I have been reading the book Tortured For Christ, by Pastor Richard Wurmbrand, and have been made more aware of those suffering for the sake of following Christ. We may not be persecuted openly here in America, but we can certainly be in prayer for those who are. Here are two women who need our prayers (as of April 3, 2009).
Iran- Two Iranian Women Arrested and Held in "Notorious" Prison
On March 5, Marzieh Amirizadeh Esmaeilabad and Maryam Rustampoor were arrested by Iranian security forces and labeled "anti-government activists," according to Farsi Christian News Network (FCNN). Thirty year-old Marzieh and 27-year-old Maryam are being held at Evin Prison, which is notorious for treating women badly. "Both women are allowed just a one minute telephone call everyday to their immediate families. Both are unwell and in need of urgent medical attention," FCNN reported.
During their last call on March 28, Mazieh said that she was suffering from an infection and high fever. She said, "I am dying." Marzieh and Maryam's apartment was searched and their belongings were confiscated. "Their only crime is that they are committed Christians who follow the teachings of Jesus," FCNN added. " They are being unfairly labeled as 'anti government activists' because of the hostility of the government towards practicing Christians." The women have reportedly been interrogated numerous times and were held in three different police detention centers before being sent to Evin Prison. FCNN reported an exorbitant bail amount of US$ 400,000 has been set even though Marzieh and Maryam's families have been told on numerous occasions that a judge is not available to discuss the case.
Marzieh and Maryam's arrest is the latest incident highlighting increased government intimidation of Christians in Iran. Believers are subjected to surveillance, arrests, imprisonment, and sometimes torture. The Voice of the Martyrs encourages you to pray for the immediate release of Marzieh and Maryam. Ask God to heal, encourage and protect them. Pray they will continue to stand for Christ during this difficult time.
Saturday, April 25, 2009
Tuesday, April 21, 2009
Kids' Carnival Report
Saturday went well! There was a good crowd of children and helpers. It looked like everyone was having fun. The puppeteers did two performances; the first one was well attended since the kids were waiting to eat their lunch after the puppets. It was a beautiful day so many activities were outside as well. What a blessing for all!
Thursday, April 16, 2009
Carnival For Special Needs Children
This Saturday Joni & Friends of Southern Oregon is hosting the annual luncheon for mothers of children with special needs. Mothers will be treated to an elegantly served lunch, an inspirational program, and a gift basket overflowing with goodies and gifts, while the children will be treated to a fun carnival packed full of games, activities, food, and puppets. The Living Faith Puppeteers, of Faith Presbyterian Church, will be ministering the gospel to the children through their puppets. Please pray for a good day for all, and that many would look to the the Lord who sees and knows the challenges that we all face. He is the One who gives lasting hope!
Saturday, April 11, 2009
Happy Easter!
Now after the Sabbath, as the first day of the week began to dawn, Mary Magdalene and the other Mary came to see the tomb. And behold, there was a great earth quake; for an angel of the Lord descended from heaven, and came and rolled back the stone from the door, and sat on it. His countenance was like lightning, and his clothing as white as snow. And the guards shook for fear of him, and became like dead men. But the angel answered and said to the women, "Do not be afraid, for I know that you seek Jesus who was crucified. He is not here; for He is risen, as He said. Come, see the place where the Lord lay. And go quickly and tell His disciples that He is risen from the dead, and indeed He is going before you into Galilee; there you will see Him. Behold, I have told you." So they went out quickly from the tomb with fear and great joy, and ran to bring His disciples word. Matthew 28:1-8
Do you ever wonder why God chose women to find out first about the resurrection? We might be tempted to believe that it's because women are superior to men, or women somehow have special privileges with God. But with other scriptures in view, this cannot be the reason.This is what John Calvin says in his commentary on Matthew:
"He began with the women, and not only presented himself to be seen by them, but even gave them a commission to announce the gospel to the apostles, so as to become their instructors. This was intended, first, to chastise the indifference of the apostles, who were like persons half-dead with fear, while the women ran with alacrity to the sepulcher, and likewise obtained no ordinary reward. For though their design to anoint Christ, as if Ire were still dead, was not free from blame, still he forgave their weakness, and bestowed on them distinguished honor, by taking away from men the apostolic office, and committing it to them for a short time. In this manner also he exhibited an instance of what Paul tells us, that he chooses those things which are foolish and weak in the world to abase the loftiness of the flesh. And never shall we be duly prepared to learn this article of our faith in any other manner than by laying aside all pride, and submitting to receive the testimony of the women. Not that our faith ought to be confined within such narrow limits, but because the Lord, in order to make trial of our faith, determines that we shall become fools, before he admits us to a more ample knowledge of his mysteries."
