If we are the Body of Christ

Hi everyone! First I would like to tell you all that my family and I have finally made it to our summer home! We made it to Missouri safely and are somewhat moved in, (we were able to get Internet). We have already been to town and have been able to clean up a bit around the house, there is so much to do! I am really going to enjoy my time here!

So, the title of this article is, If We Are the Body of Christ. This is actually the name of a song I heard this evening on my newest Casting Crowns CD. You are probably hearing it now. It talks about how we (the body of Christ) aren't doing our job enough! We are supposed to be God's tools for evangelism to the world. When was the last time you talked to someone about Jesus Christ, or even just handed someone a bible tract at a gas station? We need to do our part, so many people are confused about Christianity because they aren't seeing God's peace, love, and grace through His servants. The world looks at us and makes an immediate judgment on us based on our dress, speech and actions. Are we accurately representing Jesus Christ to the world? As an example, I was shopping with my mother in a grocery store and two young girls about my age approached me. They both were interested in where I got my denim skirt, after talking a bit they told me they were Christian homeschoolers as well! But because of the short shorts and tight jeans alone, I never would have guessed we were on the same team! I have nothing against jeans that are practical, but when you look like you have had blue paint poured over yours legs, then I have an issue with jeans. For me, this song is very inspiring, it makes me want to really study my bible, pray, and try to be as Christ -like as possible. I can't change anyone but myself, the way the world see's me is up to one person. I have to make all the little decisions, such as: Humm, what shall I wear this morning? I could wear the brown skirt with the green blouse, or I could wear that old pair of blue jeans that are a tad bit tight then they used to be and that V neck T-shirt my aunt sent me? --- Ahww, good morning world! Should I just get myself ready for the day, or should I take a few moments to read my bible and pray? These are just a few examples of some of the tiny decisions we have make everyday. We (the body of Christ), are the little light bulbs of truth around the world, let's make each day count!!

May God give you grace to accurately represent Jesus Christ to the world through your actions!

God Bless,
Abigail Prudence

P.S. My calf muscles are all better! Thanks to all who prayed, next time I won't push myself too hard at the gym :)

The Patriarchal Vision

Hi everyone! I am sorry that it has taken me this long to write a post, I have been very busy with the move and all. Also, if I could request prayer for my legs. I seem to have injured them Thursday when I was at the gym running. So any prayer would be very much appreciated! Yesterday, I was going through the family books and came across something wonderful! The book is called, Poems for Patriarchs ~ compiled and edited by Douglas W. Phillips. And I wanted to post the first poem for you all, I was reading it last night and it touched my heart.

THE PATRIARCH

More noble than the valiant deeds of shining knights of yore,

More powerful than earthly plights that make the rich man poor,

More kingly than a royal throne or a lion with his pride,

Is he whose babes sleep well at night sure Daddy will provide.

There is a spirit in this land and Jezebel's her name.

She's calling you to leave your home for power, fun and fame.

She wants you wife, your children too - she'll never compromise,

Until your house is torn in two by listening to her lies.

But though a hundred thousand million men may fall prey to her lures,

And wives en masse leave home in search of "more fulfilling" chores,

Though preachers praise, and friends embrace, her pagan plan of death,

Stand strong and quit you like a man with every blessed breath.

Stand strong and rise, O man of God, to meet this noble call,

The battle is not new you see, it's been here since the Fall.

Your wife is your helpmeet, my friend, and not another man's,

So care for her and keep her far from Mistress Jezi's plans.

Protect, provide, and give to her your undivided life,

This is the dear one of your youth, your precious bride, your wife.

And rally to those tiny ones who trust you for their care-

A lifetime spent discipling them's a lifetime pure and rare.

For when they put their hand in yours and know a Daddy's love,

You're showing them a picture of the Father from above.

Look not toward worldly goal or gain, or for your liberty,

Look only into their sweet eyes to find your ministry.

Devote your heart and sacrifice and make your manly mark-

There is none so great as he who finds his call as patriarch.

Douglas W. Phillips

May God Bless and keep you all, & may you all have wonderful summers!!!

Abigail Prudence