Dazed and Confused (Jason London, 1993)

I've never seen this movie, but the title sure is appropriate for how I feel right now.

Sassy must have a pretty sweet blessing on the way because in the last few days, she's been really tried by drama. So, what do I do? My initial reaction is to just react with whatever pops into my mind. But, I'm reminded right now, that I must take every thought captive to the obedience of Christ (2 Cor. 10:5). Do you know how difficult that is to put into practice?

When someone attacks or hurts me, my knee jerk reaction is to hit back (not literally). Sassy ain't no wimp and she's not going to let anyone run over her. But, that's not the example we see in Jesus...or in Mary (the one that worshiped at his feet). Mary sat at Jesus' feet and people began criticizing her. She didn't say anything, she just continued washing His feet and worshiping. It was the Lord that responded: "Let her alone. Why do you bother her?" (Mk. 14:6) Mary did not have to say anything. The Lord handled the situation and rebuked her critics.

Sometimes, it's difficult to wait on the Lord to handle my conflicts. But, that's the challenge I guess. The sassiness is easy!!! The Jesus girl part is the challenge. It REALLY is a daily death (1 Cor. 15:31). Now, I don't suggest anyone be a doormat. You know Sassy would NEVER be that way. But, sometimes, it's better to say nothing and wait to see what God will do.

Believe me! I know it's NOT easy! But, God never promised it would be.

Pump Up the Volume (Christian Slater, 1990)

Sassy wants to dedicate today's post to some political and social issues that are close to her heart. I'm pumping up the volume and spreading the word!


Cancer Research & Elimination


* American Cancer Society
* CDC Statistics
* Stand Up to Cancer


Darfur

* Care
* Human Rights Watch
* Save Darfur (Political Solutions)
* UNICEF
* Ways to Help in Darfur

Violence Against Women

* Family Violence Prevention Fund
* National Domestic Violence Hotline
* National Women's Health Information Center
* RAINN (Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network


Presidential Election

I need to vent about this. As someone who is a "little" undecided as to which way to cast her vote, I must say, I'm soooooo over all the rhetoric and hate speech I hear from people regarding both candidates. I respect the work and careers of both candidates and agree/disagree with some of the policies on both sides. In any case, I believe it extremely unrepresentative of Christ for Christians to bash either of these men. Attack their policies--but not their person. Instead, we should be found praying that God open the eyes of both McCain and Obama where they need to be opened.

I've devoted over 30 hours to researching the candidates and prayerfully considering how I will vote in November. That's like a part-time job. As my search continues, I must say, it will not be based on people's fits of rage in response to either candidate. I will vote based on my spiritual conviction regarding the issues.

If these issues don't tug at your heart, then find something that does. We all have a responsibility to live beyond ourselves and serve those less fortunate than us.

War of the Worlds (Tom Cruise, 2005)

Sassy is feeling awfully sassy today! I'm surrounded by tests (i.e. people are getting on my nerves). So, I'm a little lacking in spiritual insight at the moment. I am so challenged at times. Seriously. I think Sassy needs a cold Coca-Cola (you know that's my alcohol substitute) and an episode of Sex and the City to knock the edge off.

It's difficult sometimes to remember that life is spiritual warfare. Every action, reaction, insult, and irritation, has some sort of spiritual implication that will serve to draw us closer to God or to walking in a carnal manner. More than the events themselves, it's our responses to them that will ultimately determine how we will walk (spirit led or in the flesh). I can either go off--which I'm very good at--or I can remember that I do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places (Eph. 6:12).

There are days, that I want to go for flesh and blood. I want to tell that flesh & blood off, and then impolitely say: Get over yourself and go jump in the lake! But, obviously, that would be contrary to everything the Word teaches. Instead, everyday, I must remember to somehow focus on the real issues: the principalities, powers, and spiritual hosts of wickedness. This is spiritual warfare.

We're reminded to combat spiritual warfare in Ephesians 6 by putting on the "FULL" armor of God. The implication is that I can sometimes walk around covered in only "part" of the armor. Some days I may only wear the helmet (of salvation). But, I need the whole armor. I need my waist girded with truth; my chest covered in the breastplate of righteousness; my feet immersed with the preparation of the gospel of peace; the shield of faith to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked one; the sword of the Spirit/Truth, which is the word of God (Eph. 6:14-17). Even then, I must pray always and be watchful. That's A LOT OF STUFF, isn't it? It's no wonder, because there are a lot of people...errr...principalities just waiting to fire darts at you.

