Hearts Transformed

As 2010 comes to an end I would like to say that I accomplished all of the goals I set up for myself. But I did not. I would like to say that I radically changed the way I did something, anything but I did not. 2010 wasn't a horrible year by any means it just seems like it happened and now it is coming to a close. Where did this year go? My highlights include David graduating, moving to Tennessee and asking me to MARRY HIM! I am blessed in many ways and think back on the things that happened this year fondly for the most part. I just can't shake the feeling that I missed something. I know that every year people say, "Time flies" and "It just gets quicker the older you get." I have a sneaky suspicion that my reflection this year has a lot more with my own agenda of getting things done and not enough times of "stopping to smell the roses." So here is to 2011 being a year of more memories, more pictures, more moments shared with loved ones. To

One of my favorite things in this world is the beauty of music. I usually have music on. Today I am sitting at my desk and I have Pandora playing in the background with my Kari Jobe Radio Station playing. Often I don't even pay that much attention to what is playing but every once in a while there is a song that stops me. Today it is this song, "What Do I Know of Holy?" by Addison Road. I made You promises a thousand times I tried to hear from Heaven But I talked the whole time I think I made You too small I never feared You at all If You touched my face would I know You? Looked into my eyes could I behold You? (CHORUS) What do I know of You Who spoke me into motion? Where have I even stood But the shore along Your ocean? Are You fire? Are You fury? Are You sacred? Are You beautiful? What do I know? What do I know of Holy? I guess I thought that I had figured You out I knew all the stories and I learned to talk about How You were mighty to save Thos

This is where I am today. Camping out here for a while. My heart is here for my own life and for the lives of those to whom I minister.   Philippians 4:4-7 (The Message)   4-5 Celebrate God all day, every day. I mean, revel in him! Make it as clear as you can to all you meet that you're on their side, working with them and not against them. Help them see that the Master is about to arrive. He could show up any minute!   6-7 Don't fret or worry. Instead of worrying, pray. Let petitions and praises shape your worries into prayers, letting God know your concerns. Before you know it, a sense of God's wholeness, everything coming together for good, will come and settle you down. It's wonderful what happens when Christ displaces worry at the center of your life.

Several things were on my mind today. I had a meeting with some very amazing people making a difference in the lives of youth in the greater Nashville area. A couple years ago I was asked to help with a Campus Life at HHS. I didn't know that this would be the beginning to a long road of partnership with Nashville Youth for Christ. I am glad it has turned into more than I imagined. Today after the workshop I decided to take full advantage of being downtown and eat at one of my favorite places, The Copper Kettle. Here is a view from my seat. I love Nashville. I love the people I have met here. I love the things I have done here.

I am so excited for this holiday. I am spending it with friends and family. This year God has been so gracious and kind to me. I won't say there hasn't been some difficult times, because there have been and there will continue to be. However, God is so good! I have had the honor this week of staying with some friends children. My friends are such an example of love and God's heart. My friends are in Ethiopia right now meeting their new son. The two older kids have been with Aunt Amber for the entire week. Today was the first meltdown. It came out of nowhere but it was so sincere and tender. I thought in the middle of this how amazing the love between parent and child is and how God's love is so much greater. I can't actually remember the last time I felt heart sick for my heavenly Father. My prayer this Thanksgiving is that I keenly aware of the blessing of family, love and my faith.

Several years ago I was introduced to an author, Patrick Lencioni. He is a big name is business management resources but has recently addressed the family. Check out the link below to see a full book review  http://www.childrensministryonline.com/family/book-review-the-three-big-questions-for-a-frantic-family/

So it seems that the sinus infection has made its way back into my body. I had sinus surgery nearly 3 1/2 years ago and haven't had one once of trouble since. I am heading to the doctor here in a little while to see if it has in fact come back to haunt me. So sad.

I was recently in a meeting where we were talking about volunteers. The phrase was used that, "Every person is a possibility." I wrote that down. I have thought of that statement a lot. I don't treat people like that all the time. Not just a possibility as a new recruit to help me in things I find important but a possible new friend. A new mentor, a new idea, a new challenge. I often teach students that is of utmost importance to look at the perspective they have on things. My catch phrase, "Everything can be changed by perspective and attitude." I need to live more by what I teach.

