Open the Eyes of My Heart...

That One Time in Walmart.....

2013-04-18T07:44:00.002-07:00

The night before any Holiday tends to be a hectic time for my family. For example, I am pretty positive that my parents stay up all night long on Christmas Eve wrapping presents. This Easter was no exception, which is why me and my father were on our way to Walmart at 11pm Saturday night to buy groceries for the next days meal along with baskets so the Easter bunny could come!

Has anyone ever told you "nothing good ever happens after 10!"? Well, i am pretty sure they may be accurate. We were on the bread aisle where we were having much trouble finding BBQ bread (southern fam probs). We were searching the shelves high and low, him on one end of the aisle and me on the the other. I eventually gave up and began walking towards him when I saw that he was talking to four very ghetto and very intoxicated guys. It didn't take long for me to figure out it wasn't a conversation I wanted them to be having. Though I didn't hear the initial conversation I did hear "don't be stupid" come out of my dads mouth, saw one guy grab the other and drag him away, and then me and my father started walking in the other direction. As he began to tell me about what was going on the guy screamed, "who ya talkin about?!" To which my dad responded, "YEAH, YOU!" I still wasn't sure what was happening, but I was sure of the fact I did not want my dad talking to them.

Come to find out, he had overheard them talking about me in what I am assuming was a inappropriate way. I was absolutely shocked that he said something to them. For one, my dad is one of the most gentle and compassionate people I know, so this was out of character. Also, I was probably shocked because if it was me I would have thought it would be smarter not to say anything at all. More specifically, I would have been scared to death to open my mouth. More than shocked, I felt so loved. I know that my dad has protected me over the years, but I can't think of any other time were I have seen him put himself in harm to protect me. I can't help but smile thinking about it now.

Many people use Christianity to provide hope to those who are fatherless. To ensure them if they don't have a earthly father they have a heavenly Father who loves them more than anyone ever could. That is not me. Instead, I am blessed enough to have a father who points me to the Love of my heavenly Father. A father who loves like the Father who loves him.

So while I have often thought about the my Walmart experience the last few days and was shocked that my dad protected me like that, I start to ponder, why am I so shocked?

These thoughts led me to this: In the next year I will be taking a journey in life that is kind of scary and maybe a little unsafe. If I think about it for too long, I get really scared and even question if I should carry it out or not. Then I remember: I have a father who loves me. A father who is willing to put himself in harm for me.

How do I know? The next day after this Walmart fiasco, we would celebrate the resurrection of Jesus. The same man who died on a cross for me.

My heavenly father sent His only son to die for me. To rescue me from myself. Yet, I somehow doubt the fact He will protect me?

The same love I felt from my father who so willingly stepped into danger for my well-being is just a small taste of the love my God can and will provide!

How blessed am I to have a God who loves and cares for me? How blessed am I to have a earthly father who so often points me to that perfect love?

"But He was pierced for our rebellion, crushed for our sins. He was beaten so we could be whole. He was whipped so we could be healed." -Isaiah 53:5

"For He will rescue you from every trap and protect you from deadly disease. He will cover you with his feathers. He will shelter you with his wings. His faithful promises are your armor and protection." --Psalms 91:3-4

Boston Bombing: Our Natural Response.

2013-04-16T13:31:00.003-07:00

This blog is not about the bombing in Boston. For that, I have no words. My heart is heavy and my mind confused as I ask the question everyone is asking themselves, "why?" It is the same question we asked when the twin towers fell, when dozens of children lost their lives sitting in their classrooms, when innocent people lost their lives sitting in a movie theatre, and unfortuantely, the list goes on and on.

I can't answer this question of "why" which is why this blog post is not about the bombing in Boston. But this I can tell you with complete confidence. This I tell you in hopes that you too will believe:

As hearts broke across our nation at the news of the tragedy, what did we immediately do in response? We prayed. Almost all of the interviews of Boston Marathon runners have included, "all I knew to do was pray." Twitter, Facebook, Instagram and every other source of social media has blown up with the words, "Pray for Boston." I am not just talking about proclaiming christians either.... I am suggesting that the large majority of all types of people resorted to prayer. If you haven't already noticed, the large majority of our nation are not proclaiming christians. Not even close.

One of the most common reasons why people chose to reject christianity is the question, "why does God let bad things happen?" At least, that is what they claim.

But what is our immediate response when these bad things happen? It is to pray. But, why?

Romans 1:19-20 says,

"For what can be known about God is plain to them, because God has shown it to them. For his invisible attributes, namely, his eternal power and divine nature, have been clearly perceived, ever since the creation of the world, in the things that have been made. So they are without excuse."

Our Nations response to this tragedy is simple proof there is a God! A God who each person acknowledges without even realizing it. A God who desperately wants to know the lost people who are currently seeking him!

Let us pray for Boston. Let us pray for this Nation. But most importantly, let us pray the Gods presence be known, and that through this pain, His kingdom will be advanced.

Number Your Days. Make Each Day Count.

2013-03-13T12:36:00.001-07:00

Isn't it mind boggling to think that Jesus only lived to be 33 years old? Isn't it even crazier to think that we only know about three years of His life. Doesn't the fact that in those three years He radically changed the world, just blow your mind??

Jesus was human. One hundred percent human. So how is it that He was able to do so much in so little time when some people can go through life without ever impacting this world at all?

The answer to this question has been transforming my life in the past few days.

Though it seems hard to figure out, the answer is so simple. In Psalms 90:12 Moses says, "teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom." Our wise Jesus did just that. He numbered His days. He lived each day intentionally and purposefully, because He understood the Fathers purpose for Him. The same purpose that we each have. In that same psalm Moses says, "May the favor of the Lord our God rest on us; establish the work of our hands for us- yes, establish the work of our hands." Our purpose isn't to do our own work but to let the Father work through us. Wow. Jesus makes it very clear in Matthew 28 that our job here on this earth is to make disciples of men. That is our great commission!

A few days ago I was convicted of the lack of intentionality in my life, as I sat in a coffee shop in the middle of Toronto, Canada. After spending a hour intentionally interacting with people on a college campus, me and a few other girls had some extra time on our hands. With this time we went and sat in a coffee shop with the hope of having conversations with people about our amazing God. Please don't think highly for this because I can promise you I have never done this before, and it took the influence of others for me to do this.

I went to Toronto on a "mission" trip so the entire week adding to the Kindgom was constantly on my mind. But why is it that it took a week dedicated to this for me actually be intentional with the strangers around me. The strangers that God purposefully places around me. Do each of my days count?

Jesus did not pick a week out of His life to influence others, rather He purposefully lived each day. I want to seek a life that follows His example. I am praying for strength to number my days!

The basement is our favorite place!: Canada Day 2

2013-03-05T04:22:00.001-08:00

Day two? There is no way! I feel like I have been here for weeks! We are absolutely loving this city of Toronto. This very lost city of Toronto.

Our day started off with church. Probably not the type of church you attended. We met with approximately fifteen people in the back of a coffee shop/boutique shop. There was no structure, no child care, no projector or spotlights. But there was the presence of God, and it was a sweet sweet time.

Our day from there worked up to 4 o'clock when the launch of Trinity Life Church would begin. It was a great time, and seemingly successfully. When returning to our hostile we were extremely tired but decided to go hang out in the basement for a little while. While there I wrote this in my journal.

