A Friend Loves At All Times

I struggled with writing this blog. I in no way want to bring attention to our family , but by not writing it, I felt that I was not giving God the proper glory. When Noah was just about to turn two we found out that the grandson of a friend of my husbands was just diagnosed with a rare form of cancer. 

His name was Noah (I) and he was 18 months old at the time. It broke our hearts, perhaps it was the age and name, but it really hurt our hearts. His mom a teacher and single parent was caring for her boy and we felt the Lord impress upon our hearts to help them out.

As we planned  his party we felt the Lord telling us that instead of our friends and family bring our Asher gifts that we ask  that the gifts be brought to the other Noah instead. Then immediately, thoughts of doubt flooded our minds, what if our family and friends didn't want too buy for someone they didn't know. Will they think that we are "neglecting" our child… and the thoughts kept coming.

I remember sitting on my chair in my sons room watching him play. Thinking of Noah's mom, who was probably sitting in a chair watching her boy, only it was in a hospital and her son was laying in a bed. Then Lord reminded me that it didn't matter, that it was between them and Him. We just needed to be obedient! I also remember talking to a friend who said " its OK Noah is to young to know or remember it". Not sure if this was her way of encouraging me, but for some reason almost five years later I was reminded of that.

A few weeks ago, my husband and I were trying to figure out what we were going to do for the boys birthday. A dreaded conversation, because my plans and our budget generally does not go together like peanut butter and jelly! Often times I can resort to my inner toddler and draw up a good tantrum when my husband tries to reel me in on what we can actually afford. Bless his heart that he still loves me after all these years and usually makes it happen.

Anyways, we tossed the idea of the parties together, because their birthdays are only two weeks apart,  I heard that voice again. You know that voice , that usually calls you to do something that you have to completely step out on faith on… 

"Um honey, what if we give the boys a party and instead of the boys getting gifts, we give them to another little boy who is sick?" 

"who?"

" I don't know, we can do the sandlot party because, Noah wants to play baseball with his friends and we pray on who to give the gifts to." 

As quickly as I said it, was as quickly as he agreed. We sat the kids down and explained to them that we were having a party only they would not be getting gifts. I didn't have an answer, other than the Lord would provide the child whom would receive the blessing, when they asked who would get the gifts.

Noah looked at me and immediately those thoughts again flooded my mind. Its OK for us, but is it fair to ask our friends and family? Will our children hold it against us remembering the birthday that mommy and daddy gave away all their gifts? And then we had one of those moments that was ordained by the lord. When we explained to them that on their actual birthday we would take them to get one toy, their faces lit up. 

"One toy mommy? Anything I want? Noah's screamed…. And his smile could not be contained. He was content in just that one special toy. So now, who Lord? I'll spare the details for the sake of this blog being super long, but the Lord allowed us to be in contact with the aunt of a little boy victor. The Sunday before I was to send out the invites , I received a text from a friend that this little boy just got diagnosed with Ewing's Sarcoma. He is seven years old and his and birthday was also in November. This was an answer to prayer because we wanted someone who was close to the boys age. 

I remember driving and I was thinking. Lord I get the vision that you gave us for this party, but what if the others don't get it. What if they think we are terrible parents to ask this type of understanding for our children at their age. What if our community feels obligated to get this little boy something, but really are not OK with it… and then the thoughts went on and on…. Then I heard the voice of the Lord say.. " A friend loves at all times."

You see I realized that day although, we were taking the earthly gifts, we were giving our kids the best gift, and that was the gift on how to be a good friend. How to love others and share the blessing, how to be selfless. Also teaching them that although some people will never understand the things God calls us to do it doesn't matter because we need to be obedient. And that is not for us to worry about, that is between them and the Lord. This is something that we could never teach them with words, but it had to be displayed through action. 

The Lord totally orchestrated this party perfect, He provided through family and friends what was needed and the desires of my heart for this party. He knew who exactly who would be there and I know that before we had even had a thought about a party, He knew it was for Victor. 

At one point of the party I glanced over to the baseball field where all the kids were playing and I had a emotional moment.  There running the bases were both Noah's.. Five years later and by the grace of God we were able to celebrate life with our boys and the very little boy that we had been praying for since he was 18 months. A friendship that would have never been birthed unless we were called to be his friend. And it has been a blessing to watch this little boy grow. 

