Wrong number to the right person

So today I was sitting in my room doing homework, about to go crazy and my phone rang from strange number. A man answers and asked for Pete. I said you have the wrong number, he said he was sorry and hung up. 30 seconds later my phone rang again from the same number. I almost didn't answer but decided to answer again for some reason. The name man was on the phone and he said, "Hi, I just wanted to say God Bless you and cast all your cares and burdens on the Lord." I was shocked that he called me back just to tell me that. I told him thank you and that he was right, God can carry our burdens. I then told him I was a Christian and asked if he was too. He said he is then he told me all about his church, his family, his wife, his kids and his job and how good God has been to him. He gave me a lot of information in just a short 5 minutes but he just kept telling me to trust in God and that He is always faithful. What a great reminder! God is always faithful and I do need to cast all my cares on to Him, even the stressfulness of my homework! Isn't it crazy how God can work through a stranger over the phone to help you focus on Him?!
The best thing he said was, "I'm bald, and have a big old gotee so I kinda look like a gangster and I intimidate people but I just want to share Jesus with everyone because you never know what they are going through."

Why would He do that?

This video gives me chills, breaks my heart, brings tears to my eyes but makes me feel so loved, blessed and overjoyed all at the same time.

Take the time to watch this video- I promise its worth it.


Its a simple video that represent the gospel-The amazing truth of God's love for us. His love is so strong that he gave the ultimate sacrifice... Our image of love in today's society is distorted and abused but in Christ, we find unconditional love. A love that is so strong, it will never fade or weaken. He is here, waiting with open arms, longing for us to run to Him, choose Him, serve Him, and love Him. So why would he do that? The answer is love.

Ready.. cSET.. Go!!

This next Saturday I take 2 out the 3 subtests of the CSET. I have been studying and I hate studying but I love coffee.. so.. I have decided to try and go to all the coffee shops around Redlands to study. I have had a good time exploring the different environments, music, service and drinks at each place. I have also carried around my flashcards, trying to fit in extra study time when I can. Hopefully it pays off!
here are some pics from my study journey!

GFE



This is at a cute little place in Redlands.. They made my Latte have an apple in it which was perfect since I am studying to be a teacher!


This made my night


Stells- We were bored


The golf course while working! :)

Energy=Shaky!

So this morning I was feeling a little tired and didn't want to be sleepy in church so i tried drinking this Crystal Light on-the-go packets with energy, thinking it would not have that much Caffeine in it but it did!
These people needed some of my Crystal Light!

I rarely drink caffeine because it usually gives me a headache so when I do have some, I feel it more than when others drink it. Anyways, it sure worked because I was not sleepy in church, I was over-energized, shaky and anxious! I seriously felt like getting up and running laps around the sanctuary while listening to the message. I don't like this shaky, jittery feeling-especially when I have sit quietly. So I guess some people drink alcohol to have a good time, let loose, and spice things up but not me.. I just need a crystal light engergy packet! :)

Leaves are Blessings!

I am doing a Bible study on the book of Colossians and I am loving it. The book rich with wisdom, truth, direction and love. Paul was an awesome Soldier for Christ! In the study, it directed me to Psalms 1 where the parts of a tree are associated with the parts and growth of a follower of Christ.

Psalms 1:3
They are like trees planted along the riverbank,
bearing fruit each season.
Their leaves never wither,
and they prosper in all they do.

This relates to Colossians 2:7 where it says..
Rooted and built up in Him
and firm in your faith just as you were taught,
and overflowing with thankfulnesss.

Just like a tree, I as a Christ follower need to be...
rooted in Him- He is the base of my life and where I get my nourishment. He is what holds me firm and keeps me grounded


Built up in Him- Grow in Him. Be strong and firm in my faith, never moving or budging in my faith, like a sturdy tree.


Overflowing with thankfulness-- Like the leaves on a tree, that flood the branches, fall to the ground and coat the grass, our blessings from God are just like leaves. We have so many of them covering our lives! They are everywhere! We just need to stop and look.


