Zechariah 5

In his sixth vision, Zechariah sees a Flying Scroll.  According to what is written on the scroll, the curse and consequent judgment of sin (symbolized by the breaking of 2 of the 10 commandents) is carried out "over the face of the whole earth."   This once again addresses Zechariah's initial message of the need for spiritual cleansing.

In the seventh vision, Zechariah sees a basket with a woman who represents wickedness.  The basket is taken to "Shinar" or "Babylon".  This again points to the cleansing of the "holy land" by the removal of wickedness.   This ultimately points to the End Times, when evil is defeated (ref. Revelation 17-18).

These visions are a reminder of the need for God's People to be holy and set apart.  This also is an encouragement, for we know that God is Just and all the evil in this world will ultimately be destroyed.

Zechariah 4

In this fifth vision, Zechariah sees a gold lampstand w/two olive trees.  As the vision unfolds, God gives the message to Zerubbabel which is one of the key verses of this book:  "‘Not by might nor by power, but by my Spirit,’ says the Lord Almighty." (4:6b)   This is an encouragement to Zerubbabel who led Israel to start the rebuilding of the Temple, to know that he will be able to complete it by the power of the Holy Spirit, not relying on human might (of many, like an army) or power (of an individual, like a leader).   So, in the context, the two olive branches would represent Zerubbabel, the civil leader, and Joshua, the religious leader; and they are branches of two olive trees which would then likely represent civil and religious leadership of God's People.  The oil being supplied to light the lampstand with the 7 lamps of 7 channels is a picture of the Holy Spirit supplying for this abundance of light (since 7 is the number of perfection, and seven 7s would be abundance).

The immediate fulfillment of this vision occurs just 3 years later when the temple is completed.  But, the long-term fulfillment would be when the Messiah returns and reestablishes His throne in the Temple; and the two branches could refer to the two witnesses who precede His Return, in keeping with the theme of the light (and the wording used in Revelation and Zechariah are very similar).

This passage is an encouragement to me, to know that the Spirit will enable me to complete what He has anointed (with "oil") or called me to do, despite any mountains that I may face, knowing they will be "leveled".

RZIM

Ravi Zacharias' recent newletter on shutting the gate to 2013 and opening the door to 2014 had some comments that really stood out to me.  When he said "Even as we bridge opportunities, we will never compromise on the message", it's a reminder to me to also always seek to be true to the message.  I also like when he said "Crowds are just multiplied opportunities for individual triumphs."  That shows his care for individuals, even though he usually speaks to huge groups.  But, what touched me the most was when he was talking about hurt and pain, and being in situations where we don't know what to say or what we can do.  And, it was actually somewhat reassuring to hear that even someone as eloquent and articulate as Ravi Zacharias is sometimes misunderstood.  So, that when I am, I am assured that I am not alone.   I also liked when he pointed out that despite the sacrifices and personal tolls, we continue because we are to commit to our calling.   And I love when he points out that in contrast to those who perform for worldly success, those who are presenters of God's message do it for His glory; and even when we are exhausted, we can go to our knees.  "The person who serves God has a calling that is greater than the moment and greater than his or herself."

My Life on a Plate

On one episode of The Taste, the contestants were asked to make a dish that represented "My Life on a Plate".  As I thought about it, I realized that a lot of times what I serve does often reflect part of who I am.   My family has often described my food as Asian Fusion - and so I am.   Being Asian living in America, I really have taken the best of both cultures and blended them.  Also, while my food looks nice on the plate, it is not overly nor unnecessarily decorated - again, a reflection of my personal approach as well.   And, in general, my food is healthy and tastes good without being overly complex; and there is general harmony among the dishes.   Usually, what I serve, also reflects the occasion or the person for which we are gathering together for the meal; reflecting my care for others.   I haven't often thought of it this way; but, when I cook for others, I really am putting part of myself into the meal.

So, of all the dishes I cook, which one would represent me the best?    Which would be my signature dish?   It might be my Singapore noodles with shrimp or Seafood hotpot.   Both are Asian, and probably Fusion, since they may not be prepared as traditionally.  Seafood as a protein elevates them a bit.  They are simple, fairly healthy, and tasty.

