tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-100419572024-03-12T21:55:07.752-04:00Driven by a PassionJude 22 "And some having compassion, making a difference."Jessica & Justinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05902819543422860664noreply@blogger.comBlogger56125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10041957.post-44688807652655262972017-03-09T22:44:00.000-05:002017-03-09T22:44:26.121-05:00More Lenten meditationsIts been a few days since I posted but I am still trying to be intentional about this Lent season. It has been increasingly hard for me to abstain from Facebook. I feel like I am missing out on something, that i dont know what is going on in peoples lives, or that scrolling through my news feed gives me something to pass the time while waiting for an appointment. Regardless, it is clear that it was a good choice for Lent.<br />
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As far as the past few days, on Monday we decorated our mite box to collect money for the children of Malawi. I showed Adam a video on youtube of children in Malawi so he could get an idea of what life was like in that country, and see the poverty that exists. In the middle of video, he said, "mom, pause the video right now." And then he got up, ran into the other room and came back with his piggy bank. He then said, Mom, they need dollars, not just change. They need to have a playground." It was pretty incredible to see his heart moved so clearly. He told Justin that he needed to put money in our mite box, because those kids need electricity and to go to school. It made my happy to see that genuine empathy and I hope that continues to grow. The following day, we were praying at bedtime, and I asked if he would like to add a prayer for someone special. He prayed for the children in Malawi, that they would have playgrounds, electricity and could go to school. <br />
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Today was a busy day. We had open house at Adam's school tonight, so I wasnt sure what if anything I could do today. However after talking with Adam's teacher this evening; I thought of a simple way to show care to her. I asked about spring break plans and she mentioned that they were not going anywhere, because her husband has to work. She said that she was fine with that because she doesnt get to spend alot of time with her kids (who are 7 and 2) and was hoping to just enjoy her time off with them. As a fellow working mom, I understand the feeling of not feeling present enough with your kids, however it must be especially hard to take care of other peoples children all day, when you would love to be with your own kids instead. Regardless, being a mom is hard, being a mom to little kids is hard, and being a working mom of little kids is even harder. So as i was at Whole foods picking up some things for work tomorrow. I noticed the frozen yogurt shop next door. I went in and purchased a gift card and included a note to send to her in Adam's folder tomorrow, which is the last tday of school before spring break.Jessica & Justinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05902819543422860664noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10041957.post-43769834633050223642017-03-05T13:54:00.001-05:002017-03-05T13:54:25.700-05:00Yesterday, I had the opportunity to join some women from my church at our annual womens retreat. It was held at Camp Crucis (a little over an hour away) and was taking place Friday-Sunday. I wasnt able to go down on Friday, but left Saturday morning to join the group for the day. This was something that I was a little anxious about at first, although Im not sure why. I think it was related to past church experiences where I have struggled to feel welcomed or accepted by the women in the church. I know I have a lot of baggage from my spiritual journey, and sometimes I use that as an excuse to not get involved. However in the spirit of Lent, not only are you supposed to give something up, but also encouraged to add a new practice throughout the season. For me, this was an opportunity to do that. The ladies leading the retreat are ones that I admire and respect, and I felt this would be a good way to enrich my faith and learn from others.<br /><br />When I arrived they had already started the first session, and Cherie Bennett was leading a discussion on who God is. She contrasted different views on God (polytheism. deism, dualism, etc) and the roles he encompasses in our lives. We then broke up in small groups to study and discuss the story of the Samaritan woman at the well. The conversation in our group veered off the study for a bit, but it was a natural discussion of other women's journey to the church and Anglicanism as a whole. It was encouraging to see similarities in my own faith, and also to reflect on the interaction of Christ with this vulnerable woman. One thing that stood out to me that was shared was "sometimes we are called to reflect and be Jesus in the story, and sometimes we are to emulate the woman." Later in the day, Melissa Hatcher spoke about vulnerability and how it is required