"Sitting in a hostile basement with over 50 people. People from all over the world, and at least most (though, I am pretty sure all) are lost. I hear too distinct conversations. Both of which are the Gospel being presented. I am not sure if I have ever been so encouraged.

I am so encouraged because in this moment I am reminded of what "missions" are. What being a "missionary" is. We came to Toronto to help with a church plant. There are specific streets, building and places we have planned to witness at. More importantly, our beds are upstairs waiting for us.

But where does God have us? In a basement sitting at a table with people from Switzerland, Germany, and Israel. I don't know what the outcomes of these conversations will be, but I know that I just heard these words.... "I am extremely curious!".

What is missions? it is being ready. It is being willing. It is being obedient where you are.

Praise God for His hand being in Toronto. Praise God for letting us join Him in His work!"

“Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.”

¹⁴How, then, can they call on the one they have not believed in? And how can they believe in the one of whom they have not heard? And how can they hear without someone preaching to them? ¹⁵And how can anyone preach unless they are sent? As it is written: “How beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news!” -Romans 10:13-15

"Someone help Jordan!": Toronto day 1

2013-03-03T06:07:00.002-08:00

My day began at 3:30 a.m. and at 4:45 a.m. I arrived at RDU airport where I joined five other people to head to Toronto, Canada. By 5:00 a.m. "Someone help Jordan!" had become a common phrase. Though in all honesty, I did need help... it quickly became a joke.

When I stared at the check-in screen in confusion... "someone help Jordan!"

When I barely slipped on ice... "someone help Jordan!"

When I was struggling getting out of the car, my foot stuck in a seat belt... "someone help Jordan!"

When I practically collapsed while going up the stairs with my 50 lb. bag... "someone help Jordan!"

When my laughter became uncontrollable and completely out of control... "someone help Jordan!"

You get the point. The list could go on and on, and though it was sincerely a joke, to some degree the idea of "needing help" is unappealing, even in this situation. Pride begins to take control as humility fades away, and even though I laughed a little voice in my head was saying, "Jordan you got this!"

The realization of this hit home tonight as I sat praying in a living room in Toronto with an amazing group of people. One man prayed asking the Holy Spirit to come into our lives. He proclaimed, God we know we can't do this thing with out you!

He prayed, "God, you tell us in Luke that if we ask, you will give it to us."

Luke 11:13 says, "So if you sinful people know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your heavenly father give the Holy spirit to those who ask him."

Just moments before someone had also prayed, "God, you tell us we receive not because we ask not."

It all clicked in my head, and though at this moment I didn't think about "someone help Jordan," I later did and smiled.

I CANNOT do any good alone. I cannot make a difference in Toronto this week alone. No good works can be done through me, alone. I need help. The encouraging thing is, God promises that if we ask for help He promises to give it to us.

But we HAVE to ask. He clearly says, "for those who ask." He doesn't say, "I will give it to those who think they can do this alone." He doesn't say He will give it to those saying, "Jordan you got this." We receive not because we ask not.

I am completely aware and humbly admitting, Lord, I can't do this alone. Praying, God, come work through me in this lost city of Toronto.

I am saying, "Someone help Jordan!"

IMMEASUREABLY MORE....

2013-02-28T23:32:00.001-08:00

What a absolutely amazing week this has been. So amazing, that it legitimately feels much more like a month. I called my mom yesterday saying "I haven't talked to you in foreverrrrr!" to which she responded, "Jordan, we talked for over an hour two days ago!" So amazing that I texted a friend saying "If God blesses me in one more way this week, I think I may just explode. I don't think I can handle anymore!"

So amazing that at 2am as I lay in the middle of my living room floor studying for the two midterms I have in a few short hours, my mind is wandering. I want to meditate on everything except for school.

I want to blog it all. I want to tell you the way God is working in my life and the lives of those around me. I want to tell you how He has provided for me in astounding ways. The ways He has answered prayers in ways I couldn't have imagined. The way He has spoken to me. The way He has taught me. The way He has convicted me. The way He has placed a calling on my life. I want to. But I can't even form words (feel free to call though, because we all know I am perfectly capable of talking!).

As I write down my heart in blog form throughout the next few weeks, I will tell you some fun and exciting stories! For now, I will leave you with this:

As I sat in Bruggers Thursday morning, I began to cry. It was embarrassing. Very embarrassing, but more than anything I wanted someone to come ask me why I was crying. I wanted to tell them what was behind those tears of joy. This is what I jotted down in my journal a few moments later:

"God, today I am completely overwhelmed by your presence. Broken by Your goodness. So thankful for Your blessings. Awakened by Your truths and called to action by the realization of the shortness of life - but thankful for the victory in death! Through me - add to Your Kingdom. This day is Your day. For that, I rejoice. For that, I am glad!"

My pastor said it so well when you said, "That is who He is and therefore that is what He does. He blows minds for a livin'"

Pray God blows your mind, because He will. Pray that God does immeasurable more in your life, because He can.

"Now to Him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to His power that is at work within us!" - Ephesians 3:20

The Great Dance Floor

2013-02-20T18:51:00.000-08:00

Psalm 149:3 says, "Let them praise His name with dancing..."

Scripture tells us of David dancing for the Lord. 2 Samuel 6:14 says, "And David danced before the Lord with all his might."

Scripture continually commands us to dance for the Lord. I recently began reflecting on this when I found a video from my trip to Uganda this past May. I remember the little boys who were literally dancing for the Lord. By dancing I mean, breaking it down!!! I remember the first Sunday we were there in that little church in the village, I couldn't wipe the big smile off my face! I was surrounded by over 20 boys who were once street children. Who once had no family, no home, no food, no hope. These boys now have Jesus in their hearts. They now have a family. They now have a home. They now have food. They now have hope. They now have a overwhelming sense of Joy; and for that, they danced for the Lord!

Christ Tomlin just came out with a song called "Gods Great Dance Floor." The lyrics say:

I’m coming back to the start
Where You found me
I’m coming back to Your heart
Now I surrender
Take me
This is all I can bring

You’ll never stop loving us
No matter how far we run
You’ll never give up on us
All of heaven shouts: let the future begin
Let the future begin

I feel alive, I come alive
I am alive on God’s great dance floor

God has found us. Sinners like us. Just like those street boys in Africa, we once had no hope. God gave it to us. His love will never end, even when we wonder away from him over and over again. He will NEVER give up on us. For that we are thankful. For that we are joyful. For that we should come alive on Gods great dance floor. Whats Gods great dance floor? Look down. Look down at your feet... wherever you are, that is Gods great dance floor. We should be living joyfully for him every second of every day. Maybe that doesn't look like physically dancing. But maybe it could mean we are so filled with joy, we feel as if we could break out in dance at any moment!

A man who has greatly influenced my life over the past several years once said this, "I was standing at a state football game and with hundreds of others jumped up and down and screamed on the top of my lungs. Cheering with great joy each time the Wolfpack played well on the field. The fans loved the wolfpack and were excited to exclaim their joy and proclaim their loyalty. The next day in church I looked around as we "worshiped" our Savior. The One we should be the biggest fan of. The One who should bring us the most joy. The One who we should express our deepest love and commitment too. There, there was no expression of excitement!

