NOTE: My hope is to, over the next 25 days, share with you some of the reasons I feel moved to support Invisible Children in their “25” campaign. On April 25, for 25 hours thousands of people around the world are committing to be silent in an effort to bring awareness to their cause—stopping the 25-year war against Joseph Kony and the Lord’s Resistance Army (or “LRA”—a force that rapes and destroys villages; abducts, tortures and trains children to be murderous soldiers in their force; and has left a wake of terror and trauma wherever they go). Second, I am committing to help raise funds for Invisible Children’s Protection Plan, which will help bring rehabilitation to those who have escaped from the LRA. If you would like to find out more about Invisible Children and the “25” campaign, go to www.invisiblechildren.com. You can CLICK HERE to go to my fundraising page.
01 April 2011
#1 Because I Am Blessed
25 Reasons Why I’m Going Silent on April 25
02 April 2010
"Jesus Was a Common Criminal" or "Bound in Chains" (Good Friday Musings)
I work at a church, which I love, but sometimes the details (date, time, location, ads, etc) make me forget about how important ministries are. Since Easter is coming this weekend, I was thinking of announcements and how since Easter is more highly attended, those announcements get greater visibility. (Side note: I think announcements are the bane of most pastors' existence...that's another post though.)
For some reason, our prison ministry came to mind and it got me thinking that prisoners have a special kinship with Christ. I think it's especially clear because today is Good Friday--the day where we (Christians) remember the crucifixion of our Savior, Jesus Christ. Although he was without sin, scripture tells us that he was tempted like us and suffered like us. Not only that, he expressed anger and frustration and boldly stood up against the laws and customs of his culture.
I think that so often we like to believe Jesus was this gentle, peaceful man who was wrongfully accused, convicted and punished to a much greater degree than the crime he was charged with. We're only part right. We say "Bad Pharisees! Bad Pilate! Couldn't you see he was the Messiah here to save you...and the whole world?!!!" When the fact of the matter is they were just tools in God's great plan to save the world. This was what was supposed to happen. Jesus died on that cross because I sinned and you sinned and the criminals sinned and the little old church ladies sinned. This punishment was not against Christ, but against the world.
Back to my point--prisoners share a special kinship with Christ because they know what it is like to be arrested, tried, convicted, living in fear, isolated and some in expectation of death. But do enough of them know that the Creator if this universe knows what they feel? Do they know that the punishment He endured can save them from eternal punishment?
I've realized in a few minutes of musing how important the Prison Ministry is and how grateful I am to the people who serve in this ministry.
TODAY IS GOOD!
For some reason, our prison ministry came to mind and it got me thinking that prisoners have a special kinship with Christ. I think it's especially clear because today is Good Friday--the day where we (Christians) remember the crucifixion of our Savior, Jesus Christ. Although he was without sin, scripture tells us that he was tempted like us and suffered like us. Not only that, he expressed anger and frustration and boldly stood up against the laws and customs of his culture.
I think that so often we like to believe Jesus was this gentle, peaceful man who was wrongfully accused, convicted and punished to a much greater degree than the crime he was charged with. We're only part right. We say "Bad Pharisees! Bad Pilate! Couldn't you see he was the Messiah here to save you...and the whole world?!!!" When the fact of the matter is they were just tools in God's great plan to save the world. This was what was supposed to happen. Jesus died on that cross because I sinned and you sinned and the criminals sinned and the little old church ladies sinned. This punishment was not against Christ, but against the world.
Back to my point--prisoners share a special kinship with Christ because they know what it is like to be arrested, tried, convicted, living in fear, isolated and some in expectation of death. But do enough of them know that the Creator if this universe knows what they feel? Do they know that the punishment He endured can save them from eternal punishment?
I've realized in a few minutes of musing how important the Prison Ministry is and how grateful I am to the people who serve in this ministry.
TODAY IS GOOD!
29 January 2010
My Letter to the Editor
I wrote a letter to the Editor?!!!
Prior to reading my letter to the editor of the Press Democrat, you should visit the following links (all of them):
Inappropriate Book (warning! graphic content!) (there is content here directly from the book that is R-rated--since I don't promote students reading it in class, I don't suggest students read this link)
I think the School Board's decision is unfortunate and was urged to write a letter to the editor.
I hesitate to post this, because I know that many people (friends whom I respect very much) will disagree with me. But, if I am bold enough to share my opinion with all of Sonoma County, I should be bold enough to share my opinion with my friends. I hold additional arguments regarding this situation, yet the following words were most important to share in the 200-word limit the Press Democrat imposes.
Please understand that I do not believe student access to this book should be denied. I do, however, believe that this book should not be REQUIRED reading.
