Time has gone by quickly. It wasn't too long ago that I was in a wheelchair and still very weak. Because I'm so close to "normal" I so easily forget the difficulties of what has now past. I still have some difficulties as I deal with patience and the disappointment of watching my 2 year term fly by me while I'm home recovering. God has gently reminded me of how much he spared me from, and it challenges me to think, as it always does, how faithful I would be to the Father if things had been different.
Almost 3 weeks after my accident, after I had been released from the hospital, we had to take me back to the doctors' offices for checkups. At this point I was still very week, with little to no mobility. It was a challenge to transfer me from my wheelchair to the car and back to the wheelchair again once we arrived at the office. My energy was very low, and everything in my head was still fuzzy from the medicine and from hitting my head so hard. As we arrived at this particular office, we rolled through the first floor. This was the area where people were getting prescriptions and it was overcrowded. As we waited for the elevator my mom had me parked in one spot. Oblivious to everything around me, a man in a wheelchair began talking to me. It was apparent to him that I had recently been in an accident because of the burns and bruises on my face and arms and how both of my legs were wrapped up and splinted. He looked over and said, "You know, years ago they told me I would only live a few years at the most after my accident. That's been 29 years ago, and I'm still going strong."
I didn't even have a chance to respond or process what he said before my mom commented back that his story was amazing and encouraging to hear. The thing is, he didn't know whether I was going to be able to walk again. All he knew was that he saw a sad girl who had been knocked around in an accident, so he offered up some encouragement. My mom later told me that he probably was talking to me because I was approachable. Everyday he lives his life at a different eye level from the rest of the world. Being in a wheelchair myself, I was at his eye level. I was approachable because I was like him.
Being in a wheelchair for 7 weeks before I even stood, and then in it for awhile longer because of lack of strength and balance, I understand what it's like to be on a different level from everyone else. It's easier to ignore people or not even engage in the world around you. You miss looking at people in the eyes, and they miss looking at you in the eyes as you pass them by. This man reminded me of this, and he also reminds me of the ways in which God sustains us. For this man he wasn't able to walk again, but God sustained his life. For me God granted that I have been able to walk again along with sustaining my life.
As I continue to face my heartache of not being in Spain yet, I know God calls me to patience and trust. I hope for a release soon, but I constantly face realities of things that are still a challenge physically. I am certain that God has called me to this job in Spain, and I am certain that I am still supposed to go. The rest, I'm not so certain of, but know this... God is the same and he is consistent. I rest on a regular basis in the fact that when he called me to this job, he knew this accident would happen. That being said I am required to continue to wait on the Lord. Maybe He just needed me to be on a different eye level for awhile, so I could have a deeper understanding of who He is.
I'll see the doctor Monday to see if I'm ready to be released. Recently my visa was ready, so I have that in my passport now. I'm ready to leave whenever the doctor says so and whenever the IMB releases me as well. Pray for God's timing and that I trust him no matter what. Please let me know how I can pray for you.
Following Him,
Taryn
Saturday, April 3, 2010
Wednesday, March 17, 2010
Divine Appointments
Last week my time in VA really gave me an extra push of energy. It gave me a lot more confidence knowing that I could navigate things on my own more than I thought! Last week was also such an amazing time of reflection and focus on the job that I'm going to do in Spain. God has continually showed me, however, that he desires for me to do that same job while I'm home. My mom has also reminded me of the many blessings I've received while being home that I would have missed out on had I already been in Spain: my friends at physical therapy, the continual outpouring of prayers from people, my new friends at the Hispanic ministry at my church. These are just a few of the gifts God has given me. He has also given me divine appointments along the way. Let me introduce you to some people I encountered on my way home from Virginia.
Meet Bob. I met him at 4:30 a.m. last Friday morning. He was the taxi cab driver who picked me up at the training center to take me to the airport in Richmond. Early as it was, I inquired about his time shift and some basic things about family. Even at this early time in the morning, he engaged in these questions and started quickly talking about his family and his job. He expressed a desire to move back to Saudi Arabia (where he lived for some time as a little boy). He said he was working on getting a job there hoping that an opportunity would open up. He also went into a long explanation about his high school aged son and his problems with girlfriends. Sometimes I could hear what he was saying and other times I couldn't because of the radio talk from other cab drivers. As we arrived at the airport, he got my luggage out of the trunk of the car. I thanked him, gave him the voucher for the ride, and told him I would be praying for him that day. A little shocked he looked at me while I asked specifically what he would like prayer for. He then said that he really wanted a "real job" again and was hoping something would come up soon. I then told him I would pray specifically for that.
Meet the man who I can't remember his name (bad, I know). He was on my first flight to Charlotte. He told me he was traveling for business and asked where I was from/why I was in Virginia. After lightly explaining that I had been in an accident and had returned to finish job training, he commented that he too had endured serious injuries at one point. He then explained that he knew he was still on this earth because of God. I agreed with him and told him that I knew God had kept me here for a reason. I told him that things like this aren't by chance. He shared more with me about his family, a wife and two daughters. He expressed his deep love for them and how much they enriched his life. After the flight was over he was more than kind enough to make sure I made it to my next gate without any problems. He even walked as slow as me. He blessed me that day.