                                                                  Noah Squared

We had a blast at the sandlot… On our drive home, barely able to stay awake, I looked over at the boys… "Did you have fun?"

"It was the best birthday ever mommy, we had so much fun playing baseball with our friends.. It was just what I wanted"

                                          Pre game warm up.. Benny the "Jet" (Noah) leading the pack

I smile and reminded them "A friend loves at all times" remember that boys, remember your fun at the sandlot today, but also remember that when its time to give those gifts to victor."

That night I got all the gifts together, the cards and money and got it ready for Sunday delivery. The next  morning the kids woke up to see the basket filled with Lego's and other goodies. I waited for the meltdown of my newly turned four year old, but you know what it never happened. They delighted in the stuff and were excited that Victor got some cool Lego sets. My heart leaped, my faith was strengthened and at that moment I trust the Lord a little more. 

That night we received a text from Victors aunt. She attached a picture of Victor who now sat on his bed with a bald head and a small smile. He was blessed that someone one who didn't even know him would shower him with gifts. Oh Victor, we don't know you buddy, but Jesus does.... We sat the boys down and we showed them the picture of Victor and they wondered where his hair went. We explained to them how sick Victor was and that we needed to continue to pray. Noah asked if he could and I can't remember it all, but he closed with "please watch over our friend victor." 

And in that moment, the Lord gave our kids their birthday gift, the gift of what it looks like to be a friend. You see we are only on this earth a short time in relation to eternity. Chances are the gifts that our boys (although grateful) would have  gotten would have been enjoyed for a few weeks, then would have ended up in the closet. It is our hope that as soon as Victor is well, one day he will circle the bases with our boys and a friendship is built. That perhaps Victor will know that the greatest friend we could ever have is Jesus. The one person who could have only placed the desire for a donated birthday in the heart of a single income family. 

To all of our family and friends who made it out.. Thank you, thank you for your time and generosity, we hope you all had a blast. Here is part of the text that Victors aunt sent us:

          "It is amazing to see God's hand at work. You have reminded us and that our precious Victor is in our 

          Lords hand and He will get us through. God Bless all of you and please let everyone that participated and 

          and praying for him know that Victor and his family are extremely grateful. "

We could not have been able to do this with all you guys.. We love you!

And for those of you that have made it through this totally long blog here is what I learned....

-God will spare no resources to reach the one

-When the Lord places a vision in your heart or calls you to do something generally it requires you to step out in faith.

-It doesn't matter how foolish or what others will think, it requires faith to be set apart.

-All He requires is for you to be obedient.

-He will provide all the details and everything you need.

-Don't do it alone, ask help from your community.

-The best lessons are taught not told! 

Please remember Victor in your prayers as he continues to fight this battle and remember that a friend loves at all times, be a friend even if means giving up something to do it. All Glory to God that He would allow us to be a small part in a big plan for this little guys life. Its always a privilege and Honor to serve Him.. 

Some of my favorite pictures from the day....

 My Parents with the boys

 Squints

 The Sandlot Gang

Benny the Jet (Noah)

 Scotty "Smalls" (Caleb)

No party is complete without cookies or cupcakes from Little Miss Cupcake and Company.. You can check out her goodies here 

Thank you Mom for your generosity, to much to list., Thank you Melissa Runcie for the awesome print the kids got to remind them of a true friend, thank you Grandma Rozanne for the baseball gear, and the donuts! Thank you Auntie Nicely for the Cookies they were "Epic", thank you Auntie Patricia for your servant heart to help with the set up....

To my little family,

Daddy and Boys, I am so proud of you and your heart of service and love.. I am blessed and loved more than I could ever imagine and you make me better. I am proud of you! I love you forever, like you for always as long as I am living my babies youll be!!!!!

To Victor and Family....

We are praying for you and hope one day to meet you all. Please know that the Lord has great plans for you and your little boy, His hand is already on Him.. It is only through His love that we would be humbled enough to be used by the Lord. Thank you for allowing us too! 

xoxoxox

Moni

Being called

I remember the day The Lord showed me to quit my job to be a stay at home mom. I was fearful and not sure how we would survive on one income ,  but I was sure of one thing... I was being called.