My letter reads as follows:
Dear Editor:
Close the Curtain
I am greatly disappointed in the Santa Rosa City School District's refusal to change policy regarding the teaching of the book "Tortilla Curtain" in local high schools. This book should not be REQUIRED reading for high school students. It includes a graphic rape scene, extreme racism and is riddled with profanity. I see a blatant double standard. Viewing an R-rated film in the classroom requires a signed permission slip from a parent, yet this book (which would receive an R-rating as a film) is given to the student without express permission from their parent. Students are disciplined for using profanity, while this book spews pages of profanity directly into their young, impressionable minds. Teachers and parents express concern over the inappropriate, oversexualized dancing at school dances, yet they find it appropriate for students to be "exposed to these issues" through this book. The school board maintains that students "need to be exposed to these issues and they need to discuss them." Is this the only book that addresses these issues? If the school district refuses to remove this book from the list, at the very least they should require written parental permission prior to assigning this R-rated reading to a student.
22 January 2010
roots to branches
Two of my favorite non-profits (Invisible Children (IC) & To Write Love On Her Arms (TWLOHA)) were up against each other this week for $1Million from Chase. Both organizations were top five. Facebook members voted for their favorite charity over 3 rounds. I didn't enter the voting until the final round. Voting ended at midnight (EST) tonight. I would have been stoked if either won. During the last hour or so, TWLOHA (which was going steady in third place) began soliciting votes (via twitter and facebook) for IC. It was a truly selfless act. They even went so far as to change their profile pictures to a image that read "I voted for Invisible Children."
IC graciously thanked and applauded TWLOHA as the voting wound up and Invisible Children was revealed as the $1Million winner. TWLOHA (as a top five contender) won $100,000 in the competition. What's really remarkable to me is that these two organizations were up against some pretty big hitters (as far as charities go). I think the difference for them is that the venue (facebook) mirrors the way these two organizations have grown since their beginnings.
IC, in the beginning, was just a couple of guys who filmed some crazy stuff in Uganda and started sharing the video with anyone who would listen. They had no intention of starting a non-profit organization, but were compelled to help the (invisible) children and people of Uganda. It's always been promoted by word of mouth. I heard about it from a friend. We watched their documentary and couldn't help but want to help and inform others of the atrocities happening in Uganda. Anytime I wear the shirt I own that says "Invisible Children" I am questioned about it and I get to spread the message even further.
TWLOHA started as a group of young people showing compassion, friendship and support to a young girl who suffered from addiction and self-mutilation. The story of this experience spread from person to person and was eventually built into an organization that raises awareness and provides help to those who struggle with addiction, depression and other issues. Many indie bands took up the cause and began wearing shirts that said "To Write Love On Her Arms" and passionately promote the cause at their concerts and on their websites, blogs and twitters. Additionally (mostly) young people from all over the country and around the world tirelessly promote and support this organization by wearing their apparel and talking about it on myspace and facebook.
Both IC and TWLOHA were started and mostly supported/promoted by younger people. It's amazing to see the youth of our nation be passionate and compassionate. The youth are speaking up and thankfully they are being heard!
These organizations may have started with grass roots, but it seems they have grown into strong oak trees with wildly magnificent branches reaching in many directions.
On Twitter
I just set up a twitter account and linked to this blog. Maybe I should update more often. I've been thinking about being more blog-centric. Maybe sharing about my adventures in graphic design or my new commitment to read through the Bible this year (thanks to a handy-app on my BlackBerry Storm). I hope to be here more often.
Peace out.
18 June 2008
Untitled Generation
When I first glanced at this poster, I thought it said "Untitled Generation" and I was kind of amazed and inspired. We are an untitled generation. There may be many, many titles given to our generation, but none can fully encompass it. The generation I am a part of and the generations following will not be easily defined by one word. We are varied. We revel in our uniqueness, yet we still strive to be like the people around us. I doubt I can accurately describe it. I think it would be fantastic to be known as the "Untitled Generation." What do you think?
25 September 2007
It's Been A While
I cried a lot today. This afternoon mostly. I'm frustrated and felt like I should write the stuff that I'm thinking down. I don't know if it will even help or make sense. It might just make me cry more, but I need some sort of order, even if it's in the form of sentences--grammatically correct or not.
Several months ago, my parents told me that my grandma (my Dad's mom) has been depressed and his brothers and sister (who live near her) were concerned and decided to visit the doctor with her. A few weeks ago the doctors were able to determine that she has ALS (Lou Gehrig's Disease). I don't know much about the disease just that it breaks down your muscle function and is a possible cause of her depression. It's really hard to think of my grandmother as weak. She has always been very strong. I recall not more than five years ago seeing her chase a stray calf back into the pasture (did I mention she lives on a Dairy farm). Also within the past five years her doctor told her she had some of the strongest bones he'd seen (I don't recall if he said "ever" or in a woman her age). This was when she broke her neck! I wasn't scared. She's always been strong. She worked in the garden regularly, always doing something. She was a local librarian for 30 years (more I think). And now she has difficulty swallowing and has a chair with a lift because it's hard for her to get up.
