September 6, 2012 · 6:00 am

Off To A Great Start

Eliana LOVED her first day of preschool!  She was giddy about it from the moment she woke on Tuesday.  Thankfully I was able to maintain my composure at drop-off, only tearing up while praying with her before going in.  With a quick hug, she headed right into her classroom and began working on a craft with some classmates.  “Bye, Mom!”  And that was it.  My baby girl was officially a student.  (Where has the time gone…)

While the little lady was at preschool, Evan and I enjoyed a fabulous date together.  We enjoyed waffles from Jubala Village Coffee then went exploring at the park.  The heat finally forced us indoors until it was time to pick up big sis.  I loved having one-on-one time with my little man.  Evan is the sweetest, snuggliest, most charming 15-month old I’ve ever met.  Precious boy.

At the end of the school day, Eliana greeted us with a smiling face and stories to tell.  Our new season of preschool is off to a great start.  One great day down, many more to go.

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September 4, 2012 · 6:00 am

A New Chapter Begins

How did this day get here so fast?!  In a blink, Eliana Faith has grown from a bright-eyed newborn to a vivacious 3 year old.  This sweet girl is full of life and kind to absolutely everyone she meets.  I never knew it possible for someone to be so caring and outgoing at merely 3 years of age.  What a gift!  And today, this precious blessing begins a new chapter as she has her first day of preschool.  Preschool!  TODAY!!

We took Eliana to Meet The Teachers Day last Friday.  It was a huge success!  She warmed to Miss Amanda and Miss Courtney instantly and had a wonderful time doing crafts with them in her new classroom.  She seemed completely comfortable in her new surroundings.  While she explored her classroom and crafted away with her teachers, I was chronically fighting back tears.  How did this day get here so fast?!

Smart, loving and compassionate.  Curious, energetic and hilarious.  Independent.  Eliana Faith has already exceeded every hope I’ve ever had for a daughter.  I could not be more proud of her.  My social butterfly will absolutely love school.  Though my eyes fill with bittersweet tears at the thought of this new chapter unfolding, they are tears mostly of joy.  After all, she is a precious gift that God has entrusted to me.  She is ultimately His.

Congratulations on your first day of preschool, sweet girl!  Mommy and Daddy are ever so proud of you.

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September 3, 2012 · 2:22 pm

New Twist On A Classic

Chicken Salad.  Its about as classic as burgers and hot dogs.  Wherever there’s a cookout or leftovers, you’re likely to find chicken salad.

To be honest, I’ve never been a huge fan of this traditional dish.  Cold chicken with grapes and celery?  No thanks.  It often tastes bland to me and given the choice between creamy calories in a savory entree or a sweet dessert, I’ll always err on the side of sweetness!  But I digress..

Recently, I had a surplus of roasted chicken in my fridge that needed a makeover.  An old recipe from my catering days in Annapolis popped into mind and I just had to give it a go.  Moroccan Chicken Salad.  Chicken.  Honey.  Almonds.  Cardamom!  YUM!  Seriously folks, you’ve got to try this stuff!  In light of today’s holiday and the likelihood of us all having leftover chicken in our fridge at some point, I just have to share this delicious goodness with you.

Combine mayo and honey in a bowl until you have a smooth, sweet mixture (roughly 2 parts mayo, 1 part honey).  The honey helps balance the mayo’s tang.  Add salt, pepper and (most importantly) Cardamom to taste.  TRUST ME!  You do not want to miss the cardamom step.  Its the magic touch that brings this all together.  Toss diced cold chicken, dried apricots, and chopped almonds in the mixture until its is fully incorporated.  I prefer the taste of pine nuts in the salad but almonds are much more budget friendly. 🙂  Serve on a toasted croissant or fresh bread.  Its sweet, savory, creamy and crunchy.  Delicious!

So whip out that leftover chicken and discover the wonders a little cardamom and honey can do to an old classic.  You’ll be glad you did.

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August 31, 2012 · 1:27 am

In Response Of Wrongdoing

We’ve all experienced it.  We’ve observed its wreckage from afar and felt its sting first hand.  Wrong done in the name of right.  Intentional harm from trusted hands.   It bruises at the onset and rattles our being long after.  Wounding sin.

Today found me wrestling unexpected thoughts of past experiences.  Thoughts of harsh words spoken, lies told, accusations thrown, trust broken.  While enjoying some java during the kids’ naps, this sudden flood began and with it, a wave of anger.  It quickly grew from a steady simmer to a roaring boil.   My heart raced with righteous anger against the utter nastiness of sin and its devastating effects, both in my life and the lives of loved ones.  We all have been wronged at one time or another.  And we all have done wrong to someone else.  We are, after all, innately sinful.  Nevertheless, this morning’s awareness of these offenses, some of which may never be rectified, left me frantic with frustration and nearly tachycardic in wanting justice served.