The study instructed me to make a list of all the things I am thankful for and how God has blessed me. Wow! What a great reminder of what I have. Just the wonderful gift of salvation is a big enough blessings that will overpower all the problems live can throw at me. I often forget this and get caught up with the small issues but listing out all the things I am thankful for has brought me back to the truth- I am blessed because I am a Child of God. Period.




P.s. The bible study book I am going through is called, "Cappuccino with Colossians" by Sandra Glahn. I recommend it!

Just DON'T Do it...

*** We hope this does not offend anyone- we are simply expressing our opinions***
So I have joined the 24 hour fitness gym and have been working out a lot more lately. The gym is an interesting place because of the wide variety of people that fill it. During out workouts, my friend Lauren and I have noticed time and time again certain habits and styles of the people that keep recurring. We have decided to help all of mankind and make a DON'T list for the gym, accompanied by pictures of Lauren and I that will help those of you who are visual learners.
Here we go.. are you ready? Maybe you should write these down and make sure you do not do these! :)
1. DON'T WEAR REGULAR SHORTS
-We see this so often in men and women. They wear their cargo pants, jean shorts, slacks or whatever else they had on that day.. this is not correct or comfortable! I am sure if these people put on some comfy mesh basketball shorts they would realize what they have been missing.


2. DON'T WEAR REGULAR SHOES
-Vans, DVS, Etnies, Keds, and loafers were not made for the gym. To play the part you got to look the part people...come on, go buy a pair of Nikes.


3. DON'T WEAR NICE SHIRTS/BLOUSES
-I often see women wearing their snazzy dress shirt along with their workout shorts. If you are at the gym, its okay to not be dressed up in your best lacy blouse.
-You can't achieve the style "sporty yet classy" with this look


4. DON'T WEAR SUNGLASSES IN THE GYM
-We see this a lot and it does not make you look cooler, more intense or stronger..
-Actually, when are people going to understand that it is not cool or manly to wear your shades inside??


5. DON'T WEAR YOUR HAIR DOWN OR PILE ON MAKE UP
-Again, you are at the gym, not the mall, its okay to not look your best. Plus, doesn't your hair get in your way if it is hanging down in your face??
-The gym is for working out, not a dating service.. let the man like you for you!




6. DON'T STARE AT YOUR MUSCLE THE ENTIRE TIME YOU ARE LIFTING
-If you stare it it, it won't get any bigger..
-This one is always funny to watch


7. DON'T FLIRT WITH OTHERS IF YOU ARE WEARING YOUR WEDDING RING AND ARE MARRIED
-back to # 5- go to the gym to work out, not to mingle with the singles and if you are married and have your ring on, don't start flirting with us.. we are not interested.


8. DON'T MAKE LOUD NOISES WHEN LIFTING
-This one is the most important. I have been in the free weights room many times and had to sneak out because I could not control my laughter. Men will try and lift SO much weight that they let out an uncontrollable, LOUD grunt that sounds worse than a woman in labor.
-If the weight is that heavy and you have to squeal then lighten your load before a load ends up in your pants.. there.. I said it..


9. DON'T GO TO THE GYM JUST TO SOCIALIZE
-Its okay to talk while lifting or doing your cardo but when you just sit and talk and catch up its weird!


10. DON'T WEAR JUST A SPORTS BRA- ALWAYS WEAR A SHIRT
-Even if you have been doing your crunches and your abs are crazy, keep them to yourself.
-If you are older, then yes, please, keep the shirt on.. there is a dress code so follow it.


***no picture is available due to modesty of the fitness models***



11. DON'T TALK ABOUT HOW BUFF YOU ARE JUST TO IMPRESS PEOPLE AROUND YOU
-Oh goodness, men do this and think if they talk about their reps and how much protein they ate that day, it will impress the girl next to them.. WRONG!



We have personally seen all 11 of these DON"T habits at our gym so don't think we made them up. Hopefully you can learn from this list or help a fellow friend learn. ;)

If you have any more, please tell us!

