Carpe Aeternitatem: Seize eternity.

Kedvencek

2011-12-29T10:48:00.001+01:00

Favorites

During these slightly slower days of Christmas break and in light of this Advent season, I'm reflective and thankful. These are a few of my favorite things, or at least my favorite things that happen to be caught in photos (and in no particular order).

Szabadság híd (Liberty Bridge) makes a great impromptu cafe

with no cover charge and a fantastic view

Visiting friends from the U.S. (more dear ones not pictured)

Kate and Seth Yaiko, both of whom I've met before their respective births, are my little darlings.
Here, they are making "cheese" faces.

My students hard at work and having fun. I have few joys greater than when they make important
connections between the Creator God who loves them and our literary discussions.

Time and space to commune with my Heavenly Father in glorious nature (and with coffee)

Not eternally significant, but a really cute car on my street, nonetheless!

To me, Starbucks' Gingerbread lattes harken back to my university term abroad in London: a time when so much of that to which God has since called me first became understood.

The square near my flat: Kosztolányi Dezső tér is beautiful year round and especially at Christmas

These people are pretty great.

Happy New Year to one and all!

A Parody and Prayer

2011-12-19T11:15:00.001+01:00

In watching my seniors lives this semester, I've had a few specific prayers for them. As they came from Calculus or Discrete math and sat for their British literature exam, I penned a poem: half parody, half prayer. Though the poem is a rough draft filled with inside jokes, it might prove applicable to you as well as to me and my students.

'Twas the Night Before Finals

Twas the night before finals, and all through Bp
All the students were studying—from ICSB.
Notes and study guides lined on the desks with great care
In hopes that the teachers’ exams would be fair.

We students were reading, so close to our beds
While visions of Christmas Break danced in our heads.
With coffee fresh-brewing, I’d turned down my jam
And just settled in for a long, drawn out cram

When all of a sudden, there arose such a thought
That I slipped from my seat, “Brit Lit ‘scholar’ I’m not!”
Easing out of my bedroom, down the stairs I did slink,
Grabbed a cold can of Red Bull, threw my mug in the sink.

How I needed some energy, chugged the last drop,
Then wandered around and stared at my laptop.
What could bring to my watering eyes motivation?
But a message, a red tag, a notification!

People chatted ‘bout “Timeline” and tagged my new pics.
It’s just what I needed: a quick Facebook fix.
But my eyes got so blurry; caffeine makes me berserk.
I knew that I needed to get back to work.

Now vectors! Now limits! Now Chaucer and Caedmon!
On truth tables, integrals, dramatic conventions!
My brain started throbbing; brought my hands to my head.
“Shakespeare, leave me alone! ‘Something’s rotten,’” I said.

We’ve had so much to do: tests and projects galore.
Building lots, calling businesses—I still need two more.
College apps, obligations, the rushing around.
As we’re students and seniors, the tasks, they abound.

Where’s the peace and the joy and the hope for the world?
As I pleaded, the Spirit’s clear answer unfurled:
“Come away, come to me, sit and ponder the manger.
I have come. I’m true life; stop and enjoy me, your Savior!

You have done a good job; I’ve been pleased with your worship.
Now be still; stand and wait. I am faithful; I’ll do it.”
So I mused to myself as my heart came awake,
“Merry Christmas to all, and to all a good break!”

You know you are an international school when

2011-11-18T11:37:00.001+01:00

The hallways are quiet this Friday morning. The record-high enrollment of the year seems a fantasy. Most desks sit empty in the high school wing.

No, the bus drivers haven't gone on strike again. We've been spared serious bouts of sickness so far. Today is not a national holiday. Why the dramatically low attendance at ICSB?

In this case, kids are missing because "I" stands for International. For a small, international school like ours, sporting opponents are hard to come by. Clusters of schools form quick and busy tournaments so that more teams will come and play. An away game is away. The girls' volleyball teams along with coaches, parents, and siblings are driving 5 hours west to Salzburg, Austria for a Friday-Saturday tournament.

Because we are an international community and many of us long for rare English-language events, another huge group of students and staff has driven eastward to the city of Debrecen, Hungary. The draw this time is a seminar and concert led by Hillsong Australia and Darlene Zschech.

All this travel sounds glamorous. In reality, driving to Salzburg from here is not unlike my drive from Dallas to Little Rock last weekend (for my brother's wedding). The trip to Debrecen compares to the Chicago day-trips of my childhood. Fun, but no big deal. Such is the nature of an international school in the heart of Europe.

I'll tell you, though, that just like the village-view out my classroom window, the ordinary and day-to-day of life here is still pretty special.

Facing the Tanks

2011-11-04T13:24:00.002+01:00

October 23 is a national holiday in Hungary as we commemorate the revolution of 1956 that began on that day. The rest of the story is that on November 4, 1956, more than 2000 Soviet tanks rolled though the streets of Budapest, firing into crowds of citizens, shattering the structures of buildings, and subduing the revolution.

But the national Hungarian heart had been stirred, and revolution would one day succeed. During that time, Hungary would become a gateway for East Germans, Hungarians, and others from behind the Iron Curtain to freedom. For more of that story, I recommend that you read James Michener's book, The Bridge at Andau.

Happy November 4th, everyone!

Thanks to Dr. Gabor Gyori for the photo and reminder.

On the street where you live

2011-11-03T16:22:00.002+01:00

This past weekend, Budapest glowed with autumn sunlight. Walking down my street, I noticed how--in the right light--common scenes were especially beautiful. These moments prompt me to talk to God about how thankful I am for this life and how concerned I am for the dear people of this city. Join with me as I pray not only for my school out in the village but also for the city where I live.

Trams crammed with people

The elderly visit this pharmacy a lot

This square, Kosztolányi Dezső ter, is serene. Many homeless persons rest on the benches.

Sirens wail as emergency vehicles rush down Bocskai street to (often) limited medical facilities.

A tension exists between accepting traditions, styles, (Starbucks) and values from beyond our borders
and maintaining a rich heritage.

Budapest's municipal government has high hopes for public transportation expansion
and a growing economy, but the reality is not quite so rosy.

Thanks for walking and praying down my street. You are welcome to join me in person anytime!

Just buzz #31.

A kick in the head

2011-10-31T07:50:00.000+01:00

Migraines have attacked my poor head each Sunday for several weeks now. Some of them have been so severe that the usual medicine and sleep course of action isn't enough and they remain in the morning.

Like today's.

Besides the pretty uncomfortable symptoms themselves, these migraines are terribly inconvenient as life grinds to a halt in my little flat. Other people don't understand--and rightfully so--why I can't fulfill certain obligations during the weekend or even attend church. How frustrating for them and for me.

While I take more note of triggers, food or activities that prompt these headaches, I would really appreciate prayer. Because I become isolated from fellowship and teaching on Sundays, I'm sure there are spiritual repercussions as well as physical.

Thanks

P.S. Sorry to those of you who, excitedly, thought I was going to blog about love. I was referring to the pain in my head quite literally. :)

That Slaves We Shall No Longer Be

2011-10-23T21:31:00.002+02:00

October 23rd is a Hungarian National holiday commemorating the 1956 Revolution. I'm reminded again of the struggle for freedom, autonomy, and hope that lasted through a thousand years of oppressive regimes. A new struggle for real hope persists even today.

Here is a look back at the 1956 Revolution through the eyes of Time Magazine in January, 1957:

I'm humbled every time I consider the fortitude of my dear friends here. Let's continue to pray for those in power and for nations that are seeking peace and freedom today and for eternity: Hungary, Tunisia, and so many more.

In my anguish I cried to the Lord,
and he answered by setting me free.
Psalm 118:5

Amazing Surprise

2011-10-17T20:18:00.000+02:00

After a truly wonderful and a bit stressful high school retreat, I walked into my classroom last Saturday to discover this:

My classroom now contains a projector and screen! I'm so thankful for the supporters of our school and the administrators who carefully dole out the resources. I know this classroom has been on the list for a projector since I've tried to incorporate more and more technology into my classes, but I had no idea that I would actually get one. Wow.

God has provided for a need for which I didn't think it was important enough to ask. What a delightful surprise.

It takes a village.

2011-10-16T23:18:00.002+02:00

This weekend, it took a village to care for "the little American girl" and I am certainly feeling the love.

First, my sweet, diligent, and concerned landlady, Zsuzsanna, sent her brother-in-law to fix my water heater and rewire the light fixture in the living room. Not only do I now have hot water for bathing and washing dishes and clear light over my sitting area, but I also have a sparkling tub and sink. Apparently, every 8 months or so when repairs are needed, Gabor brings a professional strength cleaning agent that he and Zsuzsanna don't want me to touch. They certainly don't need to clean my bathroom, but I appreciate their extra labor.
Later the same day, Zsuzsanna came to collect several months' rent. She explained some country-wide hikes in electricity costs as well as some other unfortunate price changes of which I was already aware. While my rent will be going up, I'm confident that she is giving me the best deal she can. At the same time, my dear landlady informed me that she had taken it upon herself to complete the confusing census forms that are circulating Hungary. Long story short, I was frantically trying to get a new internet code in order to comply with the law and complete the census; I'd tried to explain my situation to a census worker who stopped by but to no avail. (Everything is trickier when one doesn't speak the language.) The fact that Zsuzsanna is taking care of everything is a weight off my shoulders.
Today, workers came to read the water and gas meters. I was happy to work with the meter readers myself and felt quite competent speaking basic sentences as they walked into the flat. The village of helpers came through later, though, when the super unlocked the gas meter in another part of the building. She has a deal with my landlady to take care of such things on my behalf.
Finally, I got to meet another neighbor in the elevator. He and his son rode up with me, and, when my Hungarian ran out and he discovered I spoke English, Joseph was all the more delighted to make my acquaintance. He was baffled as to why I would choose to live here (common response) but glad to know me. He hopes I might be able to teach his little boy English from time to time. While the added time commitment seems daunting to me, and I'm choosing not to start now, I'd love to interact more with this sweet family in my building! Before saying goodbye, the little boy who "doesn't speak any English" held out his hand and stammered, "I-I am Joseph." What a darling pupil he would make. The elder Joseph also offered his services if I should ever have questions or need help. How thoughtful.
I might be the oddity in my building, and the super might continue to give me such strange looks as I greet her, but everyone is very helpful to this "little American girl". There are situations for which I am ill prepared and moments when life here seems quite complicated, but God has built this little village on Bocskai street to take care of me.

Perseverance in the Mundane

2011-10-13T10:04:00.002+02:00

Rick Stafford just returned from 2.5 years of walking the Amazon. "Although everyone would like me to say that the hardest thing has been our encounters with (indigenous residents) pointing bows and arrows at our chest, for me that wasn't the hardest part," Stafford said last month, " ... the adrenalin kicks in and you deal with exciting, potentially dangerous moments like that easily."
"It's been the mundane that had really challenged me," he said. "... The weight of the rucksack, the basic food, the constant mosquito bites, the constant thorns. The little things that in a two-day expedition wouldn't bother you have been the things that have actually been challenging."

I appreciate this reminder for myself and for my students. The God of the obvious challenges, the high points, the retreats and mission trips is the God of the every day, too. He is just as powerful, loving, and active as we go about our grocery shopping, our family living, our daily labor. I'm challenged to experience God in the "mundane" and to discover so much more under the surface.

This post is a bit dated. I wrote it upon Stafford's return but didn't actually publish it until now. The truth remains.

Delight and Rest

2011-10-02T15:18:00.001+02:00

In this new school year, God is teaching me about his delight in me, my delight in him, and what true rest--not just leisure--looks like. This afternoon, before I get to some important grading, I'm spending a delightful hour with him at a park in Kosztolányi Dezső tér a block from my flat.

I'm lying under this tree.

Can you see the fountain? It is behind the tree and splashing into the Feneketlen-Tó or "bottomless lake".

Starting Fresh

2011-09-11T21:16:00.002+02:00

School is in full swing at the International Christian School of Budapest, and I'm getting swept along again. My students surprise and amuse me more each day, and my fellow teachers spur me on to love and good deeds as we labor together. This job is great!

Thank you SO MUCH for your faithful prayers over the past three years but especially through the last two. My teaching schedule has been adjusted as one of our history teachers this year has been willing to take on an English class, too. My day now includes two sections of English 8, a class of freshmen, and British Literature with the seniors, along with discipling a few girls. Awesome!

Class sponsorship responsibilities are intense this year with my students, the seniors, but I think a year of more balanced living is still in store: work and ministry, health and nutrition, rest and friendships. I've even started up with Hungarian lessons again! God has been faithful in extremely challenging and busy times; He will remain faithful and near this year, too, as I have some space for rest and renewal in Him.

For my students, for the world, and for myself, I'm so eager to see what God has in store! I can hardly wait.

Upward

2011-07-30T00:05:00.001+02:00

The correct answer is what??

Oh my goodness, Alaska with family is a beautiful thing! After not being together for two years, the Ooms family--complete with Zack's fiancee, Leigh--headed waaaaay up to Anchorage, Alaska to enjoy each other's company, meet the newest member, and camp in this great wilderness.

Highlights for me included talking late into the night as the sun nearly set, getting into camping again after several years of being city-fied, and reveling in the sight of Denali (a.k.a. Mt. McKinley), the highest peak in North America. Alaska is a strange and glorious place unlike any other locale I've experienced.

Check out the always concise and creative commentary and (more) photos of my dear sisters-in-law, Anne and Leigh. Really, visit Anne's blog to appreciate the photography skills of my family and catch a glimpse of the last frontier.

Denali National Park is only open to official bus traffic.

There it is! Denali.

We had a wonderful time together, but this vacation did bring out the deep reality of the "daily goodbye". I had to come to terms, again, with the distance, the leaving, the separation through which we live. In the midst of laughter, dinner preparation, and Zack and Leigh's bridal registry, I was caught off guard by and wrestled with how very different my life in Hungary is and how much I miss by living so far from family. The truth of the situation wasn't new, but its depth occasionally surprised me. It's worth it, make no mistake, but missing day-to-day life with family is painful. Our rich time together brought this truth to my mind and heart again and again.