Meet Jose. Jose was doubled over in pain because he had just had his appendix removed. The lady at the desk informs him of delays of his flights and tries to help him find another way home. I asked Jose about his surgery and told him how sorry I was that he didn't feel well. I shared with him how I understood what it's like to feel horrible. As I shared shortly about my accident, I then assured him that I would keep him in my prayers. He then asked if I was Catholic, and I responded that I was a follower of Jesus and that I believed everything the Bible says. He answered that he followed Jesus too. He then shared that he too had been in an accident where he lost his best friend. I then assured him that God has a plan for his life, and it wasn't an accident that he was still here. He agreed with me and shortly shared about some of the difficulties of losing a friend and doing a tour with the army over in the Mideast. I asked him how old he was. 23. Only a year younger than me, and a lifetime of pain and suffering showed in his eyes. He had different tattoos with dates on them. I wasn't sure what they signified, but I was certain that they were important to him. As we talked a little bit more I was able to ask him about his family. I overheard him talking on the phone in Spanish and inquired about his family history. He shared about how his parents moved to the U.S. The time came for my flight to leave. As I walked away I said, "Dios te bendiga." A little taken back that I spoke to him in Spanish he smiled and said, "Tu tambien." (for you non Spanish speakers, I said God bless you... he said you too). I prayed that he would feel the Holy Spirit with him all day long.
Meet Juan. He was on my flight to Little Rock. He is African American in appearance, but I later find out he is half Puerto Rican. He is 26, and until recently hadn't seen his father, who lives in Puerto Rico, for 9 years. He said when he was a little boy all he wanted to do when he grew up was be a good daddy. He didn't have that example growing up. As we sat there talking, he explained his outlook on life and expressed a deep desire to create peace around him. He had even changed his name from Juan to a name that means "king of peace." As he explained his ideology, I told him about the true King of Peace. He looked at me and asked why I was talking to him about religion. I then told him that in the same way that he desired to share a message of peace, I desired the same. Then I said that if Jesus and the Bible are truth, that means it's the absolute. There can't be other "truths." (look up truth in the dictionary, multiple truths would be a contradiction to itself) He then talked about how he believed that he was a type of god, and he could control the ins and outs of his world. I told him that he does have a choice about most of what goes on in his world. Then I shared how there are still things we can't control no matter what. That's where we turn to the true King of Peace. I then explain that Christ is the only one who can really establish a peace that will last forever. He contemplates what I say with no response this time. For this "king of peace" I'm sure the idea of establishing peace for forever is a very lofty, unattainable goal. I then shared some stories about Muslims who have never heard of Christ who dream about him and come to know our Lord after someone shares who He is. I also share about people who have lived in geographical isolation who have always searched for "something more." When missionaries tell them about Christ they respond to this truth and say that's it! I then tell him that there's no way to explain that other than that God is intimate and works in the hearts of people. Our God makes himself known. A little baffled by what I shared, it was evident he was still looking for answers. Our conversation remained calm while we listened to one another throughout the rest of the flight. I prayed that one day the King of Peace would be evident to him, and that Juan would recognize Christ is the only one who could give him peace from the hurts of his life. I also prayed that one day I would get to see him in heaven.
Walking out of the airport my mom is standing there waiting for me. I start to cry because it's been a big week and realize how the Spirit has been with me all day long. The Spirit had led me in these divine appointments all day long. Who am I to question why I'm still here in the U.S. when these are just a few of the divine appointments that have met me on this journey.
Following the King of Peace,
Taryn
Meet Bob. I met him at 4:30 a.m. last Friday morning. He was the taxi cab driver who picked me up at the training center to take me to the airport in Richmond. Early as it was, I inquired about his time shift and some basic things about family. Even at this early time in the morning, he engaged in these questions and started quickly talking about his family and his job. He expressed a desire to move back to Saudi Arabia (where he lived for some time as a little boy). He said he was working on getting a job there hoping that an opportunity would open up. He also went into a long explanation about his high school aged son and his problems with girlfriends. Sometimes I could hear what he was saying and other times I couldn't because of the radio talk from other cab drivers. As we arrived at the airport, he got my luggage out of the trunk of the car. I thanked him, gave him the voucher for the ride, and told him I would be praying for him that day. A little shocked he looked at me while I asked specifically what he would like prayer for. He then said that he really wanted a "real job" again and was hoping something would come up soon. I then told him I would pray specifically for that.
Meet the man who I can't remember his name (bad, I know). He was on my first flight to Charlotte. He told me he was traveling for business and asked where I was from/why I was in Virginia. After lightly explaining that I had been in an accident and had returned to finish job training, he commented that he too had endured serious injuries at one point. He then explained that he knew he was still on this earth because of God. I agreed with him and told him that I knew God had kept me here for a reason. I told him that things like this aren't by chance. He shared more with me about his family, a wife and two daughters. He expressed his deep love for them and how much they enriched his life. After the flight was over he was more than kind enough to make sure I made it to my next gate without any problems. He even walked as slow as me. He blessed me that day.
