beautiful promise of our mighty God who is contstantly pursuing us.

Record Snowfall in TX!!

2010-02-13T21:06:00.000-08:00

Our Winter Wonderland...

I've been dreaming about this for so long!

Karen's House looked gorgeous!

My Baylor Snowman is proud of my Alma Mater!

Sic'em!

As the night went on, the snow kept falling!

Just 2 hours after...He's got 2 more inches on him...

Beautiful Night...

Goat Show Pictures

2010-02-04T13:13:00.000-08:00

Markelle is the one in the middle (left of boy in orange)

Markelle is holding the goat still for the judges

Summerlyn and Winterlyn (her goat)

*She's in the pink shirt...

Summerlyn got 2nd Place!!! She did so good!!

Permission

2010-02-02T12:14:00.000-08:00

This last weekend I finally got to go home to visit my parents on the ranch. They were gone all last week working hard in Colorado as they were enjoying skiing many slopes the whole week. What a life, huh!?!? This one my first time to miss the family vaca so I decided to catch them as they returned home. It was great to be home and RELAX. I soon remembered how good it is to sit and let your spirit get renewed. I took off Friday and Monday from babysitting so that I could have a longer time at home. However, I didn't manage to make it home until Saturday afternoon because I ended up talking to one of my high school girls until late Friday night and then Saturday morning I went to my cousins goat show at the stockyards in Ft Worth (pictures coming soon...).

Anyways, when I got to my house the first objective was to build me a good fire to sit by. There is something so peaceful about a crackling fire and the warmth it brings during the cold nights. Even though it took me awhile to get it going, it was worth it!! I settled into the cozy chair, watched a movie, and then read a book until my parents arrived home. One of my favorite things was staying up late and talking to my Mom even though she was exhausted from her travels.

During that time I realized something...you must give yourself permission to rest and to sit still. Typically my days are filled with either babysitting, volleyball practice (or tournaments), church, hanging out with some of my high school girls, or just running around town. It's all great and I love everything, but even with those things being good I am still lacking something...being still before the Lord.

There will be times when you have to say NO instead of always saying YES. There will be moments when you have to examine yourself and see if you need a break. Time off. Or even rest. And when you realize it - give yourself permission to do just that. Quiet yourself before the Lord. And during that quietness He will speak to you.

God is so gracious in allowing us to find Him in those moments of stillness. He's there waiting for us to press into Him and know Him more...may you find time soon to rest and be still!

Disciple Now 2010

2010-01-21T21:29:00.000-08:00

Last weekend I had the privilege of being a leader at Disciple Now at First Baptist Hurst. I was placed with 25 seniors!! It was sooo much fun!! We all stayed at 1 house so it was a little crazy as you can imagine sleeping in just about every place. :) The weekend included: worship lead by the David Hassel Band, teaching by a guest speaker, a picture scavenger hunt (pictures below), bringing sack lunches and hot chocolate to the homeless in Ft Worth, dodgeball, broom ball on the ice rink, and a time of intimate worship in setting our hearts on the Lord. We had great small group (it was still large with 25 girls...haha) discussions regarding who we are in the Lord and finding our identity in Him. Our theme for D'NOW was Roots. I am so thankful for all the conversations I had with the girls. I love getting to know people, hear their story, and simply coming alongside them as we run after Jesus together. God moved in all of us this past weekend and my prayer is that He would continue to rend our hearts to Him!

Here are some pictures from D'NOW...all of these are a part of our scavenger hunt Friday night

Some of my girls "underwater"...

The group with our "feet off the ground"

My girls being "wall art"

We had to make a "human target"

During worship...

Karen, Judy, and I at broom ball... I think it's become one of my new favorites!!
Sunday morning...
25 Seniors...love them all!!

Today (Friday), I am heading down to San Antonio for a volleyball tournament!! I'm so excited!! First of all, I love road trips. Secondly, it's San Antonio. Thirdly, I'm hoping to get to see my sister and a few friends along the way!! Please keep my volleyball girls in your prayers. Pray that God would provide opportunities to share with them about who He is. I have already seen some ways He is doing just that! :)

Also, continue to pray for a place to live. The Lord has completed my time with Karen. Her son and his family will be moving in with her next month. I am needing to find a place to move quickly. I am not sure on where or with whom. I am beginning to feel a little anxious in seeking that out, but it becomes difficult when I am babysitting all day and then volleyball practice at night. I believe the Lord is preparing that place, but it hasn't been revealed to me yet. Pray that God would open the door and move quickly!!

Lastly, I feel like the Lord is leading me to start a bible study/small group with some of the girls in the youth group from church. I am so excited about this opportunity and the time I will get to spend with them. It brings such joy to my heart in being able to walk alongside these girls at their age and do life with them...to mentor, disciple, or just hang out...I am thankful for it all! God is moving mightly and my prayer is that He will use this to further His name! I have nothing to really offer them, but God does. I am humbled to be where I am and so excited to see what is to come!

Have a great weekend everyone!!

For the Glory of His Name,

Joy

Volleyball Team Trip

2010-01-15T08:30:00.001-08:00

Here are some pictures from when my volleyball team went on our team bonding trip the first weekend of January!! We had a blast!!!

The Crew

Beginning our activities...

Working together...

Still going...

They did awesome on this one...a lot of eye hand coordination

Moving together, one step at a time...literally

Last few moments...

Post trip picture...we all made it back safe and sound!!

Please be praying for Disciple Now at First Baptist Hurst!! It begins tonight and I am leading the Seniors this weekend. My hope is that God will come and move in the hearts of these girls!! I pray that God will use me as His vessel, to be His hands and feet to these girls!!

For the Glory of His Name,

Joy

Volleyball Team Trip

2010-01-15T08:30:00.000-08:00

Here are some pictures from when my volleyball team went on our team bonding trip the first weekend of January!! We had a blast!!!

The Crew

Beginning our activities...

Working together...

Still going...

They did awesome on this one...a lot of eye hand coordination

Moving together, one step at a time...literally

Last few moments...

Post trip picture...we all made it back safe and sound!!

For the Glory of His Name,

Joy

The New Year brings New Adventures

2010-01-11T13:22:00.000-08:00

Sorry for the lack of updates, but I have gotten distracted very easily over the past 10 days. Here's what has been going on the past week....

Jan 2-3 : Team Bonding Camping Trip (Pictures will be in next post)

Since the beginning of December I have been coaching a club volleyball team consisting of 12 freshman girls from a variety of schools. My head coach and I took them on an overnight team bonding trip. Throughout the entirety of our trip, we had the girls do various team building activities. From a volleyball trivia, to obstacle courses, to cooking together, to sitting by the fire, we managed to walk away with a greater understanding of each other. I loved it! It was so fun to watch people come together and find ways to overcome a difficult task. It made me more excited for this upcoming season in watching them grow not only as volleyball players, but as individuals.

Jan 4-8 : Babysitting, Volleyball Practice, Football Games

I started babysitting for this sweet Christian family in Fort Worth. The little girl I babysit is Cate. She is 8 1/2 months old and is cute as a button. I babysit her 4 days a week. Also, last week was our "official" week to begin volleyball practice in preparation for tournament play. We had our first tournament this past weekend. We ended up getting 9th place, which was pretty good for our first one. I love getting to coach and encourage these girls in a sport that I love! And as you all know there were many football games on during Bowl Week. Of course I watched the National Championship and was sad to see Texas loose.

This week : Game night with College roommates, Practice, Babysitting, Disciple Now

Last night (Sunday) I went to Dallas to get together with my college roommates and friends for a game night and a birthday party. It was so much fun to see them (plus their spouses and significant others)! I am looking forward to many more nights like it! I have practice on Monday and Thursday nights, babysitting Monday-Friday, and then a fun weekend of Disciple Now!! I get to hang out with the seniors this weekend. They are a great group of girls and I can't wait!

**One thing you all can be praying about is for the Lord to provide me with another living arrangement. I have been living with this sweet woman named Karen and God has provided for her in regards to her situation. An answer to prayer! Her son and his family will be moving in with her. What a blessing and provision from the Lord! I am beyond grateful for God's work and faithfulness of Him being Karen's constant provider and sustainer. Therefore, as Karen's son prepares to move in mid-February, I must prepare to move out. I am praying for guidance from the Lord and His timing in where I should move. I trust and believe the Lord will reveal and move before me in preparing the right place. (if anyone knows people or has suggestions, feel free to pass it along)

I hope all of you are off to a great new year!

Be Blessed today!

Bound in His love,
Joy

Happy New Year!

2010-01-01T18:14:00.000-08:00

I can't believe we are already in year 2010. Seems like yesterday when we were entering into a new millennium and now another decade is behind us. Wow...how time flies! Last night as I was watching on tv the New Years Eve countdown in New York City, I began to think about not only what I did this year but also over the past 10 years!

A few events came to mind..

- I was 14 years old when my sister got married 10 yrs ago

- I graduated high school ('03)

- I graduated from Baylor ('07)

- I went to 5 bowl games that Texas was playing in (bro was for UT)

- I went to the National Championship Game in 2005 that the Texas Longhorns won

- I went to Zambia, Africa 3 different times

- I worked at Kanakuk 5 summers

- I lived in Arkansas

- I have battled with my family in fighting my Dad's Cancer (so far, we are winning by the grace of God)

- I had 2 nephews and 3 nieces born

- And I have met the most incredible friends that I cherish so much!

These are just a few memories that stick out from the past decade. God has brought me so far and I am so grateful for all that He has done in my life over the past 10 years! I am excited and looking forward to this year and all that God will do!

Blessing to you all as you begin this new year!

~Joy~

**A few days ago some of my friends came over. We cooked dinner and had a game night! Love these girls!

Jen, Sara, Sarah, and Me

Trying to be funny...I'm not quite sure we all got the memo

Merry White Christmas

2009-12-27T21:05:00.000-08:00

I can't believe Christmas has come and gone already. I have had a week long events of family Christmas parties beginning last Sunday. My Mom's side of the family all came down to the ranch for a feast of food and an annual hay ride. Monday night we had just my family (my siblings, nieces, and nephews) for dinner and exchange of gifts. Tuesday & Wednesday I ran around with my Mom to do last minute shopping. Thursday it began to SNOW!! There were periods of time that it was a white out. I couldn't believe it. It definitely makes the holiday complete! Thursday afternoon my parents (& brother) exchanged gifts between us and then headed to town for the Christmas Eve service at church. Afterwards we went over to JJ's house for dinner, made a fire, and got the kids settled down so Santa could come!

Christmas Day was great! We had a wonderful morning opening gifts and being with the family. As the day went on we pulled out some old family Christmas videos of when I was little. We all laughed so much at each other whether it was the clothes we were wearing, things we said, or the thick texan accent we inherited. One thing we loved most about watching those videos is the heritage of faith that we have been blessed to grow up in. A few of my Grandparents died when I was young so I never really knew them; however, watching these videos has made me appreciate so many more things about my family.

Pictures from Christmas...

The kids walking in and playing with their presents...

my family enjoying the morning

and little Joshua digging in his stocking

My beautiful sister JJ

The morning the Lord blessed us with...a WHITE CHRISTMAS

The building of the snowman begins...

and it continues...

Here is the life size snowman..the kids were so excited!

I hope you all had a wonderful Christmas enjoying your family, but also celebrating the gift of Jesus Christ. He has come to give us life. He has come to redeem us. He has come to establish Himself in us for others. He has come to make much of Himself. I am overwhelmed with God's love for us and the greatest sacrifice anyone could ever do for another. Praying that you all are doing well and are filled with the hope that comes from Jesus Christ!

He's Home...