to build connections with others and with God. She shared some good insight from her therapy background and from scripture, and many small conversations followed. Although some veered from the overall message, it was refreshing to hear women of different generations and perspectives share together in an open manner. One of the reasons I had for choosing to give up facebook for Lent, was because it creates a false sense of connection with others, often neglecting real connection with others. Listening to and learning from these other ladies is something that i needed to experience to encourage my faith and push me out of my normal comfort zone. That vulnerability was a central theme of the day was ironic, as I frequently avoid that with others in order to protect myself.<br />
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Then this morning, we attended mass and led children's chapel. As expected the kids were a little rambunctious, but the gospel passage today was the temptation of Jesus in the wilderness after 40 days of fasting. We talked about Lent, and the kids had some funny responses, but we were able to share the differences between when Jesus by Satan and Adam was tempted by Jesus. And why that is significant. Im not sure whether the kids got it or will even remember it, but serving the church in this capacity is always a bit humbling. I am so thankful for the teachers and leaders in our faith communty that pour into our kids to teach them the traditions and beliefs of our faith. I love that childrens chapel is structured to reflect mass, so that when the kids go back into the service they know prayers of the people or what the collect is. I also love that Adam can quote the Lords prayer and says it loud and proud in the service.Jessica & Justinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05902819543422860664noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10041957.post-78669216947333073412017-03-03T17:16:00.000-05:002017-03-03T17:16:47.981-05:00Day 2 of LentenFor today's way to celebrate Lent, I focused on the community. As I mentioned in yesterdays post, this year has been very difficult. The political climate is extremely hostile, people are full of fear and hate, and many people are feeling less welcomed or valued in our country. The social worker part of me jumps into activism mode, marching at the Womens March, joining action committess and speaking out through social media. But one thing that i feel I have not done a good job of, is demonstrating those values on a more personal level. So today I decided to stop by the Muslim Community Center near us, take them some cookies, and to tell them that they are valued and appreciated. My orginal plan was to do this a few weeks ago, but of course life happened and I kept pushing it off. Then as I contemplated Lent, i thought this would be a perfect time to demonstrate my faith in action. As i drove to the center, I was surprised that I felt a little nervous. Mainly because i didnt want to sound stupid, and then start talking myself out of doing it. Like, its a Friday afternoon, there is probably no one there, I dont want to waste money on cookies that nobody will eat, etc. But as I turned the radio on, NPR was covering a story about the rise of animosity towards Muslim Americans. There was a call to action from a pastor saying that people need to reach out and connect with Muslims in thier communities to break the fear that currently exists. With this in my mind, I found a new local bakery to support, bought 1 dozen cookies and went to the center. As I imagined, there were only about 4 cars in the parking lot. I walked up to the buiding and went in, and there was 1 person (an intern) sitting at a table inside. I told her why I was there, and although many staff were gone for the day, she introduced me to the director. The director was very kind, thanked me for the cookies and got me some information about thier agency and services. She also asked for my card to follow up.<br /><br />It wasnt a groundbreaking experience, but i am glad I did it. It put me out of my comfort zone a little bit, and hopefully made their day better.<br />
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And on to tomorrow...Jessica & Justinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05902819543422860664noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10041957.post-3443795383077397782017-03-02T22:28:00.001-05:002017-03-02T22:28:27.381-05:00Lent 2017I am resurrecting this blog nearly 10 years after the last post. Things have definitely changed since that last entry. Most notably would be the addition of two little boys to our family, and of course new jobs and houses. My reason for jumping back into the blogging world is Lent. This year during the intense political climate we live in, my faith and belief in others has been strained. I have watched and heard things from other professed believers that have shocked and dismayed me. And i have gotten into far too many facebook debates that have left me frustrated and angry. And so for Lent this year, (yes we became Anglicans during the past 10 years as well) I decided to give up Facebook. I had been wasting too much time and energy on trying to educate and inform others about social issues they should care about and not enough time intentionally doing things for others and reflecting on my values and beliefs. So that is my goal this Lent season. To connect more with my family, those in my community, and even those I disagree with, in an attempt to live out my faith more intentionally. And because i have more time because I am not stalking random friends from high school, i thought i would blog about those experiences. So although I am already one day behind here goes....<br />
