Friday, December 23, 2011
Peace and restoration...
Not gifts. Not traditions. Not lights, trees, Santa, or wreaths. Not even family or heartwarming acts of kindness. While all good things, and expected of all of us, they are not the reason that the holiday season is celebrated. Me may have put too much emphasis on these things, but we should reflect on what happened in a small Jewish village over 2000 years ago. A child was born to a Jewish carpenter and his new wife, although the circumstances around it were not ideal. You see, Joseph was a man of upstanding character and had a lot to lose. His promised wife had, surely to the people around them, unexpectedly and suspiciously became pregnant. Despite sure pressure from others, he trusted his wife and the Lord with the news he was given. They were chosen to be the earthly parents of the God-child. They were chosen to raise Jesus. Can you imagine? The responsibility of rearing the human form of God Almighty. Now we all know the story. The shepherds, the star, wise men, and angry king, a stable, and so on. It is the centerpiece of what we call Christmas. But even if we stop and remember this story this weekend, and don't capture the entire essence of what happened, what a tragedy that would be. Yes, we remember the fact that he became flesh and bone. We reflect on the fact that he was born in terrible conditions, and humbled Himself to be delivered in a barn. We even look ahead to Calvary, and the mission of His life, to die on the cross for our sins. But it is so much more than that. I am not saying that anything I have said is not good news, but I am saying that we sometimes get caught up with the details, and miss the overall mission of what actually happened in Bethlehem. God the Father, sent his Son, Jesus Christ, as an anthropomorphic representation of Himself to, yes, save us, but on a grander scale, to bring peace and restored hope for creation. This is a major theological handicap if we miss this. God didn't just want to save us from eternal damnation. While this is a definite plus, He more importantly wanted to restore us and our relationship to Him. He sent Christ into the world to save humanity, to bring peace, to restore His creation by conquering our sin for us. Before Jesus Christ, God was sovereign, but not personal. Intercessory, sacrifices, temples, and rigid laws separated the hearts of man from the Holy of Holies. God desired the fellowship with man, but could not compromise His holy and righteous character to do so without the law and priests. This is why we celebrate the Christ. We celebrate to hope we have in Him. We celebrate to peace we find in His propitiation. We celebrate the restoration of our relationship with the Holy Creator provided by His birth, His life, His death, and His resurrection. This is why Christmas services are so special. This is why we celebrate. This is why we give up our valuable time this season. This is why my family is attending the Christmas Eve service at Hickory Grove tomorrow night. He wants to bring us peace, and He wants to restore us to Him. May He bring peace into your heart this Christmas, and may you accept the greatest gift ever given...restoration in Him. -Trey
Friday, December 9, 2011
Holiday update
Recently I have blogged about many things including, memories, spiritual journeys, and even poetry, and although I enjoy writing them, and sharing what is in my heart, I sometimes feel that what is happening within our family, and updates on events and our journey are sometimes overlooked. That being said, I wanted to write this and just capture a snapshot of our past few months as a family, and let everyone know how we are doing.
Over the past few months we have been busy getting the house in order. With the move back from TN in our rear view, things are starting to settle in and we are adjusting to our new schedules, new roles within our jobs, and new experiences with Tucker. It does feel as if we will be unpacking forever, and although most things are up and in place, we are constantly finding things to unpack and put up. One of the things that contributed to this was the holidays. Just when we thought we were on top of things, it was time to redecorate, and find our Christmas decor. It has been fun though. Julie pretty much handled 99 percent of the decorating, and I ran a few strings of lights outdoors last night. all in all, we love the place, and are so proud of what God has blessed us with here. There are a few more things to do, such as stripping wallpaper in the half bath, and some paint touch-ups, but we cannot complain about where we are in this place.