2009-12-07T21:57:00.000-08:00

Last Thursday my Dad had to have a few more tests run before the Doctors would release him to eat. After a long couple of days waiting around for the "okay", he was given the "go ahead" Thursday evening to drink and eat. Now this was the first time he was able to drink anything (even water) or eat anything since Thanksgiving...so it was a long 8 days for him. Anyways, he was so happy and encouraged to get some positive news, but especially to actually be able to eat some food. The next day (Friday) he was released from the hospital!!! YAY...he was so overjoyed that he almost started crying when he came home. If you want to read more on the "homecoming" of Dad, check out His blog...www.teamjanszen.blogspot.com

Dad's 1st drink of water/juice...we were so excited!!

At my sister's house Friday night for Jesse's (my nephew) birthday!

This was his first "at home" meal since being release from the hospital earlier that day

Thank you all for praying for him!! The Lord spoke to all of us in various ways in the last few days he was in the hospital..so thank you!! God is good and we praise Him for the sweet victory!!

Many Blessings!

Being Thankful

2009-11-29T18:56:00.000-08:00

Well the past 10 days have been very eventful...I began my Thanksgiving break by going down to New Braunfels to visit my sister as they just moved into their new house. I helped them decorate their tree for Christmas. I also went to the last home game of the Texas Longhorns with my parents. I drove to my parents house Monday while stopping to visit friends on the way. I got to see my precious friends Sarah, Kaitlyn, and Julie Anna. I am so grateful to have these women in my life to encourage, listen, and challenge me.

Monday through Wednesday I ran around with my mom to get ready for all the family coming in Wednesday night. We went to work out, buy groceries, and prepare the house. Wednesday night both my sisters (JJ and Jamie) with their families arrived at the house. It was so fun to have everyone together again. We watched a movie and then settled down for the night.

Thursday began like every other Thanksgiving...woke up, drank coffee, and watched the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade. After the parade we got ready for the big meal. We usually have about 40+ extended family members come in from out of town, but this year it was just my immediate family. Anyways, we all piled our plates full of food and sat around the table. Once we finished we relaxed on the couches while watching football. And within moments, the atmosphere changed as my Dad suddenly was having severe lower abdominal pain. He was sitting in his closet doubled over in agony. He could barely get a breath and soon my brother-in-law (the doctor) rushed him to the hospital. Living 20 minutes from the closest town can seem like an eternity. My dad was soon hooked up to an IV and given several doses of morphine to dull the pain. He passed out a few times and threw up. As that was happening it seems as though he may have slightly torn the area in his esophagus where he originally had surgery over a year ago.

After being in Cleburne for an hour or so, the decision was made to transfer him to a better hospital located in Fort Worth. He was also placed in ICU for closer observation. Since then my family and I have made several trips to visit him. He is now pain free but having to rest so that his body can heal.

Dad in ICU

Friday my mom spent the day at the hospital and the rest of the family back at the house went to a place on the ranch called the "blue hole". We weren't quite sure what to do in the midst of knowing my dad was in the hospital, but we did know that my Dad wanted us to go and have fun even though he wasn't there with us.

The whole crew (minus Mom and Dad)

My brother and sisters (Tully, JJ, and Jamie)

The grandkids (minus Jesse)

Saturday my cousin got married on the ranch so we had all the festivities and then went to see my Dad later on at the hospital.

Sunday around noon he was finally released from ICU and moved to the "floor" (to a normal room). He is still being observed but has not been able to eat since his Thanksgiving meal. Monday morning he is having tests run again to check the status of the tear. We are praying that his body will heal itself, if not he will most likely have to have surgery. We have been in this waiting game for days now and we are praying to know the next step to take.

I am extremely thankful for each day that my Dad remains to be here with us. My mom, siblings, and I have remained to hold onto each other during this time and trust the Lord through it all. Thankful for God's strength that He graciously gives us each day!

Be Blessed,

Joy

Seasons Change

2009-11-12T11:55:00.001-08:00

just as the leaves are falling, the air becomes cooler, and the seasons change...so does life. change comes when you don't really want it to. it grabs you and pushes you to move on when you aren't ready. you want to remain where you are. where you are comfortable. where you have settled and made some sort of establishment. change has to be welcomed - received - and desired. it's not done easily. it's accomplished by time. patience. and understanding. it takes a realization of seeing what is not. it's leaving behind what you once had and moving forward towards what is to be. transitioning from one to another begins with a step. a step into the unknown. a step into unstability once again. a step into a place that may be uncomfortable for awhile. change begins to take place when we receive it with joy. knowing this is for us and developing more of who we are. change takes place when we embrace the newness of where we are. the purposes. the joys. and the purpose for which we were called.

God calls us to live in obedience to Him. to follow the path of His steps. and this is not easy. it takes someone who is radically abandoning themselves to come under His leadership. under His authority. under His direction. under His Word. it happens when submission occurs. and a longing to serve and know Him is of the most importance. to bring glory to God for the ways He has redeemed you. made Himself known in you. and using you to fulfill His promises and purposes.

This is what has occurred in my life and the journey hasn't been easy. However, it's been one of obedience of following Christ. I am in the midst of change and I'm slowly seeing the reasons why. I have transitioned from one ministry to another - from one location to another - from one perspective to another. The Lord has moved me from FLMI to another ministry yet to be known; from my aunt's house to living with a widow; to recognizing and being aware of my present situation and living in it. I have come to understand the distinct places Jesus called His disciples to go... to begin in Jerusalem is necessary before moving out to Samaria or Judea or to other parts of the world (insert from previous blog: God has called us and sent us out to be witnesses....Jerusalem (locally : neighborhood, church, school), Judea (regionally : county, state), and Samaria (globally : crossing the boarder, unfamiliar places), and into the ends of the Earth.). It's a good place for me to be during this season of my life. I'm learning and acknowledging that change is good and full of growth.

Pictures of Texas/OU Weekend

2009-10-24T18:42:00.000-07:00

These are a week late...but at least I didn't forget about them...

Me and Beks

Me, Dayna, Tanya, and Nika at the Kanakauk Reunion

(I worked with some of the greatest people!!)

During halftime we ran to get lunch at Potbellys and for some random reason Bekah made me take a picture with our wallets...

After church at The Village...we met up wtih Madi

(she's the one with the LONG hair!)

We both had Madi as a camper at one point at camp.

Fall Events

2009-10-17T18:55:00.000-07:00

College Game Days...

Last weekend I took a trip down to College Station to reunite with some girls that I had the privilege of living with in Zambia, Africa this summer. We all went to the OSU/A&M Game Saturday morning. And to clear the air...I chose to wear orange because it was the closest to Texas' burnt orange and I didn't want Jen to be the only one out of the group cheering for OSU. The final score proved that I chose the right team to support!! :)

Here are some pics from that weekend..

*Sara, Jen and Me

*The group at the game (Jen is taking the pic)

*At dinner in downtown Bryan, Tx

Texas/OU weekend was another weekend that I simply love for 2 reasons...one is that all (well a lot of them) of my Kanakuk friends come in for a reunion Friday night and then we all watch the big game the next day. And that is what we did!! I love getting to see old friends that have impacted your life so much over the years and spend quality time with them. Today a group of us watched the battle between Texas and OU! It's been a crazy week, but so thankful for ending my week with such incredible friends!! (I'll add pictures from this weekend soon...)

Moving Day!

2009-10-04T14:08:00.000-07:00

I know that it's' been quite some time since I last updated but to be honest, there hasn't been much happening. I mean...I guess there has, but you get it. :) I actually have some fun news to share...I am moving!! Bittersweet to say the least. I have LOVED living with Brent and Judy this past year. They have been encouraging through it all and have constantly allowed their door to be open for me to stay here. Thank you Jesus, for the hospitality of these I have lived with! It has been so fun to do life with them and share the joys and sorrows of every day life. God designed it perfectly that my aunt and I would be walking through similar seasons together. What a privilege it was been to lock arms with a woman who is not only my aunt, but a dear friend and sister!

We are 3....Karen, Andrea, and Me

So..back to the NEWS...I am moving in with a precious widow, Karen! She is Judy's best friend and it was all ordained by the Lord. I will be moving in the next week or so. And in addition, Andrea (another God thing and too long to explain) is moving in with us this week too! What an adventure ahead it will be to begin a new journey with two Godly women. My time here, is my Jerusalem. Jesus said, "You will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth." (Acts 1:8) I had the opportunity to teach this morning (Sunday) to a small group of girls in 11th grade about the great commission and one of the things we looked at is where God has called us and sent us out to be witnesses....Jerusalem (locally : neighborhood, church, school, etc), Judea (regionally : county, state, etc), and Samaria (globally : crossing the boarder, unfamiliar places, etc), and into the ends of the Earth.

I never thought to ask myself...what is my Jerusalem? Why am I here now? What is my purpose for where I am? And I NOW know...that I am to remain here (in my Jerusalem) until the Lord calls me to go to another place. To pour into those around me. To be a voice of God's word.

Please be praying for the transition, for the steps ahead, and for God to place me with those He wants to speak to! Praise Him that this is all about Lord...for His ways and thoughts are higher than mine!

Much love,

Joy

Becoming more like Him...

2009-09-13T20:12:00.001-07:00

I know it's been some time since my last post, but God has been teaching me a lot lately and this is a small glimpse of it...I hope it will encourage you.

2 Timothy 3:16-17

“All scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the man of God my be thoroughly equipped for every good work.”

Ø God’s word is useful/profitable so that you may gain something or take some away from reading it

Ø God’s word is useful for rebuking/reproofing…meaning to press down, point out errors, weigh down on you, cut you, strip you of your flesh, convict and reveal

Ø God’s word is used to train you in righteousness…it’s not there to check it off your list, but there are specific, distinct, and specialized areas you need to focus on. There is a technique in being trained. There is purpose and long-term impact.

Ø As you encounter these different seasons, the sole reason for all these things is…to be thoroughly (not lacking anything) equipped (prepared) for every good work

There is weight and a heaviness of the love of Christ. How painfully beautiful it is. Our journey in life, as we strive to grow closer to the Lord is progressive sanctification. That is my hope and desire. To gain more of the Lord. In all His fullness. But if we only knew what it would cost us…

Philippians 2:3-5

“Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humility consider others better than yourself. Each of you should look not only to your interests, but also to the interests of others. Your attitude should be the same as that of Christ Jesus.”

Ø To humble yourself and put aside the desires of your flesh and choose to exemplify Christ…it can be difficult, but its something we must do daily!

Ø We must die to ourselves and choose Christ above all else.

Ø In all our humility, we must lay it all down.

Over the past year, months, weeks, and even days that has been a recurring theme in my life. To become more like Christ. To gain more of Him in every way of my life. To feel the pressing of the Lord’s hand. To know that He is refining me. He is teaching me. He is sharpening. He is continuing to clean out my flesh SO THAT all that is left is… HIM! And the process isn’t easy. It’s painful. It’s ugly. It’s harsh and it breaks you. You get exposed of the deficiencies in your life that you didn’t want to claim or have a part of. But in reality they have been there all along. I didn’t want to own up to them because of the small amount of pride that was getting in the way. And that is when God presses down even more…

The reasons. The questions. The frustrations. The tears. The fleshing out. The pain. The ugliness. The sinful heart. The crying out for grace, mercy, and forgiveness. These are moments we recognize our unworthiness.

And in that moment you only hope to be with the Lord. To feel His embrace. To hear Him whisper. But how could it be? How could it be possible? He is the holy and righteous God. And we are far from that in every way. We are unholy, sinful, and unworthy...yet in our struggles, in our failures, in our weakness…HE LOVES US STILL. He still chooses us. He still sees us. In the midst of our ugliness, unworthiness, and sin…He remains constant. Unchanging. Faithful. And longs to pursue us even more! He doesn’t turn His back. He is not upset. He is not bitter or angry. He is quite the opposite.

