Power of God

In April, I posted some random thoughts and prayer requests. I am still praying for the same things. Below you will find prayer requests, thoughts, and other random ramblings.

He is your praise and He is your God, who has done these great and awesome things for you which your eyes have seen. --Deuteronomy 10:21

"LOOK AT YOUR PROBLEMS IN THE LIGHT OF THE POWER OF GOD
INSTEAD OF LOOKING AT GOD IN THE LIGHT OF YOUR PROBLEMS."

God is in charge, we are not seeing past our problems.
Love you, Mom

• I continue to struggle with both my faith and physical health. In many ways I am the healthiest that I have ever been, and in other ways, I am worn and exhausted, and it is taking a toll on my body. Physically--doctors have no answers, and my body continues to reject itself on different levels. Nine months ago, up until about three months ago, I could not use soap on my body, as it caused me to break out in a painful rash. There was nothing I could place on my skin. This ran it's course and once again, I am able to use soap. Within the past month, I have developed a different rash, that has turned into hives, and is now calming down. I am tired of my body rejecting itself. It is painful--both physically and emotionally.
• I hurt my ankle at Grouse Mtn., therefore I did not run for a week. I have to be careful with it, although that does not keep me from running now. I also managed to hurt my neck while on holiday, but thankfully I have a fabulous chiropractor, and Dr. White fixed me right up.
• I still wish I could afford a new car. The 1998 Subaru Forester has 234,000 miles on it and I had AAA tow it from our house to the automotive store yesterday. Subby is very sick. :(
• I am still searching for a job teaching secondary mathematics. And not just any job. A fabulous job with wonderful co-workers and a great administration, like I had at Mac Arthur HS, in NEISD. I know I am an excellent teacher!
• I would love to be given someones gently used clothes they don't want/wear anymore. I was blessed with some new shirts this summer! Now accepting dresses, skirts, pants, really, anything you would like to get rid of.
• My personal faith--I am struggling in remembering the great things God has done and continues to do. I am having a hard time seeing beyond my own problems and looking to His power.
  

This past month, I quit reading my bible and praying. I decided it just didn't matter if I prayed or not. It wasn't changing anything. After months, none of my prayer requests have been fully answered--I still do not have a job, I am physically hurting, the car is worse off, I would really like a dress or two (I wear the same ones over and over!), my dreams are still quite vivid, and I feel that no relief has been given to me. I find myself hurting more and more--physically, emotionally, and spiritually. I shared this with four people. Each of them encouraged me to open up my bible and get back into the Word in one way or another.

Life with its way before us lies, Christ is the path, and Christ the prize. Fain not nor fear, His arms are near; He changeth not, and thou art dear.
--Hymn, Fight Thy Good Fight with all Thy Might

I picked up my bible and read. And then the next evening, the sermon was on the text I had just read the night prior. I do not remember what the text was, as I have been reading my bible daily since, and I can only absorb so much.

Consider it all joy, my brethren, when you encounter various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces endurance. And let endurance have its perfect result, so that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing. But if any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all generously and without reproach, and it will be given to him. But he must ask in faith without any doubting, for the one who doubts is like the surf of the sea, driven and tossed by the wind. For that man ought not to expect that he will receive anything from the Lord, being a double-minded man, unstable in all his ways.
--James 1:2-8

We exult in hope of the glory of God. And not only this, but we also exult in our tribulations, knowing that tribulation brings about perseverance; and perseverance, proven character; and proven character, hope; and hope does not disappoint, because the love of God has been poured out within our hearts through the Holy Spirit who was given to us.
--Romans 5:2-5

Why have we decided that when we're hurting, we must be doing something wrong? Trials and tribulations are not always because of our wrong doing. One lady in Sunday school, who had battled many years of cancer, said it so well. She said something to the effect of, I still hurt, I still struggle, I doubt, I fear, the angst is still there, and sometimes I am angry, but I am grounded in the hope that Jesus Christ gives us, and there is nothing that can take that away.