I'm no way suggesting you should dance around church Sunday (though it wouldn't be a bad idea). I am saying, we should be excited about the Lord! We should feel alive, come alive on God's great dance floor!

Sweet, Ibra praising the Lord. He once was a street kid and now lives in one of the "A Perfect Injustice" homes. Watching him worship during my time in Uganda greatly touched my heart!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oIu_sRF8rSU ... I encourage you to listen to "Gods Great Dance Floor."

Obiedience

2013-02-19T19:16:00.000-08:00

Sunday night I had the great joy of picking up "A Perfect Injustice" founder Abby Kaketo and her husband David from the airport with my sweet friends Elisa. As we stood there we both agreed that it felt weird having the picking-up duty We much rather had been departing. I exclaimed, "Get me out of America!" As we stood there memories started flooding our minds and the reminiscing began.

Monday, David and Abby spoke in a Home to a small group of people about their journey God has led them on this far, and what God is doing through them in Uganda. Abby told me before she began, "sorry, I know you have heard all this many times before," but somehow every word that came from her mouth seemed new, as if I had never heard it before.

I chocked back tears the entire time as God very loudly spoke to my heart! Here are a few things He showed me through Abby!

1. Abby first began by saying that she went to Africa when she was 13, and she hated it! It made me laugh as I too understand the comical ways of the Lord. He calls us to the places we least expect. Am I going to be o.k. with that when He calls me?

2. Abby said she began to pray every day in her high school years that God would reveal Himself to her, that He would lead her in the way He wanted her to go. Everyday. God began to make himself clear.... She was going to Africa!

In this time of stress and confusion about what I will do when I graduate, how often do I pray about it. It should be daily, and it isn't! Worrying doesn't help... prayer does!

3. A year or so later she found herself sitting in a church service where the Pastor was speaking on obeying God. He explained there were different phases. First, we think we feel God tugging at our heart, and leading us in the way He wants us to go. Secondly, we, through prayers and reflection can often feel certainty in this calling. Thirdly, there are too opinions. We either act on that calling or we reach a phase of disobedience ... because when God says go... you go!

I don't know exactly what God is calling me too, but when He does, I want to be ready to go! I don't want to sit back and listen... entering a phase of disobedience. Am I ready to act on my calling when God speaks?

4. Abby went to Uganda to reach out to street children, and had no intention of opening boys homes. In fact, she did not want to. Through a series of events, she rented some rooms that she was going to allow street boys to gather and sleep in at night. A place where they could lock a door and protect themselves from harm, especially sexual abuse. A week before these rooms would be hers she was surprised with the new knowledge that by law she would have to provide them each a bed, food, and a caregiver. What she thought she was doing was opening a shelter. What she did open was a boys home. Since that day (long story short) Abby's organization has 22 acres of land, two boys homes, each housing 14 boys, a street program in the slums, and they now are in the process of opening a discipleship home for order boys to move into, building a bakery for them to work at, and have hopes of building more homes. She said, "I think God had to surprise me like that for me to obey Him. As much as I would like to think I would have started a home if He told me to, I don't know if I would have!"

Surprises happen often in life. Usually, I don't like them. Change isn't my forte! But, what if God intentionally springs things on us without warning so that we will obey Him. Also, when God does (because he probably will at some point) call me to something I don't necessarily want to do, am I going to obey?

I could literally write a book about Abby. She has a amazing story. A story that has touched my life in immeasurable ways! Her obedience to the Lord has convicted me and taught me. When I think about the hundreds of boys lives who wouldn't have been touched if Abby did not listen to the voice of the Lord, I see the great importance of obedience! I pray that I learn to have a heart like hers. A heart willing to serve... wherever that may be!

"Through whom we have received grace and apostleship to bring about the obedience of faith for the sake of his name among all the nations!" -Romans 1:5

Learn more about Abby from her blog http://aperfectinjustice.blogspot.com/ or more about the organization at www.aperfectinjustice.com

You can also read about my Uganda experience by clicking the "Africa" or "journals" label on the right.

Abby is on the far left. These are the boys in her boys home, each who have been extremely blessed by her!

IT'S JUST A GAME: but, Go Pack!

2013-01-30T09:46:00.000-08:00

I was sitting in Church Sunday listening to God speak through Brian Frost at Providence Baptist Church, when he began speaking on idols. Nothing new. I have heard it before, so have you.

"We all have idols," said Brian. Yep, heard it! I have heard it, and if you asked me if I believed it I would say yes. But if I asked myself if I actually believed it, I would have to honestly say, no. Not until this past Sunday.

. . . . . . . . . . . . .

I should probably mention that the night before was a history making basketball game. My Wolfpack dominated against Chapel Hill. After years or a continual losing streak, the win got every NCSU fan a little excited.... and a little boastful, and prideful, and even a little mean. If you were on any source of social media the past few days you have read the fights. The absolutely ridiculous fights. All over this game. Maybe you aren't a state fan or a Carolina fan, but you are probably a fan of some kind. If you aren't: you absolutely know at least one man who obsesses over His favorite team.

. . . . . . . . . . . . .

Brian listed Idols that may be in the lives of the congregation Money. Clothes. Cars. Homes. Jobs... and so on. He then mentioned the big win the night before, lighting up the faces of many in the congregation. Then he added to the list of idols .... sports. "If you can look at a fan of the opposing team and feel hatred toward them without even knowing them, sports is probably a idol in your life," He said. I thought to myself, "HAHAHA, I bet there are a lot of convicted people right now."

Mainly, my selfish thought probably came from the fact I still after being told my entire life, didn't truly believe their were idols in my life. That night I remembered something I tweeted the night before while cheering on my wolfpack....

Are you kidding me!?! There are about 20 different problems with this, one being that I thought other people should feel convicted but didn't for a second, feel convicted myself. But lets focus on this: I strongly disliked a large group of people because of the color of their shirt, and the cheers exiting their mouths. To defend myself a small amount, the girl standing behind me was screaming absolutely ridiculous things. But really, that is no excuse at all.

Since this epiphany, I have thought about the other idols in my life. The mornings I stress out about what to wear but never consider praying over my day. The desire of money and stuff and things that daily enter into my life, mainly during time spent on pintrest. The way I value earthly friendships over the friendship with my Savior. The list could go on for days.

But lets just agree on this. Though it was glorious, what happened on Saturday was just a game. It was people on a wood floor throwing a ball around. If we are in a good/bad mood this week because of the outcome, if we have been arguing with people about if UNC and state are a rivalry or not. If our hope is in the anticipation of the rankings and statistic, or if final score is in our thoughts more than things that actually matter. We might have ourselves an idol.

Just a friendly reminder.... it is just a game!

Love, Yo girl Jordan

GO PACK!

(Disclaimer: Being happy, celebrating, talking about, and being prideful of the win is not wrong... if it is done in a healthy matter, and we can honestly say we put more hope in our Savior than our Basketball team!)

Meet Monica: a story worth reading...

2013-01-27T18:53:00.000-08:00

I want you to meet Monica. Monica is a 18 year old student at NCSU. When arriving to Raleigh this past August, she was ready to experience new things like hamburgers and football games. She had no clue of the new experience that would soon enter her life.

Monica comes to us from China. A place with the populations of 1,344,130,000 people. A place with at most 4% Christianity in that population. A place where thousands, if not millions, have never heard the name of Jesus.