Now that I think about it, this topic seems very familiar to me, and I feel like I've written about this before; and probably came to similar conclusions.   That just validates the conclusion.

Changes

It is possible that there may be some major changes ahead for me.   Someone at work asked me today whether the rumor of my leaving the company was true.   As that was news to me, I'm preparing for the possibility that this just may be my time to go.   In all the years I have survived countless RIFs, this one will not be a surprise.   I can already see that because I don't want to go back to travelling for business, I may no longer fit well with my manager's new role.   And while I have possibilities of transferring to other groups, as I think about it, I find that it may be good to switch to something new and different.  As always, I place everything into God's Hands and trust Him to guide me for my future.

5-Mar:  Well, it didn't happen that week; but, there are rumors that there may be some RIFs in April.   I'll just wait and see what God has planned.  Meanwhile, there are other changes in my life coming:  remodeling.  I've finally cleaned out the room and closet.   I just need to finish switch bathrooms; and then, I can start what I have spent about 7 years planning.  I do place this into God's Hands as well.
Also, I was just talking to a friend today and learned that she is now an IT Director.  It really made me think about my career path and wonder about the "turns" I've taken and the choices I've made....

9-Mar:  My business trip really threw my life a curve.   I thought my life as a road warrior was done; and I really cannot see myself going back to that.   Even just one trip has just brought much extra things to deal with and much to adjust to.   However, even in this, I can see God at work.   He is forming and molding me as I shift to hit this curve ball being thrown at me.  I'm waiting to see where God leads....

10-Mar:  One of the things that is demonstrated through this business trip is that I am flexible and able to adapt to constantly changing circumstances and that I can be resourceful.  I can also feel the prayers, and know that God is with me.  Praise HIM!

14-Mar:  Through the trip, I continued to demonstrate flexibility and adaptability.  There were so many things encountered.  Firstly, all the freeway entrances near me were closed; and I had to keep driving till I found one that was open.   Then, I learned to take the BART and CalTrain.   From the airport, the BART at the airtrain stop does not run until after 8PM and on weekends.   So, I had to take the BART north one stop to San Bruno, then switch to a southbound one to the Milbrae transfer station, where I caught CalTrain.   Tickets had to be bought before travelling; and not all the trains stop at Ralston.  So, it took 1 1/2 hours to travel from the airport to the office station, and almost a mile walk from the station to the office; but, it only cost about $8.   I then worked all day non-stop till the last meeting at 5PM.   At 6PM, two hours before my flight was scheduled to leave, I was asked to stay; so, I had to move the flight to the next day, book a hotel, and buy all items needed (another shirt, comb, make-up,etc); because it was originally just a day trip.   Stayed working at the office until 9PM, went to the hotel and worked until about midnight making a 19 hour day; just to turn around and head back to the office at 7:30 the next morning.  Worked and had meetings, taking only a break for lunch.  But, the final presentation to my VP, CIO, the product development VP, and the various teams went well.   It was a presentation that was thorough, finished, and work I was proud of.   Then, when I called a taxi to the airport, the driver couldn't find the building, and it ended up taking an hour and $40 to get to the airport.  After landing, there was construction near the tunnel and because the freeway entrance was closed and there were lots of merging, it took a long time to get home.  And, of course, the freeway exits were closed as well.  So, by the time I got home, it was another long day, about 16 hours.   After two days, I feel like a week elapsed; and I am exhausted.   And, I still haven't caught up with mail, still have to do laundry, and also deal with expense reporting.
However, despite all the challenges and drain, the "joy of living" attitude helps me to see that God is with me. I'm happy with how well the presentation turned out, and I created about 2/3 of the slides.  Also, being in the office helps me to see my strengths better, rather than working in isolation and not seeing what others are like.   Also, the person I worked with was really good and knowledgeable, and I had a chance to actually meet my manager, VP, and co-workers for the first time.  Even my VP said that he knows only two people like me, being so systematic; so, he really wanted me on this new project.   So, overall, it was a good trip; and I thank God that it all worked out.   However, my manager was talking about me continuing to travel in the future; and I'm not sure how I really feel about that.   I'm seeking God's Will and Guidance.