Today I wrote a letter to my grandma. That may not seem significant, but I rarely see her and unfortunately dont call her enough. We dont have much in common, but i know she loves to hear from her grand children and great grandchildren, and this is one thing i have neglected to do. So today, i wrote her a card saying that i love and care for her and giving her an update on our lives and the boys. Jessica & Justinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05902819543422860664noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10041957.post-1152311697067729232006-07-07T18:16:00.000-04:002006-07-07T18:34:57.086-04:00Some Colorado pics!So we got back a few weeks ago from our second vacation of the summer: Colorado! It was absolutely beautiful, the mountains still had some snow on them! We also got to go white water rafting! This was incredible & SO fun, even if I had to rescue my husband from falling into the rapids! <a href="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/6452/758/1600/colorado020.jpg"><img style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/6452/758/320/colorado020.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />All in all, we had an incredible time. My little sister got to come with us too and it was nice to catch up since it had been 6 months since I saw her. Well here are some pics, I hope you enjoy! <a href="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/6452/758/1600/colorado044.jpg"><img style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/6452/758/320/colorado044.jpg" border="0" /></a><a href="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/6452/758/1600/100_0632.jpg"><img style="CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/6452/758/320/100_0632.jpg" border="0" /></a>Jessica & Justinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05902819543422860664noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10041957.post-1149737706350849152006-06-07T23:07:00.000-04:002006-06-07T23:35:06.366-04:00We're BACK!!!Well Justin and I returned this weekend from our trip to Boston! We had a magnificent time and saw so much in the short time that we were there. It was also nice to hang out with our friends Ang and Karen who introduced to some new ethnic dining experiences as always. (Malaysian, Taiwanese, & Cantonese-Style Dim Sum)<br />Here are a few pics from our trip<br /><br />This is Trinity Church (amazing architecture inside & out) one of the oldest churches in Boston. Right next to the church is the new John Hancock building. This building was designed to allow the reflection of the church to appear on the side of the building as well as serve as a mirror image for the Old John Hancock building which is located on the other side. (However I must say that the John Hancock building in Chicago is much cooler) <br />. <a href="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/6452/758/1600/Boston%20trip034.jpg"><img style="CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/6452/758/320/Boston%20trip034.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><a href="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/6452/758/1600/Boston%20trip046.0.jpg"></a><br />This is my husband next to the tombstone of Samuel Adams. <a href="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/6452/758/1600/Boston%20trip046.0.jpg"><img style="CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/6452/758/320/Boston%20trip046.0.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />You can see that Justin is trying to look serious; he felt it was wrong to smile at a cemetery. Other famous people buried in this graveyard include John Hancock, Mother Goose, Paul Revere, and the 5 victims of the Boston Massacre.<br /><a href="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/6452/758/1600/Boston%20trip081.0.jpg"><img style="CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/6452/758/320/Boston%20trip081.0.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br />This is us at the beach on Cape Cod. This is such a beautiful area.