Meet Jose. Jose was doubled over in pain because he had just had his appendix removed. The lady at the desk informs him of delays of his flights and tries to help him find another way home. I asked Jose about his surgery and told him how sorry I was that he didn't feel well. I shared with him how I understood what it's like to feel horrible. As I shared shortly about my accident, I then assured him that I would keep him in my prayers. He then asked if I was Catholic, and I responded that I was a follower of Jesus and that I believed everything the Bible says. He answered that he followed Jesus too. He then shared that he too had been in an accident where he lost his best friend. I then assured him that God has a plan for his life, and it wasn't an accident that he was still here. He agreed with me and shortly shared about some of the difficulties of losing a friend and doing a tour with the army over in the Mideast. I asked him how old he was. 23. Only a year younger than me, and a lifetime of pain and suffering showed in his eyes. He had different tattoos with dates on them. I wasn't sure what they signified, but I was certain that they were important to him. As we talked a little bit more I was able to ask him about his family. I overheard him talking on the phone in Spanish and inquired about his family history. He shared about how his parents moved to the U.S. The time came for my flight to leave. As I walked away I said, "Dios te bendiga." A little taken back that I spoke to him in Spanish he smiled and said, "Tu tambien." (for you non Spanish speakers, I said God bless you... he said you too). I prayed that he would feel the Holy Spirit with him all day long.
Meet Juan. He was on my flight to Little Rock. He is African American in appearance, but I later find out he is half Puerto Rican. He is 26, and until recently hadn't seen his father, who lives in Puerto Rico, for 9 years. He said when he was a little boy all he wanted to do when he grew up was be a good daddy. He didn't have that example growing up. As we sat there talking, he explained his outlook on life and expressed a deep desire to create peace around him. He had even changed his name from Juan to a name that means "king of peace." As he explained his ideology, I told him about the true King of Peace. He looked at me and asked why I was talking to him about religion. I then told him that in the same way that he desired to share a message of peace, I desired the same. Then I said that if Jesus and the Bible are truth, that means it's the absolute. There can't be other "truths." (look up truth in the dictionary, multiple truths would be a contradiction to itself) He then talked about how he believed that he was a type of god, and he could control the ins and outs of his world. I told him that he does have a choice about most of what goes on in his world. Then I shared how there are still things we can't control no matter what. That's where we turn to the true King of Peace. I then explain that Christ is the only one who can really establish a peace that will last forever. He contemplates what I say with no response this time. For this "king of peace" I'm sure the idea of establishing peace for forever is a very lofty, unattainable goal. I then shared some stories about Muslims who have never heard of Christ who dream about him and come to know our Lord after someone shares who He is. I also share about people who have lived in geographical isolation who have always searched for "something more." When missionaries tell them about Christ they respond to this truth and say that's it! I then tell him that there's no way to explain that other than that God is intimate and works in the hearts of people. Our God makes himself known. A little baffled by what I shared, it was evident he was still looking for answers. Our conversation remained calm while we listened to one another throughout the rest of the flight. I prayed that one day the King of Peace would be evident to him, and that Juan would recognize Christ is the only one who could give him peace from the hurts of his life. I also prayed that one day I would get to see him in heaven.
Walking out of the airport my mom is standing there waiting for me. I start to cry because it's been a big week and realize how the Spirit has been with me all day long. The Spirit had led me in these divine appointments all day long. Who am I to question why I'm still here in the U.S. when these are just a few of the divine appointments that have met me on this journey.
Following the King of Peace,
Taryn
Thursday, March 11, 2010
The Hairs of Your Head
Recently because of being put under anesthesia 3 times and because of stress of being in an accident my hair has been falling out like crazy! At first it was somewhat alarming because this has been going on for about a month now. I've now realized it's really not a big deal, even though as a girl I've had to remind myself of this. My hair will grow back and will be thick once again. On that note, it's a good thing I started out with thick hair because I think I'm down to about 1/3 of what I had before!
In the midst of some of the crazy things my body is doing while healing it assures me to know that at any moment God knows the number of the hairs on my head (Matthew 10:30). There isn't a moment that he doesn't know the workings of my body or my mind. We serve such an intimate God. He knows everything about us.
Another passage of scripture related to hair reminded me of what we have to be thankful for. Luke 7:37-38 talks about a sinful woman who comes into where Jesus is dining at the home of a pharisee. As she is crying, she uses her hair to wipe the tears off of Jesus' feet while pouring expensive perfume on him. While I focus on my hair as being important to how I look, I am challenged by the humility this woman uses. I would never have thought to wash someones feet with my own hair! That would be dirty, especially in the time Jesus lived. It would be silly to do that, and why would I use my hair? This woman, however, sees Jesus as he is, her Savior. She humbles herself before him. To her, wiping his feet with her hair didn't matter. He forgave her of her sins, and she was clean on the inside. The most important kind of clean that we can experience.