Jesus has come to RESTORE. SAVE. REDEEM. CONQUER. PURIFY. And display HIS NAME. This life is not about us. It has nothing to do with us…BUT it has everything to do with HIM!! It’s all about His work. His power. His story. Oh that we might give Him what He deserves…giving our lives back to Him and all the praise, glory, and honor that is due HIS name!!

I consider everything a loss compared to the surpassing greatness of KNOWING Christ Jesus my Lord, for who sake I have lost all things. I consider them rubbish that I may GAIN Christ and be FOUND in Him.” Philippians 3:8-9

So this is where I am. Trusting. Believing. Taking one day at a time. Pressing into the word of God. Letting Him refine, sharpen, mold, purify, and restore the brokenness. Being broken is not necessary the process I would choose, but it’s the only way for God to bring me to my knees. It's the only way for God to mold me, teach me, equip me, and shape me into the person He desires me to be. It's a place to cry out for mercy. To trust Him. To let go of everything else and grab hold of the hand of our Savior. He is the Shepherd who leads us down the paths of righteousness. May God receive the glory for bringing me to where I am today!! And may you all be encouraged that even though we may have to walk through the fire…we become purified, cleansed, washed in His word, and more like Him!

Refreshed!!

2009-08-30T20:39:00.000-07:00

"...he who refreshes others will himself be refreshed."

Proverbs 11:25

Being refreshed can have many different definitions and meanings. You can be refreshed by a cool drink, a nice swim in the pool, a long shower, a good run or walk perhaps, resting, or even listening to music. However, when I think of "being refreshed" I think of... in-depth conversations, full of rich meaning. Challenging, yet loving. Discussing the sorrows and joys. Sharing the beautiful things of the Lord and experiencing the building up of the body of Christ. It is in those conversations that I walk away with so much more joy, hope, and life as I have listened to how God is working, teaching, refining, equipping, directing, and using HIS children to impact the lives of so many. Encouragement is gained. Strength is renewed. The cords of friendship grow stronger. And our mighty, loving, gracious, tender, and loving God is glorified in that moment! You simply walk away differently. Changed. Moved. Sharpened.

And that is exactly what I got to do this weekend...getting precious time with 3 of my dearest friends. Julie Anna, Sara, and Kaitlyn. I drove down to San Marcos on Friday night and spent the night with Julie Anna and Ryan. (I hadn't really seed them since they got married in January!). We got to catch up, go to breakfast with a group of people on Saturday, shop at the outlet malls, and then meet up with my sweet sister Jamie. We all met up with her family and had a great time at dinner! What more could you ask for...dinner with both your sister and one of your best friends?!?! Afterwards we got to go see where Jamie and the family will be moving to. We headed back to Julie and Ryan's place after we picked up a movie to watch. We popped popcorn and all sat on the bed together with the movie playing on the computer. (That is one of my favorite things to do...watch movies in bed :) haha )

Sunday, we woke up, brewed some coffee, got our Bibles and sat on their huge porch. We headed to church soon after that and then I had to say goodbye. I stopped in Austin for lunch with my sweet friend Sarah. I hadn't seen her since New Years..so there was a lot of catching up to do!! We ate lunch and stayed there talking for 3 1/2 hrs!! I know it's a little lengthy but that is what happens when you have deep conversations! : ) I finally made it to Waco to see Kaitlyn! It was my last stop before I concluded my weekend trip. We only got to hang out for about 15 minutes but there is something about being reunited with certain people. I feel so blessed in being able to live life with the most amazing friends! I really couldn't ask for better.

Praise the Lord for how HE brings the right people in our lives to encourage, support, listen, challenge, love, and push you closer to the cross! Blessed be HIS name for all that HE has done!

Here are some more verses I wanted to share with you that God has used to reach me in ways that only He could...the ways that the Lord scripted His word is amazing to me because it defines itself by itself. In this life, we try to define things by our knowledge, or other's opinions, or wisdom, advice, or simply by going to the dictionary...BUT there is One who can not be defined. He is who He is and His word stands alone.

"While I was with you, I resolved to KNOW one thing...

Jesus Christ and Him crucified."

(paraprahsed) 1 Cor. 2:2

But we have this TREASURE in Jars of Clay to

show that this all-surpassing power is from God and not from us.

We are...

hard pressed on every side, but not crushed;

perplexed, but not in despair;

persecuted, but not abandoned;

struck down, but not destroyed.

I consider everything a loss compared to the surpassing greatness

of KNOWING Christ Jesus my Lord,

for WHO'S SAKE I have lost ALL THINGS.

I consider them rubbish,

that I may GAIN CHRIST and BE FOUND IN HIM.

Phil 3:8-9

...by the Power of God, who has saved us and

called us to a holy life - not because of anything

we have done but because of HIS own purpose and grace.

2 Tim. 1:9

Being Refined

2009-08-23T20:53:00.000-07:00

I want to share some scripture with you all and explain what God has been showing me this week. This week was difficult in numerous ways, it was one that I needed to recognize some things in my life. Many times we run from the hard pressing of the Lord and seek a place of comfort while ignoring the ways God is trying to get our attention. We don’t want to dig deeper or be exposed of areas in our life that still need refining. It’s been that kind of week for me. So instead of going into all of that, I want the reason for this post to be solely focused on scripture and how God has met me where I am…

“Do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand”. Isaiah 41:10

“My flesh and my heart my fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever”. Psalm 73: 26

“He works out everything in conformity with the purpose of HIS will”. Ephesians 1: 11

“I will see the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living. Wait for the Lord; be strong and take heart and wait for the Lord.” Psalm 27:13-14

“You are my God; my times are in your hands”. Psalm 31:14-15

“Hope deferred makes the heart sick, but a longing fulfilled is a tree of LIFE…it is sweet to the soul”. Proverbs 13:12,19

Today, Sunday, I listened to a podcast from The Village Church. Matt Chandler is the lead pastor and we are in the Luke series. He was teaching out of Luke 18 and below is what I was able to take away from the sermon...

Jesus is speaking to The Rich Young Ruler

“You still lack one thing. Sell everything you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasures in heaven. Then come, follow me”. Luke 18:22

Wealth was what the Rich ruler held on to. He was asked by Jesus to sell all that he had. To give up what he held on to most...SO THAT he could gain more of Jesus!
Jesus will use the very thing that we cling to and hold onto the most. He will expose us in those places in order to show us what exactly we lack
Only the Lord knows what we lack and He will press down on us until we give in and realize our need for HIM

Some other revelations...

There are times that we fail to recognize one thing. KNOWING HIM. We have become more focused on serving (doing things) than knowing Him.

We must return…call upon…and cry out for the Mercy of God…HE wants to rescue us…HE wants to restore us…HE wants us to lay everything at HIS feet…He wants to see and know that we are not living for ourselves…but for HIM AND HIM ALONE!!!

Life back in the States

2009-08-14T10:22:00.000-07:00

I'm Back!!! I know it's been a little bit since I've been back on this side of the world, but it's been a bit crazy and I honestly have been a little out of it. Monday, August 4 is when I arrived back to the Lonestart State. I flew back with 3 other people...Brian, Bobby, and Cara (The 3 closest people to the front in the picture below). We were all craving a little Chickfila so we decided before we all split off to have one last meal together. It was soooo good!!

Our journey back was quite the journey to say the least...we departed from Lusaka at 2pm Sunday after noon and flew down to Johannesburg, South Africa for a 7 hour lay over. We all were trying to think of things to do so we ate an early dinner and then literally went to every shop in the airport. Once we finished we found a place to camp out for the next couple hours. I couldn't sit still and knowing I was about to sit in a 10+ hour plane ride I began walking around...soon after we made our way to our gate and got settled for the night. Our flight left Joburg at 11:30pm. All 4 of us sat together in the back of the plane and it we felt like we were in a love seat. Haha...not really but it was really fun to be sitting all together. The only negative part about that leg of the flight was there was so much turbulence that I could not fall asleep. The plane was constantly shaking thus no sleep at all. :( We hit London about 8:30am the next morning and had to move quickly through the huge terminal to our next gate. We jumped on our last leg around 11am for another 10+ hour flight. We finally arrived back in Texas at 3:30pm! Home Sweet Home!

The hardest part about flying that many hours and adjusting to the time difference is that your body is fighting against you. I made myself stay up as long as I could and then crashed around 10:30pm...I didn't wake up until 1pm the next day...14 hrs of sleep! Praise the Lord! When I woke up I was so disoriented and didn't know where I was at first. I had to concentrate so hard on anything I did. My body has not gotten that much rest since before I left in May. Anyways, I was discussing with my Mom the next couple of days and I ended up going to get my hair cut that afternoon. Some advice I would give anyone coming back from spending longer than 1 month in a different country - Don't try to drive when you first get back!! I got on the road and was driving on the left side of the road!! Ahhh...I realized about a minute later that in the States we drive on the Right side...not the Left side as we did in Zambia. Hahaha...it was such a weird moment I had and I can't really describe it all.

I didn't have much time to adjust until I was off to Branson, MO with my family for the weekend. We left Thursday morning and got back late Monday night. It was the first time to see one of my sisters and her family since April. It was so fun to see them and talk about my time in Zambia. I also got to see some of my best friends that had been working at Kanakuk all summer...Nika and Bekah. It was refreshing to get to sit and hear how they were doing and get caught up on life. I hadn't seen them since October of last year. However, I was struggling to sleep every night. I was so tired, but when I would go to bed I would wake up 3-4 times a night wide awake. I also had the craziest dreams. It was really strange because I was having the reverse affect that usually happens when you first get to Zambia. This past Tuesday night was the first time I actually slept through the night. After a few restful nights I now feel rested! Praise the Lord!! I can function normally and think clearly!! :)

Visiting Bekah at Kanakuk

Most of this week I have been running around trying to get things accomplished. It's crazy how you have to take care of so many things when you are out of the country for 3 months. One of those things is my Car!! I haven't driven my car since April and I had to get it inspected, serviced, and now I have to get NEW TIRES!! The joy of owning a car! Haha. In the midst of that, I have been able to rest and relax the past 2 days. It has been so refreshing to let myself stop and look back at the summer. God has brought me through so many things and allowed me to be part of such a bigger plan and purpose that only He could orchestrate. And I believe the journey is just beginning...

Thanks again for all your prayers as I was gone these 3 months. The time will be coming soon when I return to Zambia, but the Lord knows the timing and length of my stay. As for now, I am spending time with family and friends. The rest of the staff returns tomorrow and we all will be back in our offices in Irving, Tx next week. Please pray for the many meetings that will be taking place in regards to all our new projects and even in regards to where the Lord wants each of us. I pray each of you are blessed! Thanks again!

Love to you all!

Joy

Last moments in Zambia...

2009-08-07T11:33:00.000-07:00

I know it's been a week that I have been back in the States but I had to finish posting the last pictures taken in Zambia. I will give you updates on the transition back to the State side on my next post. But for now, here are my last shots with my precious kiddos...

Friday at the Tree of LIFE...

Me and one of my best friends Stephanie hanging out with the kids

Me with Misheck and Hassan..

little Bupe is poking her head around Hassan's shoulder

Bupe and Me...she has the most precious spirit about her!

Emma and Me...

Praise God for how He has restored and transformed her life!

Saturday I said goodbye to my kiddos in the CRC's:

Visitng my sweet girls at Kaunda Square CRC for the last time...