In the middle of worship ,my then five  year old turned around with his hands lifted up and said " we should do a worship night with all the families and teachers of our school." I wasn't sure how it would happen, if anyone would come, but I was sure of one thing... We were being called.

She felt the Lord stirring up her heart to participate in organizing a prayer vigil for pastor Saeed and the persecuted church. She wasn't  sure how it would happen in a short time, who would come, but she was sure of one thing.... She was being called.

The calling in each of these scenarios are different, however there are a few things that remain the same...

1. There is a calling.
2. There is fear and doubt when been being called.
3. Faith and obedience is required is required.

The bible says that many are called but only few are willing. Have you ever had a time when you are really trying to get a hold of someone and they are just not picking up the phone? It's frustrating right? And there is nothing worse than missing a call of a blessing to go to a free concert or a game to your favorite teams game.

Here is one thing I know, when we do not pick up the phone when the Lord is calling there is the potential to miss out on the blessing. Even if the calling seems to feel like a burden or laborsome.

Rick Yancey, says this "God doesn't call the equipped, son. God equips the called. And you have been called.'

Big or small, the Lord has a calling on your life to fulfill the purpose for either you or someone else. What I love about the Lord is that he spares no resources to fulfill his will in our lives. The question is will you answer his call?

It can be scary, but speaking from experience the only calling I have regretted stepping out on faith on, is the ones that I have been to fearful to get outta the boat.

If God is calling you, go! Take Him by the hand and go! He's got you! Trust Him then thank Him that He has called you worthy!

9/11, 3/13, 10/14 and so on and so on

This morning I woke up and I ain't gonna lie, I went straight to Facebook to see if there had been any early morning attacks. Because you know Facebook is probably the fastest new source we have.

This morning there were many people waking up remembering that this day 13 years ago they kissed a loved one good bye and never saw them again.

We remember 9/11.. And although it's good we do I also think about all the other days 3/13, 10/14, 6/18 and so on and so on. What are those dates you ask? Random as they seem, they are also dates of attack on someone ,somewhere. You see we all have an "9/11" In our lives.  A day we woke up and had no idea it would be the last day , we would see someone for the last time or experience some sort of attack in our lives.

I am not in anyway taking anything away for the horrific events that happen this day or to the people who had lost their lives. I remember that time like yesterday , and when I reflect back I choose not to remember the horrific images of burning buildings, crashing planes and devastated people. Because that is what the enemy and evil people responsible want us to... But I , remember the images of a country united together. People helping people, churches full, pastors praying with communities on the streets with vigils. I remember the love and unity this tragic day created.

Today I am praying that as we remember, we don't remember the attack, but we remember the impact of those lost lives that sparked a revival in our hearts and country. I'm praying that we don't wait for tragedy to happen in our lives to get us on our knees and praying. I'm praying that we finally get rid of the bitterness and anger we are harboring in our heart for each other.  I'm praying that we find a way to love each other despite our differences. I'm praying that we come alongside each other to build up communities that are safe for our children. I'm praying that we live beyond ourselves and stop believing that we cannot make a difference. I'm praying that we would see a need and help, even if it is just a small smile to someone who looks sad. I'm praying that we become a country that is united and birth in prayer so that when someone wants to attack us they tremble in fear. I pray that we become people who the devil fears. I pray for better days ahead in this broken and fallen world. I pray we are hopeful and not hopeless.

I pray that we would not feel weak and defeated but that we would know that we are strong enough to fight anything when we stand with each other. I pray for community and I pray that we live lives pleasing to God till our time here is up!

I hope that we would be spiritually built up so that when our 9/11 happens we will be strong enough to withstand the blow or better yet that we would be able to intercede against the evil trying to take us down.

Yesterday , I gathered in our home with a few friends and we prayed in the name of Jesus that anyone trying to plan an attack on this day would be binded up. What if? What if? God honored our short (and I say short compared to the many hours in the day) time of prayer to stop what someone planned to carry out! What if , this morning someone who planned to hurt someone's plan failed because we stood in the gap against the enemy with the power of prayer.

We will never know what goes on the back scenes , but here is what I do know that when I pray, my Lord hears. I know the God I serves spares NO resources when it comes to His children . I know that apart from God I don't have the faith, strength or hope to face another day.