This past week in Virginia has been amazing as I have finished my training. Since my accident it has been my goal to get back to Virginia for this very reason, and God has granted me to do this. My airport time has gone VERY smoothly. I know many of you must be praying for me, and it is felt. I also just found out that my visa is ready is Houston! Just as we prayed it didn't come too soon or too late. The God of the universe is so intimate that he has taken care of these details in my life. I can't wait to let you guys know when I leave for Spain. Hopefully in another 4-6 weeks I'll be medically released to go. The medical consultation at my training went great. They were such an encouragement and were amazed how quickly I have healed. It's because we've been praying to the great Healer through all of this. Let me know how I can be lifting you up.
In Him,
Taryn
In the midst of some of the crazy things my body is doing while healing it assures me to know that at any moment God knows the number of the hairs on my head (Matthew 10:30). There isn't a moment that he doesn't know the workings of my body or my mind. We serve such an intimate God. He knows everything about us.
Another passage of scripture related to hair reminded me of what we have to be thankful for. Luke 7:37-38 talks about a sinful woman who comes into where Jesus is dining at the home of a pharisee. As she is crying, she uses her hair to wipe the tears off of Jesus' feet while pouring expensive perfume on him. While I focus on my hair as being important to how I look, I am challenged by the humility this woman uses. I would never have thought to wash someones feet with my own hair! That would be dirty, especially in the time Jesus lived. It would be silly to do that, and why would I use my hair? This woman, however, sees Jesus as he is, her Savior. She humbles herself before him. To her, wiping his feet with her hair didn't matter. He forgave her of her sins, and she was clean on the inside. The most important kind of clean that we can experience.
This past week in Virginia has been amazing as I have finished my training. Since my accident it has been my goal to get back to Virginia for this very reason, and God has granted me to do this. My airport time has gone VERY smoothly. I know many of you must be praying for me, and it is felt. I also just found out that my visa is ready is Houston! Just as we prayed it didn't come too soon or too late. The God of the universe is so intimate that he has taken care of these details in my life. I can't wait to let you guys know when I leave for Spain. Hopefully in another 4-6 weeks I'll be medically released to go. The medical consultation at my training went great. They were such an encouragement and were amazed how quickly I have healed. It's because we've been praying to the great Healer through all of this. Let me know how I can be lifting you up.
In Him,
Taryn
Wednesday, March 3, 2010
Failure to Launch
One thing that is so very exciting for me is I finally received clearance from my employer to attend training next week (March 8-11)! Not only did I have to have clearance from my physician, but the medical team at the training center had to discuss if they would let me come and finish my training. Sound complicated? It probably is, and I might not even know the half of it. So between what feels like dozens of emails and contacts with doctors offices and request for specified progress reports I'll be off Sunday to Virginia! Last time I saw VA my world had been flipped upside down and everything was fuzzy. This time when I see VA, my mind will be clear even though I may be a little slow still at the walking. Your prayers are the reason I am okay to go to this training.
This entire process of healing and being home has been quite an experience. I almost feel like I have failed to launch off into the world and here I am still at home. Even though this isn't true, I'm validly at home because of medical reason, it's hard to let that sink into my head. I try to keep moving forward, but there are times when it's not fast enough. Having waited for this opportunity to do missions for over 7 years was a long enough wait. For some reason, God has allowed for me to wait a little bit more. I am a firm believer in utilizing whatever time of life you are in. I don't want to look back on these past few months and think, "What a waste of my time!" A lot of this attitude is up to me. I feel as though I have done a pretty good job of course with the leading of the Holy Spirit, but that doesn't mean I don't have moments of weakness.
These moments consist of me thinking about all of my brothers and sisters around the globe already hard at their work. They are in the midst of their language learning, and for many of them the newness of their location has worn off. I cry over their emails and the persecution of the national believers of their countries. I cry over my friends' feelings and emotions as they struggle with the language and just desire to adequately communicate the gospel. I also cry over their loneliness and can relate to that feeling on some level. And in case you were wondering, I am talking about real crying here! Life brings about disappointments, but we still have a choice to make. We can either throw a tantrum and shake our fists or we can trust Him. We can follow Him in the valleys and trust that He hasn't forgotten us.
Not once did Christ or the Word tell us we won't suffer. Quite the opposite. Suffering as a Christian should be expected. Despite my feelings that I have failed to launch (have any of you seen that movie?), God calls me daily to humble myself and do the work that I will do in Spain here. I can perfectly navigate the English language, so that means I can share the gospel without a language barrier. Pray that I will be intentional to do this wherever I am. People have yet to hear of Christ's grace here, so I would like to think that I really haven't failed to launch. I wasn't ever supposed to launch off December 28th. God doesn't count this time at home as a failure. Instead I believe it's been an opportunity to step out of my comfort zone and look around at the lostness here. Pray that I will be a bold witness as I wait on the launching pad. I still hope that my launch to Spain will be soon, but pray I won't waste any time here.