Thanks for reading..
Lauren and Hillary

This is a picture of the proper way to dress for the gym..notice the correct shirts, shoes, pants, shorts and hair.. :)

Hopeless for the Homeless??

So tonight my friend Lauren and I were approached by a family in the Target parking lot. They stopped us to ask for money because they were in need of food and a room for the night. The lady who asked was rude, forceful and her plea was passionless but her 4 year old daughter's presence was tugging at my heart. Lauren and I both reached for our wallets and then Lauren suggested we go get them food instead of just giving money. We came back with food from good ol'Chick-Fil-A but before we reached the family, yet another homeless lady came across our path. With a similar story about being in need of a place to stay, she asked for anything we could give. She seemed more sincere than the other woman but its funny how the stories are all the same. After giving her some money, we left and gave the food to the family. The woman took the food, drank her daughters kid's meal drink and gave us the impression that she was done with us and got what she wanted. I walked away feeling used and I hate that feeling. This where my heart starts to wrestle with some issues..
First of all, I want to give, I need to give, we are commanded to give. Most of us do have so much and we can afford to give but when you get asked by so many people, when do you draw the line? How do you know when someone really needs food or shelter and who am I to make that decision about their true life and their needs??

The story from the Bible always comes to my mind, about the good Samaritan. How can I read that story and then pass by someone who needs help? I want to give, I want to help, but most of all I want these people to know Jesus.
Check out this picture! Ha

He is the one who can help them, feed them, care for them and help them survive. Recently, when I have been stopped and asked for money, I try and talk to the person about my faith before I give them the money. This usually frustrates them and the moment I give them the money they say, "Oh thank you, God bless you" and they are gone so fast! Do they really mean that when they say "God bless you"? That is a powerful statement and I feel that it should be taken seriously but people have changed the meaning and now only use it as a symbol.. but that is an entire other blog.. :)
I came home and told my mom the story, told her how i felt used and upset and frustrated with the whole situation. She told me that I can't be responsible for giving to every single beggar around and I know that but how do I pass them? I have come across some that seem legit. They honestly do need help and are truly grateful. When I come across these people, they are the ones who make it worth it. I guess it is better for me to be give and hopefully out of some of them, one of them will truly be in need.
I am not giving to receive and to make me feel good, but to try and do what Jesus would do and gosh it is hard sometimes. I just wish that people would be more grateful, less obnoxious and willing to listen if they are willing to receive money.
Ultimately, all we can do is pray for them. Some really are in severe need and it breaks my heart to see this but I also know someone who can help more than I can and I know He is faithful to always be there..

Is 41:17. The afflicted and needy are seeking water, but there is none, and their tongue is parched with thirst. I, the LORD, will answer them Myself, as the God of Israel I will not forsake them.

So I would love to hear from you all, whats your perspective, how you handle all the people who ask for money? Is it hopeless to help the homeless with money and food?? hmm..

p.s don't give to people with signs like this..

Exceeding Expectations- The Philippines! Amazing!

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Well, I am back from my ISP trip to Manila and it was amazing. I didn't really know what to expect from the country, the people or our task but I was blown away and am still being blown.. if that makes sense.
First of all, what I saw on the trip was God's plan and hand in everything we did. There were many reasons we were there and it was wonderful to see God reveal them.
So our team worked with a church called CBL (Church at Better Living). Right away, I and the rest of the team fell in love with all the members. We served with them and saw their hearts for God and for their people.

Their dedication to their community and the Lord was inspiring. Their close church community was full of love, accountability and fellowship. I soaked up every minute I spent with them and cherish the memories and lessons I learned from them all. I miss them all so much already!

Women of Worth Bible Study

Some of the girls!

CBL has started a church in an annex, which is one of the lower income areas in the Philippines. On Saturdays, the children come for singing, a bible study and snacks.

This is the group of older girls Cassondra and I taught!

On Sunday, there is an afternoon adult worship service for the adults living in the annex as well. God is at work in this area and our team was blessed to be a part of Gods plan. It was amazing to play with the kids, teach them from the Word of God, and probably the best thing was hearing their sweet, little voices sing and yell out, "Jesus"!
We painted the annex and made it look nice and blue for the kids! We also had a great time painting until the rain came and washed it all away!