Several weeks ago someone was telling me a story about being in the car with their daughter. As they came to a light the car in front of them failed to go with the changing of the green light. The daughter said, "Mom, honk your horn." The mom very wisely said, "We don't know what that situation is. Maybe they just left the hospital bed of a loved one or just received bad news." She then preceded to honor her daughters wishes and blew on the horn. The story was one of humor and wisdom but it has stayed with me for several weeks. This morning I was running a few minutes late to work, which is a normal, when the gentlemen in front of me failed to go at the green light. I would normal yell and honk and throw my hands up, "Come On!" My quick assessment of the situation determined that the man was distracted by something to his left of little importance, I stopped and smiled and thought...I do not know the situation in that car.

Fall is my favorite time of the year but this year there has been a strange occurrence. It is still hot outside. Okay, hot may be a little dramatic but it is still warm during the day. I think this has done something to my mood. I want crisp cool air to fill my lungs. I want bright orange and yellow and red. I want sweaters and hot tea. I want a better attitude. This past Sunday, I shared a quote with the elementary teachers and I should have kept one for myself. "Attitude is your paintbrush; it colors every situation."

This week I attended a coupon workshop and it was great. Jenny from southernsavers.com taught us so much about how to organize and collect. Yes, couponing takes a little time but I think I will save lots of money. If you want more great tips check out the website  www.southernsavers.com Saving money will be a good thing for me since I just completely compulsively bought a  Silhouette . So be looking for future cutesy post about all the cool stuff I am making.

This must be one of the most amazing weeks ever! I got to begin my week laying in the sand looking out over the Gulf. I experienced a wonderful time with 10 other women. I laughed and cried and laughed some more. I saw a pod of dolphins swimming through the ocean and one even jumped through the air for us. I returned home last night in enough time to go to church and see David. This morning I am preparing to head out to Gatlinburg for a great time with the high school students. The High School Fall Retreat is the most fun of all the trips we take in Student Ministry. I love being in the mountains, sitting by the fire and sharing with the kids. My prayer is that I will relish this week and the many blessings I have. The blessings of friends, the blessings of a job, the blessings of a life being lived to the fullest!

Today I started a new journey. I began a citywide Bible Study at Community Church of Hendersonville . The study is "One in a Million" by Priscilla Shirer. Today was the intro video. And there were several points that really stuck out in my mind I would like to share. 1. Our God is a God of abundance.       John 10:10b "I cam that they may have life; and have it abundantly." How incredible that God not only calls us to a life that is satisfactory but to a life that is sweet and abundant. There are too many times in my life that I settle for a life that is mediocre and just okay. I don't want that life. I have always felt as though my life was supposed to be extraordinary. I want a life that is full of risks taken and experiences had. I don't want to live a life full of fear that things may not go the way I planned or that others my find me unusual. I want an ABUNDANT LIFE! 2. We all need deliverance from a person and a place.      The nation of Isra

So I figured today I would just get really honest. My topic today is my hair. I am sitting at my work desk and every once in a while I catch a glimpse of the growing hair in the mirror opposite me. I mean today I have seriously watched my hair get bigger. Granted, I know people that pay good money on volumizing products. But if they had this mane they would understand. It is like a magic show, an illusion, a chia pet.

For so long I was intimidated by the question, "What is your favorite bible verse?" I felt a great pressure to answer in a way that the person asking the question would approve. It had to be the right balance of love and truth. How do you pick a favorite verse? So over time it evolved, and as most things that I feel uncomfortable with I made it humorous. So here is the evolution: As a younger child...." Then Jesus wept." John 11:35 (Yes I was that kid.) As a teenage girl...."Have mercy on me, O God, for men hotly pursue me."  Psalm 56:1  (Yes, I was that youth.) As a college kid...."You have not because you ask not." James 4:2  (I actually still claim this at times.) Now as a young adult, which I technically am until 40 according to Erik Erickson's stages of human development, I actually would say that John 10:10 has become a mantra for my life, my abundant life. And it just so happens that this month at Community Church we are focus