Psalm 911: He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High will abide in the shadow of the Almighty. I will say to the Lord, "My refuge and my fortress, My God, in whom I trust!"
--Psalm 91:1

As I was reading in Mark, I found a note in my bible that read, "I am not called to be successful; I am called to be faithful." At the same time, every little girl likes to dress up as a princess and pretend that they are successful, intelligent, beautiful, and loved. I am still a little girl. I still pretend. Maybe I need to change my view of successful.

As I have shared some of my struggles with my Mom and Dad, both of them have individually prayed with me. These are special moments in my life. God is powerful!

Unconditional Love

Happy Birthday, America! :)

Friday morning, my first conscience thought was, "Thank you, Jesus!" This was all I could say for about 20 minutes. I am not sure what spurred this on, nor am I sure why it was all I could think for so long, but I found myself simply saying over and over, like a broken record, "Thank you, Jesus!"

You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your might. These words, which I am commanding you today, shall be on your heart. You shall teach them diligently to your sons and shall talk of them when you sit in your house and when you walk by the way and when you lie down and when you rise up. You shall bind them as a sign on your hand and they shall be as frontals on your forehead. You shall write them on the doorposts of your house and on your gates.
Deuteronomy 6:5-9

Loving God and loving people is an action--it is a definitive choice. We are called to teach His Word, talk about His Word, bind His Word, and write His Word down. Loving God is personal (clearly, not private) and it is a commitment to employ oneself in loving service to Godhead--God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit. Paralleling the scripture above:

I bow my knees before the Father so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith; and that you being rooted and grounded in love, may be able to comprehend with all the saints what is the breadth and length and height and depth, and to know the love of Christ which surpasses knowledge, that you may be filled up to all the fullness of God.
Ephesians 3:14, 17-19

Looking at these scriptures, as Christians it is clear that love must be the foundation for ALL we do! When you die, what do you want to be known for? I've heard it said, LOVE! I agree, I want to be known for love!

This past week I was blessed to have my roommate from Ukraine, come and spend a week with myself and my family. I am grateful that we were able to share Christs unconditional love with/on Masha! God is so good to my family, and being able to share that love with another person is beautiful.

Masha and I at Sea World

Faith and Shamu

Masha and I in front of the Steel Eel and then in front of the Shamu car

Masha and Mom

Pretty flowers

Masha and I after the Shamu show

Grounds of the Alamo

Rio River Cruise on the San Antonio Riverwalk

Dad playing with the timer on his camera...Myself, Masha, Mom, Dad

Myself, Levi, and Masha at KSAT

Hope That Does Not Disappoint

I read this devotional this morning and I am encouraged by the hope that shines through the power of love!

Hope That Does Not Disappoint

Romans 5:5 5Now hope does not disappoint, because the love of God has been poured out in our hearts by the Holy Spirit who was given to us.

Today, we express hope as if we can’t be sure what will really happen. We say, “I hope I will win that prize. I hope it won’t rain tomorrow. I hope everything works out well.” But “hope” in the Bible is a confident and positive expectation of good. God wants you to have a confident expectation of good because as His child, He favors you. Because Christ is in you, the hope of glory (Colossians1:27), you can expect the glory of God to shine into every area of your life, including your family, job, ministry, health and finances! God’s Word says, “Now hope does not disappoint, because the love of God has been poured out in our hearts by the Holy Spirit who was given to us.” You may have experienced disappointed hopes, but there is a hope that does not disappoint when you are conscious of how much God loves you. It is a hope that springs from the heart of God, who loves you very much. It is interesting that the first mention of the Holy Spirit in the book of Romans is tied up with the love of God. The book of Romans is considered foundational for Christians. Could it be that the first thing the Holy Spirit wants to do is to establish in our hearts that God loves us? Many people think that the Holy Spirit has come to teach us about power. But the truth is that the Holy Spirit has come not to reveal the love for power, but the power of love! My friend, you may have just lost your job. But if you can say, “Jesus loves me this I know,” you can also say, “I believe that I will get a better job tomorrow.” Your girlfriend may have just left you for your best friend. But because you can say, “Jesus loves me this I know,” you can also say, “I’ll meet a better girl.” When you believe that God loves you, you will have a positive expectation of good. You will have a hope that does not disappoint. So be careful what you hope for because you are bound to get it!