In Hangzhou, China where Monica grow up she was told that in America, people were typically Christians... and that was the extent of her understanding. She has lived 18 years without a religion though she sometimes would "pray" in Buddhist temples. You see; we all have a desire to know something more.

......................................

I also want you to meet Brittany. Brittany is a 19 year old student at NCSU who loves the Lord with all her heart. She decided to become a International Student Orientation leader. In the first few weeks she met tons of students who she quickly feel in love with, and who fell in love with her. Her few week commitment turned into lasting friendships. One of these friends was Monica. As Brittany boldly lived out a life that shined the love of Christ, people like Monica started seeing something they wanted. Quickly, Monica went everywhere Brittany went... including Church and such. Quickly, Monica wasn't just Brittany's friend, but everyone's friend that was somehow connected to Brittany, Providence Baptist Church or Campus Crusade for Christ. As Monica began to ask questions, she hit the number one spot on numerous prayer list. Ordinary people like me started praying consistently. That's when stuff started happening.

I remember when Monica proudly posted on Facebook, her first Bible she had ever owned that Brittany had given her.

This day I not only remember but will never forget. I sat in front of Brittany and Monica at Church one day that happened to be communion Sunday. I remember hearing Brittany explain that only those who had true salvation should take of the bread and the cup. I remember watching the plate pass Monica, heart broken that she didn't know Jesus as her Savior. I remember minutes later hear her belt out "How Great is our God?" in song. I remember the tears that felt down my face.

Monica continually asked questions. Attended church. Attended Campus Crusade for Christ. And continued to be surrounded by people who not only loved her, but loved Jesus.

Over Thanksgiving break Monica went to spend Thanksgiving with Brittany's family. There when she realized that she didn't have to have everything figured out before she could ask Jesus into her life... she gave her life to the Lord.

Post like these flooded her Facebook page. So many people rejoiced in her decision!

The day before she left for China for Christmas break, I walked back into the church building and saw my small group girls and other sisters in Christ circled around Monica in prayer... tears pouring down all of their faces (and mine too).

The other day after Church Monica posted this on Facebook saying, "Providence is my first home in America! I love y'all!" (she even used the word "y'all!!) Our Church family is so blessed to have her.

So in a matter of months not only did Monica's life change, but Monica found Eternal life.

I want to be more like Brittany and others who live life's that make people want to know Christ. I want to love the Gospel so much telling people is a priority. I want people to be added to the Kingdom
because of my persistence in their lives.

I want to be like Monica whose heart is open to the truths of the Lord. I want to love my Church family as though they are literally my family (and they are).

I believe in the power of prayer. I believe that God changes people. I believe God uses people to change people.

You don't have to go across the world to tell someone who has never heard. You just have to surrender your life to God... the un-reached are surrounding us... and God is waiting on us to let Him speak through us!

Be bold for the Gospel!

Love, Jordan

Mini Pizzas

2013-01-26T08:59:00.001-08:00

I love blogs! Writing them, reading them, finding them... I love it all! My new love: food blogs! And then one day it hit me: What good is it doing by me looking at them if I never am going to cook them! That's when the magic began... and wallah ... here you have it: Mini Pizzas! Not only do they taste good, but they are pretty! Would be great to take to a Superbowl Party!

Ingredients:

whole wheat wraps
pizza or spaghetti sauce (I used Ragu)
Mozzarella Cheese (Use reduced-fat cheese to make it healthier)
Pepperoni (Use Turkey Pepperoni's to make it healthier)
Spices (I used garlic salt, pepper, and Italian Seasoning)

How ya do it:

Take the top of a can and press down into wrap, creating circles
In a bowl, mix together sauce, spices, and about a half of cup of mozzarella. (Experiment with the amount of spices. I suggest using a lot of garlic.)
Place the circles you created in muffin pans, and put approximately two spoon fulls of the sauce in them.
Add cheese on top top of that followed by pepperonis.
Preheat oven to 425 degrees and cook for 12-15 minutes.
Let cool for about five minutes before removing them from the muffin pan or they will break in half.

That's it! So easy and SO yummy! And even semi-healthy!

Alternatives:

It would be fun to add other toppings like peppers, onions, bacon and such. I am just a Pepperoni kind of gal!

Thanks "Recipe by photo... food made easy!" for the idea! Check out her blog for more fun ideas!

I'M GOING TO ...... ?!?!

2013-01-23T16:05:00.002-08:00

TORONTO, CANADA

Did you think I was going to say Africa?!

When God says go, you go.... And that's what happened.

For one reason or another, a few weeks ago I caught myself praying about spring break plans. When I realized what I was doing I felt ridiculous, because what I wanted to be doing for spring break was to be laying on a beach somewhere. So why was I praying about it?

The next week in church the opportunity arose to participate in a trip to Toronto to help with a church plant. I thought about it... quickly thought about it... Because In case you don't know... Toronto isn't a beach! Throughout the following week I constantly thought about it and didn't like it at all. I quickly began to realize at these thoughts must be from the Lord, because they certainly were not fom selfish me!

Days later I verbally acknowledged my interested in the trip. This same week I joined team iPhone (Praise the Lord) and the day after my verbal acknowledgement, apple maps decided to randomly pop up on my phone (or maybe I don't know how to use it yet and caused it to pop up?)You will never guess what part of the map appeared... Yep, you guessed it! Toronto, Canada. Maybe you think I made it that up for the readers entertainment, but have you read my blogs? I am not that creative!

I know that I sounded bitter about the lack of beach only seconds ago; but the Lord has helped me rid me of myself... I AM SO EXCITED to spend spring break in Toronto! Truth is, it wouldn't be possible to be happy anywhere else but the place the Lord is calling me to!

So it's official. I am going to Canada!

Unfortunately when God tells you to go... He doesn't hand you a stack of cash to get there.... But He does promise to provide!

I am not worried about the monetary aspect of the trip, but I do acknowledge the need for "sacrafice," if you can even call it that, in order to make this trip possible.

So after this week I am going to attempt not to go out to eat until after my trip in attempt to save money! Help me out by not inviting me to lunch and dinner... Unless we are meeting on campus with packed lunch or at my house where we can cheaply cook!

This blog is scatter-brained and slightly random. I shall return soon with details on what we will be doing in Toronto! Stay tuned!

I love you, my readers!

- Jordan

"I heard the voice of the Lord, saying, Whom shall I send, and who will go for us? Then said I, Here am I; send me." -Isaiah 6:8

"And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus." - Philippians 4:19

"WE ARE A CITY ON A HILL": A PASSION EXPERIENCE

2013-01-20T19:24:00.000-08:00

I recently was blessed enough to be able to attend Louie and Shelly Giglio's Passion conference in Atlanta, Georgia. It was such a amazing experience... So amazing that I struggle to find the words to explain my experience! I have meditated on often how to write a blog about it and each time come to the conclusion it would end up being way to long for anyone to want to read.

So then I thought, "if I could tell the world one thing about Passion, what would it be?"

Here is what I came up with:

The first night I stood in the Georgia dome I literally was speechless. During our time of worship I had a hard time even making myself sing and an even harder time stopping my eyes from continually circling the dome. Why?