23-Mar:  In praying about it and watching for God's response, I believe that He is telling me that if it is up to me, I should just stay where I am, even if I have to continue to do some business travel.  He has brought to me the realization that there is a need for Light to shine in the workplace at HQ.   There are some in which my spirit can sense the the darkness of pantheism; and many, the idolatry of money.   I trust God and will adapt and adjust to whatever He calls me to do.  Amen.

11-Jul:  This business trip seemed to affirm that I should just stay where I am and that maybe God will be able to use me through this.  Flying out of Long Beach really makes traveling a lot easier.  Leaving just 2 hours before departure time should be plenty; and on the return, from landing to my door only took about half an hour.  Amazing!   Parking is really convenient - I even like Lot B better, since it is newer than the closer Lot A.   And then, I found that one of my co-workers is a Christian. It was nice to be able to relate in that way to someone else at work.

Zechariah 3

What a beautiful vision is this one, the fourth in the series of eight.  Joshua, the high priest representing the people of Israel, stands before the Lord in filthy garments and being accused by Satan.  But, the Lord removes the filthy garments and replaces them with festal robes; the picture of having our iniquity taken away and being clothed with the righteousness of Christ.  Joshua is even given a turban, which as part of the priestly garments would have a plate engraved with "HOLINESS TO THE LORD"; which indicates that God is reinstating him in the holy priesthood; just as those of us who are saved are part of the royal priesthood, called to serve Him.  Joshua is given a charge, that if he walks in Gods ways and obeys His commands, then he will serve in the temple (i.e. in the presence of God) and will have direct access to Him.

Then, the prophecy is given that the Messiah (the BRANCH) will come, and that He (the STONE rejected by the builders becomes the cornerstone) will take away our sin.   The engraving of the inscription can either refer to His wounds or the description of His purpose, like on a cornerstone.  And, the final picture of sitting under his vine and fig tree is a familiar picture of prosperity and peace to the Israelites.

This passage encourages us at times when we may have been discouraged by the Accuser of our sin.  Christ has taken away our sin; and we will live eternally at peace with God.  Amen!

Building Trust as a Leader

Following are the points made in the "How Leaders Can Minimize Deception and Build Trust" webinar presented by Carol Goman which I attended today:

• Keep confidences (don't gossip or share anything private)
• Disclose everything possible (admit when you cannot)
• Correct rumors, but discuss openly
• Focus on solutions, not blame
• Eliminate policies/rules that create liars
• Treat all team members fairly and equitably
• Share credit
• Co-create core team values around honesty and candor - holding yourself and others accountable
• Expect trustworthiness

She also talked about watching for signs and body language that may indicate deception, and gave some suggestions on how to "get to the bottom" of it.

Winter Olympics 2014

The Winter Olympics 2014 in Sochi have started.   I missed part of the Opening Ceremonies last night since I was at a Ugandan Lambs fundraiser.  It was informative to learn how the organization was started; and it is inspirational to see how the orphans in that organization are being cared for.   That fully demonstrates the compassionate spirit of God, and shows how God has taken this organization, I'm sure, beyond what the founders could have imagined.

Similarly, I've always loved the Olympic spirit - this desire for unity among nations and character in competing.  Since the Olympics just started, I have not yet found myself being pulled into the emotion of a moment, cheering for all the years of sacrifice and hard work of the athletes.

The debut of the Figure Skating Team competition did start already; although, we were not off to a very good start.   Fortunately, those were our weakest disciplines; and after the short programs of all the disciplines were completed, we stand in third.  Hopefully, we will be able to pull out a medal, even with the unfortunate start.

We'll see how the rest of the Olympics go.   I'm tempted to "put my life on hold" for the eighteen days so that I could just watch it; but, that just wouldn't be very realistic.   Life goes on; but, hopefully, I'll be able to still catch much of it, and especially the highlights.

9-Feb:  So far, my favorite Olympian is Jason Brown.   When he goes out onto the ice and skates, he really seems like he is enjoying it; rather then being overwhelmed by nerves or solely focused on goals.   He doesn't even have a quadruple jump; but, he goes out there and does his best on what he is good at.   His skate is so fun to watch and really artistic.   On top of that, he seems to be a sincerely nice person, always with a smile.