The Wrath of God

This past Sunday our sermon was about grace and the wrath of God. I love the dichotomy presented here by the loving God we serve. God cares about what is holy, just, and right, so much so that He will NOT compromise with evil!

"Therefore, come out from their midst and be separate," says the Lord.
2 Corinthians 6:17

To be separate involves being equally yoked, using the world without loving the things the world loves, and exhibiting Christlikeness.

For you have been bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body
1 Corinthians 6:20

Isaiah 43:7 tells us that we are created to glorify Christ. 1 Corinthians 6:20 tells us that we are to glorify God in our bodies. My question to you is how do you personally glorify Christ, sharing Gods character, each and every day?

But the one who joins himself to the Lord is one spirit with Him
1 Corinthians 6:17

Firstfruits

This weeks Pastor's Ponderings could not have come at a more timely season of my life. I have been given the opportunity to financially support the child, Yodalis Florentino, that I have been a writing sponsor of for the past couple years. My original thought was, "No way! I have no income. I am still seeking employment. I don't have enough. My car is dying (it's not even in driving condition right now). I do want some money in savings. I am about to go on COBRA. I don't have enough." And then shortly after that, I felt a tug in my heart saying, "You have plenty. I have given you all that you have and I continue to bless you. You will be provided for." Below is a snip-it from the Pastor's Ponderings found in First Press.

I recently read of a missionary who heard a knock on the door of the hut he occupied in Africa. When he answered, he found one of the native boys holding a large fish in his hands. The boy said, "Reverend, you taught us what tithing is, so here--I've brought you my tithe." As the missionary gratefully took the fish, he questioned the young lad, "If this is your tithe, where are the other nine fish?" At this the boy beamed and said, "Oh, they're still back in the river. I'm going back to catch them now."

I too have nine more fish to go catch. I am ready to give my firstfruits to Yodalis to watch him grow and flourish, as a child of God. I am going to trust that God will continue to provide for me.

"We make a living by what we get, but we make a life by what we give"
Winston Churchill

Heart of Texas Triathlon #3

I completed my second triathlon this morning--a sprint tri. I was number 100, the last person to start. Ashley, who works for the race director, gave me a smiley face on my arm. She was excited for the double 0's. :)

Swim--300 meters, I cut my last swim time by 2 minutes and I actually passed one person in the pool.
Bike--12 miles
Run--2 miles, I was amazed at how fast I ran these two miles!

The triathlon was fun and I enjoyed the challenge!

Kathleen, myself, and Anna
(We run in the same club!)


I am on the far left, my running coach, John, behind myself, and then Kate, another friend from the running club.

Holy, Holy, Holy

How many times have you read and heard the scripture, Proverbs 3:5-6? If you're like me, you've seen it and heard it more times than you can count.

Proverbs 3:5-6
"Trust in the Lord with all your heart And do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, And He will make your paths straight."

I've read my bible, in fact, I've read these words many times, as well as the scripture following, but last night, in conversation with a friend, I stopped and went, "Whoa!" This is awesome!

Proverbs 3:7-8
"Do not be wise in your own eyes; Fear the Lord and turn away from evil. It will be healing to your body And refreshment to your bones."

Romans 5:3-5
"We also exult in our tribulations, knowing that tribulation brings about perseverance, proven character; and proven character hope; and hope does not disappoint, because the love of God has been poured out within our heart through the Holy Spirit who was given to us."

This past year has brought on trials and tribulations, and I have tried to follow the wisdom brought forth in Proverbs 3:5-6; trust and acknowledge Him. As I reflect on my past year, I know God is faithful! My physical body continues to heal, and day after day I am becoming more whole and refreshed again.