My parents went to visit this last week and when they returned they strongly suggested that my sisters and brother and I try to visit as soon as possible. My mom offered to help with expenses which is going to make it possible. Sunday and Monday I had tentatively planned to go with my sister, her husband and their four kids in late November or early December (they wanted to wait for their newborn to have her first immunizations). But my other sister was frustrated because she could either go right away or wait until January because she is nearing the end of her pregnancy. Well, today they both decided to go in two weeks. The week that my photography class ends, my auto class begins and over the weekend that I am moving. So, I called my brother to see if he might want to come at a later time with me. He's considering going the same time as them (they didn't plan it, it's just what works best). Plus, it would be less inconvenient at work for me to wait until November to take the time off.
So, I'm struggling with the fact that I may have to go do this alone. I don't get to spend time with all three of my siblings and their kids (it's been 3 years since we've all been in one place at one time). And I'm worried that I'm being selfish. I'm trying to stick with my class even if it is an elective. Follow through with the Auto class, even if it is offered in the spring. Keep my original moving plans because that's what I committed to. I'm frustrated and disappointed and feel selfish. And I don't blame anybody. Well, maybe me. But I don't know how else to respond. Right now I'm hoping that somebody else will be able to travel with me. I've wanted to visit my family in Kansas for quite some time now but have not made it a priority. I know that I am blessed to still have all four of my grandparents living and I know that that won't be true for always. I want to relish the time that I do have with them.
I think I've run out of things to say. Please pray that I get to go to Kansas at the right time.
Thanks.
Love.
Several months ago, my parents told me that my grandma (my Dad's mom) has been depressed and his brothers and sister (who live near her) were concerned and decided to visit the doctor with her. A few weeks ago the doctors were able to determine that she has ALS (Lou Gehrig's Disease). I don't know much about the disease just that it breaks down your muscle function and is a possible cause of her depression. It's really hard to think of my grandmother as weak. She has always been very strong. I recall not more than five years ago seeing her chase a stray calf back into the pasture (did I mention she lives on a Dairy farm). Also within the past five years her doctor told her she had some of the strongest bones he'd seen (I don't recall if he said "ever" or in a woman her age). This was when she broke her neck! I wasn't scared. She's always been strong. She worked in the garden regularly, always doing something. She was a local librarian for 30 years (more I think). And now she has difficulty swallowing and has a chair with a lift because it's hard for her to get up.
My parents went to visit this last week and when they returned they strongly suggested that my sisters and brother and I try to visit as soon as possible. My mom offered to help with expenses which is going to make it possible. Sunday and Monday I had tentatively planned to go with my sister, her husband and their four kids in late November or early December (they wanted to wait for their newborn to have her first immunizations). But my other sister was frustrated because she could either go right away or wait until January because she is nearing the end of her pregnancy. Well, today they both decided to go in two weeks. The week that my photography class ends, my auto class begins and over the weekend that I am moving. So, I called my brother to see if he might want to come at a later time with me. He's considering going the same time as them (they didn't plan it, it's just what works best). Plus, it would be less inconvenient at work for me to wait until November to take the time off.
So, I'm struggling with the fact that I may have to go do this alone. I don't get to spend time with all three of my siblings and their kids (it's been 3 years since we've all been in one place at one time). And I'm worried that I'm being selfish. I'm trying to stick with my class even if it is an elective. Follow through with the Auto class, even if it is offered in the spring. Keep my original moving plans because that's what I committed to. I'm frustrated and disappointed and feel selfish. And I don't blame anybody. Well, maybe me. But I don't know how else to respond. Right now I'm hoping that somebody else will be able to travel with me. I've wanted to visit my family in Kansas for quite some time now but have not made it a priority. I know that I am blessed to still have all four of my grandparents living and I know that that won't be true for always. I want to relish the time that I do have with them.
I think I've run out of things to say. Please pray that I get to go to Kansas at the right time.
Thanks.
Love.
20 April 2007
14 March 2007
Remember That Time We Got Tear-Gassed In Nicaragua?
I was visiting my friend, Jana, in Nicaragua (Nick too...but he was taking a nap). So, Jana and I go to the market to get some fruit. As we're about to leave...me carrying a watermelon and her carrying a backpack and canvas bag full of fruit...my eyes start stinging, and I get the taste of fireworks (you know when you can taste sparklers in the air) in my mouth. And at first I think "Oh we're passing a barbecue," or something weird. But then I notice everybody around is walking, or running, away. So...we try to get away from it. First we walk into a little salon place at the market. But it's all more or less open air, so they are trying to get away from this stinging feeling too (I'm crying and spitting). Worst thing, was seeing a little kid crying--not understanding (not that the rest of us understood). So, we kept walking. Bear in mind, I'm still carrying a big watermelon. And just walk, hoping to get away from this substance...whatever it was. We finally get to some back exit of the market and are away from the "horror." But we still don't necessarily know what it is. And I spit the whole way back, and we just hope it wasn't some sort of chemical agent and worry about how far it spread and we worry about poor Nick, locked in the house, cause it's gated and we took the keys. Finally we make it back, Nick's fine (still asleep, I think) and we turn on the radio and call Jana's boss, who has a tv, to see if we can find out anything. Later Jana's boss calls back and tells us two guys were arrested for throwing cans of tear gas into the market. Oh and I just remembered, that right before this happened at the market, we witnessed an altercation between a drunk guy and his girlfriend...we were trying to walk around this situation. Big sigh---we're not going to die. Still spitting (like a camel).