Julie and I both are thrilled about our jobs, and the opportunity that we had to transition so seamlessly into them here after a move is nothing short of heaven-sent. Julie is working at Presbyterian-Matthews on the 4th floor. I think is is called med-surge? I keep hearing that, and don't really know what she does, except being an RN. Sometimes the long hours wears on her, and being away from Tucker is not the best, but she is doing what she loves to do. I am still working in sales Ferguson Enterprises- HVAC division. I was given a transfer back to the main branch that I started at, and love the opportunities that lie ahead with my career there. Over the past three years, I worked at a blended branch: HVAC, plumbing, and waterworks. While it was an incredible learning experience, and my product knowledge increased greatly, it is so nice to be back in one market again. I look forward to what is on the horizon at Ferguson.
Tucker is growing up way too fast. We moved back right before his first birthday, and that seems so long ago. He is running around this house like a crazy man, and seems to learn new words every day. He looks more and more like his Momma every time I see him. He loves hanging out with all of his family, and those everyday moments just solidify why we belong here. Even though we have had a couple of medical scares with him, we thank God everyday for his health and his spirit. We enrolled him at Hickory Grove day care, and love the chance he gets to interact with his friends each day. Between weekdays, and seeing them on Sundays as well, we are proud to see his development in his mobility, his motor skills, and how he plays with others. We cannot wait to see what the new year brings, and the many blessings ahead for our him and our family.
We are so blessed to have a church family that we love, and a church that is strengthening us as individuals, and as a family. We are back at Hickory Grove (main campus), and love what God is showing us through His body. HG will always hold a special place in mine and Julie's life, as it is the place where we met, and were married. It is so good to worship with family and friends again, and build those relationships back that we had lost for so many years. Through the discipline of tithing faithfully, and the excitement of working with the college ministry students, the Lord has been so good to us, and showing us dependence and joy in Him. It is exciting to not only see our journey at Hickory Grove, but also all the other family members develop. Specifically, I am so proud of my sister and brother in law, Megan and Steven, as well as my brother Tanner so involved with Elevation, and the kids ministry there. I, to be honest, have never been to their church, but their pastor's book, "Sun Stand Still," is honestly one of the biggest catalysts in the process to get us back to NC. It is so encouraging to see their passion for Christ, and although we don't attend the same church, I am behind them fully. It is my prayer that this next year, I will see all my extended family faithfully in a church family somewhere. And not just attending, but fully committed to Christ, and His plans for them. It is above all things, what I pray for the most, and what is dearest to my heart.
Another big thing lately has been the addition of our dogs' newest litter of puppies. This was Biscuit's and Grits' second litter, and we had 4 (one runt we had to put down). We had one male chocolate, one black male, and one yellow female. Just this week we sold the last one (female) to a great family, and things can get back to normal. We loved the time we had with them, but we know that they are going to have great life with the families they went to.
There has been many other events that have shaped the past few months for us, but maybe I will catch you guys up in later blogs about them. For the most part, this has been a broad snapshot of our journey to where we are today, and a quick update of how things are going in the Long family. We hope you and yours have a wonderful holiday season, and a merry Christmas!
-Trey
Over the past few months we have been busy getting the house in order. With the move back from TN in our rear view, things are starting to settle in and we are adjusting to our new schedules, new roles within our jobs, and new experiences with Tucker. It does feel as if we will be unpacking forever, and although most things are up and in place, we are constantly finding things to unpack and put up. One of the things that contributed to this was the holidays. Just when we thought we were on top of things, it was time to redecorate, and find our Christmas decor. It has been fun though. Julie pretty much handled 99 percent of the decorating, and I ran a few strings of lights outdoors last night. all in all, we love the place, and are so proud of what God has blessed us with here. There are a few more things to do, such as stripping wallpaper in the half bath, and some paint touch-ups, but we cannot complain about where we are in this place.