“In your anger, do not sin.”

But it’s wrong!  It mocks Your Name!  It harms undeserving people!  It’s not right!  Why do You allow such things to happen?!

“In your anger, do not sin.”

I know, Lord, I know.  But I’m so angry!  Emotions raged as memories raced.  Some wounds fresh along with old scars resurfacing, reminding me of whence they came.  Where was this coming from?  And what in the world was I to do with it?!

“In your anger, do not sin.”

Over and again, the Lord whispered Ephesians 4:26 to my heart.  In the midst of feeling the weight of others’ sins against me, I did not want to respond in like kind.  I would be no better than those who caused the original harm.  It would not leave me better off.  It would bring NO honor to the Lord.  None.  But what to do…

I had no answers but knew I needed to go to Scripture to find them.  Anything apart from that would simply be based in opinion and emotion.   A trusted friend immediately came to mind.  Ever since I first met Beverly Carroll, she has always spoken Biblical truth into my life, ever pointing me to Christ in times of wrestling.   Today was no exception.  I shared with her my consuming struggle, asking what passages had guided her when she faced wrongdoing.

James 1:19,20   2 Corinthians 10:5   Ephesians 4:25-27, 29-32

Beverly immediately pointed to passages that deal with such ugliness, mostly our response to them.  As I scoured these verses, the Lord began calming my turmoil.  The words turned my attention off of the wrongs done and onto the One who came to redeem all things.  Slowly, my mind went from being consumed with the sins of others to dwelling on the One who forgave MY sins.  What Beverly shared next diffused the fury burning within me, shifting my focus from the wrongs to the Redeemer.  As I could not say it better myself, here is what she wrote:

“Matthew 5:23,24 instructs us to be reconciled, regardless.  That means that we cannot indulge negativity or bitterness even when they are warranted and justified.  Forgiveness is vital, required, even when the offenders don’t deserve it.  God requires it.  It is an act of obedience that can become our offering to the King.  They may not deserve it.  They simply benefit from our unwavering desire to please God.  It cannot be done on our own.  It is a supernatural gift, to “be not overcome with evil, but to overcome evil with good” (Romans 12:21).  2 Peter 1:3,4 assures us that we have everything we need, in Christ, to live the lives He expects us to live.  We are promised that that we don’t have to do it ourselves.  We partake of the divine nature that is already in us.  We don’t have to muster up love or forgiveness.  We don’t have to remove our own bitterness.  We simply partake of everything that is available to us in Christ.  We help ourselves to His very nature thus enabling us to escape the very corruption you reference.  I think, regarding these types of struggles, that victory is a daily laying down, much like surrender.  It’s certainly not a once-for-all victory.  But it does drive you to Christ repeatedly, and that fact, alone, helps us to count it all joy.  It’s just one more example of the fact that God redeems what He allows.”  Wow.

So what to do in response of wrongdoing?  Forgive.  Speak truth in love.  Overcome evil with good.  Not because it is deserved but because as our act of surrendered worship to God.  Because while we were in the midst of our sin, Christ died for us.  Because it reminds us yet again of our need for the Savior.

We all have been wronged.  We all have wronged someone else.  We all must run to Jesus in the midst of the mess.  Only there can true healing, true forgiveness, true peace be found.  To Him and Him alone be the glory for it.

“Let love be without hypocrisy.  Abhor what is evil; cling to what is good.  Be devoted to one another in brotherly love; give preference to one another in honor; not lagging behind in diligence, fervent in spirit, serving the Lord; rejoicing in hope, persevering in tribulation, devoted to prayer, contributing to the needs of the saints, practicing hospitality.  Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse.  Rejoice with those who rejoice, and weep with those who weep.  Be of the same mind toward one another; do not be haughty in mind, but associate with the lowly.  Do not be wise in your own estimation.  Never pay back evil for evil to anyone.  Respect what is right in the sight of all men.  If possible, so far as it depends on you, be at peace with all men.  Never take your own revenge, beloved, but leave room for the wrath of God, for it is written, ‘Vengeance is mine, I will repay,’ says the Lord.  ‘But if your enemy is hungry, feed him, and if he is thirsty, give him a drink; for in so doing you will heap burning coals on his head.’

Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.”   

(Romans 12:9-21)

 

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August 29, 2012 · 2:14 pm

So Here’s The Thing…

Thirteen months.  It has been thirteen months since my last blog post.  Thirteen months since I let a day pass without writing…then two..then a week…then 2012 is halfway over and not a single thing has been written!  THIRTEEN MONTHS!

Truth be told, I set out to be perfect.  I wanted to write a post every day, each week, all year long.  I have several amazing girlfriends with far more children and responsibilities than I who are able to wax poetic daily.  They don’t simply write posts; they inspire, they encourage, they are consistent.