We tried to protect the freshly painted walls from the rain

We also walked through the annex, meeting the families, inviting them to the new church and praying for their needs-amazing experience. We became attached to many of the kids there and their adorable faces and personalities.

We also worked with a church called Fort A. Bonifacio Christian Church. They open their doors daily to the youth. Its a place where students can come and play music, study and hang out. We worked with them a few days and Kaitlyn, Clinton and I got to share our testimony to the students as well which was neat.

We did a lot of street witnessing which was a great test of our courage. Walking up to someone you have never met before, not sure if they speak English is something that took a lot of boldness, courage and FAITH. God was with us and we had some great experiences that was all God's work, not ours.

We were able to go to an orphanage, go to the mall of Asia, which is the 2nd biggest mall in Asia, eat lots of McDonalds and also some really great home cooked Filipino food, hike up a huge volcano to see the middle, drive in Jeepney's which is like a taxi, discovered that LA traffic is nothing compared to Mania and Filipino pizza is not the same as American. It was very hot and humid and we were sweating most of the time!

I probably should not put this picture up because it is so nasty but oh well. This was after we hiked up a hill.. yuck..

We constantly hear the sound of motorcycles, music, people, horns honking and kids. We saw people everywhere, kids everywhere, cars everywhere, small little stands everywhere, cats all over the place, and flip flops on every foot! :)

The streets..

We also ate Balut and Durian! Both were disgusting and probably my first and last time trying them.

Eating Balut!

I know I have not included everything that we did but there is just so much that happened, so many emotions, feelings, lessons, convictions and memories associated with this trip. They are trapped in my brain and its hard to get them all out and make sense of them all.

Our last Sunday at church

What I learned the most is that everyone needs Jesus Christ. You could be the poorest person, with no food, water, family but if you have Jesus, you have everything you need. He will provide and take care of you. You could have everything in the world at your fingertips but are missing Jesus, leaving you empty, hopeless, and desperate for something bigger. God is the answer to everything. He is faithful to those who follow Him- In today's world, that is hard to find!

I know that I was made by God for His glory. He created me, put me in this world so that I can love Him, share Him, glorify and worship Him daily. It is a constant battle with sin and our world but with His help, I can accomplish this and praise Him!

Sorry this was so long!

Thanks for all of you who supported me on this trip!

Here is a video of the kids in the Annex and driving along the streets!

So long, farewell...

I am leaving this Monday night for Manila in the Philippines! My ISP team (International Service Project) will be flying for about 16 hours in a plane and then landing at our destination! We are going there to serve the people of Manila and show Christ's amazing love to the people there. I am very excited for the trip and what God holds for us there.
Here are some pictures of Manila!



The trip will consist of...
-Hot, Humid weather
-VBS with kids!
-Interesting new foods
-The Mall of Asia
-Good fellowship with Brothers and sisters in Christ
-Hot, Humid weather..
-College and High School Students
-Being with my team for 3 straight weeks
-Discovering God's presence wherever I go
-Missing America and my family
-Loving serving my Lord!
-Meeting and making new friends!
-Karaoke
-16 hour plane ride!
-Hot, Humid weather
-Praying for my Mom and Grandma not to be worried about me. ;)
-Working with a church plant!

Here is a picture of Balut. Some eat this in the Philippines.. Interesting!

Wow, after writing out all those things I am pretty excited to go! I am ready to fully rely on God, draw near to Him, trust Him, love Him, grow in Him, praise Him and understand Him more while serving Him. It is all for His glory and I pray He will be glorified through our team's words, actions and love!

Please pray for my team as we are there for 3 weeks. We leave June 15th and return July 5th.

I know you guys will all miss reading my blog and won't know what to do without it so just re-read my old posts and that should hold you over till I get back but if you would like, you can read our teams update website at
http://www.calbaptist.edu/spiritual-life/international-service-projects/default2.aspx?id=7370