Julie and I both are thrilled about our jobs, and the opportunity that we had to transition so seamlessly into them here after a move is nothing short of heaven-sent. Julie is working at Presbyterian-Matthews on the 4th floor. I think is is called med-surge? I keep hearing that, and don't really know what she does, except being an RN. Sometimes the long hours wears on her, and being away from Tucker is not the best, but she is doing what she loves to do. I am still working in sales Ferguson Enterprises- HVAC division. I was given a transfer back to the main branch that I started at, and love the opportunities that lie ahead with my career there. Over the past three years, I worked at a blended branch: HVAC, plumbing, and waterworks. While it was an incredible learning experience, and my product knowledge increased greatly, it is so nice to be back in one market again. I look forward to what is on the horizon at Ferguson.
Tucker is growing up way too fast. We moved back right before his first birthday, and that seems so long ago. He is running around this house like a crazy man, and seems to learn new words every day. He looks more and more like his Momma every time I see him. He loves hanging out with all of his family, and those everyday moments just solidify why we belong here. Even though we have had a couple of medical scares with him, we thank God everyday for his health and his spirit. We enrolled him at Hickory Grove day care, and love the chance he gets to interact with his friends each day. Between weekdays, and seeing them on Sundays as well, we are proud to see his development in his mobility, his motor skills, and how he plays with others. We cannot wait to see what the new year brings, and the many blessings ahead for our him and our family.
We are so blessed to have a church family that we love, and a church that is strengthening us as individuals, and as a family. We are back at Hickory Grove (main campus), and love what God is showing us through His body. HG will always hold a special place in mine and Julie's life, as it is the place where we met, and were married. It is so good to worship with family and friends again, and build those relationships back that we had lost for so many years. Through the discipline of tithing faithfully, and the excitement of working with the college ministry students, the Lord has been so good to us, and showing us dependence and joy in Him. It is exciting to not only see our journey at Hickory Grove, but also all the other family members develop. Specifically, I am so proud of my sister and brother in law, Megan and Steven, as well as my brother Tanner so involved with Elevation, and the kids ministry there. I, to be honest, have never been to their church, but their pastor's book, "Sun Stand Still," is honestly one of the biggest catalysts in the process to get us back to NC. It is so encouraging to see their passion for Christ, and although we don't attend the same church, I am behind them fully. It is my prayer that this next year, I will see all my extended family faithfully in a church family somewhere. And not just attending, but fully committed to Christ, and His plans for them. It is above all things, what I pray for the most, and what is dearest to my heart.
Another big thing lately has been the addition of our dogs' newest litter of puppies. This was Biscuit's and Grits' second litter, and we had 4 (one runt we had to put down). We had one male chocolate, one black male, and one yellow female. Just this week we sold the last one (female) to a great family, and things can get back to normal. We loved the time we had with them, but we know that they are going to have great life with the families they went to.
There has been many other events that have shaped the past few months for us, but maybe I will catch you guys up in later blogs about them. For the most part, this has been a broad snapshot of our journey to where we are today, and a quick update of how things are going in the Long family. We hope you and yours have a wonderful holiday season, and a merry Christmas!
-Trey
Thursday, December 1, 2011
sentimental mood...
Tonight, as I sit here in my living room, listening to classic Christmas standards, reading, and, of course, cup of coffee in hand, I just slipped into a sentimental mood. This holiday season is carrying a lot more emotional weight to it than I have ever experienced before. I think many factors are attributing to this, and I thought I would pause a bit and reflect on those thoughts. And being the subject matter as it is, and the time of year it is, I thought I would share it in written form. I don't know if it is necessarily to document my experiences for you to read, but maybe it will get you to reflect on some things from your past, and even present, and cause you to pause for awhile. Maybe smile thinking about blessings in your life right now. Maybe cry a little as you remember those memories and lives from the past that have impacted your current holiday traditions. Maybe appreciate the small things in life that get overlooked so many times. I don't know your situation, but here some thoughts, memories, and reflections on what makes this time of the year so special to me...