22 February 2007
I See You
I see you in a girl who hugs her friend so long it seems they haven't seen each other in years,
when it's been less than a day.
I see you in a boy who makes his mom a gift that's not amazing,
but they both love it just the same.
I see you in a tree--it's silhouette;
I hear you in the breeze, rustling the leaves;
I know you in the quiet moments--in the words I read, the words you breathe.
I hear you in a friend who calls each day just to say, "Hey"--or stops by unannounced on a rainy day.
I hear you in a song and then another and another and in words spoken in prayer.
I see you in a tree--it's silhouette;
I hear you in the breeze, rustling the leaves;
I know you in the quiet moments--in the words I read, the words you breathe.
I long to know you better--you know me best.
I know you because you are always with me--you're the only one who never leaves--you're always right next to me, in front & behind me.
I see you in a tree--it's silhouette;
I hear you in the breeze, rustling the leaves;
I know you in the quiet moments--in the words I read, the words you breathe.
I see you.
when it's been less than a day.
I see you in a boy who makes his mom a gift that's not amazing,
but they both love it just the same.
I see you in a tree--it's silhouette;
I hear you in the breeze, rustling the leaves;
I know you in the quiet moments--in the words I read, the words you breathe.
I hear you in a friend who calls each day just to say, "Hey"--or stops by unannounced on a rainy day.
I hear you in a song and then another and another and in words spoken in prayer.
I see you in a tree--it's silhouette;
I hear you in the breeze, rustling the leaves;
I know you in the quiet moments--in the words I read, the words you breathe.
I long to know you better--you know me best.
I know you because you are always with me--you're the only one who never leaves--you're always right next to me, in front & behind me.
I see you in a tree--it's silhouette;
I hear you in the breeze, rustling the leaves;
I know you in the quiet moments--in the words I read, the words you breathe.
I see you.
13 November 2006
Hundreds and HUNDREDS of Candles
So, last Sunday (the 5th), I turned the big 2-5! It was kind of low-key. I was in L.A. for a conference, so I got together with a few friends for dinner the night before and had lunch and dinner with some new friends on my actual birthday. It was great. I'd really been looking forward to 25. I just KNOW it's going to be wonderful. Well, the day before my b-day, I come to find out that one of the presenters at the conference, informed his audience that you are no longer cool after 24 (to teenagers). I was mortified (not really--I found it kind of amusing, and have since been told that this does not apply to me)! The second blow came when my 5 year-old nephew was reminiscing (this weekend) about helping me blow out my "hundreds and hundreds of candles!!!!" I have to face it, I'm getting old. And I LIKE IT!!!!
28 August 2006
22 August 2006
Need a Job?
I had some circumstances, today, that required me to drive my mom to work this morning. As I drove back to the main street, I noticed a few gatherings of hispanic men along the road. It was a normal occurrence, but I had totally forgotten about it.These men weren't causing trouble, but they were talking to each other and looked expectantly at EVERY car that passed them.
I used to drive down this street fairly often, and sometimes you would see some waiting into the afternoon. These men simply wait for somebody to hire them for the day, or even for a few hours. I've always wished I had a job to give them. I expect they are hard workers.
Today, I prayed as I passed them that God would provide for them and their families. And I thanked God for the desire they had in their hearts. As I continued on my way, I thought about a scene from Cinderella Man, set during the depression, where James Braddock (played by Russell Crowe), must stand and wait, every morning, to be picked (or not picked) to work that day. Every man standing there needed work, desired worked, and tried, how they could, to find work. But unfortunately, there weren't enough jobs to go around.
I feel a bit like I'm babbling, but felt like writing some of my thoughts from my head.
Thank you Jesus, for day laborers, for those who give them work and for the patient attitude they have in waiting on your provisions. May you bless them immensely. Amen.
01 June 2006
Out of the Mouths of Babes
Yesterday, I went to my parents' house for dinner with my sisters and their families. My sister, Heidi, and her family just arrived back into the area after a couple years in Alaska, a couple years in Oregon and the last year in Alabama (just across the border from Florida). Her husband's in the Coast Guard. Following is a conversation I heard between my niece, Cheyanne, who is six and her cousin--my nephew--Samuel, who is almost five.
Samuel: I'm almost done, Madison--I mean Cheyanne.
Cheyanne: Who's Madison?
Samuel: Madison is my friend from Alabama.
Cheyanne: What's Alabama?
Samuel: Alabama's the city I used to live in, but now we're moving to California--Actually I'm in California.
Cheyanne: Oh. OK!
I loved it.
This reminded me of an entry my mom showed me from her journal from when we moved out to California from Illinois. I was almost three. On the way here, we visited my grandparents in Kansas, my grandma asked me if I was moving to California. I said, "Yeah, but we're moving to Petaluma first." (Obviously because we were moving to Petaluma, California)
Fun stuff. Kids are great!