There were approximately 60,00 people in that dome from the ages of 18-25....60,000! Um, what? Ok, and as if that isn't overwhelming enough... Those 60,000 people were there to worship Jesus, grow in Jesus, and serve Jesus!

So many times we (my generation) feels so alone in our walk with the Lord. Something we feel like finding fellow believers is just too far fetched... And maybe older people feel the same way, I don't know.

Also, people (those older than my generation) often see us as a "lost generation," and honestly, rightfully so. I sometimes feel the same way. Sometimes sitting in my very secular classroom at my very secular school I think, "are we fighting a losing cause?"

So here it is. Here is the one thing I would want the world too know! 60,000 YOUNG ADULTS WERE PRAISING JESUS! We are not a lost generation, rather we are a generation full of alive believers ready to boldly fight for the souls of the lost!

Oh, did I mention these pour college students who gathered together raised over 3 million dollars in an effort to end modern day slavery?! Yea...it happened!

Oh, and did I mention that this week Chris Tomlin's (Passion worship leader) album made #1 on the Billboard. You think our generation listens to trash? Well, "we" do.... But there is enough of us who want to listen to music about our great Savior that "Jesus music" outsold all that trash!

Oh, and did I mention that we made such an impact on this world we were on CNN... Not once, put twice? Yea, CNN, the very liberal news station. And get this, they talked positively not only about us but our faith!!

You gave up on My generation? Don't: but pray for our boldness. You feel alone? Don't: find peace in the knowledge of so many others fighting your same fight! You don't trust Jesus as your Savior, and think this whole "Jesus thing" is strange? Don't: join the battle; And enjoy the promises of God!

Most importantly, pray for revival because this generation: "We are the light of the world, we are the city on the hill, we gotta let our light shine!"

"you are the light of the world. A city on a hill cannot be hidden!" - Matthew 5:14

Click here to watch the video on CNN about Passion 2013

...and here for another video!

oh, and click here to find out more about the "End it Movement!" Make sure to sign the Pledge!

Make sure to share with other your stories about Passion with the world. Didn't go to passion? My blog is no rights reserved... its all yours!

FROZEN, GREEK YOGURT COVERED BLUEBERRIES!

2013-01-17T21:00:00.000-08:00

I try to eat semi-healthy and luckily actually enjoy eating healthy foods. Problem is, foods that aren't so good for you are way more convenient and much cheaper.

The even bigger problem is that if you like to cook/bake you are in trouble. Sweets aren't so good for you. Or are they?

I came across this recipe this morning and by dinner time had tried them out! So amazing! I seriously suggest trying them... especially if you have a sweet tooth! It is a healthy option to keep in your freezer for when that sweet tooth of yours kicks in!

Cheap. Fast. Easy. Healthy. YUMMY.

All you do if put a blueberry on a toothpick, roll/twist it in Greek yogurt (I used vanilla, most people said honey is best) and then put it on a cookie sheet. Repeat process, and stick in the freezer for about 30 minutes!

Thanks to "Caffeinated Chronicles of a Supermom" blog for the great idea! Check out her blog for more awesome recipes!

Pumpkin Spice Cupcakes (a award winning recipe)

2013-01-16T10:02:00.001-08:00

If you know me well, or even if you just know me, you know I LOVE anything pumpkin flavored! Pumpkin spice cupcakes are no exception. A friend of mine told me about them and I thought I would give them a shot. I then started making them on the reg.

Then.... Something pretty cool happened! Sigma Alpha Omega and Beta Upsilon Chi decided to use the recipe for the NCSU homecoming cupcake war competition. To our surprise, WE WON! After baking over 200 of them that week I vowed to never make them again... And so far haven't.

So here you go.... You can now have a award winning recipe! : ) the easiest thing you will ever bake!

Ingredients:

One box of Duncan Hines spice cake mix
One can of pumpkin
One container of cream cheese icing
Brown sugar

Directions:

Put cake mix and can of pumpkin in a large mixing bowl
Mix on medium speed for approximately 3 minutes or until there are no more clumps
Fill cupcake filter 3/4 full. (they will not rise as much as normal cupcakes)
Preheat oven to 350 and bake 19-22 minutes
Once cooled top with cream cheese (if immediately serving, it is good to put cream cheese on while the cupcakes are still warm... It is like a pumpkin cinnamon roll)
Sprinkle brown sugar on top!

TOP TEN OF 2012

2013-01-14T19:53:00.004-08:00

In all of the blogs that I follow, the bloggers tell the readers about their lives. I never do that because I think "who would want to read about my life?" yet I find myself reading about everyone else's lives, even strangers, and am enthralled. So here it goes. This is my life!

ITS A NEW YEAR! I was extremely excited about the year changing and may have even had the false impression that when the clock striked 12, all the bad parts of 2012 would disappear.

Needless to say, they didn't! Yes, it many ways this has been a hard year. But if I really sit down and think about it... the blessings FAR surpass the very few things I could complain about. This has been such a exciting year!

MY 2012 TOP 10:

1. I got the great privilege of becoming a small group leader for Providence Baptist Church's College Ministry. (If you are looking for a church, click the blue words, and you can find out more about this AWESOME ministry!) It started out with two girls, and we now are five strong! In attempting to lead them, each of the girls have taught me so much. I love each of them and am so blessed by them daily! This past semester we went through the Old Testament Together, and learned a lot about the character of God. I am in much need of a new picture with all of them in it!

2. I went to AFRICA again. Geez, I just love that place! This time I went to Kampala, Uganda and served along side "A Perfect Injustice" ministry. It was just a eye opening experience, and potentially gave me a lot of direction for my future. I now have so many friends in Kampala who I love and miss so much! I WILL be back to visit them soon!

3. I became a Aunt! At 3am on the 22nd of December my sister, Janna, woke me up to say she was going to the hospital. I stupidly responded, "WHY?" Karmen Leigh Lambert was later born around 1:30pm that day. She was 6 pounds 15 ounces and 19 inches long. She is absolutely beautiful and has already stole my heart! The first thing I did the morning of the 22nd was go buy her clothes.... safe to say she is going to be spoiled (and stylish if I have anything to do with it!)

4. WE WON HOMECOMING! After the most stressful week of my life, Sigma Alpha Omega and Beta Upsilon Chi together won first place in NCSU's homecoming competition. I had the great privilege of walking on that beautiful field at Carter Finely during halftime! It was such an amazing experience! We also won first place in cupcake wars, first place in the Homecoming parade, along with a lot of other awards through out the week!

5. I was able to go to Charleston, South Carolina not once, but twice! I have always wanted to go there and it was a beautiful place. The first time was for a Sigma Alpha Omega Executive board retreat, and the other was for a Beta Chi Upsilon Fraternity, formal. Such a pleasure to be able to go! The formal took place in the theater from "The Notebook."

6. I gained two new beautiful "little's" into my life through Sigma Alpha Omega. Morgan, Hillary, and I have had such great times together, and I love them both very much!

7. Football Season! It is always fun, but this year has to have been my favorite so far. The best memory of course being when we beat Florida State! GO PACK!

8. Though she lived with us some in 2011, this year Jordan Nicole Butler officially became part of my family. Words can't express how blessed I feel to have her as a sister! She is absolutely hilarious and always so loving! It has been so neat to see her "grow-up." This year she has been a beast on the swim team, made the A honor roll, and somehow managed to become the favorite Ellinwood child, I am pretty sure!