<br /><a href="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/6452/758/1600/fountainpic.jpg"><img style="CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/6452/758/320/fountainpic.jpg" border="0" /></a>And lastly this is us in Paul Revere Mall. Its not really a mall more like a courtyard area with a fountain in front of the Old North Church. Its also located in the North End, which is the Italian district of Boston. A great area to eat, shop, and visit. And if you ever visit make sure to stop by the famous Mike's Pastries for a delicious cannoli!Jessica & Justinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05902819543422860664noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10041957.post-1147924069600351152006-05-17T23:36:00.000-04:002006-05-17T23:47:49.616-04:00Well...its official. It looks as though our time in Oklahoma may be coming to close. After completing his M.A. in philosophy at OU, Justin was denied acceptance into the PhD program. Although we have been preparing for this possibility, I never thought it would end up this way. Justin has worked so hard especially this past semester to prove himself, and has been told by many within the department that he is one of the better students in the program. However, for some reason it was not in God's plan for us and so begins the next adventure in our life...who knows where it will lead us?Jessica & Justinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05902819543422860664noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10041957.post-1144037533784698982006-04-02T23:55:00.000-04:002006-04-03T00:14:35.170-04:00We are going to BOSTON!<a href="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/6452/758/1600/boston.jpg"><img style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/6452/758/320/boston.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />BOSTON! Justin and I purchased our plane tickets this week to fly to Boston at the end of May! I am SO excited since I've never been there before and for some reason believe that I meant to be an east coast girl! Why is this? I dont know! I fell in love in with NYC when I was there, and there is something about the east coast that is so attractive to me. I dont know if its just the bustle of city life or simply the diversity that is so prevalent everywhere, but whatever the reason I cant wait to check out Boston!<br />I'm starting to make a list of things to see & do while we are there, and although we are staying with some friends (who I know will show us a good time) if you have any suggestions or recommendations on things to do, please leave a comment & let me know! <a href="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/6452/758/1600/OldNorthChurch.jpg"><img style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/6452/758/320/OldNorthChurch.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />One thing that I thought would be fun is to stand on the the steps of the Old North Church (See pic) and start quoting the poem "Paul Revere's Ride " that I had to learn in 5th grade! " <em>Listen my children and you shall hear of the midnight ride of Paul Revere....</em> What do you think?Jessica & Justinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05902819543422860664noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10041957.post-1141793718400689212006-03-07T23:48:00.000-05:002006-03-07T23:55:18.436-05:00The prayer of St. FrancisWhere there is hatred, let me sow love.<br />Where there is injury, pardon.<br />Where there is doubt, faith.<br />Where there is despair, hope.<br />Where there is darkness, light.<br />And where there is sadness, joy, O Divine Master, grant that I may not<br />so much seek to be consoled as to console<br />To be understood as to understand<br />To be loved as to love<br />For it is in giving that we recieve<br />It is in pardoning that we are pardoned<br />And it is dying that we are born into eternal life.<br />AmenJessica & Justinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05902819543422860664noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10041957.post-1141516005152072472006-03-04T18:28:00.000-05:002006-03-04T18:46:45.176-05:00My favorite hobby<a href="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/6452/758/1600/jenn&wendyvisit%20043.jpg"><img style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/6452/758/320/jenn%26wendyvisit%20043.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />Alrighty, so a couple of weeks ago my work threw a "stock the newlywed's pantry" shower for Justin and I. At this shower, they wanted to play a game to see how well we knew each other, so they asked me a series of questions while Justin was outside the room, and vice versa. One of the questions they asked Justin was "what is Jessica's favorite hobby?" Well, when they asked me what he said, I had no idea. I dont really have any cool hobbies. But what my husband told everyone was that my hobby was eating! Now when he said that, I was a little shocked. My initial response was that he was implying that i was a compulsive overeater. However, this is not what he meant. He explained this by saying that I love to try new foods/restaurants and simply enjoy good gourmet food.<br />As I thought about this, I realize that my husband knows me better than I know myself, because I truly do LOVE food! We both love to cook and since we've been married have tried out all sorts of styles of cooking. One of our favorites is fondue (we have 2 pots, and a fondue fountain....amazing!) and last night we experimented with sushi. I am attaching some pics so you can how it turned out. I was quite impressed with it. <a href="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/6452/758/1600/jenn&wendyvisit%20045.jpg"><img style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/6452/758/320/jenn%26wendyvisit%20045.