So, let's get ready for war! Put on the whole armor everyday. Salvation (as wonderfully sweet as it is) is just the beginning. If it were just about being saved, then, Ephesians 6 would not tell us to put on all those other things. So, yes, I know a warrior would be foolish to not wear a helmet into battle. Please, put on the helmet! But don't forget all of the other pieces that will ultimately lead us to victory!

Great Expectations (Ethan Hawke, Gwenyth Paltrow, 1998)

I have a good life. The bills are paid. My marriage is stronger than ever. We have food, clothing, and shelter. My business is taking off! In short, I am content. Yet, I'm discontent. I realize that I must never become complacent with a "good life." My earnest desire must be: The "Best" Life. No, this is not about being rich! It's about desiring whatever the "exceedingly, abundantly, above all that we ask or think," life, is for me. The Bible says we can have those things, according to the power that works in us (Eph. 3:20). When, I think about that power in me being the same power that raised Christ from the dead, the potential for my life is mind blowing.

Because of this, it's vital that I live each day to the fullest...that I redeem the time, and walk worthy of the call of Christ on my life. The world calls me to mediocrity or to do whatever makes me feel good. However, that is rarely the path that will lead to excellence. Sometimes, the road to the best life calls one to deny themselves. It's not enough to just go through the motions of life--barely getting by. I want you and I to walk in every blessed, good, and perfect thing, that the Lord has in store for us. A mediocre life is not enough! Let's desire excellence!

The Lord is just waiting to give us all that He has planned for us. But, we must first operate in obedience to Him and strive everyday to know Him more. I am recommitting today (and everyday) to walk that out in my life. I don't want a life full of the pursuit of "things" or people pleasing. My goal is to focus on those eternal things that will last far beyond this life. Jesus has so much peace, power, joy, wisdom, and strength for all of us. He can take our imperfections and "average" lives, then mold them into something beautiful! He will bestow on us a crown of beauty instead of ashes (Isa. 61:3).

So what, if your life isn't all you want it to be. It's not too late. You can choose today to be excellent! Just maybe, the Lord's waiting for you to choose excellence instead of the mundane mediocrity so prevalent in our world.

Col. 1:10; 3:24-24; 4:5

Prayer Request

My prayers go out to the members of the Tennessee Valley Unitarian Universalist Church in Knoxville, Tennessee. This fellowship, was touched by violence when when a gunman opened fire during their 10:15 a.m. service today. Unfortunately, at least eight of their members were wounded--one of which has already died. Five remain in critical condition, while one is in serious condition, and another was treated & released (PRAISE GOD!!) It is a tragic and heartbreaking story.

Regardless of what you or I may believe of their theology, this church has endured a horribly traumatic event. We must band together in prayer for those members still in critical condition, as well as, all the children and members who witnessed this. I can't imagine the impact this could have on all the children, as this occurred during a play that 25 kids were performing at the front of the sanctuary.

Please remember the members of this congregation in your prayers today.

For more updates, please visit:
http://www.wbir.com/news/local/story.aspx?storyid=61322&catid=2

What has this world become? Thank you Jesus that I have a home with you!

The In Crowd (Donovan Leitch, 1988)

I didn't care much for this movie, but the title is perfect for today's topic. Here's a few of my favorite things. I'm sending applause out to:




1. The Works Tub & Shower Cleaner. Saves so much time and energy!



2. Paula Deene. Thanks for all those tasty recipes!



3. BRAVO TV. All the best reality shows come on this channel: Top Chef, Project Runway, Shear Genius, and Top Design.



4. Haribo Gummy Bears. I don't think a better gummy bear has ever been created than this one!



5. Praise Baby. This DVD collection works wonders in calming little ones and introducing them to worship music!

Something the Lord Made (Mos Def, 2004)

Was Mos Def nominated for an Emmy for this performance? He definitely earned it and proved his acting ability to the world. If you haven't seen this movie--based on a true story--go out and get it today! It has medical themes, so it's befitting of today's topic.
_________________________

My one year old son is suffering from some type of cold/sinus/respiratory infection (or something similar). In short, he has a runny nose coupled with chest and head congestion. His breathing is labored and loud. I feel so bad for the poor little guy. To help, I of course reach for what any mom would...the nasal aspirator.

Can you imagine how much "fun" cleaning his nose is? He screams, cries, flails, kicks, and pushes my hands away. There's snot flying all over the place. I don't blame him. I'm sure it's no fun to have some plastic thing sucking mucus out of your nose. But, it's for his good, and afterwards, he can breath a lot better.