Samuel: I'm almost done, Madison--I mean Cheyanne.
Cheyanne: Who's Madison?
Samuel: Madison is my friend from Alabama.
Cheyanne: What's Alabama?
Samuel: Alabama's the city I used to live in, but now we're moving to California--Actually I'm in California.
Cheyanne: Oh. OK!
I loved it.
This reminded me of an entry my mom showed me from her journal from when we moved out to California from Illinois. I was almost three. On the way here, we visited my grandparents in Kansas, my grandma asked me if I was moving to California. I said, "Yeah, but we're moving to Petaluma first." (Obviously because we were moving to Petaluma, California)
Fun stuff. Kids are great!
14 May 2006
I Know You, Do You Know Me?
I feel like I make a great effort to get to know, and REALLY know the people I am around regularly. And even, some I only see from time to time. But I came to a realization tonight. I don't think they know me as well as I know them. I'm trying to figure out if it is because they don't want to work at or try to get to know me, or if I just put on that good of a front. I wonder. I think I NEED somebody to know me.
07 May 2006
Just another way God uses Starbucks!
No matter how evil you or I think Starbucks is, God uses it for AMAZING things!Tonight, my Girls Bible Study girls and I were set to head to the Claire's Outlet, but called and found that it was closed. So, I suggested we go to Starbucks and use the giftcard I just received.
Well, the first thing God does is makes the total for 5 drinks EXACTLY $15--exactly the amount of the giftcard. How likely is that? For the next 20-30 minutes we just hung out, chatted, played checkers, spelled words we will never use in regular life (you know Starbucks is promoting a movie about the National Spelling Bee). Just before we were going to leave, the girl who had been sitting behind us, apparently doing schoolwork--a girl who smiled at me on our way in--said hello and asked me if she knew me from somewhere. I didn't recognize her right away, but she asked me if I had worked at Mt. Gilead. I told her "No, but I've been there." She then asked me my name and I asked her hers. Upon hearing her name, I knew immediately where we knew each other from. We had attended Vacation Bible School at Hessel Church in Sebastopol in junior high. That was over 10 YEARS AGO and she recognized me.
I am certain God was a part of this. She asked if we were a Bible Study and then asked where we go to church. She said she had just returned (two weeks ago) to her walk with Christ and was looking for a church in Petaluma. She will be coming next Sunday. God puts us exactly where he wants us, when he wants us to be there. I never ever expected him to use me/us in Starbucks today how he did. Honestly, I felt a little guilty about going to Starbucks instead of holding Bible Study and discussing the Bible. Instead, God had us living like Christ in Starbucks for one girl who needed to make a connection to a local church. God is ALWAYS in control (even when I think I am).
Thank you, Jesus, for using me in your timing and not mine.
20 April 2006
Cambodia, Here I Come (again)
My Dear Friends & Family,
I’m so excited to have the opportunity this summer to return to
Last year, I was blessed and amazed by the outpouring of support you showed. Your prayers, kind words and financial support are eternally appreciated. It’s hard to put down in words how much of an impact you have made. After an entire day of plane travel, we arrived in
We were immediately and whole-heartedly welcomed by the orphans and the staff at the home where we spent the next week digging, laying brick, pouring cement, painting (88) shutters & railings and window frames. Also, we blew bubbles, made crafts, had a puppet show, learned Khmer (the Cambodian language—I can count to 29), taught English, played soccer, dodgeball, and baseball, and so much more. We ate pork & rice for nearly every meal. Yes, even breakfast-although a great alternative was the fresh French Bread sold by young girls in the town. One loaf cost 500 Riel (about 12.5 cents). The peanut butter we “smuggled” into the country was delicious on this bread.
We instantly loved the children, who were such a bright contrast to the children we saw begging on the streets of the larger cities. Although, they had lost so much, they knew that life has so much more to offer than poverty and approached each day as a blessing. The time to say goodbye came much too quickly. On the way home, I had the opportunity to tour Angkor Wat and other beautiful temples in Siem Reap (including one featured in Tomb Raider), shop in the Russian Market in Phnom Penh (what deals I made), and a couple days of site-seeing in Hong Kong. All of this was amazing, but none of it compared to the time we spent with our friends in Chhuk.
This year, our current plan (which is subject to change—as we discovered last year) is to travel to the
I am eager to embark on this adventure and look forward to sharing with you upon my return. I would be blessed to share this experience with you. Would you like to have a part in this adventure? The most important way to get involved is to pray for me, and the team, in the months leading up to our trip and especially during our trip. You can also support me financially. The approximate cost, per person, will be $1800.00. Please pray about how you might be able to support me. Thank you for your love and support.
Go to warmblankets.com to read more about
Love and Blessings,
Liz Jones
Please email me to let me know you are praying for me, or to find out where to send financial support.
28 March 2006
Invisible Children
Dear Friends & Family!