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />Also for fun I'm attaching a picture of Justin with our chocolate fondue fountain. This has a been a wonderful addition to our family :) <a href="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/6452/758/1600/jenn&wendyvisit%20029.jpg"><img style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/6452/758/320/jenn%26wendyvisit%20029.jpg" border="0" /></a>Jessica & Justinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05902819543422860664noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10041957.post-1139597097247809592006-02-10T13:42:00.000-05:002006-02-10T13:44:57.246-05:002 month anniversary!!!It's been officially 2 months today that I've been married to the man of my dreams! :)<br />Yeah!<br /><br /><br />also....im not sure why the format on my blog went all crazy with my profile so far down on the right side....I will try to fix that when I have more time to mess around on my computer......Jessica & Justinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05902819543422860664noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10041957.post-1138685084202830122006-01-31T00:02:00.000-05:002006-01-31T00:24:44.226-05:00Mobile MonksThis past week Justin and I visited a small church plant here in Oklahoma City. The pastor of this church spoke of this concept of "mobile monks" and i thought it was a great description of how we as Christians should be living our lives. Daily spending hours in prayer and study of the scriptures, becoming "mini-theologians" by knowing what we believe, and then using that knowledge and living the biblical message out in our every day lives.<br /><br />Here is the quote the pastor used to illustrate this concept;<br /><br /><em><span style="font-family:lucida grande;">So, bottom line, this is what I want to see out of us over time: Depth with direction. Picture a monk in one those heavy, itchy brown robes...but with the best, lightest New Balance running shoes you can buy...Monks on the move. Deep thinking, deep feeling, deeply CHANGED men ( & women) . But they dont sit in a dark,damp monastery and chant and plant flowers all day. They MOVE OUT every day, all day with courage, character, and compassion into all the places God gives them to move--toward thier wives, thier children, thier co-workers, their neighbors, the least, the lonely, the widows, the orphans, to the ends of the earth...anything less and we will fall short of all that Christ Jesus saved us for and wants us to be. </span></em><br /><em></em><br /><em></em>Jessica & Justinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05902819543422860664noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10041957.post-1137040678124059182006-01-11T23:17:00.000-05:002006-02-18T23:41:10.630-05:00Sex offender gets 60 days in prisonI heard about this story as I was watching CNN tonight and I was completely appalled. In Vermont a judge handed down a 60 day sentence to an admitted sex offender. The defendant admitted to molesting and sodomizing a young girl for a period of 4 years. What is this judge thinking? I am still in shock that someone who is supposed to impose justice on criminals would make such a horrific decison and stand by it! I am posting the link to this story so that you can read more details, but the maximum penalty this man could have recieved was up to life in prison and yet the judge decided that it would be better for our society to have this man undergo treatment for his sexual perversions and then re-enter our communities!!<br />This really outrages me because every day i see the effects of sexual abuse on children. It is the single most devastating, traumatizing act that can be committed against a child and it is not punished severely enough in our nation. Im not sure why is it so hard for people to realize that these individuals can never be cured (look at all the statistics, nothing support the assumption that sexual predators are ever "cured" from their tendencies) and are huge risks to our children and families. Another thing to remember is that almost all of them are repeat offenders before they are ever caught. Why are we willing to risk our children's lives to give these people a second chance? They are criminals just like any other rapist or murderer, yet do we see judges saying that it is better for murderers to go through some sort of treatment just to re-enter our society within 60 days? In this case, it seems that the judge feels worse for the child molester than the innocent, helpless, victimized child. Why are we not more outraged about sexual abuse towards children?