11-Feb:  The US was able to work up to a bronze medal in the Team competition.   Davis and White are true champions.  They were able to go out on the ice and skate their best, even under the pressures of the Olympics.

13-Feb:  There have been some terrible heartbreak for some athletes after working so hard for so many years, coming to the Olympics with such great expectations, only to fall short:  Shawn White, Shani Davis, J.R. Celski, etc. While Jeremy Abbott literally fell, yet because of the performance of the rest of the U.S. Team, he was able to claim Olympic bronze - so his "heartbreak" may be lessened.  I can't imagine how these athletes feel, after all they have sacrificed, to miss their goal in a blink of an eye.

14-Feb:  Noelle Pikus-Pace provided a special touching Olympic moment as soon as she finished her final run and she climbed the stands to reach her family to celebrate together.   How special!  After having missed the Torino Olympics because of a training accident, and missing a medal by placing fourth in Vancouver, it was neat to see her finally reach her goal after all these years of training and working for it.

17-Feb:  Davis and White proved once again that they are real champions.  They came, they saw, and they conquered.  They lived up to their expectations and skated perfectly to win the gold medal in Ice Dance.   Their career has built up to this point well, having been undefeated now for about 2 years, and now being capped off with the gold medal in the Olympics.   They have medals in every color now.

21-Feb:  The most poignant Olympic moment for me so far came from Mao Asada's long program.  After the short, she was no longer even really in contention for a medal; but, she still skated her long program beautifully and with all her heart.   Her footwork sequence was amazing!   She landed her triple-axel, executed all her jumps and spins; and her choreography and costume were great.  It was my favorite long program of the evening.   And then to see her sob with tears afterwards, really demonstrated the immense pressure she was under, especially after being unsympathetically under fire from her country's own Olympic committee chairman.  Mao Asada is an amazing skater, and she totally drew me into her emotional and beautiful Olympic skate.   The US women did well; and I'm glad that Carolina Kostner finally has her Olympic medal after three Olympics and all these years.  She skated elegantly, and it is interesting that the announcers said that her approach for this Olympics was to skate with Joy.

24-Feb:  The Closing Ceremonies marking the end of the 2014 Winter Olympics are over.   Looking back, there were some highs and quite a few lows.   Not surprisingly, my favorite sport was Figure Skating.  Now, it's time to get back to a "normal" schedule - no more late nights watching the Olympics.

The White Queen

"The White Queen" is an interesting series, generally based on the time during the War of Roses.  Max Irons convincingly portrayed King Edward IV as fair and generally benevolent (at least in the beginning of the series); and James Frain contrastingly portrayed well an evil, greedy, and thoroughly unlikeable Lord Warwick (except in one scene where he kneeled before his wife as he said his goodbye headed back to lead an overthrow in England).  Aneurin Barnard also gives a good portrayal of Richard, who seems to be the York brother with the most character.  The show captured well the turbulent power struggles and strange alliances.   While Henry Tudor is only a boy in the start of this show; there must inevitably be comparisons to "The Tudors" series.  There are similarities in that the shows are a portrayal of the royal families in England.  Both shows have an abundance of beautiful and good looking actors and actresses; and both also have interesting stories generally based on history.   In terms of acting; both shows are done well.   The main difference would be in the perspectives, that of the women in "The White Queen" versus that mainly of just the king in "The Tudors".    However, there were still strong women characters in both.  It is difficult to determine which is the "better" show; though, "The Tudors" seems to have enjoyed much greater success.

7-Feb:  It is disappointing that as the series progresses, the show becomes less captivating.  Many of the characters do not stay consistent, and they begin to lose integrity, particularly King Edward.  George is not as convincing or intelligent an "enemy" as Lord Warwick.

8-Feb:  I finished the series, and the Red Queen prevailed, with her son Henry being crowned.   Not that it was a surprise, for it was an historical fact.   It is interesting that it appears that this series followed history fairly closely.  One thing that can be said for the Red Queen... she was consistent throughout the show, and one cannot help but somewhat respect her for her faith and piety that she held onto so tenaciously.  It was sad to see all the deaths along the way throughout the series; but, overall, it was still an interesting series to watch.