After the difficult departure from the U.S. in a little over a week, I will be very thankful to enter back into life and ministry at the International Christian School of Budapest. Then, each day with students, neighbors, and friends will serve as a reminder that I don't give up family because God wants me to sacrifice. I don't face the daily goodbye in order to prove my faith or earn God's love.

No. I get to embrace a life lived by the Holy Spirit in me. I get to reflect on a God who gave up his family to come in human form and rescue me. I get to work toward and await an eternal home where I will worship a loving Heavenly Father alongside my family and my students and people I have yet to meet. The temporary sadness is real but so is the eternal reward.

Until then, I'll enjoy the family time we're given, work through the goodbyes, and laugh and weep with the God of the universe who carved the mountains, knows my heart's cry, and is planning a glorious ever after.

Stateside

2011-07-13T23:10:00.001+02:00

English conversations whirl around me. Air conditioning and clothes dryers hum. Stores with endless shelves of goods stretch out before me. Billboards shout messages that I can fully understand. Friends and family are close at hand. It's summertime in the USA!

I am glad to be back for a visit after a couple of years of huge distance. Our family just got together in Alaska for a wonderful reunion. I'll be in Colorado at a conference until July 18, in Chicago the weekend of July 21st, tripping on down to Dallas, Texas shortly after that, and returning to Budapest on August 9th. Let's get together in the meantime! :)

(Today, I noticed several blog posts that I had written but never published. Sorry!! They are from throughout the spring semester. Time for a little catching up.)

It's nice to be back.

Thinking Christians

2011-07-13T23:01:00.000+02:00

And the first place prize for a short story in the senior division goes to...

ICSB's Robert Brown!

pictured here as the comically evil Monsieur Thénardier of Les Mis

A great delight of my job at the International Christian School of Budapest is the platform from which I may encourage students to be thinking Christians, to love God with their minds, and to worship with their whole lives in response to the Lord's mercy. This spring, my students represented this ideal well at the Short Story Competition hosted by the American International School here in Budapest.

Several students placed in each age category and dear Robert (keep an eye out for this talented writer and film director) won first place. How wonderful that these students can be recognized for their efforts, worship God with their best, and show the gathered students and teachers from other schools that those who live by faith can also think creatively and deeply in this world.

After all, we are made by and serve a creative God who holds the mysteries of the universe in his hand.

Since Then

2011-07-13T22:41:00.001+02:00

Azóta
Here is a really cool photo album (not mine) that incorporates old images of Budapest into the modern landscape. The website offers great views of this place I call home.
Enjoy!
http://www.flickr.com/photos/mrsultan/sets/72157626149118210/

Quiet down

2011-07-13T22:39:00.001+02:00

This weekend, the cold I had been fighting for days triumphed, so I sank onto the couch not to stir until Sunday evening. I'm thankful for a job that can be accomplished from a prone position on the weekends. Catching up on the sleep was important, but two days of whining (to myself) and emptying Kleenex boxes got old fast.

<--Picture me huddled here.

Tonight, I showered, bundled up, and set out on a walk. With another Kleenex in my hand and a mellow playlist in my ears, I walked to my favorite bridge for fresh air and a bit of perspective. Finally able to get my attention off of my own condition, I stood amazed at the instant perspective and stillness I found over the Danube. Turning my eyes to Jesus, I was renewed in spirit and reminded to worship.

The LORD is good to those whose hope is in him,

to the one who seeks him;

it is good to wait quietly for the salvation of the LORD.

Lamentations 3:25-26

Peacefully,

Middle School Boys

2011-02-25T13:17:00.004+01:00

For the past three years, in addition to teaching high school English students, I've ventured into the wonderful world of middle school. Each new class of eighth graders wins me over instantly with their enthusiasm, energy, and unabashed love of life.
The current group of middle schoolers in history class just finished studying medieval battle techniques, and they were required to create a video or power point reviewing their assigned techniques. Below is the movie trailer one group of boys submitted to my colleague.

Enjoy the result! They certainly did.*

Have a great weekend,

*Note: Since I posted the video, it has been made "private". Should the boys choose to publicize their work again, I'll repost it for you. Sorry you had to miss the amazing talent of 8th graders with energy, creativity, and Macbooks. :)

Surviving and Thriving

2011-02-18T00:00:00.000+01:00

ICSB Basketball

We've just come through a very busy season with the triennial Campus Crusade for Christ conference, the International Basketball Tournament, and life as we know it. There have been many lessons and added responsibilities. I've been stretched beyond what I knew was possible and glad that this season has passed, but I'm honestly thrilled with how it all turned out. God's purposes prevail and his grace is sufficient for me. Seriously.

Conference by the sea

Thank you so much for praying for and encouraging me and my students during this time! You'll find updates on the Prayer Requests page as well as three new photo albums on the photo site: the conference, the tournament, and--at last--my apartment.

My flat at Christmas

Next week is an important time in the life of our school. Spiritual Emphasis Week is a time of daily chapel with activities and a guest speaker, extended times of musical worship, and focused prayer on the spiritual health of students. While we aim to emphasize the eternal perspective all the time and live lives of worship, this week is a special addition to the rest of our year. Please join me in praying for growth in faith for students who have known Jesus for years and salvation for many who are just meeting him for the first time.

With love and gratitude,

Pray for Hungary!

2010-11-22T12:58:00.000+01:00

We can do nothing if God is not at work. Please join my friends, students, and me in praying for Hungary.

The LORD replied, “My Presence will go with you, and I will give you rest.”
Then Moses said to him, “If your Presence does not go with us, do not send us up from here..."
Exodus 33:14-15

Thank you.

Most vagy Soha

2010-11-09T10:18:00.003+01:00

Now or Never

This phrase, seen on an advertisement on the tram, sums up a philosophy of mine pretty succinctly. When it comes to resolutions, fresh starts, or goals, the best time to begin is today. Each day--each moment even--forgiveness is real, and a second chance is possible.

"Because of the LORD’s great love we are not consumed,
for his compassions never fail.
They are new every morning;
great is your faithfulness. "
Lamentations 3:22-23

This truth is both comforting and motivating. God's faithfulness and compassion allow me to try again. His power equips me for a new effort. But I need to exert that effort now. When I know the good I ought to do, I need to do it. If I sense a change needs to be made, I should make it. Obedience has to start somewhere.

I'm in the middle of living out this idea right now. Because of some friends' gentle reminders, I've had an important conversation to take care of an issue. What a positive experience! It wasn't easy, but the outcome and relief were fantastic. Now, there are some other changes--goals, really--that I need to initiate. Time for prayer, meditation on truth, wisdom from others is essential, but now it is time just to do it.

When I was young, my family ate dinner together each night. After presenting some honestly delicious casserole that has developed my lifestyle of cooking in one pot, Mom would announce a dessert. We kids would snatch it up eagerly, but Dad would decline for the moment. "Later," he'd say as he headed to the study. In unison, the remaining Ooms family members would chime, "Later never comes," because by this time we knew that there would not be any German Chocolate Cake left when Dad decided to come back for some. The opportunity would pass.

For me, my father's daughter, the same is true of doing good or making a change.

Later never comes. Each day is New Year's Eve. Now or never.

Thank you, CBF!

2010-11-06T23:50:00.003+01:00

The long weekend with my parents was truly a gift from God! Their presence was invigorating and the break, rejuvenating. I love life and work here in Budapest, but I've come to love and miss my family more each year away. The visit was beautiful.

Additionally, the surprise of a suitcase from the church family of Community Bible Fellowship full of groceries, gifts, and money for a much needed oven was more than I ever dreamed. What rich blessing and encouragement when I needed it! God has been my strength in weakness and joy beyond circumstances. He called me to a life that suits the personality he gave me; I get to do things I love. He is building my faith and giving me a front row seat to his glorious work in the hearts of students from around the world. He is enough, but sometimes he works through people, too. My family and friends showed immense love and generosity at just the right time.

So, here is a quick recap of my parents' visit mixed in with images from struggles and joys of work in Hungary and at the International Christian School of Budapest. The video is directed at Community Bible Fellowship, but it speaks to all my praying, loving, supporting friends, family, and ministry partners!
(Also, a new photo album of their visit is on my photo site. See link to the right.)

"In all my prayers for all of you, I always pray with joy because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now, being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus." Philippians 1:4-6

Create your own video slideshow at animoto.com.

And they're off!

2010-10-27T00:32:00.004+02:00

...the ground, that is. In spite of record thunderstorms, tornadoes, and gale-force winds, my parents departed Chicago O'Hare International Airport safely and (relatively) on time. If all goes smoothly, they will be in Magyarorszag (Hungary) by noon! I'm thrilled that they are able to come for this, the first, visit.

I've certainly been reminded of the importance of family, the joys of sharing life with parents and adult siblings and the opposing loss of living far from them, as well as the significance of giving up geographical closeness for the sake of the gospel since moving to Budapest. There have been pretty hard times of feeling stressed, longing for "home," or wishing people far away could be near during these packed 2.5 years of teaching at ICSB. God's loving presence is bringing me through, and tomorrow he is bringing my parents, too!

We'll stroll through the city, stop by random places that I enjoy, spend a day at school, spend 9 hours in nearby Vienna, visit friends, go to my church, and just hang out together. Through the course of the week-long visit--brimming with conversation--I imagine there will be time for a lot of processing, thinking about God and life and faith and worship. Beyond the glorious joy of seeing Mom and Dad, a long weekend to catch my breath and think will be really important.

The fact that I haven't spent much time reflecting lately is reflected in my sparse blog archive. So much goes on every day, but I'm not slowing down enough to notice. Sometimes I miss what God is doing around me while I'm so busy doing everything else. My parents' visit, the good questions they'll ask, and a couple of days off school could be just the opportunity I need to be still, reflect, and realign myself with God's purposes.

For now, I'll spend some time in prayer, throw another load of towel(s) in my mini-washing machine, and head to bed. My parents will be here tomorrow.

Critical Thinking

2010-09-19T20:47:00.004+02:00

The first project that is a big hit every year with my freshmen literature students is the mock trial of a character from one of our short stories, "The Most Dangerous Game". The activity brings up moral questions, legal questions, and deeply entrenched beliefs that must all come under scrutiny and rebuttal. The kids dig into God's Word, the literature, and world views, open up, get creative, and definitely work on their critical thinking!

I took a quick, undercover video of the kids preparing for the trial. The first group is still discussing the moral repercussions of a murder trial, the second group is assigning roles for witnesses, and the third group--the jury-to-be--is documenting different philosophies and details discussed in the story.

So, while I process the first 2.5 weeks of school and the faculty retreat from which I just returned, here is a 17 second glimpse of my days at ICSB.

New Page Format

2010-06-25T18:05:00.004+02:00

This blogging site has offered a new format that I'm giving a try. Instead of having various sections listed in the sidebar, I've added "pages" with their own links at the top of this home page.

Right now, you can stay updated on prayer requests, my current reading list, and items that are hard for me to get here by clicking on the corresponding links. There may be more links to come, too. I hope this feature makes it easier for you to find what you are looking for!

As always, archived blog entries, my photo site, and other important websites are listed in the sidebar.

Thanks for stopping by.

Much have I traveled in the realms of gold

2010-06-23T18:09:00.006+02:00

...or so begins both my summer and a poem by Keats.

My brother and sister-in-law have spent three lovely weeks in Europe attending ICSB's graduation ceremony at which I got to give the Charge to the Seniors, strolling through Budapest, reading peacefully in my newly- (and finally) settled flat, roaming through Prague thunderstorms together, and having some couple's time in Greece before heading back to the States.

I'm so thankful that they could come because it is really important--and fun--to have family around and because they can now picture a bit more of what happens here, what life is like, and what God is doing in Hungary. All this travel is even more valuable than the memories and pictures because it can open our eyes to a world of extensive history and fascinating people of eternal significance. Beyond the lovely sights and hilarious conversations, I appreciate such reminders.

Now, I'm diving into my online New Testament course for Campus Crusade for Christ staff and some English curriculum work at ICSB. Summer marches on. Before I get to work, I wanted to tempt more ministry partners, family, and friends to come visit by showing some clips of our recent travels. Enjoy! Then, come on over to see these fantastic sights!

Create your own video slideshow at animoto.com.

Down to the Wire

2010-06-03T10:55:00.003+02:00

Today is the last day of exams at ICSB! I am amazed at God's gracious work in me and in my students this year. The schedule has been a bit nuts, and I certainly need a good rest, but I'm so thankful for this year of life and opportunities.

Now, celebrate with me as the end is in sight, but there is much to finish first. What a joy that my brother and sister-in-law arrive for a European visit in four hours! What an honor and responsibility as I deliver the Charge to the Seniors tomorrow at graduation! What a mess of sifting through and grading the hard work of all my students by the end of the day Saturday. :)

It's down to the wire.

And then, it's summer break.

I'll be completing an online course called "New Testament Survey", assessing textbooks for the English curriculum, catching up on faith-building and educational reading, reviewing my Hungarian study materials, hosting marvelous visitors, hanging with dear friends, and--oh yeah--resting!

But I can't quite think about these fun actitivites yet. "I have promises to keep and miles to go before I sleep. " Indeed.

Az első Vidám Vasárnap

2010-04-22T15:15:00.005+02:00

Resurrection Sunday

This post is a little late, but the joy and hope of Easter/Resurrection Sunday last beyond the official holiday, don't you think?

A church here in Budapest decided to make use of a growing trend of dance to bring the joy of Christ to our city. All around Europe (and maybe elsewhere, too), in train stations and malls, groups of people "spontaneously" burst into dance and then put it on YouTube.

Well, Easter Sunday morning, a huge crowd from Hit Gyulekezet (Faith Church) headed to the popular historical and tourist site called Heroes' Square. They blasted the area with a fun song about the great light that burst through on Easter. Jesus is the Messiah! The whole crowd performed a dance right there in the square. Awesome.

Here's the YouTube video in the original Hungarian. So cool!

After you enjoy the song with the words as people are singing them from the heart, you can check out the same event with a similar--not exact--English version to learn more about the message.

