Tell a story about a time when being obedient to God's call
brought an unexpected reward.
(Our stories paraphrased)
Our minister at the time was up front, during announcements, practically begging for anyone to volunteer as a leader for a community-wide Vacation Bible School. As he spoke, on and on, I suddenly thought: "He's talking to me! God is talking to me!" And that's what it was. I did it and we had over 500 children at all the different churches in Fort Thomas, different ages met each place. I met so many people of faith from the other churches that I would never have connected with. We are still friends after all these years.
When I applied to go on the Woman to Woman trip to Africa, I heard about the obligation I would have to go on tour afterwards and share my experiences in talks at various churches. It terrified me but I just kept hoping it would never materialize. But it did. I went to church after church, living one of my worst fears--public speaking. My good friend, helping me prepare and deal with my anxiety for one of the early presentations said: "You know, you won't believe this now, but one of these times, you're going to have fun." I thought she was crazy. But I did! I had fun and I met new friends. I got to share my stories and experiences with the women who supported me and sent me on the trip. I can't wait to see some of these women again at Quadrennial!
(Our responses paraphrased)
Sometimes you do have to "fake it 'til you make it." As a teacher, sometimes I would feel just awful with a headache or a just a rough day. I would turn around and there would be all those faces just looking at me, waiting for what's next. Well, if I act like a creep, they will, too. That's for sure. You just have to act differently and it can even help you feel better once you get into it.
When I wake up with MS in the mornings, my body and mind are at war. I know it's time to get going. I want to get going. But my body wants to stay right there. I have to go back to my breath and start there. I tell myself, "You can breathe, so breathe. Thank God. You can breathe." That's where I start.
How does it change our attitude, knowing that God's presence is with us in every situation? That power is always available, always accessible?
(Our responses paraphrased)
Sometimes, we just want control. It's hard to let go and let God take hold of it.
The busier we get, the easier it is to lose sight of that, to not realize that we are holding on to the control. Because when we are busy, doing a lot, we have to organize so carefully just to get it all done. The more that is added on, the more we organize and that organizing becomes us trying to control the situation.
All responses are paraphrases of the original and were used with permission. If you do not see your response and would like to, or if you would like us to edit your response to reflect your thoughts more accurately, please e-mail it to Rev. Lisa to post. Thanks!