You want to honor the lost today. Do it by loving someone better or forgiving someone who doesn't deserve it but because you need to. May God help us, our country and the future "9/11's" in our lives!

The best flowers in the shop

"The best flowers in the shop"
Since the time Noah has been born, Sal has taken him to trader joes to get me flowers when I'm away.
Typically when I'm at retreats, conferences or bible study. It's carried on to Caleb and now they ask their daddy to take them to only Trader Joes so they can pick their bunches.
They love to go pick them out and carry their bunches to the register. Last night was no different. They each got their bunch went to the register and handed the lady their flowers. She took them and said with much enthusiasm " these are the best flowers in the whole shop. You picked the best ones. " that's it 14 words with a little smile.
I got home last night and the boys were alseep , and my flowers on the table. As I woke up this morning it was the typical, roll over to find them both buried in my blankets with the usual three puppies that follow their master Caleb.
"Mommy did you see your flowers? The lady said they were the best in the shop. We picked the best flowers."
He was so excited. He looked accomplished and felt special that they picked the "best" flowers. This morning he must have told at least two different people that he picked the best flowers in the shop.
I doubt the lady at the store has thought about the two little boys who bought their mom flowers. But my lil guy continues to beam everything he thinks about the best flowers he picked. I'm grateful for those 14 little words of encouragement to my boys.
I'm often amazed at the reaction I get when I ask those taking my order or ringing me up how their day is going. Engaging in conversation with them, letting them know that they matter and not just offering a service.
Our words matter. Our encouraging words matter more. May we not be to busy to take the time to encouraging others and reach out to others with simple words.
Most of us have no problem talking to much, might as well use it for good!

Faith with a tummy ache

Sometimes I feel like I have all the faith in the world, and then the next minute I feel like have none at all.

Her reply to my text was " I've learn through the years to have faith with a tummy ache." Those words never left me and often time bring me back to a place of being OK, when I am fearful. I am fearful more times than I should.

When I haven't heard a peep from Caleb for longer than 10 minutes, I fear that he had another episode and he is laying unconscious in his room. When I look at Noah in the rear view mirror and see his little face staring out the window, I fear what his mind might be thinking.

The other day a lizard on my fence kept me from coming to my backyard, because he was mad dogging me. I fear that anything I put in my mouth will multiply on my hips. I fear that my inadequacy  of being a parent will jack my kids up forever and they will one day put me in a convalescent home (ok maybe that is a little dramatic). I fear THINGS more than I fear God sometimes  more than I am shamelessly willing to admit.

I told my husband I was afraid to get pregnant, because so many ladies were not carrying them full term or they died shortly after birth. WHO? he said... Um well I don't know them all personally but I see it all over instagram and Facebook. Then I realized that social media  can create unnecessary panic if you let it.

Isiah 35:4 says "Be strong, do not fear!" I love that the Lord added the exclamation point because it is like He is saying do not fear, end of story, that's it, no other way. God mentions to fear not at least 80 plus times in His word. If you think about our God, one time is enough, but you find it numerous times.

I love how he reminds us, why? Because we can allow our fear to overcome our thoughts and our minds. I have become better at catching myself when fear wants to sneak up and side swipe me in the face. Because, I recognize when I am starting to have fellowship with those fearful thoughts, the closer I become to those thoughts and the further I move away from Gods thoughts.

I was sitting at CHOC with Caleb when I was having that text conversation with my friend. Not knowing what was happening to Caleb, I felt sick to my stomach moments after I just told my husband I was at peace with what was going on.

When my friend sent that text to me, it reminded me that fear is part of parenting. Its OK to have those butterflies BUT don't forget who is in control. I am a natural worrier but when I accepted the Lord in my heart I realized that I no longer had to harbor all those thoughts, giving them to God and leaving them there was is a place of refuge for me. Perhaps you are struggling with fearful thoughts.

I want you to know that God can be your place of refuge.  I would encourage you to open the bible and look up "Fear" in the concordance... Also I want to invite you to a night filled with worship, prayer and a devotion on being fearless.

This Saturday, June 28th we will gather to prayer in the name of Jesus to heal, restore, to anoint, and fellowship asking God to help us become fearless.. If you are interested in going email me at Faithfoodfitness@gmail.com for details..