9. I conquered my biggest fear! Snakes have always been my worst fear. Even seeing them on television used to make me cringe As strange as it is, one of my friends this year decided to get pet snakes. I started with being ok with being in the same house as them then moved on to being in the same room. I then touched it, let it be on my sleeve.... and now me and Samus are best friends (or something like that)! I even fed it a mouse (that was conquering a fear in itself... eww mice!) I have to admit, I am extremely proud of myself!

10. I went on a lot of trips: Asheville, Pigeon Forge, Myrtle Beach, Nashville,, and Florida .. Florida makes the top 10 fo sho! Me and some of my friends went to Ferdandina Beach in Florida for Spring Break, and it was most definitely a week to remember. We came back with so many inside jokes and more stories than I can count. My favorite story of course being when Brittany peed on herself because she was laughing so hard.

(The top ten are in no particular order)

God has blessed me so much this year and I am grateful!

A New Year Brings a Full Gym!

2013-01-11T05:52:00.000-08:00

So the other day I was at the YMCA and as I made my way to my next machine I happened to glance out the window. This is what I saw:

This most likely doesn't humor you. What if I tell you it was on December 31st? Still not humored? Ok, just just imagine what it looked like the next day?!!?!!

The new year typically brings a full gym. Though I felt as I owned the gym on this particular day, for the next few weeks I will be waiting in line to use equipment.

Isn't this the same thing that happens with our walk with the Lord? I was recently thinking about this as I attended a conference in Atlanta, Georgia called "Passion." typically when we leave things such as this we are on a "spiritual high." We tell ourselves we are going to be better people: read our Bible more. Pray more. Give more. Love more.... And we do. But easily, when the conference rolls around next year we will be right back where we started.

If we don't make our physical exercise a lifestyle rather than a temporary fix, we in the long run are no healthier than when we began. The same thing goes for our spiritual exercise. God doesn't call us to temporarally love Him. He doesn't call us to live for Him for short periods of time. He doesn't say our spiritual life should be on cycles. He tells us to daily die to ourselves. Not somedays or January through February, but everyday.

It's the beginning of a New Year and our new years resolutions are now in full swing. I am challenging myself to live not a year, but life of consistency. Challenging myself to not have a better February but a better year. Challenging myself to not only have a better year but to make a permanent fix .... To daily die to myself and continually work on strengthening my walk with the Lord.

"Then he said to them all: "If anyone would come after me, he must deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me. For whoever wants to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for me will save it." - Luke 9:23-24

I'm Not Sure that Jesus Really is the Reason For My Season...

2012-12-07T10:22:00.001-08:00

This past Sunday me and one of my best friends, Kelsey Murray, had the great opportunity to speak at Southside Baptist Church in Rocky Mount about Missions.

As we put on our mics on our heads blew up a little bit because as much as both of us love to talk, we love people listening to us talk more.... but believe me... the second we opened our mouths up there on that stage, we were completely humbled.

In the past year God has given me the opportunity not only once, but twice to serve Him in Africa.
I feel like a large majority of my year has been talking about my travels, blogging about my travels or thinking about and planning my next trip there!

While we sat in the living room Sunday afternoon going over what we we were going to speak on, memories began to flood in. We were dying of laughter and then border line tears at all the hilarious and mind blowing experiences we had.

One memory that we began to talk about was one I don't think I have shared since returning from Africa.... one that I don't even think I have talked about at all, and speaking about it in that pulpit Sunday night both humbled me and convicted me!

When me and Kelsey knew that God was calling us to Africa we knew! When one trip got cancelled, we were bound and determined to still follow Gods plan, and we decided we would just go ourselves. I was ok with this idea, though it scared some of the people in my life, and I felt brave and courageous. But then... Kelsey called with tentative dates.... December 17th through December 31st. Some how all that bravery I had felt a few days before disappeared, as the thought of "missing" Christmas scared me to death... I responded, "well, I will pray about it." God made himself clear, and He didn't change his mind.... we went to Africa!

I remember waking up on Christmas day trying so hard to be full of joy, but whether I showed it or not, I was heart broken. Me and Kelsey exchanged gifts and looked at our coloring book Tree, and I deep down missed waking up to a living room full of presents. As the day went on my heart became more shallow, as I was dwelling on all the traditions of Christmas I was missing. I chocked down the tears when I talked to my family on the phone, but the second I hung up, the tears flooded.

That night we and Kelsey returned to our compound from an awesome African wedding experience and began to throw a pity party. We sat alone at a table in our house and said, "I just want dinner. we don't even get Christmas dinner." God is hilarious, and about that time there was a knock on our door. Two missionaries from Germany were there asking us if we wanted dinner.... we then sat around the table for hours having extremely encouraging conversations. Me and Kelsey then went to our room and she began reading out-loud the "Kisses from Kate" book she had given me for Christmas about a girl our age who has surrendered her life to God, and serves full time in Uganda. Whether she knows I realized or not I am not sure, but I began to hear Kelsey's voice get a little shaky, and then we looked at each other... that's when it all clicked...

Every year we talk about the "true meaning of Christmas." We get upset when stores refuse to say "CHRIST'mas" because we believe He is the "reason for the season." We read the Christmas story on Christmas day after we open up hundreds of dollars worth of presents, and eat so much food its gluttony... and some how our holiday was "Christ-centered!"

I was in Africa. Surrounded by starving Children who have never received Christmas presents. People who have never drank clean water. People who don't even have a home. People who have never even heard the name of Jesus... and I was upset over lost traditions, and the need for "Christmas dinner."

Do I really get the real reason of Christmas? Is Jesus really the center of my life? If I lost every materialistic possession, every tradition, every comfort in my life, would I still serve Him?

As this Christmas roles around I have been thinking a lot. This year I will not be in Africa on Christmas. I will live a comfortable American and material-centered Christmas. What about the way I celebrate Christmas represents Christ love? The same love that God showed us when He sent baby Jesus to us.... to die for us.

Do I truly believe in the Gospel and its power? Do I really understand the true meaning of Christmas? What about my life shows that I do?

I am here to say it doesn't. Not at all. Praying that God gives me the boldness to change that.

I challenge you to do that same!

About to speak! Clearly loving it too much! : )

Our Christmas tree!

Our African Wedding Experience!

The day after Christmas, we got to deliver Operation Christmas Child shoe boxes!
One of the most humbling and memorable experience of my life!

Learning Not to be a "People-Person"

2012-12-05T06:35:00.001-08:00

There is not one bone in my body that is introverted. To say I am a "people-person" would be a understatement. It takes approximately five minutes alone for me to feel lonely.

All of these statements are sadly true, and often are a negative part of my life. Its funny, because typically you would think that being a people-person would be a good character trait. The problem is that I love people so much, that it is people themselves that I allow to define how happy I am.

Scenario 1: I can distinctly remember one specific night during sophomore year when I had nothing to do. Not one friend had called to see what I was doing or asked if I wanted to hang out. I remember sitting on my bed thinking, "It is a Friday night. I have nothing to do. My life absolutely sucks." And sadly, I truly believed this. The amount of loneliness that overwhelmed me, is pathetic.