Sunday night I got the opportunity to see an amazing film for the second time. The film is called "Invisible Children." It was made by three young men who left for an adventure in Africa the same day the war with Iraq began. They weren’t sure exactly what story they would come back with, but they knew they were entering dangerous territory. Initially they wanted to get into Southern Sudan, but ended up documenting children in Uganda who have been deeply impacted by the Ugandan war.
Let me share my paraphrase of the situation there and what these young filmmakers documented. Each night thousands of children walk into the cities to sleep under verandas, in hospitals, anywhere they feel safe from the Lord’s Resistance Army (LRA) which has made a habit of abducting children to brainwash and train into warriors, to abduct more children, etc and oppose the government. The founder Alice Lakwena, and the current leader, Joseph Kony, of the LRA claim to be led by a spirit and use witchcraft and intimidation as they lead their soldiers. Children as young as 5 are daily exposed to brutal killings in order to desensitize them and mold them into child soldiers.
One boy, Jacob, in the film said this:
"I have nothing. I don’t even have a blanket. We don’t have anything to do with food. Maybe we can eat once a day…so it is better when you kill us. And if possible, you can kill us, kill us. For us, we don’t want now to stay. …no one taking care of us. We are not going to school…" Jacob and his brother escaped from the LRA after their older brother was killed.
I first viewed this film, with some girls from my church about a year ago. Afterwards, we all just sat their and asked, "What can we do about this?" Children’s lives are much too precious to just ignore. The filmmakers have since formed a non-profit organization devoted to making the public aware of this situation and taking whatever steps they can to stop it. See, the American government knows about this situation, but when the filmmakers went to Washington to ask what they are doing about it, they were told that they needed to see the American people take an interest in the troubles in Uganda. You should check out their website to find out more: www.invisiblechildren.com.
My friend, Kara, works for Invisible Children in San Diego, and is sending me a few copies of the DVD to share with people I know. I am hoping to show the film to whoever would like to see it within the next few weeks.
Besides donating money (which is of course a great thing to do), one way I am planning to support Invisible Children, is in taking part in their "Global Commute Night." On April 29th, in 136 cities all across the country and a few in other countries, people are taking to the streets and doing just what the children of Uganda do every night, walking from their home to a safe-place, where they can sleep for the night, without fear of being abducted. I’m heading to San Francisco (the location hasn’t been solidified—but Union Square is what they think) that night. Will you join?
I know my few paragraphs can’t even begin to describe the impact this film has made on me and so many others. I hope you will visit their website and that you will have the opportunity to view the film as well. It is truly heart-changing.
I love you all, and I thank God for the protection he has provided me each night.
Love,
Liz
Sunday night I got the opportunity to see an amazing film for the second time. The film is called "Invisible Children." It was made by three young men who left for an adventure in Africa the same day the war with Iraq began. They weren’t sure exactly what story they would come back with, but they knew they were entering dangerous territory. Initially they wanted to get into Southern Sudan, but ended up documenting children in Uganda who have been deeply impacted by the Ugandan war.
Let me share my paraphrase of the situation there and what these young filmmakers documented. Each night thousands of children walk into the cities to sleep under verandas, in hospitals, anywhere they feel safe from the Lord’s Resistance Army (LRA) which has made a habit of abducting children to brainwash and train into warriors, to abduct more children, etc and oppose the government. The founder Alice Lakwena, and the current leader, Joseph Kony, of the LRA claim to be led by a spirit and use witchcraft and intimidation as they lead their soldiers. Children as young as 5 are daily exposed to brutal killings in order to desensitize them and mold them into child soldiers.
One boy, Jacob, in the film said this:
"I have nothing. I don’t even have a blanket. We don’t have anything to do with food. Maybe we can eat once a day…so it is better when you kill us. And if possible, you can kill us, kill us. For us, we don’t want now to stay. …no one taking care of us. We are not going to school…" Jacob and his brother escaped from the LRA after their older brother was killed.
I first viewed this film, with some girls from my church about a year ago. Afterwards, we all just sat their and asked, "What can we do about this?" Children’s lives are much too precious to just ignore. The filmmakers have since formed a non-profit organization devoted to making the public aware of this situation and taking whatever steps they can to stop it. See, the American government knows about this situation, but when the filmmakers went to Washington to ask what they are doing about it, they were told that they needed to see the American people take an interest in the troubles in Uganda. You should check out their website to find out more: www.invisiblechildren.com.
My friend, Kara, works for Invisible Children in San Diego, and is sending me a few copies of the DVD to share with people I know. I am hoping to show the film to whoever would like to see it within the next few weeks.
Besides donating money (which is of course a great thing to do), one way I am planning to support Invisible Children, is in taking part in their "Global Commute Night." On April 29th, in 136 cities all across the country and a few in other countries, people are taking to the streets and doing just what the children of Uganda do every night, walking from their home to a safe-place, where they can sleep for the night, without fear of being abducted. I’m heading to San Francisco (the location hasn’t been solidified—but Union Square is what they think) that night. Will you join?