Selah, Bridget and the newest addition Alice

All the girls at the Matero CRC: (Left to Right)

Lontia, Given, Grace, Joy, Gloria, and the newest addition Harriet

The group at the Ibex CRC:

Baby Joy, Anet, Pamela, Dorothy, Sara, and Wisdom

(sorry this picture is hard to see...this is actually the best one out of all of them!)

Pictures of the last days

2009-08-06T07:08:00.000-07:00

Thursday with my sweet boy Anderson!!

Hanging out at Avondale CRC...The 3 boys that live there are Morris, Victor, and Elijah. Our Zambian staff that live there are Samuel (in picture), Gilbert, Daudi, and Pastor Eric

Me and Sarah on Shoe day...it was actually her birthday so I brought her a little craft bag that has fun things in it for her. She was sooooo excited and couldn't believe it.

George has become one of my dearest friends in Zambia. We have worked on numerous projects together throughout the summer and have had fun doing it all.

Friday...last day of Camp LIFE!!

Steph and I...still doing ministry together...

I think we both will be serving together in ministry for quite some time!

Arthur, Dalitso, Me, and George on Friday

>As it was the last day of camp, you could get people to write on your shirt

Austensley and his sister Sarah...

they live by themselves in a child headed household in Kabanana

>They are amazing and very mature in the walk with the Lord<

More pictures are coming from Saturday and Sunday...stay tuned! :)

The Hardest Days

2009-08-02T19:14:00.000-07:00

Last Friday, Saturday, and Sunday were the most difficult days that I knew were coming. I had to say bye to my precious Zambian family I have come to know and love so much while I have been here. I went to Camp LIFE on Friday and I LOVED being there with everyone and soaking in the last hours with ALL our Zambian staff. As the day came to an end, all the Americans together while the Zambians circled around then worshipping the Lord and then at once they all began to pray over us. It was an amazing moment! I was sitting there and then my sweet friend Martha sat behind me and held me. The next thing I knew my chin was dripping with tears and I couldn't control the emotion I had. Leaving this 2nd family I had developed is so difficult and painful at times, but I knew it was time.

Steph, Christy and I on the last day of

Week 8, Camp LIFE 2009

Steph, Garret and I right after we loaded up kids from Camp LIFE

Last Thursday afternoon I got to go see Anderson Tembo who lives in Chainda. I went to find him and ended up going to his house. These are all the kids that ended up there because they new about the Mazungu's (white people).

I'm holding Anderson in the back,

but all these kids were all around us that afternoon.

Walking back to the Avondale CRC in Chainda

Me with some of the kids

Saturday wasn't easy either because that day I had to say bye to my precious kiddos in the CRC's. My first stop was at Kaunda Square where I saw Selah, Bridget, and Alice (a new girl who I got to move in Wednesday of last week). As I was talking to our Staff members I noticed that Selah was not around. I was quickly informed that she was in her room, on her bed, crying. I went in there and found her curled up in a ball just crying uncontrollably. I curled up next to her and then I began crying too. She was the first girl I got to move in and be apart of her life changing. I have never felt such heartache in leaving a sweet child. She means so much to me and I consider her to be my daughter. Anyways, I sat with her and tried to explain that I was coming back. She just looked at me with her tears in her eyes and wondering why I had to leave. Oh how I was overwhelmed with such sadness...

Next stops were Ibex, Matero, and Garden Hill. I had kids in each one of these CRC's and it was so hard to tell to the kids that I had to leave. Their sweet faces went from such joy to such sadness. I have lots of pictures with them that I will post later. Once I finished making my rounds to those CRC's I met up with the rest of our team and went out to dinner for my last night. We got back at 9 and then I had a long night of packing and tying up loose ends. I didn't go to bed until about 4am and then I had to get up and head to my last church at the Tree of LIFE.

What a way to end my time in Zambia...church at the land with all 64 children. The singing, praying, reading of scripture, and sweet faces of these beautiful children was amazing! Soon after that, I had to say a quick good-bye and get to the airport. The whole time I was praying.."Lord, if you want me to stay here for a little longer, I know you will make a way and not let me get on the plane"...to be continued on next post...

Finally some pictures

2009-07-26T12:45:00.000-07:00

My first group of girls in 2007 came to camp last week and I was unable to be with them because of other things I had to be doing...so I arranged to see them on Saturday at the CRC and it was so much fun! I got to bless them with little goodie bags filled with crayons, bandanas, sweets, paper, and the best of all...a beanie baby!! :)

Awaiting lunch and their bags...

I went by the Avondale CRC and there I met a precious little boy named Alexander Tembo. he is 11 years old and HIV+. Both of his parents have died and he is living with his Grandmother who doesn't work and isn't able to provide the adequate diet for Anderson to have with the ARV medicine he is taking. I fell in love with this boy and I am wanting to get him in a CRC so that he will be taken care of full time.

Isn't he soo cute?? :)

Here are some of the kids at the Advondale CRC.

Staying Busy...

2009-07-23T06:46:00.000-07:00

So I know it’s been awhile but things have been busy as always! We have moved 7 more kids into our CRC’s and it continues to be a daily and weekly thing. Praise God for the ways He has provided for these kids. I have been taking sponsors on what we call The Father’s Heart Trip in which our sponsors can physically go visit their child and see where they live. It’s one of my favorite things because it blesses both the American sponsor and the child and their families. From last Thursday up to Tuesday I had sponsors here and I was taking them around to see our offices in Chilenje, our LIFEWAY Students, and introducing them to our CRC’s where we have children living. I love getting to tell the stories of the kids who we have had the privilege of rescuing and bringing restoration to their life. What joy it brings me to see the smiles on all their faces and hope in their eyes again.

Beginning last Thursday I have also been spending a lot of time with our LIFEWAY Students. They range between 12 and 22yrs old. I literally walked on foot with our LIFEWAY Coordinator to all of the homes we have for our students. We have 7 in total and it took some time to get to all these places but I realized that this is how they manage to move around. It’s slow but they get there. I enjoyed being outside and taking in everything. So many times we are rushing around and missing what is before us and so the Lord gave me that time. I loved getting to talk with some of the kids there and see where they live. Starting yesterday (Wednesday) I have spent my entire days in Chilenje doing an “exhaustive evaluation” with our LIFEWAY program. We are going to be improving a lot so I have needed to pay extra attention to it all. It’s been fun to have a 20 minute conversation with all the kids we are supporting. Even tomorrow I will be there finishing up some evaluations with some students, teachers, and house parents. Saturday and Sunday I will be compiling all of the information together. It’s been interesting to hear different people’s opinions and perspective on things.

In about 9 days I will be leaving to go back to the States. I am in shock and denial that it is already time. I can’t believe how the time has passed so quickly. I know that I am not ready to say good-bye to everyone here, both our Zambians on full-time staff and the kids. So many things have happened this summer and still there is so much to be accomplished before I leave. I am going through moments of sadness with having to say good-bye to everyone. Just when things are going smoothly and I am getting into a good rhythm with everyone is the time I have to leave. Our Zambians here are unbelievable! Their work ethic, love for what they do, their passion for God, and their obedience to bringing restoration to the lives of these children blows me away. I am so humbled to work alongside these people who have given up so much to bring life to so many! I love all of them and they have become like family to me. It’s going to be so difficult when I have to leave them.

But for now…I still have 9 days left!! Praise the Lord! One more week to pour everything I have out to everyone here! Oh how I pray that God is pleased with what I have been doing. I pray that I will continue to die to myself everyday and take of my cross to follow the footsteps of Jesus. Please pray over the next 9 days and even thereafter…

Living my life for the Glory of HIS Name,
Joy

Whatever it takes..

2009-07-14T05:12:00.001-07:00

We wrapped up our 5^th week of Camp LIFE on Friday and it was absolutely amazing! So many children were set free of the bondage they were in and now their lives will never be the same. This goes for the Americans too! Every night we have people stand up and share a story of what God did in them that day. Praise God for how mighty and powerful He is. It’s so incredible to hear how God has changed them and used them to minister to the kids here.

Saturday and Sunday were so refreshing for me. I was able to catch up on sleep, get some much needed time with the Lord, and spend some quality time with my dear friends. I now have 4 of my friends here and I have loved every minute of it so far!! God is so good in blessing me with the friends I have!! During church on Sunday we had Pastor Angel speak and it was so challenging to hear because it was directly from the Lord! The title was “Serving God’s Purpose in this Generation”. We went through what it really means to know God’s purpose and His assignment He has given you to do today. We discussed how you were born into your generation for a specific purpose. We shouldn’t be wishing to be born in another generation, but this one was specific for you to live out your assignment God gave you. No matter what, you must live out your purpose today! Whatever it takes to fulfill the assignment given to you, do it!

Working everyday to provide a place for children to have a place of refuge and transformation is my purpose here. To make a way for another child to be rescued and restored is amazing to be a part of! God has washed HIS grace, HIS love, and HIS redemption over each one of these kids so far and it’s only the beginning…

Week 6 has kicked off and I’m working hard to move more kids in to CRC’s. Please pray for everything to line up smoothly. Satan is attacking this in every way and I am in need of some major prayers. Thanks!

Be Blessed,

Joy

Shopping Day in Soweta Market

2009-07-07T13:47:00.000-07:00

So as week 5 is now in full swing I have been continuing to focus in on building up our Community Resource Centers (CRC) and prepare them for kids. That is what day consisted of and it’s so amazing at the end of the day to know that 2 more children were rescued from their household. I went to the CRC to prep the home and then moved around to other compounds. As the day went on I went around to several markets to purchase food for the CRC’s that already have kids living in them and then for another one to open today. My driver, Gilbert, and I went to Soweta Market. It is close to the Kanyama compound. So the best way I can describe it is that it’s a small road, full markets on either side, hundreds and hundreds of people all around walking. Driving around is even difficult because there are so many people. Anyways, my driver pulled over and said, “okay, we go”. I asked him several times, “here? We are going from here??” He just laughed and said yes. It was just crazy that we would stop basically in the middle of the street, in the midst of so many people, and in the craziness of the market.

Once I arranged my money in my backpack we were off. We didn’t get that far because as soon as I stepped out of the car I heard so many voices saying Muzungu (white person), ewe (you), or hey mommie. I felt like a celebrity because they all wanted me to do was come to their table to buy something. Thank goodness for Gilbert. He was amazing! We had a list and just worked a little at a time in getting everything. We got so many things: beans, groundnuts, kapenta (small fish), onions, tomatoes, cabbage, and big dried fish. Once we finished there, we went to a grocery store and finished the rest. The challenged of the whole day was staying under budget….but we managed and did it!! J

After all of that was completed, we headed off to the CRC’s…first was Ibex. We got there just in time when 2 new girls arrived. It was so much! We brought all this food in and I got to pray with them. To see the day come full circle in that at the beginning there was an empty room with mattresses leaning against the wall to having 2 beautiful girls sitting on their beds that were made for them!! I am praising the Lord for the work He is doing! There is now so much hope for these girls and it only took one person to be a voice for them!! We left there and dropped the food off at 2 other CRC’s. I love being able to bring a blessing of food for these kids and the Discipleship Leaders that live there.

Pray for:

-Time Management

-Rest

-Strength and Energy everyday

-Discernment in decisions

-Diligence

A video

2009-06-29T12:40:00.000-07:00

The Streets of Chawama...

One Adventurous Week...

2009-06-27T04:06:00.001-07:00

So I know it's been awhile since I have posted and there are many reasons behind it...