It is exciting to think of a growing movement to Jesus in Hungary! Join us.

Daily Challenges

2010-04-17T13:08:00.006+02:00

I love language. Choices of words, phrases, even grammar can be exciting and make communication more interesting. As a speaker of the English language and a student of its literature, I believe I've got my own language well in hand. Yesterday, however, language was more of a challenge--and a reward--in two separate incidents.

First, during the lunch hour, I strolled in the new spring sunshine (ahh!) to the CBA, a small grocery store near the school. Motivated by the sun and feeling good, I picked up some healthier items: yogurt, fruit, etc. The curious trouble was, I had never purchased produce at this particular store before.

Each shop, stand, or grocery chain has a different system for weighing and buying produce, and I've got most of them down. The scale, bags, and layout of this CBA seemed not to communicate this particular system. Sometimes, I'll admit, when daunted I just put the produce back on the shelf and buy something else. But not today! When it came time to pay for my apple, I was able to explain that I wanted to buy only one apple but I didn't know what to do...in Hungarian of course. (I do live in Hungary, after all.) The patient cashier responded that at this CBA, she weighs the fruit right there at the register. Mystery solved, and the apple was crisp and delicious.

Later the same day, I was thrilled to get a ride with a friend and colleague to IKEA in order to get the bookshelf so desperately needed to get my books up off the middle of the floor of my flat. I also had secret hopes of finding an affordable set of a tiny table and chairs for my yet unused but much-anticipated balcony. After wandering through the whole showroom and scouring the warehouse, I came through the line and bought just what I needed with the last of my birthday money. Perfect!

Or not. After having the usual interaction with this cashier, I discovered that he had charged me for three chairs instead of two chairs and a table. Simple correction! Or not. Slipping back into line, I haltingly explained the situation and was directed to customer service. After the usual waiting in line to which anyone in any culture could relate, I--a bit more confidently this time--explained the mistake to the customer service representative and was directed back to the cashier. A bit more confusion, a wry smile and apology from the cashier, the 500 forint ($2.50) difference from me, and another successful venture was complete at last.

In those moments, I was encouraged by the rudimentary yet useful language I was able to remember and use. The idea of summer language school or a language tutor has been in the forefront of my mind for a while and was solidified during these exchanges. I want to continue to thrive here in Budapest, not simply survive while within the walls of the English-speaking school.
Choosing to go outside, to get the item or service or whatever is needed, to engage someone nearby in brief conversation--these are difficult daily challenges that don't always go so smoothly or end so well but are incredibly valuable. I love the idea of learning a language to get to know and appreciate another group of persons in this world, but--to be honest--I don't always feel up to it, especially since I enjoy my firm grasp of the variety and nuance in the English language.

Broken, stuttering sentence fragments in a new language don't capture my personality, what I'm trying to say, or my true attitude in how I would choose to say it if more skill were mine. It is humbling to be the learner, and daily challenges take energy to meet. In these recent moments, though, I was energized and encouraged.

On your feet, Magyar...

2010-03-15T14:02:00.004+01:00

...the homeland calls!

Such is the rousing beginning of a poem called "National Song" written by Sándor Petőfi and pronounced in a large public square here in Budapest on March 15, 1848. Today is an important national holiday for Hungary, and I am moved by the nobility and pride that emanates from faces and is reflected in the "Sunday-best" dress of those in the streets.

You can find more information regarding this Revolution Day and the full text of the poem here.

Yes, dear Magyar (Hungarians), stand and be counted! Hear the truth that sets you free, then carry it to the world, friends! Many people are an example to me since they have stood fast in faith through oppression that I cannot understand. May the light of Jesus spread and the local church continue to arise.

New Pictures!

2010-03-15T11:31:00.002+01:00

Check out the new album on my photo site via the link at right under "Links". The pictures are from late winter and early spring with glimpses of school, life in Budapest, and my birthday.

It's 10 o'clock. Do you know where your children are?

2010-02-17T23:06:00.002+01:00

We are in the throes of Spirit Week (not to be confused with the recent Spiritual Emphasis Week) leading up to our big, multi-national basketball tournament this weekend. Go Bulldogs! This means that our days of classes have the added benefit of functioning around hilarious and conspicuous costumes for dress-up days, meetings to plan class cheers, decorations, competitions, explanations for my confused ELL students, and general revelry.

In addition to these fun times at school, the book club for many ladies in the area met tonight in Diosd. I led the discussion on Elizabeth Gaskell's Victorian novel, North and South. I was fascinated by this book, and we all had some great comments. The sum total of my day, though, included 14 hours at work, because it was 10 o'clock before I walked in the door of my flat. Jaj.

Such is life these days. I'm pleased to be a part of the many exciting and significant things happening in students' hearts here at school. All the opportunities are good. But I'm pretty tired, and I'll keep praying for another English teacher to join our team here at ICSB.
Now, it's a little after 11. I've got to head out at 6:15 in the morning, so it's time to go to bed.

Hello

2010-02-10T21:22:00.004+01:00

Goodbye

That's right; what looks like a greeting in the English language is actually used while parting in Hungary. When I first moved to Budapest in April of 2008, my brain could hardly adjust to this would-be lingual contradiction. Since then, though, the usage of the Hungarian "hello" has changed. More and more, people will say "hello" to mean, well, hello. Gone is the singular "goodbye" translation. The word fits somewhere between the casual "szia" (hi) and quite formal "Jó napot kívánok" (I wish you good day).
People in my apartment building use "hello" most when greeting me on the stairs, perhaps because they can't tell if the person bundled in hat, scarf, mittens, and tights is a teen who would not require a polite greeting or a woman who would. And so this word that seemed so strange to my ear because it was almost English is now commonplace.
Such is the case with many parts of life here in Hungary. The cars parked on sidewalks, people staring on public transportation, grocery stores without bags, paying of all bills at the post office, or ubiquitious white Hungarian cheese that seems to take on the flavor of whatever dish it is in once struck me as odd. Now, they are just commonplace. In fact, I had to sit and think for a moment to remember things that were once odd to me.
I don't have life here mastered, of course. Knowing little of the language is still quite a barrier. But many things that were once intimidating, strange, or frustrating don't even catch my attention now. My, what a difference TWO YEARS make. I'm thankful for the semblance of normalcy, of feeling natural here. Life is still quite the adventure. There are always new challenges. But hello now means hello, and I can get the hang of that.

új imázsfilm Budapestről

2009-10-22T13:45:00.005+02:00

New Image Film from Budapest

This weekend, Hungary celebrates--or rather, commemorates--the attempted 1956 revolution against the Soviets. October 23rd has become synonymous with Hungarian spirit: freedom, courage, and determination in the midst of oppression. This holiday also reminds us of the great efforts here that perpetuated the movement to bring down the Iron Curtain. We are celebrating the 20th anniversary this year!

I'll actually be out of the country during this national holiday, but I'll offer a bit of Hungarian celebration before I go.

Below, you will find a video produced by a guy from my church. His purpose is to highlight innovation and business successes here in Hungary. While the images don't represent the common lifestyle here (there aren't that many BMW's), there are real, sweeping views of our finest streets and of course of the River Danube. So, please take four minutes to enjoy the trumpeting of Hungarian contributions to the world and some great pictures of my dear Budapest.

If the image is cut off, double-click to see the full screen.

ICSB High School Retreat this weekend!

2009-09-29T20:55:00.003+02:00

Just a quick note: please pray for a significant and safe time for all our students and faculty as we head out on a retreat together. God often uses this long weekend away at a camp to challenge the student body and unite us as we journey together. It should be a great time!

Thursday, October 1-Saturday, October 3
Thanks!

Wing to Wing and Oar to Oar

2009-09-29T20:31:00.006+02:00

My brother Andrew got married a couple of weeks ago in Madison, Wisconsin. Because of a lovely and generous benefactress who bought the plane ticket and dedicated teachers who stepped in to sub in my classes, I got to be part of the beautiful weekend of love and fun. I'm so thankful for God's good gift of Anne to Andrew and Andrew to Anne. For pictures, check out my photo site in the sidebar.

One minor example of the near-perfection that is this couple and was their wedding is their super cool idea of giving out a mix CD complete with liner notes and label. They took the title, Wing to Wing and Oar to Oar, from a line in a Robert Frost poem. Frost wrote the poem "The Master Speed" on the occasion of his daughter's wedding. It's just too good to ignore:

No speed of wind or water rushing by
But you have a speed far greater. You can climb
Back up a stream of radiance to the sky,
And back through history up the stream of time.
And you were given this swiftness, not for haste
Nor chiefly that you may go where you will.
But in the rush of everything to waste,
That you may have the power of standing still—
Off any still or moving thing you say.
Two such as you with a master speed
Cannot be parted nor be swept away
From one another once you are agreed
That life is only life forevermore
Together wing to wing and oar to oar.

I love this metaphor of marriage. Here's to Andrew and Anne: joined together by a loving God, harnessing the master speed and soaring wing to wing and oar to oar.

The Sirens Wail

2009-08-14T11:55:00.003+02:00

Please pray for the stability of Hungary now, and the saving of Hungary for eternity. As I sit at Costa Coffee to use the internet, I've observed a long caravan of masked and heavily armed police (picture SWAT) swerve around this corner three times going back and forth with sirens wailing. You see, we have a contingent of right wing, pseudo-neo-Nazi types who are gaining some popularity as the economy tanks and people are disgruntled. I had heard that they were going to hold "events" or "protests" or "riots" today to commemorate something regarding Hitler. Sorry for the lack of details, but I'm not very interested in the Hitler-esque ideals of such a group. Apparently, they are indeed having such events which are sending the police out in force.

Also, the murders or attacks on members of the Roma (gypsy) community are becoming more common as people blame them for loss of jobs or the increase of petty crime. If you're interested, see the news article below.

http://www.reuters.com/article/worldNews/idUSTRE57C04B20090813?pageNumber=1&virtualBrandChannel=0

We will face trouble in this world--that is quite clear--but Jesus has overcome the world! The instability or unhappiness or suffering of this life makes eternity all the more refreshing and reminds me of its desperate significance for then and for now. To that end, I'll blog about the Kispest outreach soon.

Mikor? Most!

2009-08-02T18:19:00.003+02:00

When? Now!

Amazing. August is here--a marvel unto itself--and with the start of this month comes the much anticipated Lábnyom (Footprint) outreach. The time for the English camp that I've been anticipating, fearing, promoting, and more is now! We've prayed, adjusted the curriculum in a positive direction, had several helpful meetings where the teammates have cooperated beautifully, changed the location when a better one came available, and signed up a few more high school students. Let's go.

The foundational goal of this and all of the outreach events and services is to love the neighborhood of Kispest, offer helpful services, and leave footprints of good that lead people to Jesus. That sounds a little lofty, but we want to be both dramatically different and totally relevant in a needy neighborhood as the new church starts.

On a personal note, I'm both thrilled and anxious. I love speaking with high school students (and talking in general--let's be serious) and teaching English, but I've never taught English to brand new English students. All of my students at ICSB have a basic understanding of English and/or have other resources to supplement their time in my classroom. This will be a totally new experience. Couple that adventure with the diverse ages and personalities of our students, and I've got quite a week ahead of me! Thankfully, I am not alone. First, of course, is the Holy Spirit who will teach me what to say and work in our students' minds and hearts. Then, I get to be part of a great group of people. Please pray for our whole team: Bruce, Orsi, Doini, Balazs, Gergo, Zsuzsi, Will, Jenna, and Linda.

Time for me to get back to work. No good English lesson is complete without some quality take-home papers for practice and evaluation. Monday morning will be here before I know it.

As I prepare to be an ambassador of Christ in Kispest, I'd love to hear about where you are headed these days. What opportunities and challenges are you facing? How can I pray for you and the footprints you leave?

Lábnyom Kispestben

2009-07-23T20:21:00.004+02:00

Footprint in Kispest

We (my church family called Golgota) are preparing for a huge outreach called Lábnyom leading up to the start of a church plant in the Budapest neighborhood of Kispest. The events will include a children's ministry like a VBS, a sport ministry, concerts, an English camp for high school students, and more. I am extremely eager to be a part of this outreach by helping to teach at the English camp and getting to know local high school students. Rarely am I able to join in the church's ministry events in the city because I don't speak Hungarian. On this occasion, though, I am relatively qualified and very excited.

Now, I've never taught English as a Second Language before, so there is much to pray for and consider as the week approaches. Please join me in praying for creativity and wisdom as I prepare the lessons. I am thankful that basic lesson plans exist; I'll just be augmenting them and adding to them for my specific class level.

But before any of this can begin, we need students! Currently, only 5 kids have signed up. We need at least 10 to hold the camp. The English camp is August 3-7, and leaders will be deciding this coming Monday if we will continue. There are other possibilities. Maybe God has another plan for the use of English and the love for Kispest. I don't know. Our team leader, Bruce, is content in the knowledge that we follow after God. We won't create our own event because we want to. Instead, we see where God is going and follow.

Unless the LORD builds the house, its builders labor in vain. Unless the LORD watches over the city, the watchmen stand guard in vain. Psalm 127:1

So, we will pray and wait. Students will sign up at the last minute, or we will have some other opportunity. In the meantime, please join us in prayer for the English camp, the other outreach activities, and of course the culminating event: the new church in Kispest!!

We want to leave footprints in Kispest, footprints that lead to Jesus.

A flurry

2009-06-14T20:25:00.002+02:00

Wow! In the last week or so, I've finished school for the year, packed up my classroom (temporarily. I get to return in about a month to do prep for next year.), enjoyed the help of friends to move to a new flat, learned how to get hot water (temporarily) to flow from the bathroom faucet at aforementioned new place), unpacked a bit, randomly enjoyed a chamber concert under the dome at the Parliament building, tried to say goodbye to friends who are leaving, and packed for a month in the States. I fly out tomorrow. Whoa.