Holy, holy, holy! Though the darkness hide Thee,
Though the eye of sinful man Thy glory may not see;
Only Thou art holy; there is none beside Thee,
Perfect in pow’r, in love, and purity.
Holy, Holy, Holy

Purpose

From heaven He came and sought her to be His holy Bride; with His own blood he bought her and for her life He died...One holy name she blesses, partakes one holy food, and to one hope she presses with every grace endued.
The Church's One Foundation

Two thoughts come to mind--what beautiful imagery, and I love the unity!

On a different note, Ephesians 2:10 coupled with Isaiah 43:7 gives us our purpose in life--to glorify Godhead! I love how God uses His word both throughout the OT and NT to teach us.

"For we are His workmanship created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand so that we would walk in them."
Ephesians 2:10

"Everyone who is called by My name, And whom I have created for My glory, Whom I have formed even whom I have made."
Isaiah 43:7

Heart of Texas Triathlon #2

I competed in my first triathlon this morning. My running coach is the race director, and I thought it would be fun to try out. I've wanted to compete in a tri for quite a few years now, but have never done it. A friend from my running club, Kathleen, allowed me to borrow a bike, as mine is a mountain bike, and I could not ride my mountain bike as fast as I could one of hers. In fact, yesterday, I went over and rode three different bikes, determining which bicycle to borrow for the event. Thanks Kathleen for your generosity! :)

Before the race I was quite nervous. I was thankful for Kathleen's help, encouragement, and explanations of everything going on, how to handle it, and what to expect. She's an experienced triathlete. She helped me park the bike, put the towel down, take the bike for inspection, register, and everything else a person does in order to prepare.

I do not own a tri-suit, nor am I making an investment, so I felt kind of silly to say the least in my bikini bottom and sports bra, but at least they matched and it worked quite well for my purposes.

I was the very last person to start...number 115, as per my request. I know I am not a strong swimmer, or not anymore at least. Our swim was short, 300 meters, which took me 13 minutes! Swimmers started every 20 seconds. Number 105 went off, and then I had to wait, 20 seconds, 20 seconds, etc. until Number 115 was called. The people in between did not show up. I waited nervously for my number to be called so that I could start. And I started way too fast. After 50 meters, I was worn out. You swim up and down the lane, and then under the lane, and up and down the next lane. This goes on for six laps. The swim was tough for me, and I wasn't sure I wanted to even finish half way through them swim. Thank God for encouraging people all throughout!

When I finished swimming, I looked at my watch and kind of laughed at how bad I was. The next two parts were by far, my fav! I love riding and running, so with flip flops on my feet, I walked across the grass, took off the flip flops, put on my shorts, shirt, socks, and shoes, and helmet, and was ready to ride. The ride was 10 miles. It was relatively easy--I even passed some people! Wahoo!

After riding, I took off my helmet, placed my bike on the rack, and started to run. Wow! That was the hardest run I have ever done! The first 1/4 mile I was trying not to fall over and trip. No wonder people say that bike to run is difficult. I kept a nice clip on my run. I was surprised that I had ran the first mile in the 8's. I was able to pass a few more people on the run. The run was 2 miles, and I finished the entire race in 1:11:10. Surprisingly, I won an award. You can see a picture of the medal below. After the awards ceremony a group picture was taken, this picture will be on next weeks t-shirt. Guess I'm doing another tri!

As you can see, I am number 115. I am proudly wearing my medal!

The medal I won at my first triathlon!

Carrabba's Half Marathon Race

Race: Carrabba's Half Marathon Race
Distance: 13.1 miles
Goal Time: None
Actual Time: 02:08:27 (9:48 min/mi)

Mile 0: I looked for Emily, one of the girls I normally run and pace with, but did not see her. Oh well. On the other hand, I saw the girls relay group and military mens relay group from my club. I also saw Leroy, another one of the guys I run with. Since this race is chip time, I have no desire to start "on time" therefore, I waited a good 3.5-4 minutes before starting. This allowed people to go crazy fast, and other people to separate and move out of the way, as this race was quite crowded. I was able to run immediately and not start off walking or dodging people.