Monday I had the privilege of moving in a precious girl named Selah into one of our Community Resource Centers. Her home life situation is one that is too much to fully explain but she has been raped numerous times. At camp she had no emotion and would not look up at you. She was stone cold and it was so difficult for me to see this precious child in such pain and hurt. To make a long story short, I was thrilled to usher this child in to a safe place where there are Godly women loving on her and providing her with so much than she has ever dream. Selah was timid at first and didn't know what to think, but 2 days later I went back to see her and it was a complete transformation!! She ran up to me with a huge smile on her face and gave me a big hug. I couldn't believe my eyes. This little girl now has joy and life in her!! It was amazing to see!

This is sweet Selah...

Tuesday and Wednesday I went around to evaluate more Community Resource Centers. We are moving in 80 children and we want to make sure that all our CRC's are up to running as a house would run. It's pretty exciting to be a part of something that allows children to be rescued 1 at a time.

Three girls who moved into the Matero CRC: Joyce, Given, and Grace

Thursday I spent a full day at Immigration!!! I almost had to leave the country!! I overstayed my visa, but with the grace and mercy of the immigration officer they allowed me to extend my visa. It was a new experience and pretty intense to say the least. My heart was beating the whole time and I wanted to make sure I did everything I was told. Finally, we were given the "yes" and we paid our penalty and got out of there. :) I have never been that nervous in my life. haha

Friday I went to go pick up a child and bring her into a CRC. I was also able to check on the kids that have already moved in. God is soooo good! I love being able to see the quick transformation in the lives of these children.

Some kids at the Garden Hill Compound

This weekend has slowed done for a little bit and now we are going into the "break week"...haha. I mean even though it's a break week, there is still so much to be done. I am looking forward to what God does this week. More kids will be moving into these centers. Please be praying for the transition and all the different things that have to happen. God is going to be moving in mighty ways and it's so exciting to be a part of it.

I will hopefully put more pictures and videos up soon. Thanking the Lord for all of you!

The day they have always dreamed...

2009-06-10T14:19:00.000-07:00

My Kids are moving into the Tree of Life!!

(ps- Doreen is not in the picture)

Maggie Phiri (10) & Peter Phiri (12)

I first met Maggie during our Community Outreach day when she was just a lowly street girl following all of us around as we were evangelizing to those in the community. She caught my attention and God just drew us together. With God’s timing and sovereignty, this 10 year old street girl came to Camp LIFE the following week and excepted Christ! That same American was introduced to her brother Peter and her cousins. Sadly, Maggie and Peter suffer from neglect, malnourishment, and abuse in multiple ways from their caretakers. They live in a two-room house with no electricity or running water. Maggie and Peter both sleep on the floor in the front room. Maggie and her brother Peter have been raising themselves because their parent’s leave them for most of the day thus they are forced to fend for themselves. Maggie and Peter have painfully been victims of the physical abuse from their mother. Maggie’s small and frail body shows the harshness she has encountered over the years. Peter has scars and tattoos from the affects of witchcraft. In addition, Maggie is severely malnourished. Her thin frame exhibits the lack of food and neglect. Thankfully through the love and care that our discipleship leaders have shown both Maggie and Peter, they are surviving each day; however, for them to move into our Children’s Village they need to be sponsored!! Will you be the one to change these lives forever? I am praising God for how He has taken them out of their harsh situation to place them in a beautiful place that will forever change their lives.

Susan Chibuye (6), Doreen Chibuye (3),

Joseph Chibuye (13), & Musonde Chibuye (8)

I met these siblings soon after meeting Maggie and Peter. This family of four comes from a household of neglect, mistreatment, and abuse. They live in a small two-room house with no electricity or running water. The father of the children is mentally disturbed and has significantly affected the children’s growth and development. As you look at these children you can easily recognize the sad conditions they have lived in through the years. In the eyes of these children there is no life and more so no hope in reach for them. They each are frail and thin due to the lack of food in the home. All four of them are cousins to Maggie and Peter thus they all help take care of themselves in regards to the neglect from their families. These children deal with witchcraft and have received multiple scars and tattoos. They are in need of so much love and care.

I would love for anyone to be a part of this as you sponsor a child. And it's not just a sponsorship, but a LIFE CHANGE for a child!! Please let me know if you are interested!! Thanks!

Many Blessings!

Camp LIFE Week #1

2009-06-07T11:00:00.001-07:00

I can't believe the first week of Camp LIFE is over...It was a blast being there with the kids and seeing them really understanding God's Love for them. I didn't know that I would be at camp this week because of my other responsibilities, but I am so thankful that I was there. I got to meet some precious kiddos...one in particular is Agness. She is 9 years old but looks like she is 5. The reason I say that is because of the effects of malnutrition and the neglect she endures. She had such a joyful spirit in her and when she saw me she would drop everything and run!! I have been trying to pick up the language a little more and surprisingly enough I am able to ask some basic questions.

*I was flying a kite for the kids at the Tree of LIFE Children's Village*

*This is Sara Lungu - PRECIOUS!! She will be coming to the Tree of Life Children's Village in a couple weeks! I just love this little one!!

Anyways, week one was amazing! I still can't believe that the Lord has called me to this. I am blown away every day to wake up and have the opportunity to go love on children that are in such need. We actually heard a sermon about "Being Called by the Grace of God" on sunday. One of our very own Family Legacy Staff in Zambia spoke upon your calling and what that look likes. It was so powerful and encouraging. Pastor Angel explained that God does not call you because of your past, or from where you are now, or even what you will become in the future...but He is calling you because of HIS Grace!! We have to keep looking straight ahead and not at how God has called other people. We have been called for a specific purpose and given a divine assignment...which is to display Christ to others and to make HIM known to those who don't know Him.

I hope everyone is doing well. Please be praying for energy. I've been battling being sick over the past few days. Many Blessings to you all! I'm going to to try to post some videos and pictures of camp.

Love you all!

It's open and they kids have come!

2009-05-29T12:33:00.000-07:00

What a day it has been....the lack of sleep, the tears, the work, and the things we had to go through has come full circle. PRAISE BE TO THE LORD JESUS CHRIST!! HE chose and brought 14 children into the first home at the Tree of LIFE Children's Village TODAY!! It was so amazing to think back through all the things that had to line up for this to happen and then today... we finally got to walk the children into their new home! There were a lot of emotions today with seeing the joy and light in the faces of these children who have gone through so much! I wept tears of joy for these precious kids. It was amazing to watch the hand of God work in ways like this. I can't even put it into words of how amazing today was! Thank you all for praying over the transition for these kids. As I left tonight, they were all sitting down eating dinner for the first time as a family!!

Here is newest family at the Tree of LIFE...

Emma (12), Esther (2), Bupe (4), Dorcas (10), Hassan (8), Misheck (4), Beauty (14), Temba (6), Baby Joe (5), Monica (10), Norah (9), Bwayla (10), Paulina (11), Mirriam (4)...and there is actually 2 more coming in the next few days!

I will put up pictures and videos when I can. Hope everyone is doing well. Many Blessings!

Crazy, but such a fun week!

2009-05-23T10:34:00.001-07:00

My group that helped me organize and box up about 10,000 books for our kids!!

Part of the group at the Craig's House for Heather's birthday!

I have had a busy few days in the sense of interviewing potential house parents to choosing the kids who will be living in the Tree of Life Children's Village. You would think that would be the easy part but honestly it was very hard and heavy weighing on my heart. Holly and I met on Wednesday with over 20 potential house Mom's to be raising these children in the village. How exciting it was to know that some of these women will be loving on the children in our village!! It was a long day of talking, but productive...then afterwards we all went over to our offices in Chilenje to visit some of our LIFEWAY girls. They had prepared a special birthday surprise for Heather. It was sooo cute all what they did! I literally think she got 30 cards from them since it was her 30th birthday.

While we were there, I got to spend some sweet time with Emma and Beauty so below is a video of Emma singing. She wanted to sing a song for my mom...or Auntie Jan. :)

Friday afternoon we all headed out to the "Big Land" (aka - The Tree of LIFE). We worked the rest of the day getting organized with the upcoming week. Saturday, we spent the day at the villa reading through and assigning kids to their NEW homes at the Tree of LIFE. Long, but good day.

Sunday we got up and headed off to church!! One of my favorite things here in Zambia. It was located in Matero - a compound that actually has children and families living in trash bag houses. And if you can imagine a wood frame with black trash bags draped all around it. It's definitely something hard to even think about. Anyways, the worship and preaching at church was amazing!! God is at work and He knows what we need to hear from His word. We grabbed lunch and then me and the girls (Holly, Heather, and Paige) went out to the Tree of LIFE to work. It's becoming our second home. We have a lot of work to do this week in getting it ready for KIDS!!! The first set of kids will be coming Friday!! :)

Please pray for strength, energy, good health, efficiency, and time management. We had a long meeting last night discussing everything this week and it really will be a miracle if everything happens. We have the opening on Thursday and then we will be bringing kids in on Friday. It's going to be one of the most powerful days when we see our own kids walking in complete freedom, safety, a positive environment, and to just be around those who love them!!

Praise the Lord for what HE is doing!! Thanks for sharing this experience with me!

I'm off and running for the week...I'll be spending most of my time at the "Big Land" prepping the homes!!

Love you all!

Beauty moves into LIFEWAY

2009-05-20T13:41:00.000-07:00

On Tuesday, I had the privilege of bringing sweet little Beauty into LIFEWAY!! It was an exciting afternoon for both her and her Aunt who has been taking care of her. Her Aunt Martha kept thanking us for what we were doing. She even asked if Temba (her son, Beauty's cousin) could go too. It was darling! We first picked them up at their house and then went to get them Chicken and Chips on the way. Once we arrived to the girls home, she was welcome with open arms by Emma!! Her and Emma have known each other for a while so it was a sweet reunion for them both. The are the cutest best friends and it made my heart so happy to see them together!

Aunt Martha, Beauty, and Me

Best Friends: Emma and Beauty!!

All the girls at LIFEWAY House #1...these are Beauty's new sisters!!

I just love these 2 girls!!

The Hope of a Child

2009-05-16T01:16:00.001-07:00

What does this picture say to you???

(This was taken in Chainda Community)

Over the past couple of days I have had the opportunity to visit Beauty. (I blogged a few days ago about her). She lives in a compound very close to where I stay. She was in my one of my friend's group last year and I have just come to love and adore her. She is a double orphan, lives with her aunt, and is suffering from Sickle Cell and Malaria. I went to see her on Thursday night and I just cried sitting with her in her little house. Her aunt was trying to rub her back because of the severe pain she had. Her eyes were filled with tears as I rubbed her hands to try to comfort her. She had shortness of breath, a high fever, shaky hands, and just seemed miserable. We sat and talked with her and her aunt for awhile to see what we could do. We had brought her a little medicine and we provided some kwacha (Zambian Currency) for their transportation to the clinic the next morning.

We went back the next morning to check on her and she was doing slightly better. We brought her some rice, bread, sausage, and ice cream. (She had asked me the night before to bring that so we did! ) Once we got to where she lived, we made the decision that we need to move her in LIFEWAY; which is a boarding school we have more older children (ages 14 - 19) that live in our homes and attend school. Each child has been brought out of severe situations and rescued. In Beauty's case, since she is sooo sick all the time and her Aunt can barely provide we know that it will be better to have her within reach to provide specific food and medicine. SOO...next week I get to bring sweet Beauty into our full-time care!! It will be a glorious day!!

Friday afternoon we went over to Chainda Compound. We were visiting one of Holly's kids, Norah! She lives in a small house with no electricity, and 9 other family members in a very very small mud house. We brought her family lots of food and sweets for all the children. We got to hang out there for quite some time.

This is me and little Leevie - a child in Chainda

Holly and I with Norah and her family!

We had gone to the office again this week and of course sweet Emma

came around with us to visit the other students in school.