Please continue to pray for my legs to heal. My left ankle has been giving me some problems. Some of this is just due to my legs getting used to walking again. Pray my walking speed increases and that the trauma to my right leg continues to heal. March 15th I am still scheduled to have a minor surgery in my mouth. Please pray for no complications, quick healing, and limited pain. Also please pray for my visa as it processes. We are hoping it doesn't come too soon or too late! As always let me know how I can pray for you.
In Him,
Taryn
This entire process of healing and being home has been quite an experience. I almost feel like I have failed to launch off into the world and here I am still at home. Even though this isn't true, I'm validly at home because of medical reason, it's hard to let that sink into my head. I try to keep moving forward, but there are times when it's not fast enough. Having waited for this opportunity to do missions for over 7 years was a long enough wait. For some reason, God has allowed for me to wait a little bit more. I am a firm believer in utilizing whatever time of life you are in. I don't want to look back on these past few months and think, "What a waste of my time!" A lot of this attitude is up to me. I feel as though I have done a pretty good job of course with the leading of the Holy Spirit, but that doesn't mean I don't have moments of weakness.
These moments consist of me thinking about all of my brothers and sisters around the globe already hard at their work. They are in the midst of their language learning, and for many of them the newness of their location has worn off. I cry over their emails and the persecution of the national believers of their countries. I cry over my friends' feelings and emotions as they struggle with the language and just desire to adequately communicate the gospel. I also cry over their loneliness and can relate to that feeling on some level. And in case you were wondering, I am talking about real crying here! Life brings about disappointments, but we still have a choice to make. We can either throw a tantrum and shake our fists or we can trust Him. We can follow Him in the valleys and trust that He hasn't forgotten us.
Not once did Christ or the Word tell us we won't suffer. Quite the opposite. Suffering as a Christian should be expected. Despite my feelings that I have failed to launch (have any of you seen that movie?), God calls me daily to humble myself and do the work that I will do in Spain here. I can perfectly navigate the English language, so that means I can share the gospel without a language barrier. Pray that I will be intentional to do this wherever I am. People have yet to hear of Christ's grace here, so I would like to think that I really haven't failed to launch. I wasn't ever supposed to launch off December 28th. God doesn't count this time at home as a failure. Instead I believe it's been an opportunity to step out of my comfort zone and look around at the lostness here. Pray that I will be a bold witness as I wait on the launching pad. I still hope that my launch to Spain will be soon, but pray I won't waste any time here.
Please continue to pray for my legs to heal. My left ankle has been giving me some problems. Some of this is just due to my legs getting used to walking again. Pray my walking speed increases and that the trauma to my right leg continues to heal. March 15th I am still scheduled to have a minor surgery in my mouth. Please pray for no complications, quick healing, and limited pain. Also please pray for my visa as it processes. We are hoping it doesn't come too soon or too late! As always let me know how I can pray for you.
In Him,
Taryn
Friday, February 26, 2010
Hispanic Bereans
As soon as it was night, the brothers sent Paul and Silas away to Berea. On arriving there, they went to the Jewish synagogue. Now the Bereans were of more noble character than the Thessalonians, for they received the message with great eagerness and examined the Scriptures every day to see if what Paul said was true.
Acts 17:10-12
Since I've been home I've been attending the Hispanic ministry at my church. I go to Sunday school, worship and the Wednesday night Bible study. This has been an amazing way for me to keep up with my Spanish and be in interaction with some people who are in a very similar situation as the Latin Americans I will work with in Spain. Many of the people are immigrants that have to navigate in English every day. Needless to say they have an appreciation for people who want to speak Spanish! One day the pastor told me that my Spanish was good for a gringa. I laughed on the inside and felt such a satisfaction that I wasn't a complete Spanish speaking failure. Another time some of the ladies asked me to read a Bible verse in Spanish; they were kind of giggling. I laughed and asked them if my Spanish was really bad. They replied "Oh no! It's really good." Then another lady told me they just aren't used to seeing a white person speak Spanish and they enjoy hearing me! Go figure, right?
Many times I follow what's being said or I get the gist of the point being made. Sometimes I get lost and then my mind just wanders for a bit. I am so thankful that I am starting to wrap my mind around the language all the more, even if there are times when I'm lost! I now have a complete Spanish/English Bible that is a huge help in my navigation throughout the studies we do. It was a gift to me from a sweet family in the ministry. The husband, Carlos, has such an evident love for the Lord and gave me some amazing advice. He said that learning a language through the Bible is the best way to learn a language. He said the language in the Bible is so pure, and while you study the Bible are in the presence of God. Can you think of any better time to learn something than when you are in God's presence? I think he's very right about that, and I have taken his advice and use the bilingual Bible almost every night.