May God help us to be fearless!

Watching at a distance and being blessed!

Have you ever just met someone and  they immediately make an impression on your heart? I remember meeting her for the first time at mutual friends birthday dinner. Her and her husband were newlyweds. I remember the first thing about her, was her smile and joy that oozed outta her.

It had to be because she was just married.. give it time.. haha! But, as I got to know her and watch her from a distance that joy never left her..... and that smile? Well it never seized to frown. Over the few short years, we have become friends and I don't see her much other than the occasional run in at church, small fellowships and of course social media, but when I found out that she was graduating from college, there was this overwhelming joy in my heart and I had to share...

Amber,

I am proud of you.. I have watched you.. You may not have even noticed. You are probably one of the sweetest ladies I have met. Your Countenance oozes love and joy that makes me know Jesus is your center. As a mom, you have this gentleness about you and the love you have for your boy is refreshing... So Christ like it ministers to me. Thank you for displaying this Christ love and Patience.

What a blessing that not only your boy gets to be touched by you, but also your students. Of course the Lord would have you in the class to be a blessing to those children. I can imagine most days its hard to leave your little boy, but you do it well. And, when I found out you got the teacher of the year award it was just confirmation to what your family and friends already know. Thank you for touching our world by teaching.

The other day I found out your were graduating with your degree. So often I think that it would be impossible for me to one day step foot back on a campus. But, looking at your pictures of your graduation has encouraged me that one day I can do it like you. Thank you for showing me that it is never to late and with God all things are possible.

You posted that it was one rough year for you. I have seen you many times at church and well, I would have never noticed. Why? Not because you were faking the funk but because you trusted the Lord and your faith in God overshadowed the stress. Thank you for showing me what it looks like to really trust the Lord with all your heart.

Friend, this post may seem as a surprised but, unlike Peter who followed at a distance I wanted to take time to acknowledge what a special person you are. You have truly touched my heart and I couldn't have been more proud to know you and watch you. My heart truly leaps for Joy for you and your family, I look forward to seeing what new journey the Lord has for you. Thank you for being a great example of what it looks like to balance being a wife, a mom, a teacher and a grad among all the other things..

I know our Lord is is please, and saying well done good and faithful servant. You have not gone unnoticed! Thank you for encouraging me the way the bible talks about... the way you live!!!!!

Love you lots,
Mon

P.s. My uber talented friend made this piece for you.. I will have

Daddy & Family Pics

Shortly after we were married my husband started to attend Biola for his undergrad. Upon graduating in 2005 he took a semester off and entered into Talbot School of Theology for the masters program at Biola. 

In 2007 he took another semester off when our Asher was born. Aside from that he has been attending semester after semester. 

I seriously have no idea how he handles a full time job, school, high school ministry and still manages to be an awesome daddy and husband. 

As you could imagine there are times after tough semesters, where the road ahead seems longer than the road already traveled. And those are the times when I, have to remind him, that he has come to far to throw in the towel.

We love Biola , there is just something special about that campus. It has not been just a place of education for my husband but a place of spiritual growth. He has been blessed to be taught by many godly professors that has challenged him with the word and how to go deeper.

As the boys get older I know it's harder for him. At times he feels like he is missing out and misses the good night kisses and snuggles. Often time wondering why it didn't happen sooner before kids. 

I actually see it quite differently (perhaps because I am not the one with sleepless nights), I love that our boys get to see daddy going to school because he is teaching them A few things: 

1. You and Never to old to learn new things. 

2. If you want something continue to pursue it no matter how long it takes.

3. Never give up!

4. All things are possible when God is the center! 

5. Daddy's success is a reflection of our families ability to be flexible, encouraging and love. 

Every semester my husband complete is one step closer to graduation. And the day he walks across the stage we will celebrate as a family that we did it! We are so proud of our daddy and the leader of our home and Im blessed to do this less than perfect life with the perfect mate......

This blog was only appropriate since fathers day approaches.. Also we took family pictures a few weeks ago and it was only fitting that we did on the campus of his school... I was so blessed with what Frances of P31 Photography put together for us. Here is a sample of our day :)

Click here for the link to our family slide show