Today we had a meeting with most of the school directors about what this summer looks like. But one of the best things about this meeting is that we have partnered with the organization called Tiny Tim and Friends who provide free testing and treatment for OVC's (Orphan and Vulnerable Children). If the caretakers provide their consent then every child will be tested at Camp. It was an informative meeting and just amazing of how if a child as the ability to take ARV's the transformation it has on their health. Our entire staff and ministry is beyond excited on the partnership we have started with them.

It's going to be one life changing summer!!

Past Few Days

2009-05-13T05:42:00.000-07:00

This video has been long awaited but I wanted to show you my room. I took this video the first day I arrived. Those are mosquito nets you see around our beds...and yes they are still out and about!

Yesterday Heather, Paige, and I went to Kamwala Market to find couches for the Children's Village we are opening and I was modeling the different ones we were looking at. There weren't many options as you can see we had choices of this lovely orange color and green.

Heather and I sitting in the chair that we liked. We are going a love seat, a sofa, and a chair for each house. They are going to look so great!

Today (wednesday), I stayed at the Villa to work on some things on my computer. When you are out on the ground seeing kids and having meetings it's hard to catch up on emails. Plus we just had several projects to do on the computer. It was nice to get some things done. I went for a run this afternoon and then got back in time to cook a delicious meal!! We are trying to do our best of cooking a variety of things so tonight we made Spaggetti, salad, and had bread. It was probably one of my favorites so far.

Tomorrow, we have our first big staff meeting with all our Zambian staff. Greer arrived yesterday and we are finally ready to get together with our team here. It's exciting and we are ready to begin the preparation for Camp LIFE which is only a few weeks away. Within the next few days we have several more of our American Staff arriving so please pray for their safe travels. We actually had one staff member miss his flight and he had to stay at London for 2 extra days....anyways, I'm off to bed.

Prayer Request:

>For the Opening of the Children's Village (we have so many things to accomplish in a short amount of time)

>For wisdom in knowing the timing of everything

>For God to lead us in the direction we need to go

>For my time spent with the Lord to multiple and for richness

>For the Lord to utilize my gifts in discerning the situations of the kids that I see daily

>For wisdom to know which first 12 kids (out of 300) kids need to move into the Children's Village (we are in the evaluation process right now)

Many Blessings,

Joy

Rain that brings floods

2009-05-10T09:05:00.001-07:00

Here is another video of the Rain from the other day...

I mean this is unbelievable!!

*We were in the George Compound taking this video

New Experiences

2009-05-08T13:00:00.000-07:00

The past few days have been packed full of different things and it would take a lot to explain everything so I am going to hit some highlights...

On Thursday night we all went over to the Craig's house. They are an American family living here in Zambia. They have done our summer program several years and now they live here full time. Mr. Craig was assigned here to study the disease of Malaria; which has been a huge benefit to so many people. Anyways, we had a great "American" meal over there!

Lately, I have been able to go into so many compounds, kids, and the CRC's. One of my favorite things so far is doing food drops to some kids in need. We go with our bus driving Gilbert and we walk around in the grocery stores getting about $60 worth of food (which is about 300,000 kwacha). It doesn't seem that much, but it really goes far here!

Yesterday (Friday) was a fun day that started with a food drop for one of my favorite kids Beauty. She is 14 years old, a double orphan, suffering from Sickle Cell Disease, and lives with her aunt who has TB. She is one of the most spiritually mature girls and who is sooo good with english. I love hanging out with her so I went with Gilbert and brought her food. The day before I bought her some school shoes when we were in town, which was so fun to bless this precious child! She has already challenged me in knowing the word better!

Getting Ice Cream with Beauty

Dropping her off and showing her new clothes and shoes we got her

Another adventure we encountered yesterday was RAIN!!! It should not be raining at this time of year but it did yesterday and this morning. It was a new eye opener for me being in the compound watching the rushing waters taking over the streets. With just only 30 minutes of steady rain, the dynamics of the living situation of the people here changed. It was so hard for me to watch all of this because the water was coming into the homes and into a lot of the small side stores. It was really unbelievable. We were going to visit another Community Resource Center in the George Compound to meet some of our Discipleship Leaders and see where it was located. While we were preparing to leave, I noticed what buildings were located right down from our Resource Center...A huge Tavern! There were so many bars all right around us. It was in the heart of this community, which is good and bad all at the same time. Anyways, the kids were just gathered outside because they knew about "Muzungu's" being there and wanted to see us.

This is a video of what a compound looks like after it rains...

I will try to add another video but this will give you a glimpse of the rushing water

Today (Saturday) we went to a wedding of one of our staff members here in Zambia. It was quite different than what I am used to seeing the states. For example, the wedding "started at 9am"; however, no one showed up until 10:30 and the ceremony didn't start until 11am. We actually got there 10 till 9am thinking that everyone would be there already, but we forget that we need to be on Zambian Time (which is showing up a lot later than what you say...). It was fun to see the differences between the cultures. This afternoon we went out to the Tree of LIFE Village to see the progress on all the homes and structures. We can't wait to put kids in these homes! It is getting closer with every day.

The Amazing Cooks at the Tree of LIFE

A Staple Meal in Zambia: Nshima, Chicken, Cabbage, and Soup

*I have grown to love this and it really is sooo good!!

When we were at the Tree of LIFE we had this for lunch.

I hope you all are doing well. Please pray for energy, rest, and time with the Lord. I am still trying to adapt to the time change and get used to the schedule. Also, be praying over the next 3 weeks...we are trying to open our children's village in that time and a lot of decisions need to be made. Thanks so much!

For the Glory of HIS Name,

Joy

Day #2: Shopping for the Children's Village

2009-05-07T12:38:00.001-07:00

So today we went around to search for things for the children's village at the Tree of LIFE. It was fun searching for the best deals around town. We went to several areas in Lusaka, but we first stopped at now one of my favorite places to eat...MINT. It was a modern looking restaurant and one that is rare to see in Lusaka. It has smoothies, wraps, sandwiches and much more! But seriously though, we all couldn't believe how good the food was! I will certainly be stopping by this place more frequently as the summer goes on...

Here is our delicious food!!!

This is a video from today of driving the streets and jamming to Zambian music. As you can see in the video, Gilbert, our driver loves to sing and dance!! :)

Leg # 2 Complete: I made it to Zambia!

2009-05-05T12:08:00.000-07:00

Paige, Holly, and I arrived at the airport bright and early Tuesday morning at 6am...

Lusaka Airport...

Once we left the airport we headed over to Mulungushi Village where we live for the summer. Home Sweet Home!!

This is a picture of our Villa.

Before we got too far in the day we went over to Arcades and exchanged money but also ate at La Mimosa's. It's a restaurant in town that is a common stop.

A little bit later we went out to see some of our kids in the community. Our first stop was to the LIFEWAY Homes in Chilenje. I got to see precious little Emma. She is doing well and reading soooo good! Below is a picture of us!

Then...we went over to the Kamanga CRC to see my precious kiddos!! Maggie and Susan have grown since the last time I saw them back in August. They both are doing well and seem happy! Maggie just ran and jumped into my arms!

Here is cute little Mags..

We took all the kids some Millimeal, cooking oil, a frozen chicken, milk, sugar, kapenta (little fish), tomatoes, cabbage, soap, washing powder, and some sweets!

Here is all of us!!

(Left to Right)

Susan, Doreen (I'm holding her), Maggie, Peter, Junior, and Joseph

Our first day here was sooo great! It's very encouraging to see the kids that you love so much and to know that they remember you! I have loved being back already!!

Leg #1 Complete: Layover in London

2009-05-04T02:55:00.000-07:00

The first leg of the trip is complete!! Holly, Paige and I all met at DFW Sunday afternoon with our families and said our goodbyes as we checked in. We made last minute phone calls and then got on the plane at 5:30pm.

All my stuff for 3 months...

The Fam and I

We landed at Heathrow Airport around 8:30am and got through customs. We made it through the first leg with flying colors and now we are actually at the YOTEL in the airport in London. It really is the best thing you can do with a 10 hour layover. We all are ready for some good, normal sleep. So we are here for a few hours and I wanted to post with the free internet we have. I'm going to sleep for a few hours, shower, and then get ready for leg # 2. Praise the Lord there is a Starbucks in this airport. It will be my last one for quite some time!

Here are pictures of the YOTEL..and yes it is this purple color.

Very soothing for sleeping don't you think?.

Paige is demonstrating of what we will soon be doing!

Here is the twin set up for our room. Holly is in another one that is a full bed. It's really nice and we are so thankful for them right at this moment!

Well off to sleep we go...

Full Speed Ahead

2009-05-01T23:00:00.001-07:00

I am just about wiped out from this week with getting prepared to leave in less than 48 hours for Zambia. Talk about crazy, busy, hectic few days. This will be my 3rd straight night up at this hour...I usually go to bed around 11 so this 1am kills me in the morning. Today was my last official day in the office for the entire summer!! I can't believe I got everything done and wrapped up. I was hurrying through the day to accomplish EVERYTHING. I had a few bumps in the road but made it through. Paige, Holly and I all agree that once we step on to the plane then we can soak it in and breath. :)

Well, my room at my aunts house is just about cleaned up and my car is packed full of not only my bags for Zambia, but basically my life. What's funny about it is that I feel like as I transition from one season to the next, it's basically me and my life packed up in my car and on it's way to the next phase of my life. Anyways, I am about to loose my mind with trying to get everything picked up, packed, and put in its place. I have just wanted to sit and be with family and I am planning on doing that tomorrow. I'm heading home and spending Saturday and Sunday with my family. Then about 3pm on Sunday I'll be at the airport. That is sure going to come quick.

I just can't believe the whirlwind I just came through to get to this point. I am sooo excited!! Please be praying for the Lord to speak through me and give me wisdom and discernment in every little decision. There is a big responsibility ahead of me and I'm leaning on the Lord for strength and guidance.

For the Glory of HIS Name,

Joy

ps-I am going to try to put some pictures up soon.

The final days...

2009-04-28T20:32:00.000-07:00

WOW! I cannot even believe that I will be getting on a plane in just a few short days and moving to Zambia for 3 1/2 months. God has been so good in calming my heart and preparing me for what is to come. Thank you for praying for me as I embark on a new journey. Continue to be praying for every step to go smoothly from our travel, to opening the Tree of LIFE village, to sharing the gospel with those who have never heard.

Last weekend I drove down to Waco to spend time with some of my best friends...it is always so refreshing for my heart to be with them and I truly cherish our friendship as well as the time we get to spend together. All day Saturday I got to spend the day with one of my longest and dearest friends, Julie Anna Hammett (formerly Aboussie :) ). We ate lunch at Panera and then ventured over to the suspension bridge where we walked around by the river and just talked. We haven't been able to do that since before her wedding in January so it really was a blessing to get quality time with one of my best friends. Jules has been one to always listen, support, challenge, give advice, and simply knows where you are in life. She is a woman of encouragement and full of zeal. There is never a dull moment with her and we (as well as our families) have developed a deep bond between us that only gets stronger as the years go by. We have been friends for now 17 years!!!

After that, I headed over to Johanna's apartment to stay the night with her. I had the priviledge of discipling Johanna my Senior year (her sophomore year) of college. It was and is a friendship that I cherish and will always continue to have. She and I have a unique friendship and it's as if we are sisters. We have walked through many seasons of life together and I am so blessed to have her in my life. She as grown so much and I am amazed at her wisdom, courage, joy, and discernment. She is a little sister who always wants to be in "the know" about things. I can't believe she is about to graduate and begin a new chapter in her life. We woke up the next morning and went to church at Antioch, grabbed a quick lunch and said our goodbyes.

