Going Green!

Allen brought home a new book a couple of months ago with the title, "Serve God, Save the Planet." I was a little skeptical at first I guess because I figured the author was probably one of those tree hugger types and it would make me feel bad to even read the book because we are so far from that. I can't say there's not the tiniest bit of truth in that statement...but not enough to keep me from recommending this book.

The author's name is J.Matthew Sleeth and he comes from the perspective of a doctor that used to work in the E.R. and started seeing some medical conditions actually caused by environmental issues. I didn't even know this existed besides like asthma or allergies. Although that's not the main tenant of the book, his background does set the stage for what he set out to discover.

He simply and eloquently shows scriptural evidence for why we should be better stewards of our planet and gives basic steps in how to do it. I appreciated the book because he comes from the perspective of one who used to live in a huge house and accumulate huge masses of trash to now one who lives in a house that is the size of his former garage and his family only produces one plastic grocery bag of trash a week!

He doesn't look down on those that live the way he used to, he just gives simple, everyday steps to becoming more green, like: running the dishwasher only when full and without a heated dry, running the dryer as little as possible and line drying when the weather is nice, conserving gas by combining trips, cooking two casseroles at once, recycling, using less paper (plates, napkins, cups), buying things with less packaging, etc.

I'll leave you with an excerpt from the book.

He talked about the changes they made in their home and commented,

"Because of these changes, we have more time for God. Spiritual concerns have filled the void left by material ones. Owning fewer things has resulted in things no longer owning us. We have put God to the test, and we have found his Word to be true. He has poured blessings and opportunities upon us. When we stopped living a life dedicated to consumerism, our cup began to run over. We have seen miracles."

The workbook is available online at: Workbook

The website is: Serve God, Save the Planet

A Way to Serve

For the Bryan/College Stationites/Living Hopers who read this blog, here's a great opportunity:

Host families are still needed for the Athletes in Action Women's Basketball girls who are coming in town for training. I spoke with Jenn Jones and she said they are still in need of 5 or 6 homes for girls.

If you have a bed they can sleep in, you are qualified! All you have to provide is a bed, somewhere to wash clothes, and meals.

These girls are training so that they can travel to Taiwan and serve on missions projects there. This is a great way to show hospitality to those in the body.

"Share with God's people who are in need. Practice hospitality." Romans 12:13

If you are interested the dates are July 1-8 and let me know so I can get you Jenn's number. Thank you for serving our body so faithfully!

A Taylor Joy Update

Since this is what most of you wait for anyway, here goes...

Taylor thinks laughing is the MOST fun...she seriously just "ha ha's and ho ho's" all day long. It is her favorite thing to do and it's really hilarious.

She is also attempting so many words and sounds. She tries to say Taylor and she says, "tay tay". She also tries to roar like a lion and baa like a lamb among other things.

Yesterday she put her hand on my Bible and clear as day said, "bible." I was pretty floored but excited that she knows what it is!

This girl LOVES books! I seriously read books to her all day and if you ever come over that's all you have to do to keep her entertained. She loves them and walks around with her books saying, "booh booh!" No "k" at the end, which is the case with many of her words.

We have had some issues with fits and tantrums and even hitting but just have to trust that we are doing the right thing for her by discipling that kind of behavior and selfishness. Afterwards I hug her and tell her that I love her and that's why I discipline her. The Bible says that, "The Lord disciplines those He loves" and I repeat that to her too. I know she's young, but she definitely knows better and knows she's done something wrong after it happens. It really doesn't happen often, but she has her days for sure.

Another of her most favorite things to do is push her baby stroller around the house. It is a funny sight to see! She readjusts baby every couple of seconds and baby gets tossed in on her head, upside down, backwards, you name it! Thanks to Anika and Ariana for such a great gift! She loves it!

We are approaching 13 months! What a big girl! She is so much fun!

Worth a Listen...

New Attitude Conference Sermons

These are definitely worth a listen. I've had a chance to listen to a few and so far they have been AMAZING! They are from the Sovereign Grace Ministries' New Attitude conference with speakers like Josh Harris, John Piper, Mark Dever, etc.

I also have one by C.J. Mahaney called, "The Soul of Modesty" that I bought if anyone wants a copy or to borrow my ipod for a day. It addresses some things that will benefit anyone: husbands, wives, the modest, the immodest, the "I think I'm being modest, but I'm not sure", the friends of those who may need some help, and everyone in between.

Please let me know!

While I am recommending these resources, they have a children's CD that is so precious! I downloaded it for Taylor and they are her favorite songs with SUCH great messages. Your children will really enjoy them!