"He began with the women, and not only presented himself to be seen by them, but even gave them a commission to announce the gospel to the apostles, so as to become their instructors. This was intended, first, to chastise the indifference of the apostles, who were like persons half-dead with fear, while the women ran with alacrity to the sepulcher, and likewise obtained no ordinary reward. For though their design to anoint Christ, as if Ire were still dead, was not free from blame, still he forgave their weakness, and bestowed on them distinguished honor, by taking away from men the apostolic office, and committing it to them for a short time. In this manner also he exhibited an instance of what Paul tells us, that he chooses those things which are foolish and weak in the world to abase the loftiness of the flesh. And never shall we be duly prepared to learn this article of our faith in any other manner than by laying aside all pride, and submitting to receive the testimony of the women. Not that our faith ought to be confined within such narrow limits, but because the Lord, in order to make trial of our faith, determines that we shall become fools, before he admits us to a more ample knowledge of his mysteries."
Friday, March 27, 2009
Pride and Prejudice
The way I got hooked on Austen was through Pride and Prejudice. My sister-in-law had been telling us all about it and encouraging me to read it until I finally decided to try it and see what all the fuss was about. :) Needless to say I got hooked!
Pride and Prejudice is the story of the Bennet sisters. The story opens on the exciting news that a new bachelor is in town and Mrs. Bennet is "thinking of his marrying one of them [the sisters]." Unfortunately things do not go quite according to Mrs. Bennet's plan, at first.
The said bachelor is a Mr. Bingley who brings with him his two sisters, brother-in-law, and a friend named Mr. Darcy. My first thought of Darcy was that he was a creep and a villain, but soon my opinion was changed. I won't say how, you'll have to read this story for yourself! We are at first only interested in Jane Bennet (the oldest sister) and her prospects for a husband but gradually the story shifts to Elizabeth Bennet and her prospects.
The main character is Elizabeth Bennet and we see the actions of others through her eyes, and only perceive what is happening by what Elizabeth knows. She believes herself capable of understanding and interpreting people and events and if she doesn't, then she just attempts to laugh off her mistakes for "Follies and nonsense , whims and inconsistencies , do divert me, I own, and I laugh at them whenever I can."
Another character I have to mention is Mr. Collins. He is the prime example in this book of Austen's witty style. Collins is a clergymen and the Bennet girls' cousin, and as such "I feel it my duty to promote and establish the blessing of peace in all families within the reach of my influence; and on these grounds I flatter myself that my present overtures of good will are highly commendable, and that the circumstance of my being in the entail of Longbourn estate will be kindly overlooked on your side, and not lead you to reject the offered olive branch." As it can be seen, Collins is full of himself which makes it all the more entertaining when he receives the talking to that he deserves.
The fun comes in conversation between characters. It shows how wrong some people can be when they are holding onto their pride, or are prejudiced. In the end we get to laugh right along with Elizabeth and not only at others, but at herself as well.
Pride and Prejudice is the story of the Bennet sisters. The story opens on the exciting news that a new bachelor is in town and Mrs. Bennet is "thinking of his marrying one of them [the sisters]." Unfortunately things do not go quite according to Mrs. Bennet's plan, at first.