Just this morning, I realized how little time I've taken during this time to be still, to listen to my loving and sovereign Heavenly Father. The list above is pretty self-focused or at least logistical. It hasn't been very relational. May I slow down even as I want to see many people and share all kinds of stories from this first year at the International Christian School of Budapest. May I--as I was challenged this morning at church--stop and consider what my life is worth. This life or my own plans and interests are not more valuable than one other person's life for eternity. Am I living with eternal significance? Am I "seizing eternity" as I've often encouraged others to do?

A frenetic flurry is no excuse to lose perspective. Busyness--even in the name of ministry--does not honor God. Listening to him, accepting his love, and loving him with all that I am is what he requires. I'm looking forward to a 12-hour flight to ponder this a bit more...and fit in a little sleep, too.

See you Stateside!

Család

2009-05-25T20:15:00.004+02:00

Family

There are many different types of "family" here in Hungary. First, I remember my own relatives: family I miss very much and will see in a few short weeks! Next, we have the family of God. At a joint church service on Sunday, our church of three services met together in a park and studied Acts 2:42:

They devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching and to the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer.

We talked about true and real fellowship, the purpose of the Church, and the family of God. Then, I'm feeling the connection to my ICSB family--friends and fellow teachers as well as students with whom we labor daily. They are so special to me and grow in significance as the time approaches to say goodbye to some.

Finally, the first form of family arrives again as ICSB hosted Family Field Day last Wednesday. Classes were cancelled for the day, and all students and families joined the staff in a nearby field for games, food, and time together. Fun and sunburns ensued!

I was the black team leader, which meant that I got to go with my kids to each station, keep them organized, encourage sportsmanship, and cheer loudly. Oh yes, cheerleading experience comes in handy at moments like this!

Before the games started, each team created a team cheer complete with skits or stunts. All the teams had great creativity, and displayed a beautiful love for their fellow students of all ages. Elementary students were flying all over the place. :)

Here I am using my vast knowledge of stunting to plan the "basket-toss" of a young student. I had to fight the urge to climb in myself. Oh to feel the wind in my face once again as I go flying through the air. (Sorry, old high school habits die hard.)

And the end result:

B-L--A-C-K, Go Black!

"Family" has taken on new depths and meanings for me as I make a home in Hungary. I'm so thankful that God is my Heavenly Father everywhere and heaven is my true home. Until then, I'll enjoy all the "families" I can get.

My Love Affair with Coffee

2009-05-08T12:44:00.003+02:00

My college years--a time filled with late-night conversations, streams of appointments with students, and other such spiritually and intellectually stimulating activities--produced a sincere and deep-rooted love of coffeehouses. My association with coffee shops is one of quality interaction with other people or alone with God. The ambiance, the fragrance, the caffeine. I love it all. The European model of the small cafe or even independent bakery each with an espresso machine and little white mugs filled with $1.50 cappuccino suits me well.

Lately, though, as my room in our flat is utterly disorganized with the preamble to packing, I've been heading out more often to a Central European (Polish, actually) coffee house chain called Coffee Heaven. And, for me, it is just that. The comfy chairs, the hilariously nostalgic music loop, the caramel macchiato...

Sorry, I'm back. For many of my friends and family members, the attraction to such a place is an oddity. But for me, the means and atmosphere for writing in a journal, talking with friends, or being still before the Lord are a strong draw. I watch my budget carefully and will do so all the more as my housing will be getting quite more expensive soon. The money set aside for coffee shop trips is worth far more to me than the contents of a big paper cup.

All that being said, here is an interesting article that shows one perspective on the recent coffee-shop-chain-in-Central-Europe phenomenon.

http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/05/04/AR2009050402941.html?hpid=opinionsbox1

Cheers!

We have left everything to follow you!

2009-05-04T22:14:00.003+02:00

But Jesus said again, "Children, how hard it is to enter the kingdom of God! It is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to enter the kingdom of God."
The disciples were even more amazed, and said to each other, "Who then can be
saved?"
Jesus looked at them and said, "With man this is impossible, but not with God; all things are possible with God."
Peter said to him, "We have left everything to follow you!"
"I tell you the truth," Jesus replied, "no one who has left home or brothers or sisters or mother or father or children or fields for me and the gospel will fail to receive a hundred times as much in this present age (homes, brothers, sisters, mothers, children and fields—and with them, persecutions) and in the age to come, eternal
life. Mark 10:24b-30

There is so much packed into this passage, and I'm in awe of who Jesus is. I've been studying this section of the Bible because of several lessons found here: how we (the rich of the world) rely on ourselves and how hard it is for such to enter the kingdom of God, the powerful grace of God even in such situations, the dedication of the disciples, and Christ's promise/warning to them. Lots to think about.

I have to find a new home in about a month's time. My current, lovely living situation has to come to an end rather abruptly, so as the school year reaches its frenetic May pace I have to move...somewhere. As flats are falling through, I've got to tell you, I'm uncomfortable and stressed. This passage also spoke to me regarding God's care in this situation.

But even as I have been feeling scared about losing my home, lonely for family, exhausted from the fever pitch at school, and concerned about the hearts of students who are leaving, the biggest lesson from this passage for me, beyond the comfort, was the claim that Peter made--"We have left everything to follow you!"--in light of the savior Jesus.

Now, HE "left everything".

Your attitude should be the same as that of Christ Jesus: Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be grasped, but made himself nothing, taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness. And
being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself and became obedient to death— even death on a cross! Therefore God exalted him to the highest place and gave him the name that is above every name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father. Philippians 2:5-11

God didn't have to leave his place in heaven to redeem this world by dying on the cross. He doesn't have to make the impossible salvation of self-absorbed rich people possible. He doesn't have to provide a new flat for me now. The holy, sovereign God doesn't owe me anything. Yet, he did die. He will provide. He cares for his children.

Even in my current discomfort, I can only stand in awe.

Relinquishing Control: DVD's, future plans, and daily life

2009-04-25T14:54:00.007+02:00

It seems that I still need to be reminded of God's trustworthiness and sovereignty. His character has never changed, but I like to control things myself instead of relying on Him.

First, as I work in a classroom ministry, I tend to act as though my meager efforts will truly educate and even transform the students I love. Wrong. God is at work in them just as he is at work in me. I get to be involved in his plans because it will do me good not because the LORD needs me.

This truth was evident when, after careful planning, I could not find some materials for a class--the day of the class. The school's copy of a DVD was missing, and I did not have a back up. Now, as the school year draws to a close, I don't have days to "waste" because of missing materials. I prayed half-heartedly, sent out urgent e-mails, tried to rent the film on iTunes, everything I could think of to no avail. The morning was not going well for me. How could I have let this happen? As the bell rang and I trudged back to my classroom to inform my students that our next lesson and project would have to wait, a colleague casually walked up to me and asked if I still needed the DVD. He had been running some tech tests with DVD's and had my film in his office (which was just across the hall from my room). There would be no delay to the lesson. All was just fine.

Another issue for which I've needed to be reminded of God's absolute goodness and trustworthiness is my teaching assignment for next year. Currently, ICSB is losing a marvelous English teacher as she needs to return to the States. The remaining, experienced English teacher and I have been planning out how to take her classes in addition to the ones we are currently teaching. The classes I'll pick up are going to be great; they are fun kids and some of my favorite material. The concern lies with the workload that I'll have. Combine the added classes with my habit of slow grading, and I may be buried under paper in the fall. But, see? God has great plans about which I need not worry. He cares for my students, for me, and for his eternal kingdom purposes. He's got it covered, and he is abundantly loving. No worries.

As I wrestle with the "minor" moments of missing DVD's, the weighty issue of workloads, and the bigger concern for my students' hearts and minds, the Holy Spirit reminds me of some Scripture:

Whether you turn to the right or to the left, your ears will hear a voice behind you, saying, "This is the way; walk in it." Isaiah 30:21

Let love and faithfulness never leave you; bind them around your neck, write them on the tablet of your heart. Then you will win favor and a good name in the sight of God and man. Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight. Do not be wise in your own eyes; fear the LORD and shun evil. Proverbs 3:3-7

And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose. For those God foreknew he also redestined to be conformed to the likeness of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brothers. Romans 8:28-29

"The God who made the world and everything in it is the Lord of heaven and earth and does not live in temples built by hands. And he is not served by human hands, as if he needed anything, because he himself gives all men life and breath and everything else. From one man he made every nation of men, that they should inhabit the whole earth; and he determined the times set for them and the exact places where they should live. God did this so that men would seek him and perhaps reach out for him and find him, though he is not far from each one of us. 'For in him we live and move and have our being.'" Acts 17:24-28

Whether it is in the powerful moments akin to the holding back of the Jordan River so Israel could cross or the small moments in the quietness of my heart day to day, God is at work. He is powerful and gentle. He is mighty and good. It is to this trustworthy and patient Savior that I can freely relinquish control. I'm so thankful that he has reminded me again.

It's raining, men

2009-03-24T13:45:00.002+01:00

This rainy morning, I boarded the 6:35 bus for Diósd--a bus 25 minutes earlier than my normal one--and promptly noticed two things. First, the bus driver was exceptionally polite as I greeted him ( "Jó reggelt") and second, the bus was full of men. I do not exaggerate. Most volán buszes headed out of the city in the morning have several empty seats, since most commuter traffic is going into Budapest. This bus was full, and every passenger was male.

That would explain the excessive chivalry from the bus driver as this lone, shivering woman clamored aboard and will come in handy later.

I felt a bit uneasy for a little while as passengers near me started to stare, but then I got into a good (silent) conversation with God and was distracted. Then, when the bus stop at which I had to disembark because of my cheaper bus pass arrived, the driver continued on. He drove across the highway overpass and dropped me off much closer to ICSB. What a gift! That walk across the M0 can be nice, but the wind and rain of this particular morning would have made it miserable.

As I climbed off the bus, my mp3 player switched from more worshipful music to the ever-so-slightly offensive 1982 classic, "It's Raining Men". The quick walk from the testosterone-filled bus through the rain to school had me laughing all the way.

Not only did God keep me perfectly safe in an awkward situation, He has a serious sense of humor.

Today, This Weekend, and Next Week

2009-03-20T15:04:00.002+01:00

Here is a quick summary before I head off to a retreat:

First, all through this week and today, I've had some added responsibilities at the International Christian School of Budapest. The chance to speak in the high school chapel on Wednesday was quite an honor, and I enjoyed sharing about the faithfulness of God (Psalm 30). This morning, I had the second teaching evaluation by my administrator; it went quite well. I'm so glad that everyone here is interested in the betterment of the students, the teachers, and the school. Feedback is helpful and encouraging!

This weekend, my English Home Fellowship group from Golgota is headed to Mátrakeresztes, a village in the Hungarian mountains, for a retreat. We'll be hiking, resting, eating, and studying God's Word together. I'm really looking forward to it! Photos from the weekend are rather unlikely, though, because my camera is currently missing...

Finally, Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday mark the culmination of two years of reaccreditation work here at ICSB! The team from the Association of Christian Schools International and Middle States will be here for a site visit. They will observe our school, evaluate our self-report, and have important interviews with families and staff. We are all very excited and a bit exhausted.

Through all the daily life and special events, God is truly faithful as a loving Creator, Savior, Lord, and Friend. I can't help but give thanks!

You turned my wailing into dancing; you removed my sackcloth and clothed me with joy, that my heart may sing to you and not be silent. O LORD my God, I will give you thanks forever. Psalm 30:11-12

Rolling in the aisles with Romeo and Juliet

2009-03-10T14:42:00.003+01:00

It is true that Romeo and Juliet is a tragic love story, but the first act's exposition has some hilarious moments. Today in ninth grade English class, we had a good time.

I won't bore--or entertain, depending on the perspective-- you with the building plot of this Shakespearean play, but in case it's been a while since high school English I'll summarize. At the end of Act I, Romeo and Juliet meet at a party. They are instantly attracted to/in love with each other. Romeo compares himself to a lowly pilgrim approaching a sacred shrine or saint and, through, the metaphor, suggests kissing. Juliet demurely but slyly lets him kiss her a second time. They are then eternally in love. Yes, yes, I know it is fiction.

As my freshmen were packing up their books, they discussed the day's reading. Basically, they thought Romeo was a stud for getting Juliet to fall for his lines. Girls--to my surprise--were actually lamenting the lack of Romeos around. The best response, though, was from one bright young lady. She said, "Why don't people flirt in metaphors anymore? It works so well, and you can see who the smart guys are."

I've been grinning for the rest of the day.

ICSB in the News

2009-03-05T11:55:00.002+01:00

The following article appeared on the Budapest Times website yesterday. Our director, David Welsh, is quoted throughout the beginning of the piece. The story might also give you an idea of the international scope of our city.

http://www.budapesttimes.hu/content/view/11182/219/

Nyolcan egy Asztalnál

2009-02-24T14:56:00.007+01:00

Eight at One Table

Each Sunday at church, we have a moment to greet people around us. Fairly normal, right? Well, the simple act of greeting fellow believers or church-attenders gets remarkably more complicated and less familiar when 1.) the people around me don't share a common language other than my incredibly limited Hungarian, 2.) the number of visitors on any given Sunday is pretty high in the capital city, and 3.) the people I met last week may attend any of the three services from week to week. How do we build real community, then?

That's where Table for Eight comes in. Every couple of months, people sign up for this event, are placed in groups at random, and contact each other to plan a meal. Friendships ensue. This past Saturday was the first time I was available for a Dinner for Eight. And what an introduction!

Our hostess lived outside of Budapest in a little village called Péteri, so a brief lunch together wasn't quite feasible. After a week of exchanging emails and making plans, a group of seven strangers set out on a journey to Anett's house.

Beautiful and much-missed sunshine greeted me as I emerged from the Nyugati Railway Station metro stop. I followed the flow of Saturday morning traffic to the previously agreed upon entrance and was quickly approached by Stefanie--a German and the other fluent English speaker in our group--who was relieved to find someone else headed to Péteri. Before long, our group was assembled and disembarking from the correct train onto a train platform in the middle of a snow-covered field. üdvözölök Péteribe. Welcome to Péteri!

After being welcomed into Anett's lovely home built in the garden of her mother's house, we all arranged our food on the ample table. Stefanie and I expressed our chagrin and gratitude as we discovered the rest of our group would be functioning in English for our sakes. The linguistic capabilities of others astound me!