It makes me think of those times that the Lord allows me to go through uncomfortable things--for my good. I remember: the heartbreak of losing a boyfriend or friend that was destructive to me; feeling the financial strain of saving money & paying off debt; or even, being denied something that I really wanted. As I reflect on those times, I know it was for my good. The Word is true in that, "...all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose." (Romans 8:28)

So, the next time you find yourself in a difficult situation--don't automatically assume it's a bad thing or some spiritual attack. Sometimes, it just may be God's way of sucking the snot out of your nose. It's uncomfortable, it feels weird, and it's irritating. But, just as my son figured out it would be over quicker if he stopped fighting and let me work, God wants us to do the same.

Allow Him to work--to clean up the things that are making it difficult for you to breathe. You'll feel so much better afterwards.

Music of the Heart--II

Speaking of music...

I just discovered Jango and think it's fabulous! I know, I'm probably late. I always "discover" something late and then think it's the best new thing since sliced bread. But, man...you have to try this out. So cool! I can play my favorites from the computer while I clean, play with Lance, cook, or just relax.

Here are some other music links

Create an embeddable playlist of your favorite songs.
My Playlist

Enter the name of your favorite artist and it will generate a radio station just for
you.
Jango (Online Radio)
Pandora (Online Radio)

Enter your favorite artist's name to find their music and videos.
Last FM Radio & Videos

Upload and embed an individual song
Now Upload

Music of the Heart (Meryl Streep, Cloris Leachman, 1999)

Who knew that horror king, Wes Craven (Nightmare on Elm Street) directed, Music of the Heart? My hand isn't raised, as that one was a complete shocker to me.



I believe God created music to speak to us in ways that speeches could not. There's something about a good beat and lyrics that can seep into my soul and change my behavior. I may find myself with my eyes closed as I sway to the mellosmooth sound of Maxwell; bobbing my head to the beats of John Mayer; or shedding a tear when I'm caught up in the wonderful worship of Chris Tomlin. I know. Shocker of all shocks! I listen to secular music!

Many Christians believe it's borderline sinful to listen to anything except Christian songs. But, I'm not of that camp. Sure, there are places I draw the line. I have no desire to hear an artist go on about their guns, marijuana, or profanity filled lyrics. But, if an artist is putting out positive or even light hearted messages and using their talent to uplift people, then they're okay with me. That's why Sassy likes all kinds of music. You'll find everything from Sinatra to Faith Hill to Alicia Keys to Mercy Me, in my collection.

There's nothing better than listening to great worship music that reminds me of my Savior. But, I still appreciate a good love or politically charged song! I mean seriously...when my husband and I want to get romantic, we don't play, Israel & New Breed's, I Am a Friend of God. But put on a little of Babyface's, Whip Appeal, and it does the trick!

Sassy is just crazy enough to believe that God can and does use everything to accomplish His purposes. So, I think he sometimes hides messages for me in secular music. Here's an anecdote. When, I was 15 (I believe) I had a boyfriend that was pressuring me to have sex with him. I was so conflicted. I didn't want to but also didn't want to lose my boyfriend. It was while listening to a Vanessa Williams' song that God shook some sense into me. I love my Vanessa Williams! In this particular song, Goodbye (Comfort Zone), Vanessa sings:

Look at your heart ache as you try to tell me
The love we made is not enough for you
You're walking away from all
that we dreamed of
The things you say are leading to...
Goodbye, goodbye

I heard that and hit the rewind button about ten times. Vanessa Williams was telling me that sex couldn't keep a guy from leaving you!!! I believed it then and will always believe that was a message from the Lord! Call me looney. Call me mystical. I don't care. But, those lyrics kept me from making one of the worse mistakes of my life. So, don't say anything bad about my Vanessa Williams, and we can still be friends.

Now and Then (Christina Ricci, Rosie O'Donnell, 1995)

I always enjoy chick flicks like, Now and Then. It's a movie about the importance of female friendships. It has the same appeal to me as Sex and the City. Yeah. I know. How do I compare those two films? lol Well, once you wade through all the "sex" in Sex and the City, it's really about friendships and the family you create (as opposed to the one you're born into). Anyway...those films remind me of my need to have dependable and fruitful friendships.

I used to whine to my husband about my not having friends. For a number of years, I'd lost the intimacy with many of my female friends. Then, last week, one of those women contacted me. She'd basically felt the same way and always wondered what caused the distance between us. It was such a light bulb/duh/omigosh moment. Once upon a time, we'd been bestfriends but had allowed life and time to create a gulf between us.