Anyone who knows me, know it is difficult for me to function without music playing in the background. I am sitting at my desk going through tons of pictures looking for a background for this or that and Pandora is playing in the background. It is usually a background that doesn't even catch my attention however this particular song came on and I am weeping at my desk. God is speaking so clearly for me to trust him! I have posted the lyrics below: It's hard to stand, On shifting sand It's hard to shine,  In the shadows of the night You can't be free,  If you don't reach for help And you can't love,  If you don't love yourself But there is hope when my faith runs out... Cuz I'm in better hands now It's like the sun is shining, When the rain is pourin' down It's like my soul is flying, Though my feet are on the ground So take this heart of mine There's no doubt, I'm in better hands now I am strong, All because of you I stand

It is August and in student ministry world that is a big deal here in the south, where schools begin August 4th. I have experienced my first full summer of children's ministry and it was a great summer. Although, I feel like I have been swimming for two straight months and holding my breath the entire time. Now I am breaking the surface and the first few breaths have been gasps. The thing about gasps are that at some point you must slow your breathing back to a normal rate or you will hyperventilate. So here I am trying to find routine again after a crazy summer excursion. One other thing to know about August is that it a new beginnings month in ministry. Appropriate that we get more than one here at the church :) And with new beginnings comes lot of reflection. With reflection comes a desire to express one's self. Which makes me think of an option I had on a specific social networking site to list my emotion. Funny that I thought of my feelings much more often when I was ass

Today was the first of four Terrific Tuesdays . Today it was the Kindergarten through 2nd grades turn to head to Hendersonville Strike and Spare for an awesome day of bowling. We had so much fun! Here are the high rollers for the day! We started out with a ramp but decided it wasn't needed! The older boys brought the heat. Some of them almost breaking 100 points! But don't be fooled the girls held there own. It was a great day! Remember we have three more Terrific Tuesdays coming this summer check out www.cchville.org for more information

This morning started with everyone a little tired from the long night of giggles, stories and sack races?! That's right, The Official Sack Race Olympics here in Campbellsville, KY and I didn't even know ahead of time. I am sorry to report that I did not get any pictures of this. Here are a few of the things we have done today so far: The girls started the morning off with a little photo op. Breakfast was followed by a Quiet Time in the Word. It was a beautiful morning! It didn't take long before i made my way to the stage. GO ORANGE TEAM! OMC is where it's at! Barry and Sue holding down the water tent. This is what it looks like after OMC. Here is what Ms. Sue thought of the day!

This weekend is going to be a great time for our 4th /5th graders to spend time with each other. Our theme for the weekend is adoption into the family of God. It is a great reminder to the students and adults alike. Here are some shots from our first day. Stone trying to get the last of the ice cream cone down before going into Opening Celebration. Pastor Caleb giving us the challenge for the weekend! Miss Elizabeth, our fabulous church host, making us feel welcome! Nathan representing the boys at Friday Night Party! Way to go Nathan! More pictures to come!

We had a tremendous week of learning about God's Word on our High Seas Expedition. One of the best stories I have gotten from post VBS is from an email I received this morning: "Ok, so my son has chosen today for his 30 minutes of reading time, to read his bible storybook.  He called me in the room to say, "Mommy, I was reading about the walls of Jericho falling down and looking at the pictures.  I thought to myself, that is impossible.  But, then, I remembered...God's Word Is True!"  I just wanted to share that with you all and to say thank you so much for making His word real!  Even the ones you don't think are listening, get it!!" How great that God's Word is True for all of us! Let's Go!

My latest "cause" and conviction. I wanted a burger, but not just any burger. I wanted a spicy, slaw covered, Blackened Bayou Burger. The quest was one. David and I arrived at Red Robin last night post church ready to get our grub on. We sat down and received our menus, but something was terribly wrong the menu was different, it was NEW! Immediately I was frustrated because things had moved from their original placement making it difficult to find this craving of mine. Upon further skimming and flipping the menu over about 20 times, my hope began to fade. Our waitress, came to get our drink order to which I first asked, "Where is my burger, my burger is gone?" One glance into the cold  look of pure determination in my eyes persuaded her to "ask a manager." She came back to my horror to notify me that it had indeed been dropped from the menu. "DROPPED?" I felt so betrayed. Red Robin in that huge, sweaty, terrifying bird suit had lured me int

