Praying for the "Faceless Groom"

I was never really introduced to Jack Johnson before I borrowed my good friend's (Josh Howell) car to drive and see one of my closest friends (Sandy) over in Peoria, IL. I had heard some of Johnson's music over the radio every now and again, but wasn't exactly "swept away" by the sound. However, after listening to the entire CD five or six times throughout my trek into Illinois, I can now confess he's got to be one of my absolute favorites: lyrically, musically...even down to the sound of his voice!

So what does that have to do with praying for your future spouse? I just recently bought "In Between Dreams" when it was on sale at Borders, and I'm noticing that several of the themes on the album have to do with being in a relationship, leaving a relationship, or forming a relationship.

Even just this month (let alone this entire semester), I have heard the news of tons of new couples, engagements, and weddings. Being a full-blooded female, of course, I think this to be absolutely precious; and I coo and "awe" with the telling of each romantic story, and get tickled as the girls and guys alike describe their wedding plans and future visions. Moreover, I am pierced by the tender provision and wisdom of God in each and every circumstance; not to mention humbled by the privilege of being able to "rejoice with those who rejoice" (Rom. 12:15).



Thus, as we seek to contentedly nestle ourselves in God's will as each day passes, God reminds me to give thanks for each stage in life (in this case, whether single or "taken"); yet faithfully and joyously pray for my future spouse. Since coming to Southern, the Lord has definitely educated me in the area of what to look for in a man of God (based upon the Lord's own expectations), but I think the greater lesson has been understanding and appreciating the kind of WOMAN God wants ME to be. I'm DEFINITELY not the same person I once was (THANK GOD!); and I think that it's quite possible that part of this has to do with the unknown prayers my future husband has supplicated on my behalf.

Whether married or a maid (and guys I speak to you, too), our ultimate goal is to glorify the Lord our God, and be absolutely delighted in Him "hands-down/no contest." And for those (like myself) who do desire to be wed someday, don't be ashamed of your longings - take EVERY OPPORTUNITY to pray for a future spouse. Yet, let us keep in mind, life is HERE and NOW: enjoy the anticipation of tomorrow, and don't let it distract you from God's gifts TODAY.

THIS is my prayer for my "faceless groom." :)

We'll Miss You, J-Man!

I remember first meeting Jonathan Hodges in the TV room of Mullin's Hall back in late January or early February of this year. I had seen him occasionally around campus and with other groups of people, because he obviously knew Jiri and Casey Prochazka very well (both good friends of mine, too). We were all scheduled to study together after I returned home from work (laboring at the Cracker Barrel at the time), and at this particular instance, Jonathan and I were craving coffee, and asked if anyone else was suffering from the same ailment.

Well, our studious friends declined, but Jonathan and I weren't about to allow there disloyalty to java disrupt our caffeine longings. So we jumped in the car, sped off to Starbucks (it was the only place open that late), and hit it off as if we were fraternal twins separated at birth.

It's been almost a year since that initial encounter, and since that time, Mr. Hodges has become like a brother to me in so many ways. This past year has been "eventful" (to say the least), but he's always been one I could count on to be there when a friendly heart, and a sensitive ear, was needed. Whether it was grieving the loss of a cherished loved one late at night on the Jo-Bowl lawn, or passing around pep talks from the backseat of his car while speeding off to weddings and/or Wal-Mart (Jose, you were there BOTH times, remember?); I've had the honor of sharing this past year's occurrences with a good friend. There have been many times in which (I'm sure) we've driven each other crazy (as siblings often do), but it's been such a blessing having the privilege to know and spend time with him - listening to his thoughts, contemplating visions for the future, and - especially - appreciating how the Lord has grown and molded him in Christ's image.

Jonathan, we love you. We hate to see you go (we'll miss you like nuts), but know that our best wishes, prayers, and hopes go with you as you set out from this: your family community. As you take the light of Truth to those who yet dwell in the darkness of unnecessary Lies, remember you are taking with you the love of Christ that He has shown us all here; as well as all the knowledge He has graciously bestowed upon you at this fine institution. The Lord God goes before you to mark His path for you to follow, with you as your faithful Companion, and after you to cover your footsteps with His Sovereignty. Trust Him fully and deeply, always adopting the attitude of faith-filled anticipation:

"I can't wait to see what the Lord is going to do with THIS?!"

God bless you... And if you don't keep in touch with each and every one of us: Don't think we won't hunt you down like the lost, little puppy we cherish (and LOVE to tease...)!

Brainless Moments

OK, so here's Jen's "Brainless Moment" of the week:

It's Thursday (December 1), and I've just finished my last final for the Fall of 2005 (Dr. Parker's Intro to Philosophy...for those who care). I come home to find awaiting me an important letter in urgent need of my prompt response (envelope was included). So I fill out the info that is needed, stuff it in the provided envelope, print my return address on the outside, and drop it in the mail box.

Suddenly I realize: I DID NOT PUT A STAMP ON THE ENVELOPE!!! But the funny/ironic part comes in that the letter was to a certain destination on Southern's campus. MY RETURN ADDRESS IS MY CAMPUS ACCOUNT!!! Thus, I could have saved myself this ridiculous moment of self-embarassment by just curbing my enthusiasm, and running the info to the office in the AM.

Ah... It's moments like these that make humor worthwhile.

:) :) :) :) :) :) :) :) :) :) :)

OK, friends... The finals are all coming to a close, the semester is being put to rest, and guess who's feeling nostalgic! :)

So, I was wondering: looking back on this VERY eventful semester, what are you MOST thankful for? What has God done these past several months? Thoughts, testimonies, or hilarious memories are all more than welcome. Share with the Southern fam!