I'm blessed that I have a friend that would be so honest and open with me. But, I'm also blessed that she did not place all the blame at my feet. We both recognized our part in the distance (however large or small it was). Friendships, like any relationship, are a two way street. It takes two to make it work and two to mess it up. As for us, we're committed to being better friends to one another.

Proverbs 18:24 says that, "A man who has friends must himself be friendly, But there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother." This scripture reminds me to be proactive and continuously examine my role in my friendships (as opposed to my friends' roles). It also reminds me that during those times when I feel lonely and friendless, I still have Jesus in my heart. He's a friend that will never fail, faint, or neglect. He tells us that, He is with us always, even to the end of the age (Matt. 28:20). The song is true: There is not a friend like the lowly Jesus...No not one...No not one...

In the meantime, here's one of my favorite songs about the friend we have in Jesus!

Deja Vu (Denzel Washington--2006)

Life is full of challenges that come (presumably) to make us stronger. We're told to consider it pure joy, whenever we face trials of many kinds. We are to know that the testing of our faith develops perseverance. Perseverance must finish its work so that we may be mature and complete, not lacking anything. (James 1:2-4)

We face difficulty every day. However, I believe there are a handful of experiences in life that change us forever. I call them "WOW Moments." The memories and lessons during those times lay at the core of hearts and shape our entire outlook on life. Sassy's "Wow Moment" came in the form of infertility. It was an almost four year span full of prayers, tears, questioning, resentment, medical procedures, bad advice, stupid comments, loss, and depression. Then, miraculously, the Lord blessed us with a child. A beautiful child. I was and still am in complete awe of him and the joy he brings into my life.

My husband and I rejoiced in knowing our journey through infertility had ended. Then, we decided to try for a second child. It took us only a few months to realize infertility has not yet finished working on us. It was a shock that stirred up all those old feelings, and for a few moments, my heart broke. Then I remembered that the same God who brought me through this the first time, is capable of doing it again.

Deuteronomy 31:8 says, The Lord himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged. Sassy Jesus Girl is holding onto that Word today. The Lord goes before us to prepare the way. Then, He walks with us as we endure whatever troubles may come. He will not leave us; he will not fail us; he will not forsake us.

Remember that the next time an old problem revisits you and know that the Lord your God is near to you. He is an ever present help in times of trouble. As for me, I'm striving ever more diligently to be the best mom I can be. I choose today to focus on all that I have--all that's right in my life--rather than dwelling on the pain of what I may never have--another child.

Mad Love (1995--Chris O'Donnell, Drew Barrymore)

So, once upon a time Sassy Jesus Girl felt personally convicted to not watch anything on television that portrayed 'sinful' behavior. You can imagine I wasn't watching much television. I did learn a lot during that period and know God used the time to mature and teach me. I also came to view television differently. I no longer see it as a medium that should teach me deep or insightful life lesson. It's about entertainment, great writing, talented actors, and crazy plots. That being said, my favorite television shows fit the bill perfectly! Yeah, I know. There's some suspect stuff in most of these shows. But, never fear, the Spirit always lets me know when it's time to change the channel or hit fast forward (you know I love my DVR).

Sassy Girl's Top Five (Current) Television shows:

5. Ugly Betty: ABC, Thursdays at 8:00 p.m. est; Begins September 25



4. Private Practice: ABC, Wednesdays at 9:00 p.m. est; Begins October 1



3. Heroes: NBC, Mondays at 9:00 p.m. est; Begins September 22



2. LOST: ABC, Thursdays at 10:00 p.m. est; Begins February 2009



1. Grey's Anatomy: ABC, Thursdays at 8:00 p.m. est; Begins September 25

The Hidden (Kyle MacLachlan--1987)

I must say, The Hidden, is one of the grossest movies I've ever seen. Yet, I was strangely compelled to not only watch it once, but three times. Ugh! The site of that alien moving from body to body--not cute.

That aside..

Raise your hand if you've ever lost something that you put away (so you wouldn't lose it). My hand is raised. Why? Because, I just did this in the last two weeks. My husband and I were watching Fool's Gold, staring the lovely Matthew McConaughey and Kate Hudson. It's a thoughtless, light hearted romantic comedy--which is usually my type of movie. But, Sassy just wasn't feeling this one. I was bored to death. So, I took the movie out and placed it on my desk. Where it went from there, I don't know.

I remember looking at that DVD for a few days thinking I'd better move it to a higher spot before my one year olds roaming hands found it. So, that's what I did. Well, it's a week later and I have no idea where I put that DVD. But, I KNOW I put it somewhere to avoid losing it later. Good thing I did that, huh? Of course, if I'd left it on the desk, I'd know exactly where it is. However, I had to go and put it in a "safe" (read: lost) place. Brilliant!!