<br /><a href="http://www.boston.com/news/local/vermont/articles/2006/01/10/" page="'1">http://www.boston.com/news/local/vermont/articles/2006/01/10/ judge_cashman_defends_his_decision_to_impose_60_day_sentence/?page=1</a>Jessica & Justinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05902819543422860664noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10041957.post-1136653769832366952006-01-07T11:51:00.000-05:002006-01-07T12:09:29.856-05:00Its so hard to believe that it has already been 4 weeks since I became Mrs. Grace. I thought that it would have sinked in by now, but it just hasnt. I still sign my name Jessica Ballard as much as I try to remember not too. I still forget that every decision I make now effects him as well. I have a hard time saying husband and not fiance...<br />Its just a weird transistion from being the "single" girl to being a WIFE!<br />I hope this isnt taken wrong, because i LOVE my husband and I love being married..<br /> I love the fact that when I come home from work at night, Justin is waiting for me with dinner ready. He greets me with a kiss and listens to how my day went. (and let me tell you there have been some rough days the past week) He does so many little things that make me feel so special. From tucking me at night to setting the coffee pot to grind and brew when I get up for work. Maybe Im a simple girl, but these little things make me feel so loved.. Frequently I feel that I get the better end of the deal, but regardless God has definitely blessed me.<br />And although we are slowly adjusting to each other's quirks and ways of doing things and im sure in years to come these things will drive us both crazy, I still love knowing that I get to spend every day for the rest of my life with him. My best friend :)Jessica & Justinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05902819543422860664noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10041957.post-1135025064264090692005-12-19T15:43:00.000-05:002005-12-19T15:46:14.626-05:00The new Mr. and Mrs. Grace!!!<a href="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/6452/758/1600/gracewedding.0.jpg"><img style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/6452/758/320/gracewedding.0.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br />Arent we cute?Jessica & Justinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05902819543422860664noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10041957.post-1133473358797661162005-12-01T16:30:00.000-05:002005-12-01T16:42:38.813-05:00Our first home!!Today Justin and I signed the lease and picked up the keys for our new home together!!! It's really quite exciting to know that every night I will be coming home to my best friend! I cant wait to start decorating, get settled in, and begin our new life together! Oh and by the way, it is a 2 bedroom townhouse so we have plenty of room for visitors... ;)Jessica & Justinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05902819543422860664noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10041957.post-1133217268260253332005-11-28T17:32:00.000-05:002005-11-28T17:34:38.316-05:00Which theologian are you?<table cellspacing="'0'" cellpadding="'5'" width="'600'" border="'0'"><tbody><tr><td><img src="http://www.blogger.com/" /></td><td>You scored as <b>Anselm</b>. Anselm is the outstanding theologian of the medieval period.He sees man's primary problem as having failed to render unto God what we owe him, so God becomes man in Christ and gives God what he is due. You should read 'Cur Deus Homo?'<br /><br /><table cellspacing="'0'" cellpadding="'0'" width="'300'" border="'0'"><tbody><tr><td><p><span style="font-family:'Arial';font-size:78%;">Anselm</span></p></td><td><br /><br /><br /><br />Anselm<br />87%<br />Martin Luther<br />73%<br />John Calvin<br />73%<br />Karl Barth<br />67%<br />Friedrich Schleiermacher<br />60%<br />Jonathan Edwards<br />53%<br />J?Moltmann<br />53%<br />Augustine<br />47%<br />Paul Tillich<br />20%<br />Charles Finney<br />13%<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table></td></tr></tbody><br /></table>Jessica & Justinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05902819543422860664noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10041957.post-1131231299582710752005-11-05T17:52:00.000-05:002005-11-05T17:54:59.596-05:00Bono on the evangelical church todayI came across this interview with Bono in Rolling Stone and thought that it was interesting how he described the evangelical church in America today....<br /><em><strong><span style="font-size:85%;"></span></strong></em><br /><em><strong><span style="font-size:85%;">What do you think of the evangelical movement that we see in the United States now?<br /></span></strong></em><em><span style="font-size:85%;">I'm wary of faith outside of actions. I'm wary of religiosity that ignores the wider world. In 2001, only seven percent of evangelicals polled felt it incumbent upon themselves to respond to the AIDS emergency. This appalled me. I asked for meetings with as many church leaders as would have them with me. I used my background in the Scriptures to speak to them about the so-called leprosy of our age and how I felt Christ would respond to it. And they had better get to it quickly, or they would be very much on the other side of what God was doing in the world.