I am so challenged by this group of people. Their love for one another is obvious, and their concern for each other's lives in shown in the way they pray. Man... if you haven't heard these people pray then I don't know if you've really prayed at all! (not really... just making a point) This community spends adequate time praying for one another and every request is put out there. It has been so refreshing to see this vulnerability and to experience this time in prayer making request known to the Father. It challenges me to consider how I approach the throne of God. Do I approach it with a time limit? Do I approach the throne with transparency of my heart? My new friends have shown me that they in fact do these things.
Another thing that I LOVE about the Bible study is the way in which they handle the Word. I think it's more than fair to say they are present day Bereans. We will read a verse from the Bible, and they discuss it, they test out its application in their life, and they don't just accept what one another says without seeing what the Bible says first. Bereans were a pretty tough crowd if they are making sure what Paul (yes, even Paul) was saying was true. I see this same hunger for truth in the Hispanic ministry. I love how we will spend most of the time in these rapid fire discussions (it seems rapid to me because it's all in another language). They are so passionate about knowing the Lord. They have no shame in asking questions because they have the humility it takes to learn. They also have no shame in correcting one another in love and encouragement.
This group of people have greatly impacted me, and I was humbled to discover that before I had even attended this ministry they had been praying for me. One of the favorite things I was told by my friend Augustina "Tina" was how much she loved me and how I was her sister. She said, "You know we are family?" She is so right. We are family, and when I reflect on their love for me in this short time I am humbled to tears. They have accepted me and helped me. That's what a family does, and I am blessed to have gotten to know some more of my brothers and sisters.
Please pray that a week from now I'll be getting ready to go to Virginia to finish my training! I am itching to go and am strong enough at this point to make it. Pray that my walking speed continually increases, and that my legs keep healing. Your prayers are really what keeps me healing so quickly, but my legs still have trauma that needs to heal. So, don't stop the prayers! Thank you so much and please let me know ways I can pray for you!
In Him,
Taryn
Acts 17:10-12
Since I've been home I've been attending the Hispanic ministry at my church. I go to Sunday school, worship and the Wednesday night Bible study. This has been an amazing way for me to keep up with my Spanish and be in interaction with some people who are in a very similar situation as the Latin Americans I will work with in Spain. Many of the people are immigrants that have to navigate in English every day. Needless to say they have an appreciation for people who want to speak Spanish! One day the pastor told me that my Spanish was good for a gringa. I laughed on the inside and felt such a satisfaction that I wasn't a complete Spanish speaking failure. Another time some of the ladies asked me to read a Bible verse in Spanish; they were kind of giggling. I laughed and asked them if my Spanish was really bad. They replied "Oh no! It's really good." Then another lady told me they just aren't used to seeing a white person speak Spanish and they enjoy hearing me! Go figure, right?
Many times I follow what's being said or I get the gist of the point being made. Sometimes I get lost and then my mind just wanders for a bit. I am so thankful that I am starting to wrap my mind around the language all the more, even if there are times when I'm lost! I now have a complete Spanish/English Bible that is a huge help in my navigation throughout the studies we do. It was a gift to me from a sweet family in the ministry. The husband, Carlos, has such an evident love for the Lord and gave me some amazing advice. He said that learning a language through the Bible is the best way to learn a language. He said the language in the Bible is so pure, and while you study the Bible are in the presence of God. Can you think of any better time to learn something than when you are in God's presence? I think he's very right about that, and I have taken his advice and use the bilingual Bible almost every night.
I am so challenged by this group of people. Their love for one another is obvious, and their concern for each other's lives in shown in the way they pray. Man... if you haven't heard these people pray then I don't know if you've really prayed at all! (not really... just making a point) This community spends adequate time praying for one another and every request is put out there. It has been so refreshing to see this vulnerability and to experience this time in prayer making request known to the Father. It challenges me to consider how I approach the throne of God. Do I approach it with a time limit? Do I approach the throne with transparency of my heart? My new friends have shown me that they in fact do these things.
Another thing that I LOVE about the Bible study is the way in which they handle the Word. I think it's more than fair to say they are present day Bereans. We will read a verse from the Bible, and they discuss it, they test out its application in their life, and they don't just accept what one another says without seeing what the Bible says first. Bereans were a pretty tough crowd if they are making sure what Paul (yes, even Paul) was saying was true. I see this same hunger for truth in the Hispanic ministry. I love how we will spend most of the time in these rapid fire discussions (it seems rapid to me because it's all in another language). They are so passionate about knowing the Lord. They have no shame in asking questions because they have the humility it takes to learn. They also have no shame in correcting one another in love and encouragement.
This group of people have greatly impacted me, and I was humbled to discover that before I had even attended this ministry they had been praying for me. One of the favorite things I was told by my friend Augustina "Tina" was how much she loved me and how I was her sister. She said, "You know we are family?" She is so right. We are family, and when I reflect on their love for me in this short time I am humbled to tears. They have accepted me and helped me. That's what a family does, and I am blessed to have gotten to know some more of my brothers and sisters.
Please pray that a week from now I'll be getting ready to go to Virginia to finish my training! I am itching to go and am strong enough at this point to make it. Pray that my walking speed continually increases, and that my legs keep healing. Your prayers are really what keeps me healing so quickly, but my legs still have trauma that needs to heal. So, don't stop the prayers! Thank you so much and please let me know ways I can pray for you!