It makes me thankful that I have Jesus. I mean, I can't even keep up with a DVD that "I" put in a "safe place." However, the Lord is omniscient--knows all (including where my DVD is). So, I think my life is in better hands with Him leading the way.

Exclusive Rights (Gayne Whitman, 1926)

I was touring my city in search of the perfect nail spa. We have plenty of nail shops/places but I wanted a spa atmosphere. So, I find the perfect spot. It's called SoHo's. I can respect that--especially since my favorite singer ever (Maxwell) frequents the SoHo area in New York.

So, I'm telling a friend about my great find when she suddenly gives me a look of disgust. She went on to tell me I shouldn't go to that shop because its owners are Buddhist and they're open on Sundays. She further suggested that I visit her low budget, cheap, and totally unsophisticated nail shop because they're Christian owned.

Let me be clear. I have no problem with supporting Christian businesses. However, I will not become a patron of a nail shop solely for that reason--especially when it is lacking the spa feel that this Sassy Girl desires. I must admit, I was dumbfounded by her point of view. A few things came to mind:

1. Why is she so proud of her nail shop for being closed on Sunday yet she goes to the mall and to restaurants on Sundays? A nail shop should be closed in honor of the Christian Sabbath, but the places she visits shouldn't be? Additionally, she isn't concerned with the Buddha statues in her favorite Chinese and Japanese restaurants. Now, I'm not one to use the H word, as I feel all people are H's to some degree. But, this sounds very Hypocritical to me.

2. As a teacher, I taught children of every religion. That didn't disqualify me as a professional. So, in my opinion, it would be wrong of me to judge people as unworthy of my patronage based solely on their religion. The thought of that is ridiculous to me.

I don't understand this "Christian Separatist" mentality. Jesus wasn't that way. Jesus went out and let his light "so shine among men" that they would see His good works and glorify His Father in Heaven. Shouldn't contemporary Christians do the same? That's sassy's way of thinking. But, in the meantime, there is an entire movement of Christians that would have us all withdraw from American society and live in a Christian only bubble. I really fail to see how one can live out the Great Commission while removing themselves from everything non Christian. In the meantime, I have an appointment at SoHo's!

Baby Boy (Tyrese Gibson--2001)

An old friend from high school called me today. It was great to catch up and touch base. Of course, some things never change, and it took all of five minutes for her to begin going on about this really attractive guy she knows. I can appreciate a fine man. So, I listened enthusiastically and smiled. This guy even has dredlocks. Anyone that knows Sassy, knows that I have a thing for well kept dreds on a guy. This man was sounding awfully good to me. She finally mentioned his name. Hmmm...why does that name sound so familiar? I kept thinking as she went on about how physically blessed this guy is. I repeated the name in my head, over and over.

Then it hit me! No...it couldn't be...surely, my life is not this "Jerry Springer!" So, I began to ask her questions about this guy until my suspicions were proven correct. He's my brother!!! That's how I know this guy. He's one of the many siblings I have through the "father" that I never see. I had to laugh. I mean seriously...in whose life is something like this considered normal?

unForgiven (1992--Eastwood)

I'm adopting a new trend. I think I'm naming all of my blogs after movies. Here's my first...

So, I've been reading and hearing a lot about forgiveness lately. Now, I don't have any unforgiveness in my heart, do I? Well, I didn't think so. Last night, dh and I were looking at Luke 6. It was verses 27 and 28 that really struck me.

"But I say to you who hear, love your enemies, do good to those who hate you,
bless those who curse you, and pray for those who spitefully use you."

I thought, I'm doing pretty good. Although, it wasn't automatic, I've learned to treat evil coworkers, associates, and others, with a reasonable amount of respect and pleasantries. I also pray for them. But, then I woke up this morning.

I had a message in my Inbox from my most hated Ex! I know I shouldn't use the word "hate". But, sometimes, I do believe I hate him. It's not always present. Most of the time, I'm okay and don't think I would cringe as badly if I ever saw him again. But, I know something would be there--something not Christ like. My flesh is telling me to curse him to Hell (the place) and never speak to him again. But...

is that what Jesus would do??? When, I think about the cross and all He endured, for evil men, such as me, it makes my unForgiveness seem so shallow and unjustified. It also my goal to never allow any form of bondage to rule over me. Unforgiveness has this stinking tendency to do that. So, Sassy has a LOT to pray and think on today.