I love to write.  Since I was a young girl, words have gripped me in inexplainable ways.  I will choose a book over a movie anytime.  Something about putting thoughts to paper has always brought great joy and focus to my heart.  I don’t claim to be a brilliant writer by any means.  Writing is simply the venue the Lord has given me to sort my own thoughts and analyze my life experiences.  When faced with a blank page and words begin flowing, all the madness of life seems to fade and for a brief while, the scrambled things come into focus.  Many times, the Lord has brought words and passages to mind in the midst of writing that He would use to work in me later on.  So much of my writing during Isaac’s life was words He would give in the midst of writing sessions to later use in ministering to my weary heart.  Its nothing that I have earned nor take credit for.  Its just the way He has wired me.

So here’s the thing:  As I said, I want to be perfect.  Not to impress or gain attention but to accomplish every goal I set.  Since I was young, I’ve had an innate desire to get it right every time, all the time.  To set a goal and fully achieve it.  Type A, anyone?!  So when I set out to be a consistent blogger, I was gung-ho.  Posts were flowing, lessons being learned and in need of sharing if for not other reason than to record His workings for myself.  But then it happened.  A day would go by, then a few.  Writers block would creep in and suddenly I was faced with inconsistency.  My pride bruised from imperfection.  One would logically think, “Just pick up where you left off and keep on writing.”  But no.  It turned into anxiety, embarrassment.  I couldn’t just write any post.  It must be epic!  Profound.  Worth the loss of days.  As each day passed, my self-inflicted pressure continued to rise.  Thirteen months later…

This is but one of countless examples in my life that has caused me to face my frailty head on.  How often I strive for perfection, to have everything all together, all the time, on my own.  Were I truly honest, it is a struggle that has impacted my walk with the Lord.  I fail and my natural response is embarrassment, discouragement, inaction.  At its core, isn’t that the human experience?  In the Garden, Eve desired to be like God by eating the fruit, to become perfect.  Yet once she sinned, rather than running to the arms of the One who loved her most, she hid in shame.  We seek to be complete and self-fulfilling all on our own, as if we will impress God with our “grandeur”.  Yet every ability, every gifting, every good and perfect thing to be found in us ultimately comes by His generous hands.

It may seem like a silly issue, inconsistent writing, but it has been a simple lesson on a greater issue for me.  The Lord desires my communion with Him, not perfection of my own accord.  After all, I will NEVER be perfect.  ‘Tis the human condition: broken and in need of a Redeemer.  So whether it be a large life issue or simply a blip in the blogosphere, He is teaching me to move ahead.  Lay down the discouragement and press onward, further knowing my desperate need of Him and His gracious delight in me.

So here’s the thing:  I won’t be perfectly consistent in writing.  I will set goals and sometimes fail in achieving them.  Writers block may come and go.  But when the words do come again, rather than being silent out of my shame of inconsistency, I will simply pick up my pen and scribe again.  After all, anything of merit in my words comes from Him.  I simply want to be faithful in expressing what He has given.

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Filed under Blogging, God, Patience, Struggles, Thoughts

July 31, 2011 · 2:31 pm

Two Years of Answered Prayers

Eliana Faith is now 2 years old!  Words cannot adequately describe the joy and blessing she is to us.  When we chose her name, meaning “God has answered us”, little did we know how amazing this sweet answer to prayer would be. She has truly been God’s beautiful answer to so many prayers.

She has grown into a delightful, energetic, outgoing little girl.  Her zeal for life is infectious and she sees a friend in every new person she meets.  She is completely fascinated with all things ocean (especially Nemo) and cannot get enough of bubbles or balloons.  Eliana loves to help in the kitchen whenever she can, whether its whisking eggs or helping to measure ingredients.  It always makes me smile to hear her count away or sing, “Yes! (with a lisp) Jesus loves me!”  Ever since Evan came home, she has been an amazing big sister.  She loves covering him with hugs and kisses, saying “its okay!” anytime he cries.  It has overwhelmed me at times to watch her care for her baby brother so sweetly.

Happy Birthday, Eliana Faith!  Thank you for all the beautifully moments over these past two years.  I am so excited to see all God has in store for you this next year.  What a blessing and honor to be your mom!