-Family: I have to say, I was guilty of taking for granted the gift of family. Three years ago, Julie and I decided that we would move to TN, and we were so fortunate to grow as a couple, as a family with the addition of Tucker, and as individuals with the many career and personal experiences that the Lord had us go through. I still do not know the full picture behind why the Lord opened doors for us to move out there like He did, but I do know this, one of the biggest lessons He taught us while we were there was to never take for granted family, and the times together. It wasn't the big events that we missed, as we travelled back for most of the major things, but it was the small everyday things that we missed the most. I treasure the smallest of events now, from late night coffee at my parents house, to bonfires at my uncles house, to family Christmas get-togethers, to walking with my Grandpa in his garden, to disc golf and playing music with my brother, to helping my family build my sister's shed. I was picking up drive through fast food the other night, and I happened to see my grandparents car parked, and they were eating inside. I had a lot to do that night, and was very tired after a long day, but I thought about the many times I prayed for those opportunities to spend with them while I has in TN, and I parked the car and went in to talk to them. You don't get those chances back. I cherish every moment now, and I know I do not always show it, or tell others enough, but when I lay my head down every night, I thank God for every moment He gives me with those people I love the most. I know that this month will be crazy and hectic, but this year I have a new appreciation for the time I have with my family, and no matter what has happened, been said, or done throughout the year, I am truly looking forward to seeing each and every one of them. I love every one of them.
-Tucker: My little man is growing up so fast. This is technically his second Christmas, but this one will be so special for Julie and I. We love seeing things through his big green eyes now. Everything is so fresh, new, and special. He truly is a blessing, and God has been so good to us. From his dancing around the living room to the music, to the sparkle of the tree lights in his eyes, to the enjoyment we get in seeing him experience the holidays with all his family, Christmastime is different now.
-Julie: As excited as I am for Tucker this year, I think that I am more excited for my wife. I will say, that she has been so good to me, and has given up a lot in recent years in her support for me. As we were looking for houses before the move back, I was really hoping and praying that she would finally get a house that she could really make a home for us to experience life together. God blessed us with this home we are in, and she has put a lot of hard work and creativity into the decorations and such. I am glad she finally has a place she is proud of, and that she can put her signature on. I am so glad that she is back home to experience this year with her immediate family. She cherishes those moments with her mom and sisters baking cookies, wrapping gifts, and shopping. With all she has done for us, she deserves to be happy and enjoy the holidays. She is Mrs. Christmas, and the place is beautiful. I love her for making this home a special place we can relax and celebrate. You deserve it honey...
-Memories: I am thankful for all the great memories that I have been fortunate to be a part over the years. This is such a rich time to experience and appreciate those things that have been given to us. I think of Christmas day at Grandpa Collins house every time I smell a wood burning stove in the air. I miss the little things such as Grandma Long's gumball tree, and getting fruit bags at church. (I still love those things!...pecans, gum, oranges, apples, 3 musketeers, etc) I think of all the wonderful times we had at extended family get-togethers, and catching up with those we don't get to see but a few times a year. I think of all those years of waking up to the smell of ham biscuits for Christmas breakfast, and riding to McAddenville for the lights. I remember that Christmas just wasn't right with two albums: Carpenters Christmas, and Ronnie Milsap/Alabama Christmas. I still to this day enjoy those albums the best. I remember all those days and nights working on cantata music with Mom and Dad, and miss those days of playing and singing music with them. I miss the smile on Grandma Long's face seeing everyone crammed into that house. She loved everyone, and despite everything, always delighted in having gifts for everyone. At the time, I did not appreciate what she gave me enough, compared to other things I received from others, but looking back, they were the most precious things I was given. She gave us all she had. I wish Tucker could have met her, she would have loved him. I am thankful for my parents and the love and sacrifice they showed us every Christmas. They always gave us way more than what we deserved, and they wanted to make this time of year special for us. From sitting around the table listening to music, to treasure hunts, to holiday movies, this was always a magical time for our family. I can only hope I can provide for Tucker what they have sacrificed for me.