Scenario 2: I am completely content in being single. For about 95 percent of the time, it is amazing. But then there is the other five percent. I have to admit, as I approach graduation, I often think, "wow, how in the world did I just go through four years of college without dating anyone?" I distinctly remember having this conversion recently: "I am fine being single, but what is wrong with me? I don't even really care if I date anyone or not, but it would be great if i felt like people, like, wanted to date me or something!" This is pathetic I realize. But, just real honest and humbly I admit, yes... I said this.

Scenario 3: I LOVE the people in my life. If you are my friend, you know it, and I have a ton of them. I hope that the people in my life would agree. I try hard to encourage, and uplift. I try to love, and support. I don't have many acquaintances; I really feel extremely close to almost all of my friends and family. Here is the problem. They are such a HUGE part of my life, that the second one of them hurts my feelings or disappoints me, I am crushed. I distinctly remember one specific time in my life when I had a friend disappoint me. As our friendship came to a end, I was completely devastated. I had put so much worth into that friendship in my life, that when that person disappointed me, my heart broke. Years later looking back, I feel ridiculous about how much I let it steal my joy. Not only that, but in the way I have let it happen over and over again.

All boys are stupid. Girls love to talk behind your back. No one is perfect. Everyone will disappoint you.

These statements are true, and even though I know it, every reminder hurts me BAD.

In a recently reminder that the people I love will disappoint me, I realized I am a "people-person." I am a person that lets people define my happiness.

I need to fix my life to where I am a "Jesus-person." How exciting my social life is shouldn't define me, but my prayer life should.

The way that people are or are not perusing relationships with me shouldn't define me, but the way that Jesus is perusing me, and the way I am responding, should.

The disappointments of people in my life shouldn't define me, but the knowledge that Jesus NEVER will, should.

Psalms 118:8 says," It is better to trust in the Lord, than to put confidence in man."

Psalm 32:10 says, "Many are the woes of the wicked, but the LORD's unfailing love surrounds the man who trusts in him."

When people fail you, let it be a reminder that God never will. Though I may lack trust in man, I am beyond thankful for a unfailing God who I will forever put my trust in!

Shout out to one of the best one of those people that I love! SO thankful for this fine friend, Lauren! !

"I am the reason you are not soaked!"

2012-09-29T13:19:00.003-07:00

We were in the beautiful Charleston, South Carolina walking alongside the water way when we started seeing children in bathing suites. I was a little confused, and couldn't figure out where they were swimming. Soon after, we saw it. A beautiful fountain that you could play in! I LOVE fountains in general, and the last time I was in one I was freaking out because I felt like I was breaking the law.

Now I could play in it, and because I was suppose to! The only problem was... I really didn't want to be soaking wet... but I saw a opening that seemed to be a safe zone. Me and my beautiful friends all ran in, me feeling like my dreams were coming true, and we began taking pictures.

Then I saw this mischievousness little boy standing by the column the water came out of , with his hands grasping the water hole. He was staring at us very intentionally, and I quickly prepared myself to get soaked!

I very dramatically said, "ARE YOU ABOUT TO GET US WET LITTLE BOY??!??"

He very dramatically responded, "NO, I am the reason you are not soaked!"

I then realized he had been covering the water hole with his hands for us the entire time so we would not get wet. I laughed and then went and thanked him, feeling very stupid... and selfish!

This story came to my mind the other day while I was thinking about Gods plan for my life. I so desperately want to know what the next few years hold. Lately, I have heard almost everyone I know saying these similar words.

We ask God so many "why" questions. Why don't I have this thing or that thing. Why am I not in a relationship? Why don't I know what career path to choose?

Or why did you let that happen? Why is my life like this?

God responds, " NO, I am the reason you are not soaked!" He is the one holding back all those things we ask him about. He is protecting us.

I think if we could see what God was doing for us, we would also laugh, thank him, and then feel very stupid... and selfish!

"He cuts off every branch in me that bears no fruit, while every branch that does bear fruit he prunes so that it will be even more fruitful." -John 15:2

Though it may be painful, the things that God withholds from our life our places in our life... it is all to help us bear fruit. It is for the betterment of our lives!

Thankful for Gods provision over my life. Whether it be withholding things from me or giving me things I don't exactly want... He knows what He is doing, and He is doing it for my good!

Our Hospital Party With Alex!

2012-09-26T07:01:00.000-07:00

The bible is our instruction book. Sometimes we forget to look through the instructions to know how to live our life. It amazes me the things the Bible tell how to do. One thing that may go unnoticed is how to be a friend.

He tells us what a friend is:

John 15:12-15 “This is my commandment, that you love one another as I have loved you. Greater love has no one than this, that someone lay down his life for his friends.

He tells us what kind of friends we should have:
Proverbs 13:20 Whoever walks with the wise becomes wise, but the companion of fools will suffer harm.

1 Corinthians 15:33 Do not be deceived: “Bad company ruins good morals.”

He tells us how a friend should treat their friends:

Luke 6:31 And as you wish that others would do to you, do so to them.

Romans 12:10 Love one another with brotherly affection. Out do one another in showing honor.

Colossians 3:12-14 Put on then, as God’s chosen ones, holy and beloved, compassionate hearts, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience, bearing with one another and, if one has a complaint against another, forgiving each other; as the Lord has forgiven you, so you also must forgive. And above all these put on love, which binds everything together in perfect harmony.

...and I feel positive the list goes one.

I have been EXTREMELY blessed with a LOT of friends that follow these instructions. One friend that I specifically think of when I think of a Godly friend is Brittany Hall. Brittany has more friends than anyone on earth, I am certain of. She isn't "kinda" friends with anyone, but close friends with everyone. She gives and gives and gives of herself.

You treat others as you were to be treated, so when Brittany seemed to be in severe pain the other night at dinner, It was the least me and Ericka could do to take her to the hospital....

What awaited us on this adventure we couldn't have dreamed of in a million years. Meet Alex, the most hyper 2yr old in the entire world (at 1am). Who we read stupid books too while he drug Brittany across the waiting room floor, stole Ericka's pretzels, and literally climbed the walls. As you will notice in the next series of pictures.... Ericka was ready to strangle him... but Praise God she refrained!

Never read this book to your children... it was awful!

We stayed in the hospital almost all night, and left just as frustrated as we came... but we met Alex, so it was worth it! Praying poor Brittany's ankle heals soon and she some how refrains from injuring herself, at least for a few months (thats unlikely!)

All I want is peace....

2012-09-19T08:04:00.000-07:00

The other day a friend of mine was quoted saying the following:

‏@jmellinwood

"All I want is peace... actually we aren't even called to peace... so screw it!" - @tuck3nnis

Though it may sound a little mellow-dramatic.. it is so true!

We aren't called to peace; God never promised us comfort. God never promised us life would be easy. He did however promise that in Him we could find peace (John 16:33). He did promise us He would never leave us or forsake us (Hebrews 13:5). He did promise us that He would never give us more than we could bare (1 Corinthians 1:13). He did promise us that in all situations, good and bad, He would work them together for our good (Romans 8:28).

But peace... that was never a promise.

"I have told you all this so that you may have peace in me. Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrows. But take hart, because I have overcome the world." -John 16:33

Ironically, a few days before, his brother also gave me some insight on this situation. He was asked that somewhat cliche question, "why do bad things happen?" This question is probably the number one reason of doubt. Believer or not... everyone has thought it. Or what about this one: "why do bad things happen to "good" people."