Zechariah 2

In this chapter is the third vision, the one of the man with the measuring line; which as seen in the first vision represents the restoration and rebuilding of Jerusalem.  In v1-5, there is the encouragement that Jerusalem will not only be rebuilt but will expand even beyond walls.  But, the greatest comfort is that the LORD will be their wall of protection and will be their glory and blessing from within.

Then, in v6-9, it shifts to the destruction of Babylon, representing their enemies, captors, and wickedness.  There will be rejoicing because v10-12 describe the victory and even the promise of salvation for many nations.

There is both immediate near-term as well as future long-term fulfillment of this prophecy of the restoration of Jerusalem, the defeat of enemies and wickedness, and the victory & reign of Christ.

The chapter then ends with "Be silent, all flesh, before the Lord; for He is aroused from His holy habitation".  That is, that all mankind is to WORSHIP HIM, because He is worthy having had victory over sin and death when He "emptied Himself" and willingly left His glory in heaven to come to earth to die on the cross for our sins and then resurrect in victory.  Amen!

In this passage is also a reference to God's People as the "apple of His eye" - the pupil, the most important and precious part of the eye.   That's beautiful.   Also, the repeated truth in this passage is that God is with us in our midst.   We are to remember this especially in times when we don't "feel" His presence, or feel like He is far away or hidden from us.   Even more so for believers, God doesn't just dwell in the temple in Jerusalem; the Holy Spirit dwells within our hearts.

I am so blessed and amazed to see the wonderful promises, encouragement, and truth in this study of Zechariah.   This year, in particular, God has repeatedly reminded me to "Be Still"; and by intentionally doing so, I've been able to take the time to see His Hand in my life, to appreciate His blessings, and then, respond in praise and worship!

Ministry

Yesterday, I got together with a friend who was able to share about her ministry with international students.   It's something that I've always been drawn to, since it is a wonderful way to bring light to the world by having those students bring it back to their own countries when they return.  Because of the many other ministries I support, I offered prayer support and any help needed in practical ways; just not financially.  One thing she mentioned that stood out to me, was that she felt it was important to have fellowship and worship times with her supporters; so, that they don't just give money and receive a newsletter; but, that relationship is fostered and that they do really become part of the team together.  She also offered a slightly different perspective on her raising of funds.  Rather than praying that she'll receive all the funds that she needed, she just asked for diligence in working at raising those funds.   The view is that we are assured that God will provide all that is needed; she just wanted prayer that she would be faithful to do her part.  I like that, and I think there may be a benefit in me having that sort of perspective more in my prayer life.

From the sermon yesterday as well as listening to the presentation on the international students ministry, I was reminded that I need to be more intentional about spending time with, praying for, and reaching out to my friends who have not yet placed their faith in Christ.

Also, from sharing with my friend about my ministries, I realized that there are many people in my class who are leaders in various ministries:  Cross Training, Ugandan Lambs, Mexico Outreach, Foster Care, COA Homeless Outreach, etc.  It is neat to see that these people are living out their faith.

From my conversation with my Pastor, I also realized that my feeling like "I'm the only one" is much like Elijah.   It is a reminder that I really need to continue to serve in humility no matter the circumstances, to continually see God's Hand, and to open my eyes to the bigger picture (i.e. I'm NOT the only one, and there are still others)

5-Mar:  One of the people in my class who is a leader of a ministry said something on Sunday that was encouraging.  She said that many of the people in the class are leaders in other ministries, and the class was the place where they get fed.  Wow!  That is totally God.   I am someone who relates to Moses, in that I never felt like I wanted to be a leader; and yet, God still uses me in ways I couldn't even have imagined.  Praise God!
The reminders for outreach coincides with the prayers of the leaders in my church for us to step out and Declare the Good News.   I have been praying for my friends who are not yet believers.  One texted me to pray for him; another mentioned going to church with me which I will follow-up on for Easter.  Just today, another one called me and we are getting together in a couple of weeks.  God is at work!  May I shine as a light for Him and be an effective witness.