-The little things: This year, I am slowing down and enjoying things a little more. I am going enjoy good coffee, or even some spiced cider. I am starting to enjoy the Christmas classics a little more, and not get as annoyed with Christmas music so fast. We are going to not run around as much this month, but instead invest in the home God has given us, and the time with Tucker here. We will enjoy and appreciate the decorations, and reflect on the joy and celebration they represent. We will try to savor every moment that is spent with family and friends, and not take for granted those relationships. Try to enjoy a good Christmas event, whether it be a parade, cantata, concert, or other performance. Julie and I have done several things, including Operation Christmas Child, and the Angel Tree this year. I say this not to boast in anything, or to point out anything from pride, but to say that we are so happy to give to others that need help, and encourage you to do so as well. This has probably been the most convicting part of the holidays for me, as I have realized how selfish and self-centered I have been over the past few years. People are hurting out there, and this time of year, we have such an opportunity to show the love of Christ to others by providing for needs and wants that they have. Especially kids. I cannot stand the thought of orphans, or needy kids and families, thinking that they have no hope or that no one cares. If we can bring a smile to a few kids faces this year, then that is what we will do. It really has set the tone for our holiday season. I wish we could do more.
-Christ: He is so deserving of our worship and reflection all year long, but especially during the holidays. Whatever I, my family, or you do this year, I hope we always find time to stop and be thankful to Him for wrapping our sinful flesh around his holiness, taking the form of a man, and coming to earth to restore the relationship with humanity. It is the greatest story ever told, and so humbling to think about. Embrace His gift to us this year, and pass it along to others. May He not get lost in all of the shuffle this year. May it not be said of us as it says in Joel 2:17: "Spare your people, O LORD, and make not your heritage a reproach, a byword among the nations. Why should they say among the peoples, 'Where is their God?'" His gift to us was a heritage and adoption into His family, made possible by His sacrifice on the cross for our sins. May we not be asked where our God is this Christmas. It's okay to regift this one...
-Family: I have to say, I was guilty of taking for granted the gift of family. Three years ago, Julie and I decided that we would move to TN, and we were so fortunate to grow as a couple, as a family with the addition of Tucker, and as individuals with the many career and personal experiences that the Lord had us go through. I still do not know the full picture behind why the Lord opened doors for us to move out there like He did, but I do know this, one of the biggest lessons He taught us while we were there was to never take for granted family, and the times together. It wasn't the big events that we missed, as we travelled back for most of the major things, but it was the small everyday things that we missed the most. I treasure the smallest of events now, from late night coffee at my parents house, to bonfires at my uncles house, to family Christmas get-togethers, to walking with my Grandpa in his garden, to disc golf and playing music with my brother, to helping my family build my sister's shed. I was picking up drive through fast food the other night, and I happened to see my grandparents car parked, and they were eating inside. I had a lot to do that night, and was very tired after a long day, but I thought about the many times I prayed for those opportunities to spend with them while I has in TN, and I parked the car and went in to talk to them. You don't get those chances back. I cherish every moment now, and I know I do not always show it, or tell others enough, but when I lay my head down every night, I thank God for every moment He gives me with those people I love the most. I know that this month will be crazy and hectic, but this year I have a new appreciation for the time I have with my family, and no matter what has happened, been said, or done throughout the year, I am truly looking forward to seeing each and every one of them. I love every one of them.
-Tucker: My little man is growing up so fast. This is technically his second Christmas, but this one will be so special for Julie and I. We love seeing things through his big green eyes now. Everything is so fresh, new, and special. He truly is a blessing, and God has been so good to us. From his dancing around the living room to the music, to the sparkle of the tree lights in his eyes, to the enjoyment we get in seeing him experience the holidays with all his family, Christmastime is different now.