<br />Amazingly, they did respond. I couldn't believe it. It almost ruined it for me -- 'cause I love giving out about the church and Christianity. But they actually came through: Jesse Helms, you know, publicly repents for the way he thinks about AIDS.<br />I've started to see this community as a real resource in America. I have described them as "narrow-minded idealists." If you can widen the aperture of that idealism, these people want to change the world. They want their lives to have meaning. And it's one of the things that the Democratic Party has missed out on. You know, so much of the moral high ground in the past was Democratic: FDR, RFK, Cesar Chavez. Now I suppose it's Hillary's passion for cheaper medical care. And Teddy Kennedy, of course</span></em>Jessica & Justinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05902819543422860664noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10041957.post-1129297073129814432005-10-14T08:32:00.000-05:002005-10-14T08:37:53.136-05:0057 days!I cant believe that in 57 days I will be a married woman!!! What a crazy thought that this! It's an exciting, but weird realization...it still just seems so unreal.Jessica & Justinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05902819543422860664noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10041957.post-1127920265007182592005-09-28T09:54:00.000-05:002005-09-28T10:11:05.016-05:00Im very frustrated right now, because I had spent at least a good 20 minutes on Monday, typing up long post on whether its correct to say that God always provides for his children. I was excited because I finally had the time to post a new entry on my blog, and also because I really wanted some feedback on what I was thinking...However, somehow when I attempted to post it, my computer locked up and it all disappeared!<br />I've been annoyed about it all since then, and couldnt bear to attempt to type it again since I couldnt remember all that I had wanted to say so...anyways..sorry for no thought-provoking new posts.<br />But on another note, after speaking in front of the Oklahoma City County Bar Association last week, they called me for a quote for their monthly newsletter. They are going to help out with a toiletry drive for our residents, as well as each individual lawyer sponsoring a monthly activity for the kids. I know this isnt a huge deal but I'm really starting to feel like a professional, going around speaking at different engagements while also advocating for our youth.<br /><br />Here is the small article: <br /><br />OKLAHOMA COUNTY BAR ACCEPTING TOILETRY DONATIONS FOR FAMILY JUNCTION EMERGENCY YOUTH SHELTER<br /><br /> The Oklahoma County Bar will is accepting donations of toiletry products for the Family Junction Emergency Youth Shelter through the month of October. The Family Junction Shelter provides a safe environment for runaways, abuse victims and youth needing an alternative to detention for nonviolent delinquent behavior. The Shelter provides temporary accommodations for youth between the ages of 12 and 17.<br /><br /> “Family Junction is incredibly important to our community because it gives kids with no where else to go a safe place to turn,” says Jessica Ballard, program coordinator of Family Junction. “In essence, it provides them with a family during their stay here in our facility” Ballard says. During the 2004 year, more than 300 youth were admitted to Family Junction, with the average stay being14 days. <br /><br /> Because of the temporary nature of the shelter, Family Junction is constantly in need of toiletry items to provide to the youth who utilize the facility. Those items needed by Family Junction include travel size deodorants, toothpaste, shampoos and conditioners. In addition, Family Junction also needs combs, brushes and toothbrushes.<br /> Your donations would be greatly appreciated by Family Junction. Please drop off your donation items to the Oklahoma County Bar at 119 N. Robinson, Suite 240.Jessica & Justinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05902819543422860664noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10041957.post-1123336382686769302005-08-06T08:39:00.000-05:002005-08-06T08:53:02.693-05:00Well here I am on a Saturday morning working at the shelter since we are short staffed for the weekend. The kids are still in bed so another staff member and I get to spend the morning playing around on the internet and watching TV. Yeah, my job is pretty difficult :)<br />Anyways, my friends Jennifer and Annie came in to visit me last night, which is incredibly exciting! They braved the 12 hour drive through such scenic states as Missouri and Oklahoma just to see me...yes they are amazing friends. But anyways, I got to take them downtown OKC which for those of you who may doubt the thrill factor of Oklahoma, is actually a pretty fun and happening place. There were even fireworks going off last night!!!!And everyone who knows me understands how obsessed I am with fireworks! Im enthralled by them. Yes, I know Im a nerd, but thats one of the reasons Justin wanted to take me to Disney World for our honeymoon; so we can see fireworks every night while we are there. We even made special arrangements at our resort so that we can see the fireworks from our hotel room balcony! Yes, it should be pretty sweet...Jessica & Justinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05902819543422860664noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10041957.post-1122467178692236682005-07-27T07:16:00.000-05:002005-07-27T07:26:18.696-05:00Alrighty...I know that its been almost a month since my last post and for that my faithful readers I am sorry. But you wouldnt understand how difficult it is to keep up your posts when you have limited access to the internet. So here I am at work at 7 in the morning ( the kids arent up yet) posting.