Recently the Lord led me back to the book of James. If you know me very well, you know I could spend the remainder of my life studying and trying to put James into practice. If you don't know m e well; suffice it to say that I have a mouth that needs a bridle! Beginning in the beginning and taking my time has let me discover nuisances not noticed before. James 1:1 "J ames, a servant of God and of the Lord Jesus Christ... " So many times I fill the slot with my own insecurities. Amber, a mess of a person and a servant to herself .   However, my identity is in God and I am the daughter of the KING!  Be encouraged today to make your greeting one of truth. Do not let those lies from the evil one, the names or labels we often call ourselves, be your greeting to the world. Let us be ready to greet the world with confidence that we are because of I AM!

Kari Jobe "Healer" I believe your my healer I believe you are ALL I need I believe you're my portion I believe you're more than enough for me JESUS you are all that I need. You hold my every moment. You calm my raging sea. You walk with me through fire. You heal all my disease. I trust in you. NOTHING IS IMPOSSIBLE FOR YOU! You hold my world in your hands! Seriously!

Several years ago I was mesmerized by the search for songs. In one of those searches I used my name. I was always jealous of my friend Sarah and her name song. I found a few but in all honesty they fell short. No one to my knowledge had ever written a song about or for me. My song. In the verse below I picture that God is singing my song. The One who knows me more intimately than any other is rejoicing over me with singing Zephaniah 3:17 (New International Version)   17  The LORD your God is with you,         he is mighty to save.         He will take great delight in you,         he will quiet you with his love,         he will rejoice over you with singing." And I Praise God in heaven! As I attempt to remove the masks that I wear it is such a comfort from the Word that my savior is mighty to save. I am amazed that the same warrior will dance over me and sing my song.

Songs often get stuck in my head. Often it isn't anything that I want to keep on replay. Several days ago a song came to me. No worries I am not turning "Nashville" and becoming a song writer. It was an already written song. The recurring verse, "Who am I that you are mindful of me?" I didn't know what God was doing but I was certain there was something moving inside me. So I wrote it on top of the board in my office. Maybe because I am a little slower to hear or maybe because my timing is not God's timing it didn't come to me until today. All day today I have been singing this verse. Why is this particular song stirring in my spirit? This afternoon at Starbucks over a delicious Peppermint Mocha and a great conversation with one of the precious young ladies that I get the privilege of serving another seemingly unrelated idea came about. We should find a bible study that we could do together. So we headed to Lifeway to seek out the perfect study for

It seems like here lately there has been recurring themes to my months or weeks. I believe these are God's way of getting something through my thick skull. Most recently the theme has been "rhythm." I am a list maker. This blog is not on my list by the way and it is really causing me distraction. But there are times you just need to "get it out" and this is one of those times.  What is rhythm? According to  http://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/rhythm it is: Rhytm: Pronunciation: \ ˈ ri- th əm\ 3 a : movement, fluctuation, or variation marked by the regular recurrence or natural flow of related elements So I guess I am in search of movement of regular recurrence. It seems like 2010 has been a hodge podge of things strung together. I haven't found it yet this year. I haven't found rhythm and much like a song with no rhythm so my life feels chaotic and a little irritating to deal with at the moment. I don't feel out of control. I just feel o

The great snowfall of 2010 happened this last weekend and it is lasting well into this Wednesday. At first I was bummed because I knew it meant my weekend plans would be changed and if you don't know me well. I do not like for my plans to be changed. I was a little over talking about it because it seemed to captivate all of our thoughts and facebook posts. I do however want to share the lesson I learned through this snow. Sunday morning I awoke to thick white blanket of snow still covering most of my tiny corner of the world. I was much too aprehensive to drive that day and had to have a chauffer. However, I was a little taken back by the glorious sight of the white snow in the beautiful Sunday sunshine. Sunday had a bright blue sky overhead and the whole world seemed to glow. I prepared to go out in the cold and donned my best coverage high heels to brave the snow. I do not own snow boots or anything similar. Everyone commented on my silliness yet I feel the heel stabbing throug