-Julie: As excited as I am for Tucker this year, I think that I am more excited for my wife. I will say, that she has been so good to me, and has given up a lot in recent years in her support for me. As we were looking for houses before the move back, I was really hoping and praying that she would finally get a house that she could really make a home for us to experience life together. God blessed us with this home we are in, and she has put a lot of hard work and creativity into the decorations and such. I am glad she finally has a place she is proud of, and that she can put her signature on. I am so glad that she is back home to experience this year with her immediate family. She cherishes those moments with her mom and sisters baking cookies, wrapping gifts, and shopping. With all she has done for us, she deserves to be happy and enjoy the holidays. She is Mrs. Christmas, and the place is beautiful. I love her for making this home a special place we can relax and celebrate. You deserve it honey...
-Memories: I am thankful for all the great memories that I have been fortunate to be a part over the years. This is such a rich time to experience and appreciate those things that have been given to us. I think of Christmas day at Grandpa Collins house every time I smell a wood burning stove in the air. I miss the little things such as Grandma Long's gumball tree, and getting fruit bags at church. (I still love those things!...pecans, gum, oranges, apples, 3 musketeers, etc) I think of all the wonderful times we had at extended family get-togethers, and catching up with those we don't get to see but a few times a year. I think of all those years of waking up to the smell of ham biscuits for Christmas breakfast, and riding to McAddenville for the lights. I remember that Christmas just wasn't right with two albums: Carpenters Christmas, and Ronnie Milsap/Alabama Christmas. I still to this day enjoy those albums the best. I remember all those days and nights working on cantata music with Mom and Dad, and miss those days of playing and singing music with them. I miss the smile on Grandma Long's face seeing everyone crammed into that house. She loved everyone, and despite everything, always delighted in having gifts for everyone. At the time, I did not appreciate what she gave me enough, compared to other things I received from others, but looking back, they were the most precious things I was given. She gave us all she had. I wish Tucker could have met her, she would have loved him. I am thankful for my parents and the love and sacrifice they showed us every Christmas. They always gave us way more than what we deserved, and they wanted to make this time of year special for us. From sitting around the table listening to music, to treasure hunts, to holiday movies, this was always a magical time for our family. I can only hope I can provide for Tucker what they have sacrificed for me.
-The little things: This year, I am slowing down and enjoying things a little more. I am going enjoy good coffee, or even some spiced cider. I am starting to enjoy the Christmas classics a little more, and not get as annoyed with Christmas music so fast. We are going to not run around as much this month, but instead invest in the home God has given us, and the time with Tucker here. We will enjoy and appreciate the decorations, and reflect on the joy and celebration they represent. We will try to savor every moment that is spent with family and friends, and not take for granted those relationships. Try to enjoy a good Christmas event, whether it be a parade, cantata, concert, or other performance. Julie and I have done several things, including Operation Christmas Child, and the Angel Tree this year. I say this not to boast in anything, or to point out anything from pride, but to say that we are so happy to give to others that need help, and encourage you to do so as well. This has probably been the most convicting part of the holidays for me, as I have realized how selfish and self-centered I have been over the past few years. People are hurting out there, and this time of year, we have such an opportunity to show the love of Christ to others by providing for needs and wants that they have. Especially kids. I cannot stand the thought of orphans, or needy kids and families, thinking that they have no hope or that no one cares. If we can bring a smile to a few kids faces this year, then that is what we will do. It really has set the tone for our holiday season. I wish we could do more.
-Christ: He is so deserving of our worship and reflection all year long, but especially during the holidays. Whatever I, my family, or you do this year, I hope we always find time to stop and be thankful to Him for wrapping our sinful flesh around his holiness, taking the form of a man, and coming to earth to restore the relationship with humanity. It is the greatest story ever told, and so humbling to think about. Embrace His gift to us this year, and pass it along to others. May He not get lost in all of the shuffle this year. May it not be said of us as it says in Joel 2:17: "Spare your people, O LORD, and make not your heritage a reproach, a byword among the nations. Why should they say among the peoples, 'Where is their God?'" His gift to us was a heritage and adoption into His family, made possible by His sacrifice on the cross for our sins. May we not be asked where our God is this Christmas. It's okay to regift this one...
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