The said bachelor is a Mr. Bingley who brings with him his two sisters, brother-in-law, and a friend named Mr. Darcy. My first thought of Darcy was that he was a creep and a villain, but soon my opinion was changed. I won't say how, you'll have to read this story for yourself! We are at first only interested in Jane Bennet (the oldest sister) and her prospects for a husband but gradually the story shifts to Elizabeth Bennet and her prospects.
The main character is Elizabeth Bennet and we see the actions of others through her eyes, and only perceive what is happening by what Elizabeth knows. She believes herself capable of understanding and interpreting people and events and if she doesn't, then she just attempts to laugh off her mistakes for "Follies and nonsense , whims and inconsistencies , do divert me, I own, and I laugh at them whenever I can."
Another character I have to mention is Mr. Collins. He is the prime example in this book of Austen's witty style. Collins is a clergymen and the Bennet girls' cousin, and as such "I feel it my duty to promote and establish the blessing of peace in all families within the reach of my influence; and on these grounds I flatter myself that my present overtures of good will are highly commendable, and that the circumstance of my being in the entail of Longbourn estate will be kindly overlooked on your side, and not lead you to reject the offered olive branch." As it can be seen, Collins is full of himself which makes it all the more entertaining when he receives the talking to that he deserves.
The fun comes in conversation between characters. It shows how wrong some people can be when they are holding onto their pride, or are prejudiced. In the end we get to laugh right along with Elizabeth and not only at others, but at herself as well.
Monday, March 23, 2009
Today is a Day of Celebration
Our granddaughter/niece, Tovia Ann, is one years old today! We are in awe as we think back to a year ago when she was born premature and was in the NICU for 2 months. We thank the Lord for His care and her growth over this last year. She is a walking (crawling) miracle! Her life will always declare that our God is good and gracious! We also remember her sister, Anastacia Ruth, who died, quite probably, so that Tovia could live. She is a picture of true frienship and love. It will be a joyous reunion when we join her in our heavenly home! We have a great God who hears our cries for help and He comes to the rescue!
"Make a joyful shout to the Lord, all you lands! Serve the Lord with gladness; come before His presence with singing. Know that the Lord, He is God; it is He who has made us, and not we ourselves; we are His people and the sheep of His pasture. Enter into His gates with thanksgving, and into His courts with praise. Be thankful to Him, and bless His name. For the Lord is good; His mercy is everlasting, and His truth endures to all generations." Psam 100
"Make a joyful shout to the Lord, all you lands! Serve the Lord with gladness; come before His presence with singing. Know that the Lord, He is God; it is He who has made us, and not we ourselves; we are His people and the sheep of His pasture. Enter into His gates with thanksgving, and into His courts with praise. Be thankful to Him, and bless His name. For the Lord is good; His mercy is everlasting, and His truth endures to all generations." Psam 100
Thursday, March 19, 2009
Get Hooked on Austen: Emma
As the story opens in the Woodhouse parlor, we read of sorrow mixed with joy as Emma, a young lady almost 21 yrs old, tries to console her father. Miss Taylor, Emma’s governess, has recently married and Mr. Woodhouse laments that it is a dreadful event. Emma, though she will miss her governess and best friend, comforts her father with the thought that they will still see her quite often. Her father, not liking change, cannot be consoled because “Miss Taylor” is now “Mrs. Weston.” Skillfully interweaving many characters into her novels, Jane Austen keeps the reader engaged. Emma is no exception.
Copious characters, in Emma, are promptly placed so the reader must be keenly aware to keep them all straight. I have to admit that I needed a “cheat sheet” to help me when I first read Emma. I was at first confused because “Emma” was sometimes called by her first name, and at other times by her last name, “Miss Woodhouse.” This was done with some of the other people too. It helped me to write down characters as they were added and I kept the list in the book so I could refer to it. Consequently, toward the middle of the narrative I no longer needed my cheat sheet. So keep that in mind, if you are easily confused like me.