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June 27, 2011 · 2:23 pm

One Month Along

Time flies quickly these days and it seems to have shifted into warp speed ever since Evan arrived.  Our sweet boy turned one month old on Sunday!  He has grown quite a bit since his grand May arrival, now weighing 10 lbs 3 oz and measuring 22.25 inches long.  Looks like I’ll end up having two tall and handsome men in my life. 🙂

Eliana grows more beautiful and adventurous every day!  She is on the move from the moment she wakes until bedtime.  While I’m still learning how to keep up with my gorgeous bundle of energy, I wouldn’t have it any other way!  Her zest for life and outgoing demeanor brings a fresh element of surprise to each new day.  Eliana askes for Evan first thing each morning, wanting to greet him with hugs and smiles.  We’re still teaching her how to gently love on Evan, but there is no question that she adores her little brother.  Anytime he cries, Eliana is right there to enthusiastically tell him, “Its okay!”


The past month has been many things: hilarious, emotional, eye-opening, precious, refining, thrilling, exhausting.  But above all, it has been a blessing.  I could not be more grateful for these two precious children, thankful for their health and humbled that God entrusted such amazing gifts to Jordan and me.  I would not trade a single day for anything else in the world!

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June 15, 2011 · 1:35 pm

Still Here…

To say the past few months have been a whirlwind would be a ginormous understatement.  In a blink, time has flown from being massively pregnant and traveling to DC to now being a mother of two amazing kids.  Evan Garrett turns 3 weeks old tomorrow and though he has only been with us a short time, I could not imagine life without him in it.  I am completely smitten with this precious little boy and amazed at the love Eliana shows him daily.  Jordan continues to astound me with the incredible father he is to our kids and how he finds little ways daily to encourage and love me.  Simply put — I am blessed beyond measure and comprehension.

I hope to blog more regularly in the days and weeks ahead as I adjust to our family’s new routine (and hopefully gain more sleep).  There are pictures to be posted, stories to be told, posts to catch up on, and hilarious pregnant moments to share.  But for now, know that the Leinos are having an amazing summer.  Thank you all for your prayers on our behalf as we waiting for Evan’s arrival and the joy you have shared with us since his birth.  More to come soon!

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Filed under Blogging, Eliana, Evan, Family, Jordan, Patience, Pregnancy, Random, Thoughts

March 11, 2011 · 9:20 am

Road Trip

It’s finally here!  A weekend I’ve been looking forward to for quite some time.  For the next three days, my mom, sister and I are having a culinary weekend together!  My amazing hottie of a husband is watching Eliana for the whole weekend so that I can spend the next three days off of mom duty with my girls.  Mornings in Georgetown and historic Washington, D.C., an afternoon in my hometown – Annapolis, MD, exploring the eastern market in our nation’s capital, a full evening at a Julia Child cooking class in Pentagon City.  The fun has just begun!  I truly am blessed to spend these next three days with my mom and sister, laughing throughout each day and enjoying delectable food together.  What a blast!

Happy weekend, everyone!  Be sure to check back next week for the delicious details of our foodie weekend.  I’ll enjoy some Georgetown Cupcakes on your behalf. 🙂

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Filed under Annapolis, Cooking, D.C., Family, Food, Patience

March 10, 2011 · 1:50 pm

Endorsements

The skies are cloudy.  Rain comes and goes.  Many of us are probably home-bound today with a little extra time to browse the web.  In light of this dreary Thursday, I’d like to share some awesome resources for your perusing pleasure.  Not only have each of these resources impacted my life personally but they are all provided by solid-to-the-core, incredible people.  So click away, blogging friends.  All of these resources will bless your life and by using them, you will be supporting some amazing families.  Seriously.

Nathan Lawrenson Photography – Nate began delving into the world of photography during his extensive stay at Duke Hopsital while his wife recovered from a double-lung transplant, was then treated for cancer and while his daughter (born at 24 weeks gestation) spent the first several months of her life in the NICU.  To say he knows how to capture precious moments on film is a stark understatement.  He took all the pictures seen on our blog banner.  His work is artistic, capturing both the beauty and spirit of the families he photographs.  To learn more about Nate and his inspiring family, visit Confessions of a CF Husband.

So Much Bigger Than The Bunny – Tasha is a mom of 3 (soon-to-be 4) who is absolutely committed to the spiritual growth of her kids.  She is one of the most humble people I know, with capabilities far beyond anything she would ever say herself.  She wrote an innovative 7-week devotional for kids and families about the true meaning of Easter.  Fun, practical and applicable to all ages.  Proceeds from the book go towards funding their Uganda adoption.  I’m telling you – these people are amazing!

Resurrection Songs – Josh is our worship pastor and hands-down, one of the most talented song writers/musicians/vocalists I’ve ever had the pleasure to know.  For real.  He is producing a kids rock album to make Scripture memory easy and fun for kids.  The album compliments So Much Bigger Than The Bunny (written by his wife, Tasha), putting each week’s memory verse verbatim into songs that stick with you.  Jordan has been working with Josh on this project, playing drums and keys for each track.  It has been an absolute blast for him!  This isn’t your typical kids album.  Adults will want to rock out to these tunes as well!  Non-cheesy kids music.  Love it!  Proceeds also go towards their adoption from Uganda.

