Loving Jesus - Loving Kids - Loving Life

Merry White Christmas

2009-12-27T23:05:00.013-06:00

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...

2009-12-07T23:57:00.006-06:00

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

2009-11-29T20:56:00.005-06:00

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

2009-11-12T13:55:00.009-06:00

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

2009-10-24T20:42:00.002-05:00

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

2009-10-17T20:55:00.005-05:00

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!

2009-10-04T16:08:00.007-05:00

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...

2009-09-13T22:12:00.003-05:00

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!!

2009-08-30T22:39:00.003-05:00

"...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

2009-08-23T22:53:00.006-05:00

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

2009-08-14T12:22:00.006-05:00

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...

2009-08-07T13:33:00.007-05:00

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

2009-08-06T09:08:00.003-05:00

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

2009-08-02T21:14:00.000-05:00

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

2009-07-26T14:45:00.008-05:00

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...

2009-07-23T08:46:00.000-05:00

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..

2009-07-14T07:12:00.002-05:00

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

2009-07-07T15:47:00.000-05:00

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

2009-06-29T14:40:00.002-05:00

The Streets of Chawama...

One Adventurous Week...

2009-06-27T06:06:00.006-05:00

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 past week..

2009-06-20T14:17:00.006-05:00

I can't believe it's been 10 days since I last blogged. It's been quite busy. I have been working a lot at the Tree of Life in preparation for more kids. And speaking of...we moved 12 more kids in today!! So now we have almost 60 kids living full-time in 4 beautiful homes at the village!! What an amazing afternoon it was...children singing, playing, jumping on the trampoline, sitting in my lap, and soaking in the beautiful place God has provided for them. I can't tell you how much fun that place is!!

Camp LIFE this week went by so fast!! I can't believe we are about to start week 4...So many American's on our team have come and gone. The first 2 weeks I was blessed to have precious mom's in my villa. I can't tell you how great it was to have Mom's (speaking of..Mom I have missed you being here!!) helping me with things. One in particular made my lunch everyday and others checked on me to make sure that I was getting rest on hard and busy days. It was refreshing to have them around me. In one more week I will have some of my best friends here doing ministry together. Praise the Lord how God calls people to the same places to serve alongside each other!!

This week I have been working on the Lifeway Vision Homes. Lifeway is a program focused on reaching the kids between the ages of 14 - 19. They are brought in and live full time under our care. We currently have almost 50 kids living in homes with house parents that are a part of our Family Legacy Staff. Each child goes to school full time and are given such an opportunity they have never dreamed of. I went to visit our kids at school and I was just amazed at how much they are loving where they are. All 50 of them are precious...no matter the age! They have been given an opportunity and they have people believing in them!! There is HOPE where there was non, there is JOY where there was sadness, and there is LIFE in each and every one of them for where God has brought them!! BLESSED BE HIS NAME!! God is so good and moving in every child. He has rescued so many and there are many more to come...

Please continue to be praying for God to bring the children to us who are in desperate need. God's heart for these children is impacting each and everyone of us! It's amazing of how great and mighty our God is!! Also, be praying for the hearts of the kids we work with. There is so much they are dealing with and the only way they will have full restoration is if they become completely transparent with themselves. I have seen these within the past few days with several kids who want to completely push away and forget their past; however, they are hindering themselves from experiencing freedom and restoration. I believe the Lord wants to free these children of so many things they are holding on to so keep praying for break through in all of their lives. In addition, pray for moments and opportunities to can sit and talk with some children who just need someone to listen.

Thanks for all the prayers and support so far! God is moving in countless ways!

Love y'all!

The day they have always dreamed...

2009-06-10T16:19:00.005-05:00

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

2009-06-07T13:00:00.000-05:00

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!

2009-05-29T14:33:00.004-05:00

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!

2009-05-23T12:34:00.005-05:00

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!