In Him,
Taryn
Friday, February 19, 2010
Medical/Timeline Update
Each day I am increasing in my walking ability and also in my energy. I definitely have times when I am reminded of my limits and how there are still things I have to conquer. One of those things is endurance with my energy and the distance that I can walk. Walking is smoother, but I'm still slow.
Recently I went to a periodontist to follow up on some gum recession I have. This is due to the surgery that was done in my mouth to fix my jaw. It's also due to the amount of time that I had my mouth wired shut and the recession that occurs because of inability to clean teeth thoroughly. The periodontist will do a skin graft in my mouth March 15th and then follow up with me on the 25th to ensure that everything heals as it should. This procedure is to prevent issues in the future with infection that could go into my jaw bone or make me loose teeth.
To some extent this was a disappointment because I wanted so badly to be in Spain in March. Despite the necessity of having this procedure done I'm not sure if the middle of March would have been possible anyways. Even though I am rapidly healing there's just more that has to heal. My right leg is still nicely bruised and my legs swell on a regular basis (not near as much as before!) I have to constantly remind myself of how blessed I am. It's hard when I look around and see other people that won't ever be the same as before, yet I am blessed that most things will be normal for me again.
Even though I have things that may be permanent like numbness in my lips, feet, legs, and knees, it's all fairly minor considering where I've come from. I have more good days than bad, but when I have bad days I do have a good cry. God can handle all of our emotions, and he is with us despite our disappointments and heartaches. I so badly want to be in Spain, and I feel guilty for not being there. I have to stop and realize that God is completely in control. Nothing that has happened has surprised him. All I can do is keep at work on the mission field I have here. There are plenty of people here that I have yet to hear about Christ, so we must continue to tell people.
I think I also have times where I'm not expecting to be in pain, but it still exists. Not nearly as much as before, but it's still there at night or especially when the weather changes. They should hire me on the weather station because I'm fairly in tune with the weather these days! This is just another one of those things I have to accept in the midst of my healing, and that there may be pain for quite some time.
Please pray that I stay encouraged and that I will remain strong even if I don't make it to Spain until April. I just have to be honest with myself about some of these limitations and let time heal. Pray that I take advantage of the time I have here and take advantage of learning more Spanish. I go to the Hispanic Bible study at my church now. It's good for me :) I'll continue to keep everyone updated, and hopefully as of now I'll still be able to finish my training in Virginia March 8-11. I may have to get airport help (haha) but I am waiting until this coming Monday to get clearance to go from my doctor. Always let me know ways to pray for you and I am so thankful for your prayers!
In Him,
Taryn
Recently I went to a periodontist to follow up on some gum recession I have. This is due to the surgery that was done in my mouth to fix my jaw. It's also due to the amount of time that I had my mouth wired shut and the recession that occurs because of inability to clean teeth thoroughly. The periodontist will do a skin graft in my mouth March 15th and then follow up with me on the 25th to ensure that everything heals as it should. This procedure is to prevent issues in the future with infection that could go into my jaw bone or make me loose teeth.
To some extent this was a disappointment because I wanted so badly to be in Spain in March. Despite the necessity of having this procedure done I'm not sure if the middle of March would have been possible anyways. Even though I am rapidly healing there's just more that has to heal. My right leg is still nicely bruised and my legs swell on a regular basis (not near as much as before!) I have to constantly remind myself of how blessed I am. It's hard when I look around and see other people that won't ever be the same as before, yet I am blessed that most things will be normal for me again.
Even though I have things that may be permanent like numbness in my lips, feet, legs, and knees, it's all fairly minor considering where I've come from. I have more good days than bad, but when I have bad days I do have a good cry. God can handle all of our emotions, and he is with us despite our disappointments and heartaches. I so badly want to be in Spain, and I feel guilty for not being there. I have to stop and realize that God is completely in control. Nothing that has happened has surprised him. All I can do is keep at work on the mission field I have here. There are plenty of people here that I have yet to hear about Christ, so we must continue to tell people.
I think I also have times where I'm not expecting to be in pain, but it still exists. Not nearly as much as before, but it's still there at night or especially when the weather changes. They should hire me on the weather station because I'm fairly in tune with the weather these days! This is just another one of those things I have to accept in the midst of my healing, and that there may be pain for quite some time.
Please pray that I stay encouraged and that I will remain strong even if I don't make it to Spain until April. I just have to be honest with myself about some of these limitations and let time heal. Pray that I take advantage of the time I have here and take advantage of learning more Spanish. I go to the Hispanic Bible study at my church now. It's good for me :) I'll continue to keep everyone updated, and hopefully as of now I'll still be able to finish my training in Virginia March 8-11. I may have to get airport help (haha) but I am waiting until this coming Monday to get clearance to go from my doctor. Always let me know ways to pray for you and I am so thankful for your prayers!
