Happy Thanksgiving

I never cease having something to be thankful about.

First and foremost, I’m thankful for God’s goodness. God has been faithful. Ever faithful. Even when I am not. How unworthy I am yet He loves me. This past year, He has taught and revealed so much to me! I’m thankful for this life He’s given me to serve Him.

I’m thankful for… my wonderful family, the Fong clan. I can’t imagine having any other.
I won’t be here without my parents, and I won’t be who I am without them. What God has given me in them is priceless!

… for my brother. Though I use to think that he was a meanie which liked to tease me, I have since changed my opinion :) Growing up definitely gives you a different view of things. He is a great guy, my soldier!

… for my sister. I’m glad I have a sister to share my room with! She has challenged me and encouraged me in many ways. Yes, we have our quirks here and there but she still loves me when I’m unlovable. My best friend!

… for all the wonderful friends God has given me, both young and old. Those around here whom I am blessed to spend them with and those a distance away who never fill to send their love my way.

… for being in Thailand! The Paddy fields, mountains and kampong chickens. Having the chance to work with children I love dearly.

… for being homeschooled. For all the flexibility and ability to learn that it has given me. For all the lessons I’ve learnt which has enriched my life.

Last but not least, I’m thankful for the simple joys of home. The little things in life. Home cooked food, a warm shower and a good book.

Having a Quiet Heart

There was the frantic clanking of pots and pans, the harsh sound of broom bristles against dirt floors and the sweet aroma of hot vegetable stew. The roughness of dirt residing on skin and beads of sweat collecting on one’s brow was visibly apparent. Jesus was here to visit! There was so much to do, in so little time!

In all the chaos of the preparations, there was but one heart that yearned to catch every word that slipped from the Master’s tongue. Determinedly, she fixed her eyes on His gentle face. His countenance was soft, yet strong. Were these eyes truly able to see inside the windows of her soul? His heart, was it able to know every motive behind every action? His hands, were they the same hands that knit and formed her in her mother’s womb? His voice, was it the same voice that spoke worlds into existence and spun stars into the expanse? How could her mind wrap itself around such a revelation of undeniable truth and unfathomable depth? She was left in awe...

- written by Stephanie Carrillo and Melanie Smith

Mary was captivated by her Savoir while Martha on the other hand was busy. Often, life calls us to be busy with responsibilities and to carry out specific duties. But scripture clearly states that Martha was “distracted”.

How many distractions are set up as pit falls this time of year, with it almost being Christmas? Repeatedly, we fill up our calendars with a considerable amount of “good things” but end up distracting ourselves from what really matters most to the Father, which is a heart ultimately after Him.

God allowed me to be sick in bed for the past two days to teach me this important lesson.