9-Mar:  Two representatives from the Netivah Youth Ministry came to my Church today.  It was neat to hear a little about their ministry.  It was a good reminder to pray for Messianic Jews, especially those still living in Israel.  They are such a minority and in some ways are excluded from Jewish culture when they become believers.   I can imagine how difficult that would be.   After the services, I had a chance to talk to one of the representatives who said that the most effective way to reach others with the Gospel in Israel is to build relationships and also to start when they are young.   There are many challenges they face, especially when they are enlisted in the military; but, it's neat to know that there is an organization like this that can provide encouragement and preparation.  May God bless this ministry!   It was also neat to see that these two representatives were so engaging, interesting, well-spoken, and admirable.

Finding Joy

Ever since I made the intentional effort to find the joy in living, I feel like I have been able to learn to see and appreciate more, especially the "little things" in life.  God created this world, and while it is a fallen world, He is still present and He lives in me; so, it follows that I should be able to find joy even while here on earth.  Besides, it is one of the fruits of the Spirit.

So, I've taken time to do little things that I enjoy, like utilizing my rewards points to buy some things that I really like.  I've  also been able to find some joy by taking care of the weeds growing in the sidewalk that have been bothering me for awhile.   Even just starting to use the "Be Still" cup that I received as a gift brings me joy - it reminds me of the caring and love of my small group leaders who gave it to me; but, also reminds me to take time to enjoy being still before God.  Even something as simple as savoring the food that I eat adds joy to my day.  I think the reason these things can bring joy, is that I'm stopping to take the time to notice the many ways that God has blessed me and given to me.  Also, instead of rushing around focusing on taking care of only the "big things" in life; taking care of the "small things" brings peace, by relieving me of the things that are always in the back of my mind or "hanging overhead".

But, most importantly, consciously seeking joy is essentially looking for God's Hand in my life; and I think this also fosters an attitude of gratitude.  I've started to just whisper a "Thank you Lord" for various little things throughout the day that I see God doing.

One thing that brought joy today, was realizing that I had grown and learned through a previous experience.  Last month, when I was at the checkout in the grocery store, one of my items (that I bought multiple bags of, because it was on sale) was not marked down in the scanner.   But, I decided not to say anything since I didn't want to hold up the line correcting the error for just $3; and also because I had forgotten what the sale price was supposed to be.   However, when I left the store, I felt bad, because that wasn't the best stewardship, to just let money go when there was a mistake that could be corrected by just me speaking up and making some effort to get the corrected.  But, by that time, it was too late to do anything about it.   Yesterday, I received  a bill for my deposit box, which used to be included with my account.  This just started happening.  Last year, they just waived it; but, I didn't want to have to go in every year and ask them to waive it.  And, I didn't want to just pay it without at least trying to see what can be done (remembering how badly I felt when I just didn't do anything).   So, I went to the bank today, and the outcome was the best result for the situation.   I discovered that they had made an error in the listed size of the box; and that the one I have truly should be included with my account at no cost.  So, by a little persistence and some prayer, I was saved from having to pay the extra $100 a year; and not to have to request a waiver each year either.  It made me think that God had me go through and learn from the $3 error in order to be able to deal with the $100 error.

I've also really been enjoying devotions through the Life Principles Daily Bible.   I also find joy in the moments when I am able to stop and "be still" and have some time with the Lord.

3-Feb:  Yesterday, my Pastor said I was his favorite female teacher..... what an honor and encouragement it was to hear that from a person I so respect.  He also started a series in Jonah, and I know it was no coincidence that we are both doing series in the minor prophets at the same time.  Already, I was able to reference some of what he taught when I was going through my class lesson.  It is a joy to feel like God is using me.  It is so interesting that this time of intentionally seeking the joy in living has resulted in me recognizing that this may be one of the most "joyful" periods of my life.   I did enjoy the time I was in MITI, since it was such a good working environment and it fostered good relationships between co-workers; and I also enjoyed the initial years of business travel when I was able to go to different parts of the world.  But, at this time of my life, I have truly meaningful areas of service for God, I am well established and know who I am & whose I am, and I have the independence and freedom to pursue whatever God leads me.  I know the LORD and have been continually growing closer in my relationship with Him.  I am blessed.