<br />So yeah. My job. Well I am now the shelter coordinator for a youth shelter here in Oklahoma City! However, this week the director of the shelter had a medical emergency and has been bedrest for the past week, so because of this; I am also the acting director of the shelter for now! Talk about crazy! I mean technically all the staff has to report to me! What a whopping load of responsbility just coming out from college! Anyways, I love it so far. The kids are great. Their stories make me want to cry. Most days I come home stressed. But all in all, this has been an amazing learning experience. Oh, and did I mention that I now also have to prepare the meals for the shelter? Yeah, the cook quit this week too.<br />Well anyways guys...I gotta run. Kids are getting up.<br />I will write soon!Jessica & Justinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05902819543422860664noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10041957.post-1120078656109941492005-06-29T15:46:00.000-05:002005-06-29T15:57:36.113-05:00Im now an Okie!Well, I made it. I moved to Oklahoma City a week ago. Im settled into my apartment , got a job that I think Im going to love and it seems that God is working everything out wonderfully. I wont lie it is still an adjustment for me having no friends around except for Justin. But he has been amazing...cooking me dinner and checking my closets before I go to bed each night just to make the transistion smoother. We also have discovered some awesome asian restaurants here that I cant wait to check out. On Monday we had Thai, tonight sushi, and tomorrow vietnamese! Who knew that Oklahoma could be diverse?Jessica & Justinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05902819543422860664noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10041957.post-1118777780841608152005-06-14T14:30:00.000-05:002005-06-14T14:36:20.846-05:00Moving...Hey the next week and a half will be crazy since i am moving to OKC in just 8 days! So please excuse the lack of posts during this time. I will let you know how everything is once I have settled into my new place. Those of you that are here in Illinois, I will miss you all terribly, but look forward to your visits :) Please keep praying that I find a job and that God gives me patience in the meantime. Talk to you all soon!Jessica & Justinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05902819543422860664noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10041957.post-1118181179085419702005-06-07T16:52:00.000-05:002005-06-08T10:17:06.243-05:00Stranded in Oklahoma!Okay, so im supposed to be coming home to Illinois today, but unfortunately my car broke down in Miami, Ok on my drive down to OKC Sunday night and is still not fixed. It looks like there is some significant damage to the trasmission, which means I could be stuck here forever! Okay so maybe that is a slight exaggeration...but anyways my sister and I hitched a ride with a man who had a trailer on the back of his suburban and towed us to OKC. Yes, thats right we drove 3 hours in a car with a complete stranger! I know how bad that sounds, but under the circumstances we felt we didnt have alot of other choices and "Bob" wasnt too scary. ( However I must say my parents werent too happy when they heard about this ) Luckily God blessed us with some very helpful and kind people along our journey and we safely made it to Justins' apartment here. Now we are just waiting to hear when the car will be fixed.<br />On a more positive note, I have had 2 job interviews and 1 more today since Ive been here. Those both went really well, and I also put down the deposit on an apartment and now have an address in Oklahoma City! YAY! So although things arent going as I imagined, things are working out in the end. I think God may be trying to teach me a lesson on patience and waiting on HIS time. The past couple days have been difficult for me because I have felt as though I have had no control over what was going on in my life. Im stucked in another state and have to rely completely on the kindness of others and that is something i am not accustomed to. I like to do things for myself. So maybe my trust in God isnt as strong as I think and I have been trusting too much in myself to plan out my life. Maybe this is Gods way of saying "hold on, Jess....just remember who's in control here".Jessica & Justinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05902819543422860664noreply@blogger.com0