In Him,
Taryn
Monday, February 8, 2010
Jesus Wept
In light of recent events, it's fair to say the majority of the Hot Springs community is grieving over a huge loss of four individuals. We just never know why these things happen, and our hearts hurt and cry out to the Father. We want answers, and we want to try to understand, but nothing this side of heaven consoles us... except one thing. This one thing is the promise of eternal life if we believe in Jesus Christ.
I think a lot of this really hits home with me because in a lot of ways, I feel as though I have cheated death not once in my life, but twice. Two major car accidents, and it doesn't make sense why the Lord still has me here. But He does have me here, and I refuse to miss out on letting Him use me for his glory because I'm not the one who cheated death. I don't know why some are spared and why others aren't. I won't even begin to try to answer that because I believe only our Father knows. In many ways, until the recent deaths of some individuals, it has made me face the reality of the despair that death brings into our lives. Since I never had to think about myself "not making it" during my recent accident, the severity of what occurred has only recently started registering with me.
Why does death hurt so badly? Why has God allowed for death to still be around us? I don't know the answers, but I do know that we follow a God who can relate to our sufferings. I think sometimes for me a Bible verse that consoles me is the shortest verse in the Bible, "Jesus wept." (John 11:35) Jesus wept over the death of his friend Lazarus. Why would Jesus weep? Didn't he already know that he would raise Lazarus from the dead? All we do know is that he displayed this emotion at that time, and the people around him commented on how much Jesus loved Lazarus. Even our Creator understands the sting of death. Jesus Christ cried as he faced the death of his dear friend. He understands.
Some people could argue that it was no big deal because Christ raised Lazarus from the dead later on, but I would argue against that. Death is a huge deal. Even though believers have assurance that this world is not it, that eternity exists, death still stings and hurts.
At one point after the accident I had jokingly been saying "Yeah, and I almost died!" not realizing the weight of my comment. Brook, my teammate who was in the accident with me, came to me to discuss this. As we held hands she asked me to stop saying this because to her, the idea of me dying had been such a reality to her in those moments when I was unresponsive. I took in what Brook said to me. Then replied back to her that because all of us have to face death, this is the VERY REASON why we are going to tell people about Christ. This is the VERY REASON why it is essential that I share Christ with those I am around now. I am confident in the word of God and confident that one day believers will be able to claim 1 Corinthians 15:55-56. We will be able to claim this not only because of the hope we have, but because we will be together in eternity living finally what we have always hoped for and the gift that God has given through Christ.
We will shout out, "Where, O death, is your victory? Where, O death, is your sting?" (1 Corinthians 15:55-56) And then we will continue our praises to the Father who redeemed us from this death. Our hearts yearn for this day, and we will see it.
Following Him,
Taryn
I think a lot of this really hits home with me because in a lot of ways, I feel as though I have cheated death not once in my life, but twice. Two major car accidents, and it doesn't make sense why the Lord still has me here. But He does have me here, and I refuse to miss out on letting Him use me for his glory because I'm not the one who cheated death. I don't know why some are spared and why others aren't. I won't even begin to try to answer that because I believe only our Father knows. In many ways, until the recent deaths of some individuals, it has made me face the reality of the despair that death brings into our lives. Since I never had to think about myself "not making it" during my recent accident, the severity of what occurred has only recently started registering with me.
Why does death hurt so badly? Why has God allowed for death to still be around us? I don't know the answers, but I do know that we follow a God who can relate to our sufferings. I think sometimes for me a Bible verse that consoles me is the shortest verse in the Bible, "Jesus wept." (John 11:35) Jesus wept over the death of his friend Lazarus. Why would Jesus weep? Didn't he already know that he would raise Lazarus from the dead? All we do know is that he displayed this emotion at that time, and the people around him commented on how much Jesus loved Lazarus. Even our Creator understands the sting of death. Jesus Christ cried as he faced the death of his dear friend. He understands.
Some people could argue that it was no big deal because Christ raised Lazarus from the dead later on, but I would argue against that. Death is a huge deal. Even though believers have assurance that this world is not it, that eternity exists, death still stings and hurts.
At one point after the accident I had jokingly been saying "Yeah, and I almost died!" not realizing the weight of my comment. Brook, my teammate who was in the accident with me, came to me to discuss this. As we held hands she asked me to stop saying this because to her, the idea of me dying had been such a reality to her in those moments when I was unresponsive. I took in what Brook said to me. Then replied back to her that because all of us have to face death, this is the VERY REASON why we are going to tell people about Christ. This is the VERY REASON why it is essential that I share Christ with those I am around now. I am confident in the word of God and confident that one day believers will be able to claim 1 Corinthians 15:55-56. We will be able to claim this not only because of the hope we have, but because we will be together in eternity living finally what we have always hoped for and the gift that God has given through Christ.
We will shout out, "Where, O death, is your victory? Where, O death, is your sting?" (1 Corinthians 15:55-56) And then we will continue our praises to the Father who redeemed us from this death. Our hearts yearn for this day, and we will see it.
Following Him,
Taryn
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