8-Feb:  While watching Davis & White skating during the Team competition in the Olympics, I heard the announcer say that they had such "joie de vivre" in their skating; and it caught my attention because it translates directly to "joy of living".   It is worth pondering to see how I could incorporate something like that into my life.   As I thought about it, I could see a difference in the way Virtue & Moir skated in contrast.  While both dance pairs skated beautifully, Virtue & Moir did seem to "think" more as they danced what they had learned and practiced; while Davis & White danced "all out" with "controlled" abandon.
Sure, I can find joy in the little things in life; like today, being able to take care of things like car maintenance; but, maybe I should seek to find areas where I can do what I totally love without unnecessary inhibitions.

9-Feb:  I found joy today in interactions with others at church.  People in my class gave positive feedback on this study in Zechariah; so, encouraging considering that this is a rarely studied minor prophet in the Old Testament.  And there was such great participation in class.   Also, there was some fun interaction with the saxophone and keyboard players in the band.   It's nice to know that we are comfortable enough to joke with eachother.   And there is one other person who remembered my name from last week, who I have only met in passing in the hallway after he paid me a compliment last week.  I also feel good that I've been making progress in losing weight.

16-Feb:  Perspective really makes a difference.  I've found that even though life continues to throw me curves, yet, I can still face it with joy.  I found my verse for the year:  "You will make known to me the path of life;  In Your presence is fullness of joy; In Your right hand there are pleasures forever."  (Psalm 16:11)  This verse expresses the truth that to truly find JOY, we are to be continually in God's presence, to be aware of His presence in our lives, seeing His Hand.
Today, church was a blessing.   Several people commented about the great lesson in Zechariah and what they learned.  One person even pointed out how much the class loves me  (how encouraging).   Also, before service, a few of us were just on the platform with some of the musicians playing some jazzy music for fun.  Then, the saxophonist came over to "danced" with me.   It was sweet, although, because he caught me off guard, my socially inept self didn't know how to respond well, unfortunately.  This motivates me to learn to be a better communicator.
Then, I started moving things out of the master bedroom closet, in preparation for remodeling.   I decided to move the corner desk out and set up an "office".   It's neat how something "small" like this actually contributed to my joy today as well.

23-Feb:  I have been able to set up a "space" that promotes an atmosphere of prayer and meditation, which brings me joy.  And, I've been able to modernize my family room with just some small changes.

28-Apr:  It's interesting, but I kind of feel like I've been covered with this "cloud" of JOY.  There are still many challenges in my life and I'm still extremely busy; yet, I've been able to face them joyfully.  I sense God's presence and I see Him at work.  I feel like I've gained some perspective in the area of friendships that drain resources or are not as constructive.  I'm continuing to make progress in my weight loss, now approaching my goal.  I've also made so much progress in cleaning and organizing, related to my remodel.  And, in the midst of all that, I've still been able to prepare for the next two Bible Study series, which I am excited about.  God is Good; and I have learned to Thank Him whenever I see His Hand at work.

25-May:  What a difference a joyful perspective makes!   Today, I was able to say to a friend of mine that this may be the best time of my life ever.   That is saying a lot considering that there is nothing majorly amazing going on in my life and I am still facing challenges in my life.   BUT, I have JOY.  I am able to focus on the good - I am as close to God as I have ever been, I have meaningful and effective areas of service, I'm touching the lives of others, and there are people who truly respect and appreciate me.

18-Jun:  In all that I have learned about Joy this past year, I really think the secret to Joy is related to God's Presence in my life:  1) It is a fruit of the Spirit, God dwelling in me, 2) It comes from seeing God's Hand at work in my life, and 3) I comes from abiding in Him (i.e. keeping His commandments and living in obedience so that I do not hinder our relationship, intentionally spending devotional time with Him, etc).  So, Joy is directly related to how closely we are walking with God.

5-Sep:  If I were to summarize what I had learned about "Finding Joy" and turn it into a devotional, I would share that the Key Verse is Psalm 16:11, and that we are able to most effective sense God's Presence in our lives when we:

• Abide in Him (John 15:4) and thus bear fruit (Gal 5:22-23)
• Be Still (Psalm 46:10)
• Give Thanks (Psalm 100)