At the beginning of the story, the “handsome” Emma is self assured, claiming that she is the one who is responsible for Miss Taylor and Mr. Weston meeting and encouraging the commitment. Having this accomplishment in mind, she states that other couples might need her help in matchmaking also. Fervently, Mr. Knightley, a close family friend, warns her against interfering and her father adamantly counsels her that matches “are silly things, and break up one’s family circle grievously.” With Austen’s wit and sometimes humor, the reader is drawn into the various struggles in which Emma finds herself. At the novel’s conclusion, she has flourished into a wiser more mature woman.
One of my favorite characters is Emma’s father. Although he is a friendly, hospitable man, he has a propensity of fretting about a variety of things such as: drafts in the house, the food people eat, or the weather. Emma, having a bright, happy personality, adores her dear papa and respectfully tries to cheer him when he starts to worry. I can picture Mr. Woodhouse sitting in an overstuffed chair with a blanket over his spindly legs exclaiming, “…But surely, Mr. Churchill, nobody would think of opening the windows at Randalls. Nobody could be so imprudent! I never heard of such a thing. Dancing with open windows! I am sure neither your father nor Mrs. Weston would suffer it.” I couldn’t help but smile as I read Mr. Woodhouse’s concerns.
The reader will certainly learn some valuable lessons from Emma. In Peter Leithart’s book, Miniatures & Morals he states, “Perhaps the most Christian novel Austen wrote, Emma is concerned with the relation of charity and truth; it is about ‘speaking the truth in love,’ or more precisely, about truth-speaking as the path to love.” Remarkably, one noble character, no matter how difficult, does speak the truth in love; while in contrast, the society all around is habitually trying to play its part, which is often a lie. I highly recommend Emma. There is so much to take in and enjoy. Read it and get hooked on Austen!
Copious characters, in Emma, are promptly placed so the reader must be keenly aware to keep them all straight. I have to admit that I needed a “cheat sheet” to help me when I first read Emma. I was at first confused because “Emma” was sometimes called by her first name, and at other times by her last name, “Miss Woodhouse.” This was done with some of the other people too. It helped me to write down characters as they were added and I kept the list in the book so I could refer to it. Consequently, toward the middle of the narrative I no longer needed my cheat sheet. So keep that in mind, if you are easily confused like me.
At the beginning of the story, the “handsome” Emma is self assured, claiming that she is the one who is responsible for Miss Taylor and Mr. Weston meeting and encouraging the commitment. Having this accomplishment in mind, she states that other couples might need her help in matchmaking also. Fervently, Mr. Knightley, a close family friend, warns her against interfering and her father adamantly counsels her that matches “are silly things, and break up one’s family circle grievously.” With Austen’s wit and sometimes humor, the reader is drawn into the various struggles in which Emma finds herself. At the novel’s conclusion, she has flourished into a wiser more mature woman.
One of my favorite characters is Emma’s father. Although he is a friendly, hospitable man, he has a propensity of fretting about a variety of things such as: drafts in the house, the food people eat, or the weather. Emma, having a bright, happy personality, adores her dear papa and respectfully tries to cheer him when he starts to worry. I can picture Mr. Woodhouse sitting in an overstuffed chair with a blanket over his spindly legs exclaiming, “…But surely, Mr. Churchill, nobody would think of opening the windows at Randalls. Nobody could be so imprudent! I never heard of such a thing. Dancing with open windows! I am sure neither your father nor Mrs. Weston would suffer it.” I couldn’t help but smile as I read Mr. Woodhouse’s concerns.
The reader will certainly learn some valuable lessons from Emma. In Peter Leithart’s book, Miniatures & Morals he states, “Perhaps the most Christian novel Austen wrote, Emma is concerned with the relation of charity and truth; it is about ‘speaking the truth in love,’ or more precisely, about truth-speaking as the path to love.” Remarkably, one noble character, no matter how difficult, does speak the truth in love; while in contrast, the society all around is habitually trying to play its part, which is often a lie. I highly recommend Emma. There is so much to take in and enjoy. Read it and get hooked on Austen!
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