Tellefsen Custom Portraits – Cathy is like the big sister I never had.  She came into my life at just the perfect season and has since been a source of encouragement, much laughter, and solid advice.  Cathy studied art at Wake Forest University and is an accomplished painter.  Their family traveled the road of child loss nearly 13 years ago when their second daughter, Sarah, fell ill with cancer at 4 months old and passed 5 months later.  During their time at Duke, a photographer from Time magazine captured an intimate picture of Cathy holding her daughter in the cancer unit – a picture she did not receive until after Sarah’s passing.  The image made such a profound impact on my friend that she dedicated herself to capturing such moments of children on canvas for their families.  Her portraits are exquisite, excellently painted with genuine love poured into every brush stroke.  The perfect gift!

From Glimpses To Glory – Beverly was recently described as a combination of Beth Moore and Paula Dean.  So true!  This southern woman oozes love and joy from every pore while having a vibrant, humble walk with God and passionate love for His Word.  From Glimpses To Glory is Beverly’s first book, taking the reader from getting a glimpse of who God made them to be through the journey of seeing the vision fulfilled.  Jam-packed with Biblical truth, eloquence and wisdom, this is an excellent resource for women of all ages who want to grow in their walk with Christ towards being all they were created to be.

Radically Obedient: The Joshua Study – This 9-week study of the Book of Joshua rocked my world last year!  Ailene’s approach to studying the Bible is both refreshing and equipping, sharing valuable insights but leaving much room for God voice to speak to the individual simply through the Word itself.  Radically Obedient equips the reader in how to meditate on Scripture while teaching life-changing lessons from the life of Joshua.  No matter what season of life you are in, this study has something for you!

Happy reading/listening/image-capturing/web-perusing/growing/smiling-despite-this-dreary-weather, everyone!

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Filed under Friends, Resources

March 9, 2011 · 9:53 am

Under The Weather

I’m not sure what it is about this week: perhaps the change of seasons, this ever-growing baby boy, or some bug that’s going around.  Whatever the cause, I have certainly been under the weather this week.  Nausea, leg cramps, heart burn, migraines.  Not my best week for sure.  But despite the lingering yuck and sleepless nights, I’m reminded there is much to be thankful for in the midst of feeling ill:

God has provided so much for our family.  A safe home, a warm bed, food, clothing, medicine to help with aches and discomforts, healthy children, a new baby on the way, white cells.  While I don’t feel my best at all, I’m in far better shape than countless many in our country and around the world.  This too shall pass.  Being physically slowed down for the week, I’ve been able to focus far more during my reading times in the Bible and elsewhere.  Some times the most undesired circumstances can bring about rich, hidden blessings.  Who knew the Book of Numbers had so much to say!

My husband is truly amazing.  He has cared for Eliana and I incredibly well all during one of the busiest work weeks of the year so far.  He sweetly tells me I’m beautiful on my yuckiest days, rubs my ever-cramping feet, and has made many runs to Target for more ginger ale…at all hours of the day.  My daughter is precious.  She seems to understand why Mommy has needed to be on the couch so much, often running over just to give me a hug or lay there with me.  So sweet.  I’m blessed with an wonderful family, both immediate and in-laws.  They are all caring and considerate, praying on my behalf and sending encouraging messages throughout the day.  I’m surrounded by incredible friends.  They are always a delight to be around and can bring a smile to even the most nauseous face.  Friends in every season.  What a blessing!

This may not be the most fabulous week of my life, but it certainly has not been the worst.  My life is not perfect.  However, in the midst of the good, the bad and the mundane, God promises to with me (Deut. 31.8).  He truly is all I need (Phil. 4.19).  Whether we’re at the top of our game or under the weather, enjoying the views from a beautiful mountaintop or trudging through the fog of a dark valley, there is always an opportunity to be thankful.

“Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!”  Philippians 4.4


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Filed under Eliana, Family, Friends, God, Jordan, Patience, Pregnancy, Random, Thoughts

March 7, 2011 · 2:27 pm

Carrot Cupcakes

Ever since my first visit to Georgetown Cupcake in January, I have been craving gourmet cupcakes: moist, decadent and down-right soul-satisfying!  Much to my mouth’s chagrin and my waistline’s delight, D.C. is a five-hour drive away, reducing me to merely dream about their yummy goodness.  So until my next venture to our nation’s capital, I have been in search of recipes that can placate my palate.  *sigh*

Last week, my Mom came across the most amazing recipe in Country Living that has done just the trick!  Carrot Cupcakes.  To say these tasty morsels are delicious would be a stark understatement.  I’ve enjoyed many a fine carrot cake in my life, but none have ever come close to comparing with the flavor and texture of this recipe: carrot cupcake with golden raisins and chopped nuts (we used pecans instead of walnuts…simply out of preference) covered by a dollop of carrot-infused cream cheese frosting and finished with strips of candied carrot on top.  Oh. My. WORD!  The only phrase that comes close to capturing this decadent morsel is “Dangerously Delicious!”