After church, I ran over to Common Grounds (a famous coffee stop in Waco) to see Kaitlyn. She is another girl I discipled my Senior year of college. She is a junior now, but I still feel like she is a freshman. We sat at Common Grounds and really got to hear how each other was doing. Kaitlyn has become a woman of depth and one who is so intentional. When we get time together there is no messing around, but only authenticity. We chatted for awhile and then I saw a few other friends as they were stopping in to get a caffeine fix for studying. I always love coming back through Waco because it not only brings back such great memories but it allows me to see so many people I cherish and love so much!

Spending time with those girls encouraged my heart so much! Knowing they are supporting me 100% and praying for me every step of the way is more than I could ask for. I love you each and I am so thankful for how God has blessed me through you! I can't wait to hear what God does in your life over the next few weeks and months!

Thanks again to all of you!! So many of y'all have played such a significant part in my life. I know that the days, weeks, and months ahead of me will be filled with challenges, joys, decisions, opportunities, trials, triumphants, prayers, and victories.

As you all know by now, I leave Sunday, May 3 at 5:30pm from DFW. I fly to London with a 12 hour lay over and then straight south to Lusaka, Zambia. I'll hopefully post one more time before I leave.

Let the adventure begin... :)

Love you all!

Joy

Hustle and Bustle

2009-04-23T22:27:00.001-07:00

Well life has not slowed down a bit! I have only 9 days until I head off to Zambia for 3 1/2 months. That is just crazy!!! I have been trying to work diligently in getting things done at work, but also trying to spend time with friends. Which I did have some of my closest friends come in town last weekend. It was so great to see both Stephanie and Garrett (I hadn't seen them since their wedding the beginning of March) and get to have some great fellowship with two of my favorite people. They came in on Friday afternoon and they took me out for a late birthday dinner at Cozymels (it has become of my favorite places to eat as well as a tradition when we all get together). Saturday morning we cooked breakfast and just got to talk about what we were learning about the Lord. We then packed up and went out to the lake that is near my house. We played a little football and then got to just sit by ourselves with the Lord. (Much needed by all of us!) That night we went to church at The Village and then hit up Starbucks on the way home. It was a great end to the night to sit and talk to one of my best friends about how we are both doing in the season and transition that we are in. I guess it's always a good conversation when there are both tears and laughter!! ha. Sunday we headed over to the last Camp LIFE meeting in Dallas. It was so fun to be with so many people who are coming to Zambia this summer. You could definitely feel the excitement from everyone there!

That about does it for this week. Everything is in full speed ahead! My packing has begun and my last minute trips to stores are in progress. I am heading to Waco on Saturday to several of my best friends before I leave. It's very bitter sweet, but I am so ready to be back in Zambia.

Please be praying for my health to stay up, for wisdom and discernment in making decisions, for the Lord to really use the gifts and passions in me to love on HIS kids, and for the Lord to reveal HIMSELF in new ways! It is a big summer ahead and I need all the prayers I can get.

Hope you all are doing well.

Serving HIM,
Joy

Pictures from the weekend

2009-04-13T19:43:00.000-07:00

The cake that my sister made for my birthday!

My cute nephew and nieces...

Sweet Anna

Watching the kids hunt for Easter Eggs

The Fam!

Grandparents and Grandkids

The whole Crew

SISTERS!

The beautiful sunset...

Getting Closer

2009-04-08T19:29:00.001-07:00

So this week has gone by quick...I have had days that have been great and then days that have been harder. I got to spend a few hours at Panera Bread which was so refreshing for me. The Lord spoke to me in many ways through HIS word...

"In YOUR unfailing LOVE,

YOU will lead the

people you have redeemed.

In YOUR strength

you will guide them to

YOUR HOLY dwelling."

Exodus 15:13

The Lord says, "You will not have to fight this battle.

Take up your positions; stand firm

and see the deliverance the Lord

will give you..."

have FAITH in the Lord your God

and you will be upheld...

sing to the Lord and praise HIM

for the splendor of HIS holiness..."

2 Chron. 20:17, 20, 21

Reading through the 2 Chronicles verse was so encouraging for me because it is when God is speaking to Jehoshaphat and tested him in trusting the Lord to bring him through the battle he was up against. It brought Jehoshaphat to a much closer dependency and relationship with the Lord. And as he bowed down in reverence and waited upon the Lord, God was already in the midst of defeating the army ahead of Jehoshaphat.

As I read this it became clear of where I am right now...not sure what is to come, but knowing that God ultimately knows and will lead the way. All I have to do is stand next to HIM and trust that HE will lead me in victory. He is the only one who can conquer all things and He is the only one who deserves the praise and honor! He wants me to trust Him enough and what I must do is stand and face it. And once I boldly do that...then with our very eyes we will see the goodness and faithfulness of God persevere with HIS deliverance. I hope you can take time to read these verses and let the Lord speak to you through them.

I hope you all are doing well. My days are getting shorted until I leave...I'm now at 25 days! yikes! It is definitely hard to get everything done, see everyone I want to, and get prepared for this summer! As of the rest of this week...I'm spending my birthday (tomorrow - thursday) and Easter at home this weekend with my family. I am really looking forward to getting time with them! Have a great weekend!

Loving Jesus,

Joy

some thoughts...

2009-04-04T10:10:00.000-07:00

You have been CALLED.

called to live for a specific purpose.

to live for something and someone much greater

than we can even imagine.

for we are now living for the one who first lived for us.

we have been called to live according to HIS purpose.

to be conformed to the likeness of Christ.

he has set us apart. he has justified us.

he has glofied himself in us.

the choice is now ours.

will we, in turn, live for HIM?

will we die to ourselves and choose christ?

he chose us without hesitation and loved us without reservation.

nothing held him back and nothing ever will.

Without Reservation:

wholeheartedly. unreservedly. without qualifications

fully. completely. totally. entirely. wholly. unconditional.

Jesus IS enough for you.

he satisfies your desires.

he provides for your daily needs.

he exceeds expectations.

HE alone is God.

there is no one like him. and there will never be anyone like him.

he chose us before creation. to live for him and

bear his name with boldness.

he has given us the tools to live in righteousness.

he has plans for us. plans of using us to glorify him.

he doesn't need us.

but we need HIM.

he is might to save.

he is the one who gives and takes away.

he is the one i follow close behind even if it gets hard.

for he warns us that the road will be difficult.

but isn't HE worth it?

he has to be worth it. no matter the cost.

for he is the one who gave up his life

so that we could live.

so no matter what may come.

we must say...

blessed be YOUR name O Lord, blessed be YOUR name.

what a God we serve who exemplifies loving without reservation.

may our life be lived in this same way...

loving the Lord with all that you are. holding nothing back.

just a few pictures

2009-04-01T20:30:00.001-07:00

Here are a few pictures from when I got to hang with with a few

of my favorite campers from Kanakuk last week....

Sally Higgins and Lucy Ryan

*Sally brought 17 boxes full of donations

for our kids in Zambia!! yay!! Thanks Sally :)

(ps-notice the big posters we have of Zambian children...

we have those all over my office...

I mean how can you not love them??)

*Lucy met up with Sally and I for dinner at Chilis. I don't think

I've laughed that hard in a long time..What a fun night it was!!

*I love these girls! We met in 2007 and

our friendship is one that I truly cherish!

*By the way...I have 32 days until I leave for Zambia, Africa!!

It's Necessary

2009-03-29T19:11:00.000-07:00

The time spent behind a desk, starring into a computer screen for hours upon hours to achieve one thing. That one thing could be a project, locating information about a child, or simply sending an email. All these things are necessary for me each day. Each day I wake up and spend my day striving to make things better. Not just for myself, but for kids 10,000 miles away. They need me to spend these necessary hours so that they may have LIFE to the fullest. This picture became so clear to me that it's absolutely necessary for me to doing what I'm doing everyday. I may not see the reward on this side of heaven, but God sees the work that is being done for HIS kids.

"God is not unjust; He will not forget your work and

the LOVE you have shown HIM as you have helped HIS people

and continue to help them."

Hebrews 6:10

Necessary:

not to be avoided. inevitable. absolute. essential. required.

needed. not backing away. vital for the fulfillment of a need.

Although it's necessary to do the work here. In our culture.

In our country. It's also necessary to go.

Go to the places you may not think is possible.

Go to the areas that are uncomfortable.

Go to the unreached people groups in the world.

Go because its not an option.

Go so that HE may do HIS work through you.

Go so that God may use you as the

ONE NECESSARY THING.

A voice for HIM and of HIS word.

To be HIS hands and feet.

To be a part of HIS story.

The story of redemption, restoration,

and being made NEW in Christ.

His story is of LOVE.

And HE has chosen YOU to be a part of it

and to dwell with HIM in HIS house forever.

A Day at the Lake & there after...

2009-03-24T21:15:00.001-07:00

I have been meaning to post for so long and the days have just slipped by so quick. Anyways, last Sunday, March 15 was a much needed day of rest for me...SOOO I took the day and went to a lake and spent time with the Lord!! It was by far the best day I have had in a long time. I had my backpack packed with my Bible, journal, and food. I was set! ha..but seriously, I got to walk around, sit by the lake, listen to worship music and just enjoy being outside! The Lord revealed so much to me in the hours that I spent there...and just as the scripture says..."He will wash you with the water of His word...(Eph. 5:26 paraphrased)" and that is exactly what I felt the Lord was doing that day...

1. As I was sitting by the lake I ended up reading Psalm 23:1..."The Lord is my Shepherd, I shall not be in want" or another version says, "I have all that I need"...and I came to a much deeper understanding of such a simple verse that I have known for a so long. We all know that we should not be in want because of who the Lord is to us and what He provides for us, but do we trust Him enough to give us what we need and not necessarily what we want? The is the first thing that God challenged me with...'Do you trust me enough with what I am giving you is what you need right now in your life?'

Its definitely a daily choice that we all face...

2. The second thing that I came to realize was when I was walking around this lake. I had not been out there so I was just exploring all these trails while listening to music and the song "Acres of Hope" by Shane and Shane came on. It's basically illustrating how the Lord pursues us and is leading us to a place that draws us closer to Him. He must draw us out of where we are in order to go to a place that He longs for us to be...fully in His Presence.

Here are the lyrics to the song:

He will allure her

He will pursue her

And call her out

To wilderness with flowers in His hand

She is responding

Beat up and hurting

Deserving death

But offerings of life are found instead

*Chorus*

She will sing

Oh, to You

She will sing as in the days of youth

As You lead her away

To valleys low

To acres of hope

Acres of hope

Here in the valley

Walk close beside me

Don’t look back

For love is growing vineyards up ahead

You have called me master

And though you’re in the dark here

Call me friend

And call me lover and marry me for good

(Chorus)

How the story ends is

Love and tenderness in Him

Not safe, but worth it

So the valley's up ahead

Or the ones we live

We'll sing together

This is the scripture that inspired the song:

“Lord, sustain me in the valley. Give me ears to hear

Your sweet tender voice and lead me in to

acres of hope in this dry and weary land.”

"Therefore I am now going to allure her; I will lead her into the desert and speak tenderly to her. There I will give her back her vineyards, and will make the Valley of Achor a door of hope. There she will sing as in the days of her youth, as in the day she came up out of Egypt. ‘In that day,’ declares the LORD,’you will call me 'my husband'; you will no longer call me 'my master. (Hosea 2:14-16)

That day at the lake was the beginning of such a great week of realizing the beautiful pursuit Jesus has for us! For so long I have known that, but it's another thing to receive it and begin to give more of yourself to the Lord. My time in the Word has been so much richer and I long for that time to just sit and quiet my spirit in the presence of the Lord! I pray that each of you take time to let your mind, heart, and spirit rest in this crazy and busy lifestyle we all live in!