I know my few paragraphs can’t even begin to describe the impact this film has made on me and so many others. I hope you will visit their website and that you will have the opportunity to view the film as well. It is truly heart-changing.
I love you all, and I thank God for the protection he has provided me each night.
Love,
Liz
10 March 2006
Doors are opening in North Korea!
I received the following email today at work. This is so exciting. I honestly don't know much about
Rev. Dayoung Kimn, a Korean/American Foursquare leader and
Rev. Kimn has done a great deal of work in
If you would like more information about how you or your church can be involved in a World Impact Team to
So who wants to go with me? This would be friggin' amazing (Sorry--I don't usually use such "language," but I am really fired up about this)!!!
22 February 2006
Two Sponges
This afternoon, I took a moment to ask myself, "When is the last time you got genuinely excited about sponges?" Well, honestly, I can't remember. But in the last two days, I encountered two people who were extraordinarily excited to receive two sponges. And these weren't your top of the line bath sponges. They were more like 4 for a dollar (at the Dollar Store), regular old kitchen sponges.
Sponge Story #1:
I met Esmerelda about a month ago. And for the last four weeks, every Thursday, I've visited her in her neighborhood. Every week she would run out and say hello and ask us what "goodies" we brought. Now, before I go any further, I need to tell you Esmerelda is about 6 or 7 years old. She is part of one of many families in Papago Court that I have the privilege of delivering groceries to--families, who basically can't afford to buy enough groceries on their own.
Each week, I am a part of a group that delivers 200 bags of groceries to two adjacent streets in Santa Rosa. Esmerelda is such a fireball of energy and excitement. Maybe my second week out I told her, we would be coming back that Saturday for a party. That was all she had to hear--she would be there. That Saturday, as we were setting up tables for a BBQ; chairs for a mini-church service; and putting out clothing, backpacks and other supplies to give away, I said to Esmerelda, "See--Didn't I tell you we would have a party?" She quickly responded, "This isn't a party, this is just a bunch of stuff." I suppose she was right. The stuff doesn't make the party. About an hour later as I was turning the jump rope, I asked her if it was a party yet and she whole-heartedly agreed. The next Thursday I saw Esmerelda carrying a bag of groceries with extra bread and boxes of donuts packed on top. As she carried this back to her house, she called over her shoulders, "I'll be right back for some more GOODIES!" It was one of the most precious things I ever saw.
You, quite possibly, are wondering where the sponges come in. This week we went out to Papago Court on Tuesday instead of Thursday. Esmerelda didn't come out right away, but when she arrived, we all knew. She brought home a bag or two of groceries and then came back out to play (A lot of kids come to help distribute groceries and meet new friends like Esmerelda). When we had one bag left, Esmerelda hopped up into the truck and looked inside and saw two sponges at the top of the bag. She was ecstatic. She grabbed them and claimed them for herself. Immediately she rubbed them (both) on her face and proceeded to "wash" everyone else around. In time she shared one sponge with Katie (one of the kids who came to help) and the two of them continued washing anyone they could reach. I've never seen kids have so much with a sponge that wasn't wet.
I never, before, could have believed that about $0.50 worth of sponges could be such a blessing to one person. But Esmerelda changed my mind.
Sponge Story #2
Recently I met a woman who needed help. She needed groceries and gas. She had just found out that her husband (or ex-husband) had cleaned out what little money she had in her bank account. With two teenagers and a seven-year old to feed, she was feeling desperate. I honestly was a little overwhelmed by her problems, so I asked one of the pastors to speak to her. He talked to her for a while and prayed with her and took her to get some gas. We refered her to Hope West for groceries, but I was afraid her message on their machine wouldn't be picked up right away, so I got her number and told her I would call her before I brought her some groceries.
Starting at about 2PM I tried to call, but the phone just rang and rang. So, I just left the groceries in my trunk and determined that I would call her the next morning. I tried, but still couldn't get through, but she called me and gave me her address and explained she would be home for the next two hours. She offered to come to me, but I wanted to make sure to get her a gallon of milk and a few other items. About a half hour later, I made a quick trip to Safeway and then made my way to her house. When I arrived she was on the phone, but told the person on the other end, that her "friend, Liz" was there. I was honored that, without really knowing me, she called me "friend."
For the next 20 minutes she shared the details of her life with me. The painful moments of the last few years and specifically the last few months. She shared that she was raised in an atheist family, but through a friend, came to church and experienced God's love and forgiveness for herself. This woman has been broken before and knows she will make it through this, but still struggles with how and why. She appreciated the limited scripture I could share with her and was pleased to have me pray for and with her. As we were talking, I understood why God didn't allow me to "drop off" the groceries to her the night before. She didn't NEED the groceries, she NEEDED the encouragement, a listener and a partner in prayer. As I was about to leave, she looked at the top of the groceries and exclaimed, "SPONGES! I needed these." God surely provides what we NEED.
I look forward to sharing with her in the future. Please pray for this woman.
REMEMBER: God will provide all your needs.