So the next time you’re in the mood for a satisfying treat, skip the local bakery and whip up a batch of these carrot cupcakes for yourself.  It will certainly be worth it!

(click on the recipe for the full size to print)

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Filed under Cooking, D.C., Food, Recipes

March 6, 2011 · 5:43 pm

Qualified

Over the weekend, I caught up on my One-Year Bible reading.  Truth be told, I got behind during the less-than-riveting Book of Leviticus.  As I made my way through the beginning of Numbers, a passage in Chapter 8 stood out to me in a way that continues to preoccupy my mind.

Picture this: The tabernacle has finally been completed.  Moses and Aaron are going through the process of anointing and consecrating the tabernacle and the leaders of Israel.  God sets apart the Levites for Himself from among all others in the nation.  He calls them to complete service of Aaron and the tabernacle, to perform priestly duties for the whole congregation of Israel and to care for the tabernacle itself (Numbers 1.50)  In short, the Levites were called to specific service in the place of worshiping God.  The Lord said that they shall be Mine (Numbers 3.12 & 13).

Then comes Chapter 8.  The Lord instructs Moses to cleanse the Levites and have them make offerings before Him that they would be consecrated for their service.  Verse 11 states, “Aaron then shall present the Levites before the Lord as a wave offering from the sons of Israel, that they may qualify to perform the service of the Lord.”  What struck me so powerfully about this passage is this: this tribe had already been called by God to specific duties in the tabernacle.  They had already been called to a priesthood, to serve in unique ways in the sacrifices and worship before God.  YET they still had to cleanse themselves, make offerings (symbolic of confession) and prepare themselves to be qualified to fulfill their role in serving the Lord in the tabernacle.

How tempting would it have been for the Levites to feel a sense of superiority over the nation of Israel?!  How easily could they have felt somewhat entitled to the position given them?  “We’ve been called.  We’ve been given such and such responsibilities in the tabernacle.  We’ve been set apart to serve in this specific way.”  But as verse 11 reminds us – though they had been called, they still had to be qualified to serve the Lord.  This did not reflect on their physical ability to perform the duties assigned to them but on their spiritual condition before God.

As one who serves from the platform with the worship team, this greatly resonated with me.  Countless times in my life, I have heard others say and at times felt within myself, “I know I’ve been called to sing, to lead, to serve on the worship team (or whatever position applies to you)”  This may be valid but it must be taken a step further.  While God does place callings on His people, so often we jump from receiving the call to feeling entitled to that position of service without qualifying ourselves to walk in the path prepared for us.  We focus more on the position we feel obligated to rather than our condition before God.  As I read Numbers 8, I sensed God say to me, “Being called to something and being qualified to walk in that calling are two different things.”  The Levites were called to serve but they still had to act in humility and obedience to cleanse themselves, to confess their sins and to consecrate themselves before the Lord in preparation of that service.  They had to take ownership of their own condition before God rather than proudly assume they were good simply because of their given status.

Thank You, Lord, for this timely reminder!  I pray it be true for Journey’s worship team and for anyone who has a calling of service placed on them (in essence – anyone who calls themselves a Christian.  God has a calling on your life!)  May we walk humbly before the Lord.  May we never disqualify ourselves from the calling He has placed on us because of our own sin, lack of obedience or pride.  Every time we step up on our “platform” (be it a stage, work, your family, any audience, or simply alone before the Creator of all things), may we assess the condition of our heart and bodies to make sure we are qualified to walk in the calling He has placed on our lives.

We have been called.  The question is: are we qualified?

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Filed under Faith, God, One-Year-Bible, Worship

March 4, 2011 · 9:54 am

Friday Facts

  • I’m 27 weeks pregnant today.  Little Man Leino has become quite a busy-body.  He is definitely strong, kicking and moving his arms with far more force than my other two kiddos at this stage.  At times it feels like he’s doing somersaults or boxing.  I can’t wait to meet this feisty little guy in June!
  • The warmer weather has allowed Eliana to spend much more time outside and she has loved it!  She wants to be outdoors every chance she gets.  Often her first word in the morning is “outside?”  Such a happy little girl.  Whether she’s flying kites with Daddy, helping Maima in her garden or coloring on the porch in a hula skirt, Eliana has a blast anytime she’s in the sun.