Through the meal, we discussed many topics from the introductory ("What brings you to Budapest?") to the sensitive ("How do you perceive Hungary and the Hungarians you know? Do you find them depressed?"). Friendship really can come instantly when people share the common foundation of Christ, even if culture, background, and language don't offer similarities.

After a nice walk through the village in the gorgeously dimming sunlight, we returned to the house for tea, more dessert, and a time of singing and prayer. Before we knew it, eleven hours had passed! It was time for me to catch the evening train back to Budapest.

My mood was fairly sanguine as I found myself again at Nyugati Station. This time, streetlights and headlights shone all around. Let me tell you: Budapest is absolutely gorgeous at night! A day that had started out in uncertainty ended with lovely new friendships and an encouraged spirit. Dinner for 8 is not a bad way to build community!

See more pictures on my photos site. Link at right.

Christmas in January

2009-01-16T16:15:00.007+01:00

As the last of the Christmas decorations and lights are removed from the Budapest cityscape and the harsh winter weather finally sets in (and at the request of my dear friend Andy), I thought I'd spread a little cheer by finally sharing some photos of life here at Christmas time.

A special thanks to Kristen and Paula for their beautiful pictures! I don't seem to have any photographic skill besides "point and shoot", and even then things are fuzzy.

Christmas on the körút (ring road of Bp)

The Christmas Market complete with traditional gift items, baking bread, mulled wine booths, and sizzling meats.

The Advent calendar on the facade of the famous Gerbaud's Coffee House

And we're back!

2009-01-05T21:17:00.003+01:00

After a lovely Christmas break, classes have resumed at the International Christian School of Budapest. It is great to be back, though my sleep schedule is not on target yet. My kids were glad to share a little bit about their holiday, and I am pumped to dive into the curriculum for this semester because it includes my beloved Shakespeare. My 8th graders are studying nonfiction, and the senior communications class is delving into debates.

Outside of class, I'm looking forward to some home basketball games ("away" games are really away...like Bratislava, Slovakia or Vienna), the 9th grade girls' Bible study, and a book club for adults in the area.

Ultimately, I'm always thankful for the idea of a fresh start: compassion from God that is new every morning (Lamentations 3:22-23). A new semester offers great opportunities for starting again, but I'm glad that the Father in heaven offers forgiveness and grace each day and love in abundance. We don't have to wait for New Year's Eve or a new semester to be clean before and so close to God. Recognizing our failure, being honest with God, accepting his mercy--and we're back!

Because of the LORD's great love we are not consumed,
for his compassions never fail.
They are new every morning;
great is your faithfulness.
I say to myself, "The LORD is my portion;
therefore I will wait for him."
The LORD is good to those whose hope is in him,
to the one who seeks him;
It is good to wait quietly
for the salvation of the LORD.
Lamentations 3:22-26

Velunk az Isten

2008-12-23T21:47:00.002+01:00

God with us

At Christmas, we celebrate the birth of Jesus as he entered the human world in a humble setting but with a powerful purpose: to save us. The One True God put himself among us to understand us, to take on our punishment for sin even though he was faultless, to die in our place, and to beat the power of sin and death once for all by rising from death.

And he is victorious today and with us . The events that were determined before the creation of the world and that played out in Bethlehem and Jerusalem are relevant to us today, because--wonder of wonders--God is still with us. He will not abandon us in the midst of our busy lives or shortcomings. Jesus still offers himself as the savior and advocate for you and for me.

Who would make a better advocate than one who has been there and understands? This part of God's character and love is always so special to me; perhaps it is even more significant as I feel separation from many whom I love. Immanuel. Amazing. So, merry Christmas! Celebrate during this festive season and all year through, whether you feel close to God or drifting. Take heart: our God is with us.

Here's to You

2008-12-14T22:31:00.006+01:00

You are amazing. Really.

This is a shout out to my dear friends in the States who have been my encouragers, examples, sounding boards, prayer warriors, hosts, package-senders, YouTube-posters, partners in this life and ministry. Daily little moments on the street, in the classroom, or at home will spark countless memories of YOU and your kindness to me. I miss you but am thankful for our friendship that spans the ocean.

This gratitude overwhelms me so often, but I've not expressed it enough. So, today's entry is just for you. THANKS!

Love always,
Audrey

A Summary

2008-12-02T11:39:00.002+01:00

The goal of "20 Days of Gratitude" worked in that it got a few friends and I to be very intentional about giving thanks. I did fail to publish my thoughts each day, but I was thankful nonetheless. Here's a quick summary of the last few days of gratitude:

Day 18: Immanuel--the "with" of God--deserves my awe and certainly my thanks. In Jesus, we can have eternal life. "And this is eternal life: that they may know the one true God and Jesus Christ, whom you sent." John 17:3 As I study the book of Isaiah and the prophecies leading up to the birth of Jesus here on earth, I am again amazed by the God who really knows me and lets me know him.

Day 19: Looking forward with anticipation builds excitement and joy. Kristen and I have been planning our long weekend together for a month now. Today, I just enjoyed the possibility and the looking forward.

Day 20: Skype and webcams made this holiday far from family not so far after all! What a great invention. I'm also thankful for the Langs, Yaikos, McLemores, Custers, and Olsens for sharing Thanksgiving (and all their adorable kids) with me.

Day 16 and 17: Snow and Heat

2008-11-24T15:54:00.005+01:00

It's the most wonderful time of the year!

I had a marvelous time this weekend in the first fluffy, juicy, beautiful snows of Budapest. When I saw the flakes swirling, I grabbed my coat and hat and headed downtown. There is no way I looked like a native in the snowfall; an idiotic and totally sincere smile was beaming from my face even as flakes flew into my eyes. I strolled around in the dying sunlight until the glow of streetlights against the snow amplified my silly grin. St. Istvan's Bascilica was a vision blanketed in white. Fellow pedestrians' images were softer as the snow diffused their silhouettes. The only component missing from this winter wonderland was the Christmas lights that are as yet unlit around town. Soon enough, they will add even more charm to the city.

Sunday, as I recovered from my icy outing, I appreciated the heat filling our flat. First, I recognized that many people do not have this luxury, and I needed to continue giving away coupons to the local shelter. Second, I enjoyed how cozy it got without becoming stifling. In these communist-era buildings, the heat for the whole building is turned on by one master switch, however, I can adjust the level in my room.

Wow, I'm almost finished with these 20 days of gratitude. May the attitude of thanksgiving continue after the holiday has passed!

Day 15: My Laptop

2008-11-21T20:39:00.003+01:00

As students were presenting some great projects that required technology today, I was reminded of how thankful I am for my laptop. Not only did it facilitate my lesson, but it allows me to keep up with friends and family (though I'm terribly behind with some dear folks in Carthage), get media for news and entertainment, and do my work on the road. It is a great laptop that my cousin, Doug, recommended. It serves me well.

And I typed this entry from my bed: another benefit of the laptop!

Happy Friday everyone.

Day 14: Silent Students

2008-11-20T11:58:00.003+01:00

I love to hear my students talk. In fact, fewer things bring me as much joy in the classroom as students with insightful comments during discussions. Today during a fire drill, though, my 8th grade students' silence was the truest herald of joy (hm, stole that from Shakespeare. Sorry, Will.).

Why? Because after hearing the exciting news of a fire drill during class by which they could avoid class, these kids followed directions and the request to "lead the younger students out" perfectly. They were silent out of the classroom, silent down the hall and stairs, silent across the street, silent walking by a cute dog, silent in the mass of high school students. Silent as asked.

Today, I'm thankful for the amazing students we have at ICSB--silent in the hall, singing in the musical, or otherwise. The quiet fire drill was just a reminder.

Day 12 and 13: Bus rides and Indian food

2008-11-20T11:46:00.005+01:00

Tuesday, I was so thankful for a pleasant bus ride home. The twenty-two (ish) minute commute back into the edges of the city to my flat is never a rough one. Typically, I'm going the opposite direction of rush hour, so I can always find a seat and relax. My iPod is in constant use(thanks yet again to my family for contributing to that gift!!) with the latest sermon, day-old news, or--lately--Christmas music. The morning ride offers a distraction-free jaunt for Bible reading unless I happen to ride with a student who'd like to chat. Either way, my day starts and ends well.

Tuesday, I enjoyed the ride home with a fellow citydwelling teacher. In the scope of those twenty-two minutes, we dove into an honest, introspective, and lively conversation. We discussed relationships, the joys and tensions of living overseas from our passport countries, and plans for the coming day. Ahhh, and home I go.

Wednesday, I ran into the same friend at an Indian restuarant. That's right: indian cuisine in Hungary. We live in a small world. Anyway, I got to share dinner with five other teachers from ICSB as we celebrated one's birthday. Not only was the company and the atmosphere just charming, but so was my adventure getting there.

We met up in a section of town that I had never discovered before. It was so fun to arrive on my own after a bit of exploring in the dark. No worries, the streets are well lit; they have to be since it's dark at 4:00 these days! Christmas displays were in a lot of decor shop windows (another thing I've never seen before) and the street light poles are wrapped with unlit lights that promised a beautiful season to come. The Indian restaurant we went to was gorgeously decorated with silk-like pillows with beading, etc in Indian style on the benches around the walls. Our group got this little loft area to ourselves. Ordering was fairly comical, because the waiter didn't really speak a lot of Hungarian (most of our group has studied quite a bit of the language) or English. The menu was in HU and English with Indian names for the dishes. It worked out in the end with pointing. :) What a great evening.

Day 11: New Life

2008-11-17T23:22:00.002+01:00

The miracle of life amazes me more and more all the time. As Edit's stomach jumped around with a baby's movements and Michelle announced her brand new pregnancy, life became more precious, delicate, and joyful. Today, we celebrated these beautiful women and the miracles within them.

Last week as I gave my testimony, a story of God's work in my life, the details of my extremely premature birth came to light again. It is always good to be reminded of God's faithful care over me and his perfect plan these 27 years.

Just as I marvel at the biology of babies, I'm reminded of the true life, the new life that my Heavenly Father gave me: a life without condemnation, a life with power and purpose, a life with joy and love, a life for eternity all possible because of Jesus' sacrifice and Lordship. It's a miracle.

Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! In his great mercy he has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, and into an inheritance that can never perish, spoil or fade—kept in heaven for you, 1 Peter 1:3-4

He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away." He who was seated on the throne said, "I am making everything new!" Then he said, "Write this down, for these words are trustworthy and true." Revelation 21:4-5

Day 10: Humor in the Little Things

2008-11-16T22:23:00.002+01:00

I love chuckling at little moments in life. Just today, for example, some friends and I looked up from our coffee and books to laugh together when a ridiculous song played for the fourth time in a row. On the way home, a grin spread across my face as I watched a young couple "walk" their snow white ferret down the street with a leash, and by walk I mean slide. Young children who glance up at me from the sidewalk and whisper, "szia," evoke a smile. My friends' quick wit can brighten any day. And catching myself totally missing a point, even if no one else notices, is usually good for a laugh.

Humor is a great gift for which I am grateful today.

A cheerful heart is good medicine... Proverbs 17:22a

Day 9: Zsuzsi, my flatmate

2008-11-15T23:21:00.002+01:00

I have lived alone for a long time. Though involved in the Residence Life office at Millikin University and in close community with lots of people, I often lived in my own apartment or room. While teaching in Carthage, IL, I lived alone as well: sole voice in decor choices, laundry and shower schedules, remote control possession, life.

Since moving to Budapest, I've lived with a family, a nursing professor, and now--more permanently--a young Hungarian woman. My, how things change when you add another human being to the mix! There have been moments of rough transition, cultural misunderstandings or assumptions, and surprise as I adjust to sharing life with Zsuzsi. I can only imagine her perspective as she has welcomed this American into her quiet flat.

Zsuzsi has offered so much as I settle into this life. Her presence--though sometimes still a surprise--encourages me and teaches me. She is a bridge to the Hungarian culture and a fellow traveler on this narrow road (how's that for a mixed metaphor?). I hope to offer the same edifying friendship to her, too.

As difficult as it is from time to time to live in close proximity to other human beings, I value and respect Zsuzsi and the life lessons I'm learning from sharing a flat with her. For her, I'm thankful.

Day 8: An Up-Close Savior

2008-11-14T11:49:00.003+01:00

On Friday, I was reminded by several different sources--a blog, Bible study, and my Christmas music--that "the Lord is near" (Philippians 4:5). The simplicity of such a declaration belies its enormity. The LORD is near! The Creator God is also Immanuel: God with us.

In the broken relationship between a holy God and people who chose their own mistakes over His better plan, the only one with the position and power to fix it was God Himself. Jesus Christ--God the Son--came into the world of men to live among us, to experience the same struggles, to offer himself as the innocent "guilty" one in our stead, to die a terrible death, to come to life again victoriously, and to be the totally understanding and perfect representative in Heaven.

He has not chosen to save me from a distance, brush off my hurts or struggles with the cosmic sweep of a hand, and pretend everything is fine. Jesus is my intimate redeemer. He knows and loves me. He has saved me completely, powerfully, personally and will continue to deal with the real life issues with me. What a marvel!

It is such intimacy, closeness, reality with God that gives me comfort, identity, power and purpose in this life. The passage in Philippians 4 continues with the admonition not to be anxious. How is that possible? Remember, "the Lord is near." There is the security, the comfort, the foundation to combat worry.

The greatest gift and most profound truth for which I can be thankful is such a personal God, an up-close savior.

Day 7: Resolution

2008-11-13T23:08:00.004+01:00

So, the overwhelmingly-good-but-painfully-simultaneous opportunities and responsibilities of this week were resolved today. I am in awe of the grace and mercy God extends to help us in our time of need. He really does have it all under control! The Holy Spirit taught me what to say during several classes and speaking opportunities. Grading got done--and whatever didn't will wait for the weekend--so that I can rest a bit this evening. The 9th grade girls' Bible study started successfully today. All is well because God is good. It is really exciting to see how He worked it out. I'm thankful for the resolution of this week's activities!