Some other highlights of last week...

I went to lunch with some of my dear Kamp friends from the past several years...Jrob, Kelly Adams, and Liz Norris...it was so fun to get to fellowship with those who you have served along in ministry together! There is just nothing quite like it!
I headed down to Waco on Sunday to see a few of my closest friends..Johanna Scanio (and all of her roommates!) and Kaitlyn Amos. We went to church that morning at Antioch and then hit up a few of my favorite stops: Food for Thought and Common Grounds. It was so great to see all of them! It's refreshing to be around friends who just get you and who mean so much to you!

This week...

I have hit the 40 day mark until I embark on an incredible 3 month stint in Zambia! I believe God is going to do so much and reveal more things this year than ever! Please cover the months of May, June, July, and part of August in prayer!
1 Year ago from today, March 24 2008, my Dad was diagnosed with Stage 3 Esophogeal Cancer and for 8 months he has been cancer free!! Praise God! He is doing okay, but really needing to gain some weight. He is at his lowest weight since surgery back in July, which puts him below 150 lbs. Please keep praying for his strength to return and energy levels to come back!

I know this is long-winded but I had a lot to write about. I am going to have to get better at this as time gets closer to when I leave, but especially when I am over in Zambia. Thanks again for keeping up with what is going on. I hope you all are doing well!

Serving HIM Alone,

Joy

Wedding Pictures & Videos

2009-03-09T18:42:00.000-07:00

*At the Country Rehearsal Dinner*

*The girls*

*Erin and I*

*My sweet friend Katie*

*Some of the girls*

*Me an Em*

*Taking fun pictures outside on the road -

that's Amber's foot kicked out under Stephanie's train*

*Being our sassy selves...*

*At the reception...*

*Evann and I at the end of the night...

oh and I caught the bouquet - this was not planned! *

*Off they go to Jamaica...I'm slightly jealous..*

My Best Friends Wedding

2009-03-08T16:29:00.001-07:00

What a weekend!! I just got back from one of my best friend's wedding in Arkansas! It was so much fun! I got up there on Wednesday night and Thursday morning, me and Stephanie hit the ground running with errands and working on final details for her Wedding.

Thursday - Bachelorette Party!

All the girls in the wedding took Steph to one of her favorite places - Fuji House to get Sushi. The guy cooking our dinner on the Hibachi grill was...CRAZY!! He was flipping food in people's mouth, hair and just on you! It was a bit out of control, but we all had a good laugh. Afterwards we went over to Elaine's house (Stephanie's Mom's best friend) to spend the night. We had a lingerie party for Steph, hung out in the hot tube, and then watched a movie. It really was a great night to relax with everyone!

Friday - Bridal Luncheon, Rehearsal, & Rehearsal Dinner

When we woke up we had coffee on the deck overlooking Conway. I probably could've sat out there all day...Anyways, we left there and headed to the luncheon. We had good ole breakfast burritos, fruit, and cinnamon rolls. YUMM!! We had a few hours break until the rehearsal, but as the maid of honor...I had a "to-do" list! :) I ran all over Conway to have things set for the reception and the wedding itself. The rehearsal and rehearsal dinner both went great! It was a cowboy theme so I felt right at home. :)

*At the Barn Church for the Rehearsal Dinner*

Saturday - The Wedding Day!

This day came quick and my job was to take care of the Bride!! Ha...I picked Stephanie up and went to get her hair done, then off the church to do make-up with the rest of the girls. Everything went smoothly. She was calm and just peaceful with things. She just couldn't believe that she was really getting married...

*The Beautiful Bride*

The ceremony was BEAUTIFUL! Garrett and Stephanie represented such a beautiful picture of how God uses relationships to show His love towards us. What was said about them, their roles as husband and wife, and their vows brought tears to my eyes. It just brought such joy to my heart in praise to the Lord for what He has done in them!

*Mr. and Mrs. Garrett Peters...first dance!*

*The Reception...Crazy/Beautiful!!

After the ceremony we took a few pictures and headed over to the reception...which was absolutely breathtaking!! I don't think I've seen anything like this before. Anyways, the food, music and dancing were all a blast. We were exhausted afterwards, but it was so worth it!! I could not be more excited for Steph and Garrett as they begin their lives together serving the Lord as one. They have become my best friends and the ways they have blessed my life and impacted me is really beyond words. God is going to use them in so many ways and I'm just thankful I was apart of this new season that has just begun for them...

Congratulations Garrett and Steph! I love ya'll! :)

PS - MORE Pictures and Videos to come.... :)

Better Late than Never

2009-02-26T20:04:00.000-08:00

Just 10 days late...

If you remember...I told you in an earlier post that my family has traditions on Valentine's Day...well we still do!! Haha...on Tuesday night my sister had all of us (My parents, brother, myself, and all of her kids...there were 11 of us total!!) over for a Late Valentine's dinner. JJ makes the exact same thing my mom does on Valentine's: homemade lasagna, bread, salad, and our infamous heart shaped Red Velvet Cake. It was delicious!!

Here are a few pictures of the table and the cake!

The best part was just getting to see all my family! I hadn't seen them since our ski trip to Colorado in mid-January. It definitely was refreshing to get to be with them. My nephew and nieces literally stayed by my side. As soon as I got to my sister's house, I had Anna, Joshua and Esther all grabbing my hands and pulling me to come with them. I realized that if you need someone to just love you...let a child love on you! It makes you feel good! :) haha

Oh and my Dad gained 4 pounds! Praise the Lord! I know to some of y'all that's not a big deal, but it is to my family! We have just got to pray that he keeps gaining and not losing. He is so precious and I am still thankful that He continues to be with us each day!

Last Sunday we (Family Legacy) had our first set of team meetings for this summer. We had about 100 people come to our meeting in Dallas. It was a great turn out! These meetings always get me excited about what is to come! *If any of you want to come with us this summer please apply NOW!! We have lowered the prices until March 1st. So if you want to come be a part of this life changing journey and see what God is doing in Zambia then go to Camp LIFE 2009 . If you have questions please call me! I would love to have you come and be a part of it! (I know there are some of you out there just itching to go. Please don't miss this opportunity! You will never be the same again!)

Have a great weekend! Love yall!

Living for Him,

Joy

Simply Humbled

2009-02-21T15:36:00.001-08:00

I can't believe another week has come and gone! I feel like they just keep going faster and funny enough, I need them to slow down!! Has anyone every wished that you could press the pause button on your life?? I have thought that many times, but I guess the Lord wants us to learn to adjust with each passing moment. I don't have much exciting news, but I did want to share something you...On Friday, it finally hit me...

I leave for Zambia, Africa in 10 weeks! In the past when I would think about how long until I would leave, I would usually get overwhelmed with all the tasks and "to dos" that I would need to get done. However, it was completely different yesterday...

I had this beautiful rush of joy, humility, love, and encouragement. I am about to leave the states and go love these children in Zambia without reservation. I have been behind a desk for several months now, but soon I will be walking the streets with the poor, orphans, widows, and those stricken with diseases. I will have the incredible privilege of sharing the hope of salvation and love of Christ to these battered, bruised, hopeless and lifeless people. As I was thinking about this yesterday, all I could say was, "WOW! I really get to do this? How do I, of all people, get to do this?"

Sometimes it's difficult to imagine the other side of things when you get overwhelmed with all the other demands and tasks. When you want to be somewhere else, it's hard to be content in the meantime. God has stretched and challenged me with that very lesson almost every day over the past months. What's amazing about what the Lord does is that He is perfect in His timing! He knows our desires and longings and during the waiting period, He is at work preparing us for what is to come even though we may be blind to it. And then when He has prepared us, He will send us! :) How amazing is that?!

I am moved beyond words in how the Lord is allowing me to be apart of what He is doing on the other side of the world. I want to tell all of you..THANK YOU! Thank you for praying, for encouraging me, for walking alongside of me, for financially supporting me, and for letting the Lord use you! I wish I could express to you all how much you mean to me and how much God has used you already in my life! I pray that God would reward each of you for every prayer prayed, for every dollar donated, and for every time you remember what God is doing through the ministry I work for. What a true blessing you all have been!

"The earth is the Lord's and everything in it, the world,
and all who live in it; for He founded it upon the seas
and established it upon the waters.
Who may ascend the hill of the Lord?
Who may stand in HIS holy place?
He who has clean hands and a pure heart,
who does not lift up his soul to an idol...
He will receive blessing from the Lord
and vindication from God His Savior
Such is the generation of those who seek Him,
who seek Your face, O God of Jacob."
Psalm 24:1-6

I hope you all are doing well!

Seeking Jesus more and more,
Joy

Oh Happy Day

2009-02-12T19:17:00.001-08:00

What a whirlwind it has been....

My weekend in Arkansas was so much fun! I just loved going up there to not only help work on wedding stuff with Stephanie, but to see some of my dearest friends!! It really was refreshing for my heart to have such intentional conversations about life and what we are learning from the Lord. I praise God for the sweet friends I have up there! (You all know who you are :) ) Anyways, I ran around with Stephanie all day Friday getting little things for her wedding in 3 weeks. We went out to dinner that night with Garrett (Stephanie's Fiancee) to one of my favorite places : Cozymels. Saturday and Sunday were filled with working on some things for her reception and then her two showers! After a fun-filled weekend, I jumped back into my car and got back home extremely late, but it was worth it. It's moments like that where the trip was long, but I got to spend some great quality time with those I just love!

This week at work has been quite the week! I am almost done with another project that consists of getting all the Christmas Letters and pictures, that were taken at our Christmas Party that we had in Zambia, together and out in the mail to all our sponsors. It's been fun to see their cute little faces and read their letters. On top of that, I have had some NEW information come my way about me being in Zambia this year. The first thing that I can share with you is that my departure date has bumped up almost 2 weeks!! AHH...just thinking about leaving a lot earlier is so fun, but I have so much to do by then! So that means instead of leaving May 15 I am NOW leaving May 3 !! That is less than 3 months!! Oh my goodness!!!

Anyways, I hope you all have a great weekend! Enjoy it with your Valentine...I mean only if you have one. Haha... I am not sure if you have traditions, but my family has had traditions for Valentine's Day for as long as I can remember. One of my favorites is...we bake the best red velvet cake ever! :) (If you have been around to taste it, then you know what I mean!) I still try to do that no matter where I am or who I'm with.

Be Blessed!

Resting in Him,

Joy

BUSY!!

2009-02-04T19:11:00.001-08:00

This has been the most craziest week ever!! We all at FLMI have been going non-stop. We have been making trips to almost every Walmart, Target, and Sams in the area to buy things for Zambia this summer. (Just thinking about those stores right now makes me a little sick..haha :) ) We have been packing up so much stuff into boxes to fit onto our containers. I started this whole process last Thursday and since then, I have been packaging up everything. Tuesday we had a meeting in Tyler and then today (Wednesday) we spent all day at Buckner's ("shoes for orphan's souls") Warehouse processing and organizing all the shoes for the summer! It was actually fun just a long day.

*Here are a few pictures of some of the items

we are sending over for the Tree of LIFE

Anyways, this weekend I'm heading up to Arkansas for wedding showers for one of my best friends. She is getting married in a month so wedding events are starting to pick up. Please pray for energy and strength. I'm a little worn down and exhausted. I hope you all are enjoying the week.

Love you all!

In Him,

Joy

First Ever Christmas in Zambia...

2009-01-31T22:30:00.000-08:00

Okay...Here is the most precious video I have wanted you all to see. Our staff in Zambia put this together for me! Maggie and Susan, as well as 3 other kids, were just gifts from the Lord that I got to love on last summer. I can't wait to see them in a 100 days!!

Enjoy....