  • Leino Studios had a fabulous first week in its new location.  We are so thankful for the new space God provided for Jordan’s business.  Though we are still putting some final decorating touches on the space, Jordan has already enjoyed the benefits of having much more space for all his musical and business needs.  A step forward in every way, we’re excited to see all that is in store for the Studio in this next season.
  • Our little girl loves to sing!  Any time music is playing, she’s singing and dancing along.  Maima has been teaching Eliana the words and motions for “Itsy, Bitsy Spider”.  It amazes me to watch her pick up phrases and hand motions so quickly.  I found her trying to get one of her baby dolls to do the motions this past week.  Precious!
  • Journey just finished a series on Love.  Boy, has it impacted me!  Over four weeks, our church took an in-depth look into what Scripture says about Love: God’s love, our love for Him, our love for others and our love for ourselves.  I’ve found myself reading through my notes over and again, wanting to listen to the sermons more than once as they have really challenged me to grow and convicted me in areas I certainly need it.  I highly encourage everyone to take the time to listen to the messages.  Since Jesus said that the world will know His disciples by our love, its an area we all could grow in.
  • Well the sunshine and an energetic little lady are calling me outside.  Be sure to check back here on Monday as I’ll be sharing the most amazing carrot cupcake recipe I have ever tasted!  Seriously….BEST EVER!  Happy weekend, everyone!

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Filed under Eliana, Evan, Family, Fun, Jordan, Journey Church, Leino Studios, Patience, Photography, Random, Weather

March 2, 2011 · 4:35 pm

Blast from the Past

I have the best siblings in the universe.  Growing up with Ian and Corinne was always a laughter-filled adventure.  How truly thankful I am for them both!

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Filed under Family, Fun, Patience, Photography, Random

March 1, 2011 · 1:30 pm

Choose Life

“This day I call the heavens & the earth as witnesses against you that I have set before you life & death, blessings & curses. Now choose life, so that you & your children may live & that you may love the LORD your God, listen to His voice, & hold fast to Him. For the LORD is your life, & He will give you many years in the land He swore to give to your fathers, Abraham, Isaac and Jacob.”  Deuteronomy 30.19-20

This passage never ceases to challenge me.  I’m sure I’ve read it scores of times, but with each time I hear God’s instruction to “choose life”, I’m convicted.  Am I choosing life today?  This world surrounds us all with circumstances and situations – some beyond our control and others completely within our grasp.  We may not always be able to influence what happens to us but we always have the choice of how we handle ourselves through it.  In Deuteronomy, God reminds the nation of Israel that life and death are ever before them.  But it is up to them to choose which one they will walk in!  You can hear God’s loving heart for His people, wanting them to walk in the life set before them and to hold fast to Him in love.  But He will not force it on them.  They must make the choice for themselves.

We all must make the same choice every single day.  Will we walk in the life that God holds out for us?  Will we choose life?  Or will we easily succumb to trials and temptations that so easily abound?  When facing a mountain, will we stand in awe of the God who holds everything together, who is far greater than any obstacle?  Or will we only see a massive barrier between where we are and where we want to go?  Will we see the opportunity for an adventurous climb or crumble beneath the daunting thought of the journey that lies ahead?

Life is an adventure!  God is almighty, great, wondrous and unfathomably loving!  He has set before us life and death, blessing and cursing.  Which one will you choose?  Which will I choose today?  As it says in verse 20, “For the Lord is your life…” I pray that this passage always stays at the forefront of my mind – that I would remember to dwell on His goodness, His salvation, His power in my life rather than the menial trials and tribulations this temporal world may bring.  Today is a new day.  Heed God’s compassionate voice as He invites us all, “Choose Life!”

 

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February 25, 2011 · 8:20 am

Four

Four years ago, our world changed as the sweetest little boy was born.  A brave son with red hair and bright blue eyes, he began a journey more treacherous than any we thought he’d endure and more precious than any we could have imagined.  Strange how it is gray and raining today as it was that day in 2007.  While he won’t be blowing out four candles and eating cake today, instead he beholds the shimmering lights of heaven and the glory of God Almighty.  Would I rather he were here with us?  Always.  But how amazing today must be as he basks in the radiance of Jesus, completely well and whole.

Happy 4th Birthday, Isaac Jordan.  How we love you so.

“But our citizenship is in heaven. And we eagerly await a Savior from there, the Lord Jesus Christ, who by the power that enables Him to bring everything under His control, will transform our lowly bodies so that they will be like His glorious body.”
Philippians 3:20-21

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February 24, 2011 · 3:45 pm

Toasted Coconut Marshmallows

The weather seems perplexed lately, caught between winter’s chill and the warmth of spring.  With the wavering temperatures, what is one to do for food cravings?  Do you choose comfort foods that taste like a warm blanket on a frigid day or reach for spring’s fresh flavors?