Day 6: Letters from Family and Peace

2008-11-12T13:58:00.005+01:00

I got off by a day, so I'm reflecting on two days in one, but--hey--there's no such thing as too much gratitude, right?

Today, Wednesday, there was a sweet surprise in my school mailbox: a letter from my maternal grandparents! How sweet they are to send me news from home, reflections of daily life, and words of encouragement. I've rarely seen these grandparents as often as I'd like, but they are so faithful to check in with me.

I am thankful for the enduring love of family and the perfect timing of a letter.

And why was this morning the perfect moment to receive a note? Well, responsibilities and opportunities rarely spread themselves out evenly in life. So many great things are coming up in the next couple of days, that when I thought of all I needed to do this morning, a wave of panic threatened to capsize my little life.

I have so much to do! How will I be most effective in a specific class today? How was I during that evaluation? What if I can't get it all done? I have to be better. Notice a pattern in the panic? I was the center of the problem.

But then, the reality of God struck me. He is the amazing King of the Universe. He calls me his child. He has given me life and his very Spirit. He brought me to Budapest. He created me to be an English teacher. He knew what today and tomorrow would hold before time began. He loves my students and colleagues more than I do and will not let me mess things up too badly. He asks me to join him in life, not to do it alone. He walks beside me in the "yoke". He has a plan that will not fail.

Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.
Matthew 11:29

Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
Philippians 4:6-7

I am so very thankful for the peace that he gave today and the hope he gives for tomorrow.

You will keep in perfect peace him whose mind is steadfast, because he trusts in you. Isaiah 26:3

Day 5: Public Transportation and Scarves

2008-11-12T13:56:00.002+01:00

As simple as it sounds, I am thankful for the abundant buses of Budapest and for stylish winter gear. Part of practicing a lifestyle of gratitude is noticing the small things for which to be thankful.

Today, as I stood at the bus stop and the temperature dropped, I was very thankful for my scarf and all the others like it in my drawer at home. :) Friends have made me these scarves. One is a souvenir of Andrew's and my trip this past summer. All of them keep out the brisk, cool breeze. They are nice to have (and fairly "European-" looking).

And then I got out of the cold weather and onto a warm bus that took me exactly where I needed to go. Public transportation is a marvel to this small town girl.

Day 4: ICSB and Hot Chocolate

2008-11-11T11:47:00.004+01:00

Ahhh. My entire Monday was refreshing. First, I got to share a bit of my heart during teachers' devotions this morning. God always uses opportunities I have to speak to teach ME things. (Whether he teaches others anything, that is not up to me.) How exciting it is to work in a place with a biblical foundation! The International Christian School of Budapest is a marvelous place because God is at work. The people are not perfect, but the Lord is.

I am thankful for the chance to teach at ICSB.

More refreshment came as Kristen invited me over for dinner. Fellowship, humor, and really good food were topped off with absolutely fantastic cinnamon hot chocolate and apple crisp. I haven't eaten so much or so well in quite a while. Thanks, Kristen and Kacie!

And so, the second point of gratitude? Chocolate, of course.

Day 3: Mercy and Christmas Lights

2008-11-09T21:09:00.005+01:00

Okay, so there is absolutely NO relationship between the two things for which I'm grateful today. Ah well.

First, I was studying Isaiah 2:1 through 4:6 at Gloria Jean's today (per my new Sunday tradition), and was extremely moved by the mercy of God. Isaiah is a book of the Bible that addresses the future of Jerusalem and Judah in particular as well as the (then)future Messiah. Isaiah chapters 2-4 deal with how people try to build up their own security, vanity, power, and even their own gods but how when the true God's majesty is displayed everything else will be embarrassingly ridiculous. People will be brought low; now how could I be grateful for that? Well, in chapter 4, I see that God offers a judgment that cleanses those who trust him. His discipline brings holiness, fruit (a biblical word for the produce or result of something), and true security beyond the things of men. I am so thankful for a God who accepts me as his child. I haven't earned his love--in fact, he loved me before I knew him--and now he is cleaning me up.

I'm thankful for a God who sees my flaws, loves me in spite of them, and loves me too much to ignore them. He's offering mercy that cleanses, strips away the junk, and makes me new. That's real love!

Second, and without any graceful transition other than after the study of Isaiah at Gloria Jean's, I got off the tram and was instantly surrounded by...Christmas lights!! I know, it is really early for Christmas lights. Sorry--I LOVE white lights. The körút (a main street that forms a ring around Budapest, literally the "round road") is beginning to look a lot like Christmas. One whole block is twinkling with soft white lights around trees and hanging from light poles. A scene like this is so charming and inviting and magical and romantic. The joy that was in my heart from the love of God just overflowed into raw happiness as I turned slowly in a circle and took in the lovely scene.

I am thankful for Christmas lights!

Okay, I'm three days in. Practicing the lifestyle of thankfulness is great! What are you thankful for?

Day 2: Cloudy, Cozy Saturdays and Culinary Korean families

2008-11-08T15:47:00.004+01:00

Rest is such a good concept! Thanks, God, for the idea of being still and spending time with you! I've enjoyed this cloudy, cozy Saturday from my bed/the couch thanks to the portability of books and a wireless laptop. This is a great city, but I enjoy the occasional day at home in silence and candlelight with a whiff of coffee in the air.

The first thing for which I'm thankful on this, the second day of my "20 Days of Gratitude" is the opportunity for rest and reflection. (I'm thankful for the smaller things, too, like coffee, candles, a laptop, a couch, books, etc.)

Secondly, I'll soon be enjoying the amazing hospitality and culinary skills of several families from the International Christian School of Budapest. A group of families has gotten together and planned a lovely Korean dinner for the teachers tonight. Since this is my first year, I am eagerly anticipating my introduction to this particular cuisine.

Thank you, thank you, Korean families for loving us in this way! Jó étvágyat! (Enjoy the meal!)

Day 1: Enthusiastic Students and Faithful Friends

2008-11-07T15:05:00.004+01:00

I've really enjoyed myself today! My freshmen finished presenting their original short stories--always a crowd pleaser as I sneakily take a test grade--and moved on to the beloved novel, To Kill a Mockingbird. Few things make me smile more during school hours than hilarious and insightful comments from students as they engage with the material.

I'm thankful for my enthusiastic students: 8th graders, freshmen, and seniors.

Three friends from the States sent e-mail this week. They are faithfully checking in with me, sharing life, and letting me know that I'm loved. God has made us to need each other and work better together; these friends contribute to the work that happens here in Hungary.

I'm thankful for faithful friends and ministry partners.

God provides for my every need at just the right time. Just this week, I was a bit overwhelmed with the amount and significance of work for which I was responsible and feeling a bit disconnected from friends. At this time, as I surrendered control and asked for supernatural assistance, God delivered big time! He always accomplishes the work He starts--in me, in relationships, and in my students.

I'm so thankful for these gifts from a loving Heavenly Father.

And you? What are you thankful for today?

20 Days of Gratitude

2008-11-07T14:48:00.002+01:00

Be joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus. 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18

The American holiday and tradition of Thanksgiving is in 20 days! As I try to be more intentional about living a life of gratitude and prayer as well as posting on my blog, I've decided to adopt twenty days of gratitude. Each day leading up to Thanksgiving, I'll post a few things for which I'm thankful. You are very welcome to join me!

Give thanks to the LORD, call on his name; make known among the nations what he has done. Psalm 105:1

Quite a Weekend

2008-09-17T21:52:00.002+02:00

An all-expenses paid trip to...a working weekend! Five days ago, school was cancelled at the International Christian School of Budapest so that all the teachers and staff could go on a retreat together. This was a working weekend in a beautiful village two hours outside Budapest intended to bond us together as a staff team and jump start this year's reaccreditation process.

ICSB is accredited through ACSI (Association of Christian Schools, International) and Middle States (something or other) for accountability, recognition as a quality school, and easy transfer of our students' credits to universities around the world. Our accreditation will expire/be renewed this year. In the meantime, all staff are working furiously--as in intensely, no anger here--on various committees to get paperwork and policies in order. We did have some great free time as well for fellowship, rest, reflection, and coffee. Ah yes.

Click on the picture below for a short slide show of photos.

The same school holiday was busy for many students as well. The Outreach team decided to head into Budapest and perform one of their dramas on a popular shopping street as a way to present the good news of Jesus Christ. They took the initiative and spent a day off doing this. We, as faculty and family, are very proud of our students and pray that God continues to challenge and bless them as they step out. I love these kids.

Of Mobile Phones and Exchange Rates

2008-09-15T21:29:00.004+02:00

Have I ever mentioned that God provides my every need? Well, I should have because He does.

First, let me tell you a tale of suspense, confusion, and cell phones. Now, I have been in Hungary for exactly five months today (wow), and I finally have my mobile phone. Because land lines are less popular in Hungary than in the U.S. and because my flat doesn't have a land line, I felt it was wise to get a phone.

Shortly after my arrival here, the kind and conscientious people of Campus Crusade for Christ/New Life Eastern Europe added me to their phone plan and ordered a simple phone. We waited, and then T-Mobile informed us that the specific model was out of stock for a few weeks. No problem; I can wait. Things don't always happen at the speed we would prefer. In the meantime, a family loaned me an old phone they had used in Romania.

We waited for two months. No phone came, so Ancsa offered some similarly discounted phones and I chose one. Another order was placed, and I got on with my summer with language school, visitors, and even travel.

We waited for three months. No phone came. The Campus Crusade for Christ family returned from furlough in the States and needed the phone for their middle schooler. No problem. I've been working on this Hungarian language; I'll just go to a store and buy a phone. Right? No.

Buying phones without plans is possible, but I've discovered this method is extremely expensive--like four times as expensive ($80 or $100 instead of $20). Also, most phones these days are fitted with cameras and MP3 players. I just wanted a simple phone for texting and calling. Dejectedly, I returned home from three different store visits without a phone in hand. Life continued, but I was out of contact with friends and colleagues.

Finally, I decided to ask Campus Crusade to help again. A few e-mails flew around, and several ladies were astonished to discover that I still had not received a phone from T-Mobile. More e-mail and then...a solution. Someone had ordered one too many phones for a department at work and was trying to get rid of it.

Now, it is a simple phone--I was warned--but the price was right: 1,000 forint (or about $6). Incredible! A streamlined, light-weight phone without all the bells, whistles, and hyper-technical options was available and totally within my budget! Perfect! And my sim card (phone number, contacts list, current phone plan) would transfer easily. Done.

After I got frustrated trying to figure it out myself and the process dragged out for months, this is better than I hoped for, the perfect provision from God.

The second instance of God providing for my needs is best presented by the following graph:

This shows the fall of the dollar (the currency in which I'm paid) against the Hungarian forint (the currency with which I operate daily). During the past five months, the dollar plummeted so prices soared for me and other Americans living overseas. For example, my rent went up 13% in two months simply because of the exchange rate.

But, suddenly in the last couple of weeks, I have seen a steady increase in the dollar. After I glumly watched the value of the dollar drop on my laptop screen each morning and cautiously prayed that God would provide during the budget crunch, whoa, did He deliver!

Now, God can and will provide for me even when the dollar goes down, even when the budget gets really tight (right, Kristen?), but this time, He chose to provide by allowing the dollar value to increase. My rent has been "reduced" by about $58, and the price of groceries is roughly back to where it was when I arrived in Hungary, if not a little bit lower.

Life, breath, salvation, purpose, a $6 mobile phone, and a friendly exchange rate...

And it is all thanks to Jehovah Jireh: my Provider.

Diving in

2008-08-27T23:09:00.003+02:00

The school year at the International Christian School of Budapest is in full swing! Kids are able to find their lockers and their next class without too much trouble now, and I am elbow-deep in books and papers...and loving it!

I hope the weekend will offer a chance to come up for air, reflect, and share specific stories, but for now I'll just let you know that long-awaited pictures from my trip with brother Andrew are now on my photo site. Now, back to work!

And we're off!

2008-07-22T17:13:00.002+02:00

One of my dear brothers and I have just left the familiar sights of Budapest for lands unknown. We'll be gone for about 17 days, visiting Poland, Czech Republic, a blur of Vienna, Slovenia, and finally Croatia. I've been looking forward to Andrew's visit and this chance to travel in Central/Eastern Europe, but now I'm pretty sick and nursing a cup of tea in our hostel. We have so many amazing opportunities to experience new places and meet new people. If only I can get my stomach to cooperate!

P.S. Krakow is gorgeous, and I've only really explored for a few hours today!

Culture Stress: Konyhaban

2008-07-11T16:04:00.005+02:00

Culture Stress: in the Kitchen

Hungary doesn't shock me. (Well, maybe the police tactics do from time to time.) Typically, I notice differences in culture, tradition, language, but I'm not shocked. In fact, I was pleasantly surprised Thursday by the Immigration Office experience. There are stresses, though, when living in a new place. Today, the specific stressor with which I've battled the most appeared, guns blazing.

I tried to make brownies. Brownies are a treat that every junior high girl in America can make. Brownies are not known to be fundamentally difficult to bake. Until today.

The only real life difficulty that I notice here is located in the kitchen. Ingredients are different--obviously--or nonexistent because they aren't part of the culture. Measurements are different here, because I don't really remember my conversion tables for the metric system and I sold my measuring cups before I moved. :) And, my oven doesn't have a thermostat. All these small differences combined with the fact that I naively try to cook exactly the same as I did in the States make for frustrating moments like when the brownies take 1.5 hours to bake and don't taste right.

The basis of the frustration lies in the starting over, the re-learning of skills I mastered years ago. I've baked treats since I was a kid. Preparing food for myself in the States--while not my favorite use of time--was a daily, undaunting task. Now, even though I step confidently onto the red 7 bus or introduce myself in Hungarian at church, I still struggle with something as simple as food preparation.

In the grand scheme of eternity, kitchen kerfuffles don't mean much, and I appreciate the perspective. I'm so thankful for the perspective. In my current phase of culture stress and transition, though, the kitchen seems to be my biggest obstacle.