First of all, what is a "good person?" What scale do we use to determine who is "good" enough to avoid "bad things," or rather the wrath of God? ....

Here is the insight he gave...

We are looking at it COMPLETELY wrong. We should be saying, Why do good things happen to me? Why do good things happen to a "bad" person like me? Who am I to deserve Gods mercy and blessings?

A few weeks ago at a retreat, I was given a journal and was challenged to start a "thankful journal." I was to write down things I was thankful for, anywhere from a beautiful sunset to safety while driving. Big things or little things.... write down all the things I was thankful for until I got to 1,000.

I am only in the 100's, and it is transforming the way I think. As I walk around campus my mind is just spinning with things I am thankful for. When I find a parking spot near campus, I am beyond thankful. When I drink a pumpkin spice latte.... I am thankful.

And I pray the next time life throws me a curve ball... I am thankful!

God didn't promise us peace... unwanted situations are going to happen, and do quite often! God doesn't owe us anything... we should be thankful for everything... good and bad!

.... Just what God has been teaching me lately! : ) Praying He can teach you too!

(I have challenged approximately 50 people to complete this Thankful Journal with me! If you are reading this... I challenge you as well! I PROMISE that it will impact you in a positive way! If you are doing it, let me know! And let me know when you get to 1,000!)

Hugs, Jordan

This week I am SO thankful for my two BEAUTIFUL sisters, Janna and Jordan, who both have Birthdays! HAPPY BIRTHDAY Y'ALL!!!!!!

"Be thankful in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you who belong to Christ Jesus!" -1 Thessalonians 5:18

Meet our 2012-2013 executive board! SIGMA.ALPHA.OMEGA.

2012-09-08T19:34:00.000-07:00

In 1998, Sigma Alpha Omega was formed at North Carolina State University! There now are chapters all over the nation... but strong we still stand... right where we began... here at NC State! Through a series of amazing leaders SAO as remained... we ARE a "timeless classic."

It is such a honor to be part of this leadership. We pray that we are just a part of this amazing legacy. We pray that God works through our leadership and all we do glorifies Him!

Meet Lindsay Speir, President:

Lindsay is soft spoken, and has a BIG heart! Her compassion for others is so evident in her daily life and relationship with others! She hurts when others hurt... adding such great compassion to our sisterhood! Through her busy schedule, she somehow never misses meetings or events, and is always glad to be there! Because the sorority has meant so much to her, her testimony is a testimony in itself of what a blessing Sigma Alpha Omega is to each of our lives!We are blessed to add her to our list of Presidents.

Meet Jordan Ellinwood, Vice President:

Well, that is me! I would rather leave this description up to someone else... So feel free to send your input! If I would have to guess I would say people would respond, "she is one of a kind." I keep things interesting with my blunt statements and just as readable as a book, facial expressions. I am often way to hyper but hopefully spice things up a little! It is a great honor to be Vice President! I am striving to lead to the best of my ability!

Meet Holly Martin, Treasurer:

Holly is loud, funny, talkative, and thinks she is a princess! More importantly, she is our encourager! Everyone in Alpha Chapter has received at least one "I am praying for you" text from her. She genuinely cares about each and every sister. She is a prayer warrior, and is faithful to pray at any given time! Because of her bold leadership, we all know to "NEVERRR touch a tshirt till you pay for it!"

Meet Brittany Hall, Secretary:

Brittany is the most personable sister we have! Somehow she manages to be friends with not one or ten, but ALL of our sisters. She is willing to drop anything at anytime to be there for you! Her willing spirit and smiling face is uplifting and encouraging! Her crazy connections have been a great bonus to our sisterhood. If you ever need "the in" just ask Brittany! It has been almost comical the connections she has given us!

Meet Sarah Stadler, Judicial Board Chair

Sarah is more commonly known as "Sassy Sarah," though she would argue this is not true! She certainly never holds anything back, and if you catch her past 9pm, things get pretty funny! Her amazing artistic abilities have been an amazing addition to the Alpha Chapter. Tshirts, websites, posters... the list goes on, are always PERFECTION! Sarah is busy, but ALWAYS willing! She always does way more than she is required, and always with a willing and happy spirit!

So now you have met the Executive Board 2012-2013 of Sigma Alpha Omega, Alpha Chapter! We each feel blessed to hold our positions. Together, we are prayerful about EVERY decision. Together, we work to the BEST of our ability. Together, we LOVE each of our sisters. We believe we have a great platform on our campus... grounded first in Christ... and second in Sisterhood!

Rainbow cupcakes!

2012-08-23T14:11:00.001-07:00

I can't believe it, but summer is over! Though homework, test, studying and such are nothing too look forward too with the start of a new school year.... time spent with my sisters of Sigma Alpha Omega, Alpha Chapter is!

This past Sunday was our first buisness meeting, so me and my sweet little, Jessica, had a little fun! With a little help from pintrest... here is what we came up with...

I just printed out hearts saying "welcome back" on card-stock and cut them out. Then hot-glued them to a toothpick.

One cupcake got special treatment! Happy 22nd Birthday to my beautiful roommate, Brooke Reimer! She is a BIG blessing in my life!

anddddd, the BEST part! The inside! I could stare at this picture forever! Neon food coloring is only $5 and you can find it at any grocery store. It is SO easy (just a little messy). Find out how to make this rainbow magic here.
The beautiful Brooke!
My sweet little, Jessica!

"Here at NC State we take pride in healing animals.... not humans!"

2012-08-21T07:58:00.002-07:00

I am not a paranoid... but I also didn't want to risk anything, so off I went to the doctor.

I have been having strange leg/muscle/knee problems for the last several weeks, and finally decided I needed to have it looked at.

After copying a few dozen recipes out of health magazines in the waiting room, the door finally opened, and the sweet nurse called my name! I very descriptively explained to her what was going on, and then she left the room.

The next lady who entered was my doctor... though I feel pretty certain she is not actually a doctor. She wore a short skirt that she did not know how to properly sit in, and clogs (with heels on them).

Even though that very detailed discription was right infront of her, I once again told her my spill.

She strangly looked at me, poked my leg for all of 30 seconds, and then said... "hmmm... I don't know whats wrong with you!"

Shocked, with that typical Jordan-look on my face, I (hopefully not too rudely) said, "yeaa... me neither!"

I am pretty sure at this point she was on google search engine, and asked me to try to stand on my toes... so I did... and that was that.

After a AMAZING (sarcasm) 4 minute doctors visit she diagnosed me with "patellofemoral pain syndrome" saying, "even though this isn't really what is wrong," and handed me a book of knee exercises.

Earlier she asked me if a participated in any recreational drug use. Of course I said no. She must of believed me because when she asked me my pain level from 1-10(being the highest pain) I answered one. But this is what she prescribed me....

Pain killers!

My pre-med roommate later informed me that these "pain-killers" are actually just high-dollar Aleve. I could have just taken a double dosage, and saved a bunch of money....

There is no moral to the story. There is no life lesson learned. Except for maybe... don't go to health services....find a real doctor!

Here at NC State we take pride in healing animals.... not humans! If only i was a ferret or fish... this problem would have been long solved! GO PACK!