Answer: toasted coconut marshmallows!  Creamy and indulgently satisfying while light and airy with a hint of tropical goodness.  My how I enjoy this recipe!  Thanks to Ina Garten, these delectable goodies are easy to make and completely worth your while.    I’ve also used her basic recipe to make cinnamon marshmallows before, grinding red hots into a powder and substituting them for sugar.  Any time I’ve made this recipe with kids, they have always been fascinated how such a small amount of liquid whips up into a massive, fluffy cloud.

So go whip up your own batch of Ina’s Toasted Coconut Marshmallows today!  Perhaps they will help make sense of this weather madness. 🙂

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Filed under Cooking, Recipes

February 23, 2011 · 12:33 pm

Potato Chic

Eliana has really improved in learning how to feed herself at mealtimes.  Mostly neat and no longer throwing things on the floor, our little girl is growing up so fast.  Then we had pot roast with mashed potatoes…

No, that’s not water nor styling gel in her hair.  This lovely do comes from a whopping handful of mashed potatoes!  In a blink, Eliana’s hand scooped up a fist full of spuds and wiped it all in her hair.  Needless to say, she went straight from the dinner table to the bathtub.  She is one adorable, messy lady!

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February 21, 2011 · 11:56 am

Where You Are

I recently finished reading through Exodus with my quad girls.  It has always been a favorite of mine as I see so many parallels between Israel’s wanderings and the Christian life.  Our human fickleness contrasted with the steadfast faithfulness of God who never breaks His promises.  Even as Israel faced the consequences of their own poor decisions and disobedience, God’s love for them remained.

One passage has stuck with me for days.  It’s a passage that I’m sure I’ve read in the past, but stood out in a new way this time around.  Exodus 33.  Just prior, Moses is on Mount Sinai for 40 days as God gives him the Ten Commandments.  Meanwhile, the nation of Israel grows impatient and quickly forget all God has already done for them.  They build for themselves a golden calf to worship instead.  Both the anger of the Lord and Moses burn against them for this sin and Israel suffers severe consequences for such disobedience.

Thus begins Exodus 33.  The Lord instructs Moses to lead Israel on towards the Promised Land, sending an angel before them to drive out their enemies.  However He says that His presence will not go with them due to the people’s obstinance.  But Moses responds in verse 15 and 16, “If Your presence does not go with us, do not lead us up from here.  For how then can it be known that I have found favor in Your sight, I and Your people?  Is it not by Your going with us, so that we, I and Your people, may be distinguished from all the other people who are upon the face of the earth?”

Think of it!  God was sending Israel on from their wilderness wanderings towards the Promised Land, a land flowing with milk and honey.  He promised an angel to go before them to fight their enemies.  Israel would finally be out of this never-ending desert and arrive at their Promised Land!  If I were Moses, how tempting would it be to get this massive group of complaining, difficult people to their destination and be done with the struggle of leading them?  How eager would I be to move from this place of total dependence and weakness to a land promised full of provision and ease?  For generations, Israel would have heard of the foretold Promised Land.  Would they not be jumping at the chance to get there as soon as possible?

Yet Moses’ response struck me powerfully.  “Lord, if Your presence does not go with us, I would rather stay in the wilderness where You are than go to the Promised Land without You.”  He was far more concerned with being with the Lord in a place of uncertainty than to go on to an easy place without Him.  As recorded in verse 16, he rightfully said that it was the Lord’s presence that made Israel special, that set them apart in the earth.  Nothing of Israel itself was exceptional.  Quite the contrary.  They were a fickle, whiny group of people who would receive miracles and yet crave their former slavery the moment anything got remotely hard.  It was the God of Israel that made this nation exceptional!  It was God’s presence!  When given the choice, Moses emphatically chose to stay in the place of struggle with God’s presence as his guide than to move to a place promised for generations without Him.

Wow!  This passage has given me great pause over the past many days.  Am I more focused on what I want to receive from God or on experiencing His presence in the midst of trials?  What do I crave more – arriving at my “Promised Land” or being in God’s presence even if that means remaining in a wilderness?  Am I defined by my situation on this earth or by my relationship and intimacy with the Living God?  Think of it – the Promised Land was a good place.  After all, it was promised!  But Moses rightfully recognized that no matter the destination, God’s presence along the journey was of paramount importance.  He would rather stay in a barren land with obstinate people and have God’s presence than go to a place of ease and freedom apart from Him.

My hope and prayer is that given the same choice, I would respond as Moses did.  I certainly have not always done so in the past, eagerly awaiting reprieve from seasons of trials and wanderings.  But may Exodus 33 take firm root in my heart, that I would crave God’s presence in my life above anything and everything else.  Lord, I want to be where You are.

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Filed under Faith, God, One-Year-Bible, Patience, Thoughts