Sponge Story #1:
I met Esmerelda about a month ago. And for the last four weeks, every Thursday, I've visited her in her neighborhood. Every week she would run out and say hello and ask us what "goodies" we brought. Now, before I go any further, I need to tell you Esmerelda is about 6 or 7 years old. She is part of one of many families in Papago Court that I have the privilege of delivering groceries to--families, who basically can't afford to buy enough groceries on their own.
Each week, I am a part of a group that delivers 200 bags of groceries to two adjacent streets in Santa Rosa. Esmerelda is such a fireball of energy and excitement. Maybe my second week out I told her, we would be coming back that Saturday for a party. That was all she had to hear--she would be there. That Saturday, as we were setting up tables for a BBQ; chairs for a mini-church service; and putting out clothing, backpacks and other supplies to give away, I said to Esmerelda, "See--Didn't I tell you we would have a party?" She quickly responded, "This isn't a party, this is just a bunch of stuff." I suppose she was right. The stuff doesn't make the party. About an hour later as I was turning the jump rope, I asked her if it was a party yet and she whole-heartedly agreed. The next Thursday I saw Esmerelda carrying a bag of groceries with extra bread and boxes of donuts packed on top. As she carried this back to her house, she called over her shoulders, "I'll be right back for some more GOODIES!" It was one of the most precious things I ever saw.
You, quite possibly, are wondering where the sponges come in. This week we went out to Papago Court on Tuesday instead of Thursday. Esmerelda didn't come out right away, but when she arrived, we all knew. She brought home a bag or two of groceries and then came back out to play (A lot of kids come to help distribute groceries and meet new friends like Esmerelda). When we had one bag left, Esmerelda hopped up into the truck and looked inside and saw two sponges at the top of the bag. She was ecstatic. She grabbed them and claimed them for herself. Immediately she rubbed them (both) on her face and proceeded to "wash" everyone else around. In time she shared one sponge with Katie (one of the kids who came to help) and the two of them continued washing anyone they could reach. I've never seen kids have so much with a sponge that wasn't wet.
I never, before, could have believed that about $0.50 worth of sponges could be such a blessing to one person. But Esmerelda changed my mind.
Sponge Story #2
Recently I met a woman who needed help. She needed groceries and gas. She had just found out that her husband (or ex-husband) had cleaned out what little money she had in her bank account. With two teenagers and a seven-year old to feed, she was feeling desperate. I honestly was a little overwhelmed by her problems, so I asked one of the pastors to speak to her. He talked to her for a while and prayed with her and took her to get some gas. We refered her to Hope West for groceries, but I was afraid her message on their machine wouldn't be picked up right away, so I got her number and told her I would call her before I brought her some groceries.
Starting at about 2PM I tried to call, but the phone just rang and rang. So, I just left the groceries in my trunk and determined that I would call her the next morning. I tried, but still couldn't get through, but she called me and gave me her address and explained she would be home for the next two hours. She offered to come to me, but I wanted to make sure to get her a gallon of milk and a few other items. About a half hour later, I made a quick trip to Safeway and then made my way to her house. When I arrived she was on the phone, but told the person on the other end, that her "friend, Liz" was there. I was honored that, without really knowing me, she called me "friend."
For the next 20 minutes she shared the details of her life with me. The painful moments of the last few years and specifically the last few months. She shared that she was raised in an atheist family, but through a friend, came to church and experienced God's love and forgiveness for herself. This woman has been broken before and knows she will make it through this, but still struggles with how and why. She appreciated the limited scripture I could share with her and was pleased to have me pray for and with her. As we were talking, I understood why God didn't allow me to "drop off" the groceries to her the night before. She didn't NEED the groceries, she NEEDED the encouragement, a listener and a partner in prayer. As I was about to leave, she looked at the top of the groceries and exclaimed, "SPONGES! I needed these." God surely provides what we NEED.
I look forward to sharing with her in the future. Please pray for this woman.
REMEMBER: God will provide all your needs.
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I was truly struck by this person's opening sentence. "I don't believe in any religion, but in this tragedy I can't help saying 'God bless.' " Even without the background of religion, this person senses and asks for God to bless. I know He will.
This person can't help saying "God bless." I just can't get over that phrase. It is powerful. God is powerful.
God shows himself in tragedy, in sorrow, in sympathy, in hope, in love, in nature, in literature, in art, in blogs, in music, in smiles, in tears, in phone calls and text messages, in weddings and funerals. I can't help but notice Him and recognize Him in every facet of my life. He is ever-present. Even if we don't say "God bless," He blesses. Even if we don't say His name, He listens. He knows our names and planned our lives to the final breath. He has given us purpose and direction. We just have to listen to His "still, small voice." He will lead us. He is faithful.
I can't help but think about the students, faculty, alumni, friends and family of Virginia Tech. I can't help but cry for the loss of life. I can't help but pray to God that He would send comfort and hope and Truth and love to those who grieve and recover from their loss. I can't help, but I know Someone who can.
"I can't help saying 'God Bless.' "
Today, we are ALL Hokies.