(This post is a few days old as I publish it. The poor brownies are still in the pan as though, by some chance, they will improve when I walk by and taste them again. No such luck.)

Smoke bombs, and tear gas, and crowds. Oh my!

2008-07-08T23:04:00.003+02:00

Did I get your attention? Well, I have just described a large part of last Saturday. Yep, I witnessed a riot.

Now, I am going to seem a little cheap, but I'd like to direct you to Kristen's blog where she offers an account of our day with PICTURES. I have no such gift to offer. She does a great job of narrating the day.

I let some time pass before sharing this account so that I could assure you that everything has calmed down here in Budapest, and there doesn't seem to be any permanent physical damage to person or building. It was a pretty frightening and unreal experience over which we had no control, but it proved the reality of Psalm 20:6-7. The police may have been out in force--like a small army--but our God is always in control.

Now I know that the LORD saves his anointed;
he answers him from his holy heaven with the saving power of his right hand.
Some trust in chariots and some in horses,
but we trust in the name of the LORD our God.

Independence

2008-07-05T10:58:00.005+02:00

I hope everyone in the U.S. enjoyed the Fourth of July! Here in Budapest, there was a festival in the Castle district celebrating when the Magyars came to Hungary. I was glad to spend the day with friends in a festive environment even though it wasn't the typical cook-out and fireworks event.

Freedom is a gift for which I am very thankful but that I don't fully grasp because I've never known the lack of it. During my lifetime--and yours, too--the United States has been totally free. Since I was quite young, I've even enjoyed spiritual freedom from sin and death because of Jesus. The people of Hungary have had a different experience.

On my last day of language school, my teacher Bori helped us to translate (roughly) a song that is very significant here. While considering the history, the words, and finally the sounds of this song, I was moved to tears. On a weekend when Americans celebrate independence, I'd like to share this glimpse of the darkness that so much of the world has known.

Please accept this rough translation of the lyrics of Ha én rózsa volnék (If I Were a Rose). This song speaks to the resiliency, pain, and yearning for freedom that surrounded the failed revolution of 1956 against the evil and oppressive Stalinist government, all of which came after Nazi occupation. Then, check out one (or both) of the YouTube links. The first shows some helpful images and also what the Hungarian language looks like. The second is an amazing performance by Koncz Zsuzsa that displays how a Hungarian audience feels about this song.

If I were a rose, I wouldn't blossom just once a year.
Every year, I would blossom four times.
I'd open for the boys, and I'd open for the girls.
For true love and for passing away.

If I were a gate, I would always be open.
From anywhere someone could come, I would let in anybody.
I wouldn't ask: who sent you??
I would be happy if everyone came in.

If I were a window, I would be one so large
that the whole world would become visible.
They would look through me with understanding eyes.
I would be happy if I showed everything.

If I were a street, I would always be clean.
Every blessed night I would bathe in light.
If the tank wheels should crush me
The ground would cry out under me and open.

If I were a flag, I would never flutter.
I would be angry at all kinds of winds.
I would be happy to be tightened/stretched* by them. (image like
Jesus' arms on cross)
I wouldn't be merely a toy for any wind.

YouTube link: song with images

YouTube link: live performance

Férj és Feleség

2008-06-22T22:31:00.004+02:00

Husband and Wife: What God has joined together...

This morning at 5 AM I got back home from the gorgeous wedding of Attila and Kara! It is exciting to see how God joins couples together for their good and for bigger purposes. He is so faithful to us, trustworthy, and the giver of perfect gifts: eternal life, grace, peace, joy, friends, love, the desires of our hearts, marriage, singleness, all of it (well, some gifts are mutually exclusive). His plan is the best for us, as was so apparent during the joyful ceremony and reception this weekend.

Now, I've heard jokes from many of you about coming to Hungary and getting married--sorry, I have no insight into this specific idea for you :)-- but for now, I am quite content to appreciate the new marital bliss of friends around me and the gift of singleness.

Congrats to Attila and Kara!

"Haven't you read," [Jesus] replied, "that at the beginning the Creator 'made them male and female,'and said, 'For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and the two will become one flesh'? So they are no longer two, but one. Therefore what God has joined together, let man not separate." ...
Jesus replied, "Moses permitted you to divorce your wives because your hearts were hard. But it was not this way from the beginning..."
The disciples said to him, "If this is the situation between a husband and wife, it is better not to marry."
Jesus replied, "Not everyone can accept this word, but only those to whom it has been given. For some are eunuchs because they were born that way; others were made that way by men; and others have renounced marriage because of the kingdom of heaven. The one who can accept this should accept it." Matthew 19:4-11

Moths and rust; thieves and customs

2008-06-17T15:10:00.005+02:00

As I sat on a box in the back of a delivery van (yeah, not a van for passengers) bracing around every curve and straining for a glimpse of sunlight so as to fight off claustrophobia, I had to laugh out loud: the price we pay for material stuff!

I spent the morning looking for and then working with the customs office to clear my boxes of books, DVD's, etc that would not fit in the two suitcases allocated to each air passenger. After polite customs officers, way too many forint (local currency), and a kind-hearted older man who drove the delivery van, I am now the proud possessor of eight vaguely familiar boxes. (I guess I packed that vase two months ago.)

Now, I've been looking forward to having books to read and movies to watch. Don't get me wrong. That cozy fleece will come in handy this fall. Artwork that used to hang on my walls in Illinois will be welcomed in my new flat. Stuff can be helpful and fun. But now more than ever I am aware of the limits--and often the setbacks--of stuff. Other things are just more important.

Like the kind-hearted man who waited for three hours and carried all my boxes even though I couldn't chat with him in Hungarian, the considerate customs officers who don't have an easy or popular job, my new students, and old friends. Investment in them will never land me in the back of a van and will have an eternal pay-off. So, as I careened backwards through the streets of Budapest (or at least it felt like careening), I got to check my heart's condition. It is nice to have my stuff, but I'll keep my treasure elsewhere.

Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moth and rust do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also. Matthew 6:19-21

Villamoson

2008-06-12T07:48:00.005+02:00

On the tram

"Villamos" was one of the first Hungarian words I learned, and I ride the tram every day along the Danube to language school. Tough gig, I know.

On the tram, I usually have my iPod playing something worshipful, upbeat, or instrumental (if I'm studying for the aforementioned language school). God and I have a wonderful time together during the commute as I sing along-- in my head, no worries--and ponder all that is going on.

I love the LORD, for he heard my voice; he heard my cry for mercy. Because he turned his ear to me, I will call on him as long as I live.
Psalm 116:1-2

The fact that the eternal God, mighty King, and awesome Creator hears my voice--even in my head-- is marvelous. What a great love! What a great God!

Yesterday during my commute, I was struck by some lyrics that I've heard a thousand times but that hefted new relevance on the streets of Budapest.

I love anonymity and I love being noticed just the same as anybody else. Years ago I told you how I love to be alone. These days I'd be perjuring myself. -Caedmon's Call

The anonymity--sorry, that's the best word for it--of the city is invigorating. The fact that I don't know any of the life stories around me prompts me to be curious and care for people more. How wonderful it is to be able to show a moment of concern for a fellow villamos passenger as she struggles up the steps. Will the glory of God show through?

But I must say, "being noticed" as the song continues, or being recognized by someone in the crowd is refreshing, too. To be always the stranger gets tiring. I've felt a bit too foreign or anonymous this week as I've trekked to language school and then headed home to study (or avoid studying). Yesterday, I even had a moment of deep sadness when it seemed that I was on the outside of every social circle here. But then, the God who listens to my brief comments on the tram stepped up and reminded me of truth, of his great love, and of friendships that are forming here.

Still, it may be time for some social interaction! :) Enough anonymity for now. Anyone up for the new Narnia movie?

New Photos

2008-05-24T15:44:00.001+02:00

Just offering some visuals: I've added some new photo albums on my Picasa photo site. You can find the link to check them out on the right under "Links". Enjoy!

Linguistic victory, cultural understanding, and shoes

2008-05-24T15:20:00.005+02:00

Yesterday, I passed my first language exam! While this accomplishment means more to me than many a test from my past, the bigger victory took place on Wednesday.

As I rode the #19 tram home from language school, a store caught my eye. In the window of this shop, there was a display of shoes that were perfect for wearing around the house. (Let me explain. Shoes are not worn inside homes here in Hungary. I've been slipping around in slipper socks on the tile floors and needing something with a sturdy sole. Anyway, back to Wednesday...)

Entering the store, I acknowledged the shopkeeper with the polite, traditional greeting and began to browse. As he followed me to the display, I turned and told him that I didn't know my Hungarian shoe size. Later, after that mystery was solved by converting from U.S. to European, to Hungarian, to this particular brand's sizing system, the dialogue continued. I asked for a specific color, mentioned that one pair was too small, and assertively stated that I didn't want some decorative options found nearby. Did I mention that this conversation took place completely in Hungarian?? Oh yes, my friends.

Payment followed at the cash register and the cultural understanding continued when I got "Sajnos..." from the young lady there. "Unfortunately..." she couldn't give me smaller change for the bus. This kind but weak -faced statement is very common and not a big deal, but I was thrilled that I understood what was going on.

I have so much to learn about the people, traditions, perspective, and language, but for one day, in one shop, I had victory! After exiting the store, I cranked up my iPod and strolled back to the tram in the evening sunshine. Life's simple pleasures are my favorite.

Say what?

2008-05-09T23:31:00.002+02:00

Hungarian language school (Debreceni Nyelv Egeterem) is wonderful! At times, my brain feels as though it may burst out of my head as my teacher Tibor explains totally unique Hungarian grammar...in Hungarian, but the course is extremely helpful. Today, for example, I was able to accost a woman on the street and ask her politely where a specific road/area was. She responded, and I got to my destination. Victory! And yesterday, I enjoyed a wonderful moment with my waitress at a kavehaz (that's right: coffeehouse). She appreciated my rough introduction and request for pronunciation correction. I thoroughly enjoyed stating the duration of my Hungarian study and ordering in the native language.
Here is a snippet of my first Hungarian essay written after only two days of class:

Én Audrey Ooms vagyok. USA-ban, El Pasoban élek, amerikai vagyok. Angolul, kicsi franciául, és kicsi magyarul beszélek. Tanárnő vagyok. Most itt vagyok Magyarországon, és Budapesten magyarul tanulok.

Basically, I'm introducing myself and explaining my current situation as a teacher in Budapest learning Hungarian. There's also a sentence in there in which I discuss the languages I speak or try to speak.

Oh, at lunch time, my classmates and I decided on lunch using Chinese, German, Hungarian, and a little bit of English--such fun--and on the bus this evening, I interacted with a French woman in the three languages I've studied. Quite the day for linguistics in Budapest!

May Day!

2008-05-01T23:58:00.003+02:00

Today is a national holiday in Hungary. Schools and businesses are closed; celebrations have been planned across the country and certainly in Budapest.

I got to spend the glorious spring day with the English Home Fellowship group from church. I hopped onto a tram to get into the city and rode along the Danube for about 20 minutes. Grins were inevitable as I began to recognize famous sights glistening in the sunshine. After my tram stop (at Battanyi Ter for those interested in the geography of my day), I enjoyed a brisk stroll farther north along the river, across Margit Bridge, and onto Margitsziget (Margaret Island). This island is located in the middle of the river and offers a park or countryside atmosphere for the people of the city.

We spent the afternoon throwing Frisbees, watching children, dogs, and ducks play, and simply enjoying the company from blankets in the grass. Marvelous. After dinner, we rode the metro--yellow line, first underground in continental Europe--to Heroes' Square in the far northeastern corner of Budapest. Believe it or not, we sipped coffee at a Gloria Jean's before the events in the square picked up!

Traditional Hungarian may pole dances, folk music, costumes, and fireworks under the noble obelisks and statues of Heroes' Square seemed a fitting conclusion to the holiday. Though I don't have a grasp of the language yet, I could understand the romance and pride reflected in the performances.

(I was enjoying the evening so much and guarding my belongings so vigilantly from pickpockets that I didn't take any pictures. Night time photos don't typically work well, anyway, but I apologize!)

A long walk down Andrassy street in the rain, a metro ride and two buses later, I arrived at home in Diosd. What a great day to see more of this city that is now my home, interact with people who will be my friends, and appreciate the history and culture of Hungary. Happy May Day!

I've been tagged.

2008-04-27T16:32:00.003+02:00

My dear friend and current neighbor Kristen tagged me, so here are a few thoughts on a Sunday afternoon.

I am: a child of the King, a daughter, a sister, a teacher, a friend
I think: in broken French sometimes and love it
I know: this transition to Budapest will be hard at times
I want: an eternal perspective
I hate: soggy bread
I miss: my family, friends, and dog in the U.S.
I fear: causing harm to others, to the cause of the gospel; misconceptions
I feel: thrilled to be here, content, drowsy
I hear: a slow drip from the shower, an occasional "crackle" from the circuit board over my bed
I smell: residual smoke from the bus line
I crave: a venti, skinny, iced, caramel macchiato
I search: the faces of Hungarians as we try to communicate
I regret: being too sick at the airport to hug my parents soundly
I love: God's Word and His bigger picture through eternity
I ache: with beauty and loss as I stand overlooking big cities that are filled with searching people
I care: about what people think (see "I fear")
I always: want to contribute
I am not: tall.
I believe: worrying offers no benefits
I sing: less than I used to. Why is that?
I cry: at self-sacrifice, attempts at nobility, undeserved kindness, injustice--in life and in fiction
I fight: with myself mostly
I write: rarely since college
I win: Encore! every time
I lose: track of what I'm doin--Oh, something shiny--
I never: comprehend in advance the greatness of what God will do
I confuse: most people with whom I talk for any length of time
I listen: to the conversation happening next to mine sometimes
I can usually be found: at school or a coffee shop
I am scared: of not absorbing Hungarian once my course starts, but I shouldn't. (See "I believe")
I need: to put down roots and build genuine friendships
I am happy about: most things
I hope: to "catch on" quickly here in Hungary
I am tagging: Megan S. and Kim A.--my writing-inclined friends

Having in mind the things of God

2008-04-25T10:17:00.007+02:00

Last night, I got to attend an English Home Fellowship (small group in English) at a church in the city. We looked at the last half of Matthew 16 together. While this is a passage rich with significance and different lessons, I was again prompted to an eternal perspective. "Seize eternity!"