Loop 1: This was the longest of the four loops and I felt good upon completion. It was nice to be cheered on by John, one of the guys in my running club! In fact, he cheered me on for three of the four loops!

Loop 2: This loop went by relatively quickly and I was surprised in some ways when I had finished it. The longest "half" of the run was over, and I had finished in under an hour. I was pretty happy with my timing.

Loop 3: This was by far a challenging loop for me. I never really like mile 8. Even in training runs, they just don't seem to mesh with me.

Loop 4: Stopped for a restroom break. Wished I was a guy and could go anywhere. Alas, God has blessed me as a woman.

Finish: 2:08:27

My time is good, considering the heat and humidity here! I am pleased to have finished with that time and tomorrow I will do my first Triathlon.

Thank you letter

16 June 2010

Dear Friends:

When I first wrote you in December 2008, I asked for prayer concerning:

· That God would be glorified through my words and actions

· For opportunities to build Christ-centered relationships with students

I believed those prayers have been answered, although not in the way that I originally expected. I believe that God has been glorified through my words and actions. I have used opportunities afforded me to build Christ-centered relationships with students on the Westside of San Antonio. Thank you for your prayers that helped sustain me through this unexpected turn of events!

My passion for teaching high school mathematics remains and I look forward to being in the classroom again this fall. I am now interviewing for high school mathematics teaching positions in and near to San Antonio. I ask for your continued prayers that I will find a position soon. I look forward to expressing God’s love through teaching, and having an income allowing me to support other missionaries.

This year has been challenging emotionally, mentally, physically, and spiritually. My health has improved tenfold, and I am running long distances again. The doctors never came to a solid conclusion regarding my health issues. As much as I want answers, none have been forthcoming, despite pursuing the best medical minds available. I am glad to report that God is healing me.

I want to once again thank all of you who have supported me financially – both through one times gifts and the ongoing support I have received. When health issues forced my return to San Antonio, I was concerned that my support would dwindle, but instead I was continually blessed by your ongoing concern and support. This allowed me to redirect my mission efforts to San Antonio. Thank you! Please note: As of the end of June, I will no longer be employed by The Mission Society, so any support you send after the end of this month will go to support other missionaries.

If you would like more details about my ministry and life, please read my blog at http://fullafaith.blogspot.com, which I update frequently. My blog is to tell you and remind me of the great things that God is doing, both in my life, and around me!

God’s blessings!

Faith Thomson

Just a couple recent pics...

Ready for church! :)

Red Hat Society! I am under 50, therefore my colours are pink and lavender.
Clearly, I am not wearing lavender in this picture. I'll throw on the cardigan later.

Call to Confession

Every Sunday at church, we have a "Call to Confession." More recently, this time has become poignant in my Christian walk. I have posted part of Sundays prayer below:

We are grateful that you did not create the world and leave it to fend for itself. Thank you for reaching out in love to us. Forgive us for being complacent when we should have been diligent. Our commitment to you has been shallow...

After we pray as a congregation, we are given some time to spend in personal prayer and reflection. For years, I just kind of skipped over this part of church, it never really seemed that important. I find now that it is both healing and cleansing, and changes my mind frame for the duration of our worship service.

This weeks opening prayer for the First Cup readings is another great hymn...you can hear a rendition below. I was only able to find the contemporary version, which excludes the majority of the strong theology found in the hymn. I invite you to watch this video, and reflect on Christ and his commitment to each of us.

I hear the Saviour say, "Thy strength indeed is small! Child of weakness, watch and pray; Find in me thine all in all." For nothing good have I whereby Thy grace to claim--I will wash my garments white in the blood of Calvary's Lamb. And when before the throne I stand in Him complete, Jesus died my soul to save," my lips shall still repeat. Jesus paid it all, all to Him I owe; Sin had left a crimson stain--He washed it white as snow.