What a weekend!

I feel exhausted!  Last week I was averaging about 5 hours of sleep every night, all because I was trying to get ready for  my very first show.  Well, it was at a Women's Outreach event for the East Central District of the Missionary Church.  It went well and I had a lot of fun!  A dozen sales and lots of affirmation!  I'm tired, though... and with that, I am now fighting a cold.  Runny/stuffy nose, sinus headache, and fatigue. 

I know I've been neglecting this blog lately, and I wish I had a good excuse.  But really... I've been wanting to share some of my current thoughts... so here it goes...

Most of you know that I am a "pastor's wife"...whatever that means.  And some of you know that I don't really fit the stereotypical mold of a pastor's wife.  I like to connect with people, but I don't naturally make myself available.  I think that's why some people tell me that I might seem unattached, or even intimidating, to people.  I don't mean to give out that vibe.  But I do love people, and I love my church family.  I also don't seem to feel obligated to "get involved" and plug into every ministry opportunity, just because the need is there.  I strongly believe in utilizing our spritual gifts as the Spirit leads and according to what gift we were each given.

So... what am I hearing from God lately?  Since attending that outreach even this past Saturday, I am feeling a little tug about getting involved in some kind of women's ministry.  I never ever thought I would ever say that!  Women's ministry?  Me?  Really??  I keep trying to neglect that little tug... "nah... it's not my thing".  But our church doesn't really have a formal women's ministry in place, and I'm seeking the Lord for more direction.  I'm also praying that God would guide me to some other women with whom I could be working along side. 

On the other hand... there's the youth.  I have been working with adolescents since... early college years... some 12+ years.  Joel and I have been leading the youth Bible studies at our home, but lately I've been sensing that there's more to it than that.  Yesterday I had a hard but honest conversation with Joel, who reminded me that my "call" to the youth needs to be more about investing my life into theirs.  It's about discipling them, in an "organic" type of way.  Spending time with them, showing up for their activities, praying with them, taking them along to run errands, etc...  That is what Jesus did, he spent time with His children, with his disciples.  He told stories, he challenged them along the road, and he encouraged them to pray, to love, to worship, and to ultimately share God's love to others. 

Ok, this is starting to get long... So, please pray with me as I seek the Lord for direction. 

Helen's Corner is certainly a great avenue to share my love for God's Word with others, and I was reminded (and affirmed) that my work is only in the beginning stages.  There's potential and much room to grow! 

So, HOW do I put all of these things together, for HIS glory???

Thank you everyone, for your continued words of encouragement!  I'll try to be better about letting you all into my world.  And I haven't forgotten about my next GIVEAWAY... don't worry!  It's coming!!!

See ya!