Jesus said to Peter and then to his disciples

...you do not have in mind the things of God, but the things of men...If anyone would come after me, he must deny himself and take up his cross and follow me. For whoever wants to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for me will find it.
Matthew 16:23b-25

Peter had just recognized publicly that Jesus was the Messiah and the Son of the living God, but when he heard Jesus talking about suffering, death, and resurrection, he pulled Him aside to "encourage" Jesus and let Him know that no such terrible things would happen to Him. Then came the firm reprimand of "Get behind me, Satan" as Jesus recognized the temptation to avoid the crucifixion that would save the world.

Peter saw a terrible situation unfolding and thought that such tragedy would not come to one loved by God. Suffering? Death? Surely not. But the crucifixion HAD to happen in order to fulfill God's promise to keep His covenant with His people and to enable us, sinful as we are, to have an intimate relationship with Him. Peter didn't see what God saw; he didn't have in mind the things of God.

Jesus took this opportunity to teach all the disciples--not just poor, impulsive Peter--about the perspective that is needed. The life of following Jesus would not be easy. In fact, any followers would need to identify with Jesus' shameful, torturous death on the cross. Then came the paradox: losing one's life for God is saving it.

But how can that be? I want to cling to life with both hands. Deny myself? Lose my life? Surely not.

It seems backwards, and that is because I'm looking at it from the wrong perspective. Yes, I must turn over this life to God daily and follow where He leads. I need to deny my sinful self and my plans for life, give up the things of men.

Just as Peter didn't see the glorious results and the coming reign of a crucified Jesus, so it is hard for me to see the perfect plan of God. But look to the end. "Whoever loses his life for me will find it." God's perspective, the eternal one, holds so much more than I can imagine.

Lose the life I might plan, but gain a better one. The Heavenly Father offers abundant life--with meaning, power, and hardship--as I realize that He reigns. This life of mine is His. I shouldn't settle for "the things of men," but yearn for, seek out, focus on "the things of God" that last forever.

Seize eternity. It is more real and all that will last.

A few pictures

2008-04-21T23:59:00.002+02:00

In the midst of signing up for Hungarian language school two blocks from the parliament building, buying a public transportation pass to get to said school, experiencing a Hungarian panoramic dental X-ray, ordering my mobile phone, savoring my Sunday morning at a primarily Hungarian church, and meeting many new people, I enjoyed a brief walk by myself in Diosd. This village is about 6-9 kilometers outside Budapest, and the International Christian School of Budapest is located here. Because of my marvelous and caring hostess/landlord, I was also able to get my first glimpse of the city of Budapest (and accomplish most of those errands listed above).

Uploading pictures into this blog has not been possible lately, but two small photo albums of some my adventures can be found at my photosite. You'll find a link in the right column.

As a few more days pass, I'll be getting into a routine of sorts, acquainting myself with more of Diosd and Budapest, and reflecting on this big change in life. I'd like to continue to "seize eternity" by seeing the present as God does and also share my lessons with you. For now, I'll just sleep in order to chase away the remnants of jet lag. Rest has its place, too.

Feeling loved

2008-04-17T17:02:00.004+02:00

Thank you to all my friends and family who've e-mailed, called, prayed, supported, and wished me well. I am basking in the love!

For the best use of YouTube, try the link below. Sorry I couldn't embed it!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tcnzvOBrYuE

I've arrived in Budapest!

2008-04-16T23:38:00.002+02:00

Delighted.
Exhausted.
Amazed by the welcome.
Addled with jet lag and a bit of the flu.

There is so much to be thankful for from the past six months and from my seamless journey here yesterday...er...this morning, or ...whatever. I'll have to be more descriptive later. Tomorrow may hold the possibilities for some photos, so I'll do my best to include some.

For now, sleeeep.

T Minus Seven Days

2008-04-08T20:11:00.004+02:00

That's right, friends! I will be taking off from the tarmac in exactly seven days and one hour, bound for Budapest. The idea that was planted in my heart two years ago, for which I've trained and about which I've talked incessantly, is now put into action. Incredible.

The mystery of the visa has been resolved and confirmed by the Hungarian Consulate in New York and the Office of Immigration in Budapest. I may enter the country without a visa, as a tourist of sorts, and then apply for the residence permit. Without the delay of bureaucratic paperwork, I am free to leave as soon as possible. So I am.

The truth in all this blur is that I can't understand the abundance and the challenges of this life, and God can. As far as perspectives are concerned, God is in heaven and I am here on earth, so I'll let my words be few. Ecclesiastes 5:2 He is trustworthy, wise, and loving, and I've nothing to fear.
So here I go.

That is the question.

2008-03-27T15:54:00.003+01:00

Okay, so there may be new laws in Hungary that allow me to enter the country without a visa. I would still have about three months upon arrival to apply for my residence permit, or so the latest impressively bilingual government official has told me. This could be amazing! Or, we could have misunderstood each other in the phone conversation and I'll arrive in Budapest only to have to leave again.
Yikes.
So, we are all navigating the tumultuous waters of a changing world and its bureaucracies. A decision needs to be made soon, though, because if I do need a visa, it will take about a month to process. This is another example of my limited understanding and God's perfect timing.

To buy a plane ticket for early April or not to buy-- that is the question.

Oh yeah...

2008-03-21T20:34:00.004+01:00

An update on financial support: if a couple of phone calls to confirm pledges end with a positive response, God will have supplied 100% of my monthly support need in about 5 1/2 months! Fantastic! Bound for Budapest in April!

"Lean on me."

2008-03-19T01:16:00.006+01:00

Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own
understanding. Prov. 3:5

This week, I was sharply confronted by this verse. So often, I miss the rich freedom found here and jump to the next verse. My brain is full of wise council, quality training, to-do lists, and cautious planning for moving to Budapest. This is good and so important. It's when I start "leaning" or depending on my finite understanding for support and security that I get into trouble.
Let's be serious; I can't foresee every bureaucratic snafu, cultural discomfort, or anything else for that matter. My understanding is incredibly limited. What shall I do?
I'll trust in the Lord with all my heart! His view is so much better than mine. He sees every moment coming and has accounted for it. I'll lean against God when the consulate adds a new requirement for the visa, when I realize that I don't own any pots or pans anymore but will need to cook dinner, when I say goodbye to loved ones, when I get on the plane to go to a gloriously new place, when I try to love and teach students from all over the world, when I don't know what else to do and when I think I do.
It is when I'm leaning on the Father, relying on Him utterly that I am in the right position to continue as the proverb does.

"In all your ways acknowledge him and he will direct your paths."
Proverbs 3:6

A- is great, but I'm reaching for perfection

2008-02-11T20:27:00.000+01:00

Ladies and Gentlemen,
I have reached 90% of my monthly support needs! God is not only mighty to save, but He is more than able to provide for the life He gives me. Loving people have stepped forward to join in this ministry to international students in Budapest, and I've checked my math. The result is 90% exactly!
Wisely, Campus Crusade for Christ requires their staff members to be fully-funded before leaving, so I still have progress to make. I cannot adequately describe the exhilaration of knowing that the total is closer, though. Glee sounds about right.
Please pray that I will finish well what God propelled me to start five months ago: finding ministry partners God is prompting. Also, the logistics of moving had been in the background but are necessary pretty quickly: airfare, visa, shipping of books, a home, etc. Ah, the lovely chaos is breathtaking.
This is getting exciting. Budapest in the spring? May it be so!

Love to you all...

Mighty to Save

2008-02-06T20:37:00.001+01:00

Today, I was totally refreshed by Zephaniah 3:17.

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.

In the context of the whole book of Zephaniah, such "might" and "delight" are a glimpse into the awesome character of God.

It's everywhere you want to be.

2008-01-16T22:29:00.000+01:00

I'm working on my visa application today. Even determining which application to fill out has been quite the mystery. But there is good news: the Hungarian law currently dictates that visa applications may be submitted through the mail. It is no longer necessary for me to travel to New York City in order to apply for this document. Hooray!

I'm actually enjoying some cultural discoveries as I complete the paperwork with capital letters in blue ink. For instance, as best as I can understand it, I am referred to by my mother's maiden name instead of my own middle name while in official Hungarian situations. Actually, the Hungarian tradition of name usage is quite different from that of the U.S. and closer to that of some Asian countries, though I can't articulate it very well right now. Next, the state in which I live is of no consequence (or at least does not merit a blank in the address section). This cultural difference may prove tricky since I live in a lesser known El Paso. And finally, I have again been amazed by the linguistic phenomenon that is European people. Three different Hungarian women who hold positions not unlike switchboard operators were able to flit from Hungarian to English with ease in order to answer my visa questions and direct my calls. As a beginner in the study of the Hungarian language, I can assure you that our languages hold nothing in common. Amazing.

And so the visa application and ministry partner development processes continue and the day for departure grows closer, though I can't see it just yet. I hope to continue to see new situations as adventures and different cultures as valid (No negative attribution here!). Ultimately, I realize that I hold no power over governments and bureaucracies, but God has everything under control.

Choosing the better thing

2008-01-11T03:07:00.001+01:00

The life I live is a response to God's mercy (See Romans 12:1. Actually, see all of Romans leading up to chapter 12 to appreciate the big picture.) Unfortunately, from time to time I lose sight of this basic premise. I get caught up in all the lists of things I should do. I am distracted by activities.

Now, I am to work hard and with sincerity (Colossians 3:23). I should be prepared to make the most of every opportunity (Ephesians 5:15-16). But I miss the point when I seek things to do over the One to love.

As I study Luke 10:38-42, God's Word confronts me again.

As Jesus and his disciples were on their way, he came to a village where a woman
named Martha opened her home to him. She had a sister called Mary, who sat at
the Lord's feet listening to what he said. But Martha was distracted by all
the preparations that had to be made. She came to him and asked, "Lord, don't
you care that my sister has left me to do the work by myself? Tell her to help
me!"
"Martha, Martha," the Lord answered, "you are worried and upset
about many things, but only one thing is needed. Mary has chosen what is better, and it will not be taken away from her."

Service in love, activities, deeds are good. They are an indicator of faith lived out. They show the world that I belong to Christ. They can be the demonstration of my love for the Father as He saved me by His Son to truly live. Then, such things can become a snare.

Martha loved Jesus, and Jesus loved Martha. She worked to feed a house full of company as His posse came to town. Mary wasn't helping, apparently, but was sitting at Jesus' feet as He taught (revolutionary in that time, by the way). Where did Martha's service become the snare? Verse 40 holds the key: she was "distracted by all the preparations that had to be made." She lost sight of why Christ was there.

As this new year has come in with a bang for me, there is much to be done before I can head to Hungary. Once I get there, there will be much more to do. This life is exciting, and it is an honor to live exuberantly for my God. My students need a good teacher who is serious about influencing and preparing them, for example. The danger comes as I get distracted by the things that need to get done.

I need to get back into the habit of being still and knowing that God is God. He is my shepherd, my life, the power by which I live. He loves me, and I love Him. How is the relationship doing? Do I settle for a "to do" list or do I choose the better thing: a seat at the foot of my savior?

There is so much more that needs to be said as I share my lesson with you. I'm getting distracted by my own desire to write clearly and bring you comfort in the character of a relational God. Instead, I'm going to sit, be real with God, get things done, and not worry so much about things that need to get done.

In the battle of life, let's be still and know that He is God. It, or He, is the better thing.

Psalm 46

For the moment

2008-01-07T20:07:00.000+01:00

Hello there! Life is a marvelous whirlwind in this the new year. Enjoy some odd shots of my family while I gather my thoughts.

It could have been so much worse!

2007-12-07T02:25:00.000+01:00

Today, I am again awestruck by the protection and provision of God. The day could have been so much worse for me.
After a great lunch with a long-time friend and partner in ministry, I was in my car headed to another conversation (this time over coffee) with another devoted friend. I noticed that my car seemed to lurch and "clunk" quite violently at a couple of stop signs . Finally, at a traffic light the loudest "thud" yet echoed up from my rear wheels, my car started pulling back as I tried to accelerate through a busy intersection, and then the terrible screeching started. I limped to the side of the road, turned on the flashers, and called my reliable father.
Half an hour later--we live in a different town--my dad pulled up and slowly drove the car to a garage. He had discovered a way to reverse after stopping that enabled any movement at all. The garage owner had worked on cars for our family before with great integrity and promised to look at my little car right away. Dad and I spent some time at a local shop, discussed what might be wrong with the brakes, and waited for the prognosis.
Now, I had already enjoyed a safe road-side experience instead of a side-of-the-interstate-in-Chicago-rush-hour moment that could have existed had the problem arisen last week. I was already thankful, but we were prepared for some fairly expensive and time-consuming work on the car. I was brainstorming how I might make the three-hour drive to a speaking engagement that I had planned for the weekend when the garage owner, a kind man named Ken, called back. A bolt was missing from my caliper. He replaced it. Only cosmetic damage to something on the interior structure of the brake disk. No charge.
Yep. No charge. After about 45 minutes of labor in the middle of a busy day, this man handed me the keys and wished me a Merry Christmas. After an alarming moment without an important bolt in the middle of an intersection, no permanent damage to me or the car. Behold a gift from my Father in Heaven!
From now on, as I drive in this car to appointments to share about my upcoming ministry to international students in Budapest, I will be reminded of the One who makes it all possible. He has called me. He has kept me safe. He has and will provide in His perfect time.

A new little one

2007-11-28T19:57:00.000+01:00

I have a huge praise! My dear friends, Kristen and Kevin Yaiko, whom I met at PFO this summer just had their first baby while in their first semester at the International Christian School of Budapest! Mom and baby are doing well, resting, and eagerly awaiting the grandparents' arrival. Dad is working with customs to get a much needed crate of baby stuff (ah yes, life international...). Please welcome Seth Norman Yaiko to the world: